The Baby Tribe

In this episode of The Baby Tribe, Afif speaks to BBC journalist Divya Talwar about her investigation into unsafe advice given by some self-described baby sleep experts. Divya explains why the BBC pursued the story, what parents told her, and how exhaustion, social media credibility and gaps in postnatal support can leave families vulnerable to advice that may conflict with safer sleep guidance. After the interview, Afif and Anne debrief the key issues: normal infant sleep, back-to-sleep guidance, clear cot spaces, front sleeping, loose bedding, breathing monitors, reflux and allergy claims, and how parents can judge whether someone offering sleep advice is properly qualified and working within safe boundaries. This episode is not about blaming tired parents. It is about helping families find support that is safe, evidence-based and honest about its limits. BBC Documentary: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce84e1vn1l2o Safe co-sleeping: https://profafif.substack.com/p/co-sleeping-all-you-need-to-know?r=4l3k10 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Comedian and writer Sophia Wren joins The Baby Tribe to talk about becoming a mother in her early 20s, the shock of a precipitous labour, and what nobody tells you about the emotional aftermath. Sophia shares a painfully honest account of postpartum intrusive thoughts, fear, shame, and the moment she realised she needed help, plus how medication and support helped her rebuild her life from scratch. Afif and Anne explore why aftercare and being heard matter so much, how matrescence can trigger an identity quake even in “perfect on paper” situations, and why mental health treatment deserves the same normalisation as any other medical care. Sophia also tells the story of how a comedy course during a later crisis accidentally launched her career, leading to her acclaimed show Princess Melancholy. Funny, frank, and unexpectedly healing. You can find Sophia and all her shows throught her insta! https://www.instagram.com/sophiawrencomedy/ Proudly sponsored by https://www.happytummy.ie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Afif and Anne unpack the recent formula recalls in Ireland and internationally, explaining what happened, what parents should do, and why recalls usually mean safety systems are working. They discuss switching formula brands, what changes are normal, when not to switch (especially with prescribed formulas), and clear guidance on safe formula prep. Finally, they tackle the big question: is formula harmful? They explain what the research actually shows about breast milk vs formula, why many headline claims are muddied by confounders, and why parents shouldn’t feel guilt or fear about feeding their baby Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New season of The Baby Tribe drops on HeadStuff Podcasts on Tuesday the 27th of January. Proudly Sponsored by BioGaia Ireland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life and mindfulness coach Emma Kehoe graces our latest episode with her unique journey from retail to mindful living, offering insights that could turn the tumultuous parenting experience into one of balance and joy. Emma's expertise shines as she discusses how mindfulness can empower parents to establish healthy boundaries and improve communication within their families. The episode is packed with relatable stories, from handling toddler tantrums with grace to reframing responses in challenging interactions. We explore the importance of patience and presence, offering practical tools for parents to maintain their sanity and humour amidst the demands of raising children. You can reach Emma on: https://empowerwithemma.com/ https://www.instagram.com/emmakehoe/ Sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michelle Loughnane, an employment law solicitor, joins us to share her expertise on the overlooked yet prevalent issue of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. With insights drawn from her legal career and personal journey as a new mother, Michelle illuminates the challenges faced by pregnant employees. Her experiences working alongside the late Richard Grogan have enriched her perspective, allowing her to advocate passionately for women's rights in employment settings where their entitlements are often compromised. Proudly Sponsored by @happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Professor Maeve Eogan, a leading voice in obstetrics and gynaecology at the Rotunda Hospital, offers her profound insights into the world of sexual assault treatment and care. As the national clinical lead for Ireland's Sexual Assault Treatment Units (SATUs), she shares her expertise and personal experiences, shedding light on the patient-centred care that defines SATUs. Our conversation unveils the unique collaboration between maternity services and SATUs, particularly in instances of sexual assault during pregnancy, emphasizing the critical need for long-term support and trauma-informed care. For more information: https://www2.hse.ie/services/satu/ https://www.rapecrisisireland.ie/ To donate visit: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/SATU25 Sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we embark on a whimsical journey with the multifaceted Graham Smyth, a musician, DJ, and broadcaster with a passion for the vibrant fusion of music and early childhood development. Graham's latest project, "Music for Babies to Rave and Sleep To," is a delightful concoction of toy instruments, baby sounds, and electronic beats. Inspired by his nephew, Graham has turned his classical training in piano and percussion into a playful and engaging musical experience that captivates both infants and their parents. His unique approach seeks to fill the void in children's music by offering something enjoyable for all ages, free from the headache-inducing tunes often associated with the genre. https://grahamsmyth.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-babies-to-rave-and-sleep-to Proudly Sponsored by www.Happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices