Loving Lessons Learned- The Sleep Coaching Podcast
I used to be a tired, overwhelmed, and anxious parent because my children were not sleeping. But, then I taught my children how to sleep and now I’m a calm, confident, and rested parent due to my training as a Gentle Sleep Coach, Educator, Postpartum Doula, Infant Feeding Specialist, and Parent Mentor. What's important to know…In our most sleep deprived moments our children will teach us exactly what we need about love and life, in order to learn and grow into who we were created to be. These are the loving lessons we will learn whether we want to or n...
Sleep for the Whole Family: From Newborn Days to Preschool Nights
A seven-month-old waking all night, a four-year-old stalling at bedtime, and two tired parents who can't agree on what to do. At the Pregnancy to Parenthood event with Mama Tribe Village in Cary, NC, I joined four family support professionals to talk through this family, and not one of us started with the schedule.
You'll hear where to start when nobody in the house is sleeping, my purple house analogy, what's normal at 7 months and 4 years, and the one tip that gave Sarah a three-hour stretch of sleep.
✅ Read the blog post and full tr...
Ep 40 Perfectionism in Parenting: How to Let Go of Mom Guilt and Show Up With Love
Ever find yourself spiraling after a small parenting “fail”? Like that time you lost your cool, forgot something important, or—like me—had a full-on coughing fit in the middle of a live video? 😅
In this episode of Revive in 5, I’m getting real about what it’s like to navigate perfectionism in parenting and the stories we tell ourselves when things don’t go “just right” or we are dealing with mom guilt.
I’ll walk you through:
Why perfectionism might be making parenting harder (not better)The 90-second rule for emotions—and why we feel...Ep. 39 Holistic Wellness for Women & Their Family with The Mama Tribe Village
Many parents today are searching for holistic health solutions, but does that mean they have to reject traditional medicine? Lizzie Wilson, a pharmacist-turned-holistic wellness advocate, says no!
In this episode, we dive into traditional medicine and holistic healing—why both have their place and how families can make informed health choices.
Lizzie shares:
✅ Why she pivoted from hospital pharmacy to holistic wellness
✅ The real problem with our current healthcare system
✅ How CBD and natural remedies can support stress & well-being
✅ The importance of finding the right health team for your fam...
Ep.38 The Power of Parenting Support: How TAPS is Changing Lives
"Parenting shouldn’t be a solo journey. Every parent deserves a community that lifts them up." - Monica Richardson
In this episode, I chat with Monica Richardson, Executive Director of Triangle Area Parenting Support (TAPS), about the power of community support for parents. From breastfeeding help to newborn and toddler parenting tips, TAPS provides workshops, support groups, and resources to help families thrive in Wake and Durham county.
💡Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about having support.
Key Loving Lessons Learned in This Episode:
🟣 Paren...
Ep. 37- Breastfeeding Essentials: What You Need to Know about feeding your baby - Insights from a Lactation Consultant
Did you know your baby’s feeding routine holds the key to better sleep? In this episode, Courtney Miller from the Better Boob, an IBCLC, dives deep into the powerful connection between feeding and sleep. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or facing challenges like tongue-tie, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help your family thrive.
Discover how to identify and overcome feeding hurdles, build sustainable routines, and create the restful nights you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re ready to transform your baby’s sleep and find peace at home, this episode is for you!
Ep. 36 Growing your Family through Adoption and Simplifying the Meal Prep
Feeling overwhelmed with family chaos? Join Billie Jo Cochran from Billie Jo’s Kitchen she shares her transformative journey from a calm, child-free household to parenting three foster-to-adopt children. Learn how routines, meal prepping, and responsibility charts brought calm and connection to her home. This inspiring conversation is packed with actionable tips for parents seeking less stress and better sleep.
Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:
🟣 Start with small, manageable steps for routines.
🟣 Meal planning and prepping are family game-changers.
🟣 Structure helps kids thrive emotionally, mentally, and behaviorally.
🟣 Sharing responsibilities empowers kids and reduc...
Ep. 35 Parenting on the Go: How to keep your sanity when you travel
Discover holiday travel hacks that will transform your family adventures! In this episode, I share packing tips, sleep strategies, and ways to manage feeding and play on the go. Plus, learn why recording your child’s breathing could be a game-changer for health and safety while traveling. Don’t forget to download my free guide, Sleep Success While You Travel, for more helpful resources.
Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:
🟣 Simplify packing with the Ultimate Packing List which is a reusable, customizable Google Doc.
🟣 Recreate your child’s sleep environment with key item...
Ep. 34 Navigating the Fourth Trimester: Newborn Care Specialists and Postpartum Support
In this episode of Loving Lessons Learned, we’re joined by infant care professional Kelly Settipani, who shares her journey from nanny to certified newborn care specialist. We dive deep into the fourth trimester, exploring what it takes to support parents and newborns during these critical early months.
Kelly discusses the differences between a postpartum doula and a newborn care specialist, sharing valuable tips for setting up gentle sleep and feeding routines. She explains how understanding a baby’s cues can make all the difference and offers practical advice for new parents who want to establish calm, predi...
Ep. 33 Connecting Working Moms Through Faith with Stephanie Llorente from Restored
In this episode, Stephanie Llorente, founder of the Restored community for working moms, shares her journey of building a support network for mothers balancing careers and family life. Stephanie and Irene explore themes of self-care, setting priorities, and finding peace through faith. This episode offers practical tips for busy moms on prioritizing relationships, managing daily chaos, and creating lasting connections. Whether you're a stay-at-home mom or career-focused, this discussion will inspire you to find your unique path to joy and fulfillment in motherhood.
Learn about managing modern challenges like parenting in the digital age, balancing work and f...
Ep. 32 Your Pelvic Floor Sucks: How Early Movement Patterns Shape Core Strength, Pelvic Health, and Better Sleep
How can your child’s early movement patterns impact their lifelong health? Join us as we talk with Lindsay Mumma, a rehabilitative chiropractor, who sheds light on how essential early-year movements support our bodies in ways that affect core strength, posture, and even pelvic health in adulthood. Lindsay explains why exercises like bear crawls may be more beneficial than kegels and shares practical tips on tummy time and other movement activities.
Together, we explore a fresh approach to child development that could change the way we think about “milestones” in our babies’ first year. Whether you’re a new pare...
Ep. 31 Build your Circle: Support for Parents and Providers
In this episode, we explore how building a supportive community can transform your family's overall well-being. Chrissy Fishbane and Cindy Michelson from Her Health Collective share powerful insights on the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships. One pivotal moment comes when a powerful question is asked, "If you had to go to the hospital, who would you call for help?" The answer highlights why having a trusted circle of friends is essential, not only for emotional support but also for reducing stress and anxiety.
One of the most valuable takeaways from this conversation was the reminder to continue ex...
Ep. 30 Tips for Better Wakeful Windows and More Joy in Parenting Toddler
Feeling overwhelmed by your toddler’s tantrums? You’re not alone!
In this episode, I sit down with Sara Whaley, a behavior analyst and parent coach from Joyful Toddler Parenting. who’s helped countless parents turn chaos into calm. Sara dives into the ups and downs of toddlerhood, sharing real-life tips for understanding your child’s behavior and setting firm, loving boundaries.
Whether you’re battling bedtime struggles or trying to stay calm amidst the tantrums, Sara’s gentle parenting strategies will help you find joy in these challenging years.
Plus, discover how tak...
Ep. 29 Balancing Your Health with Insights from a Pelvic Floor PT
In this episode of Loving Lessons Sleep Solutions, host Irene Gouge welcomes Dr. Rachel, a pelvic floor physical therapist, to discuss the importance of pelvic floor health, particularly for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Rachel shares her personal journey with pelvic floor dysfunction and offers expert advice on recognizing symptoms, preventing issues, and addressing common dysfunctions like urinary incontinence and pelvic pain. She emphasizes the significance of early intervention and coordination exercises to help women maintain a healthy pelvic floor.
Learn why Kegels aren’t always the solution, how coordination deficits can lead to pelvic floor is...
Ep. 29 Balancing Your Health with Insights from a Pelvic Floor PT
In this episode of Loving Lessons Sleep Solutions, host Irene Gouge welcomes Dr. Rachel, a pelvic floor physical therapist, to discuss the importance of pelvic floor health, particularly for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Rachel shares her personal journey with pelvic floor dysfunction and offers expert advice on recognizing symptoms, preventing issues, and addressing common dysfunctions like urinary incontinence and pelvic pain. She emphasizes the significance of early intervention and coordination exercises to help women maintain a healthy pelvic floor.
Learn why Kegels aren’t always the solution, how coordination deficits can lead to pelvic floor is...
Ep.28 - From Chaos to Calm: Why does my child wake every 2 hours?
In this episode of the "Loving Lessons Sleep Solutions" podcast, we explore the common problem of children waking up every two hours during the night. Using the SLEEP principles, we share simple, practical strategies to help your child fall asleep independently and sleep longer.
Learn how creating secure, comforting bedtime routines and understanding your child's sleep cycle can significantly improve sleep for both you and your child. This episode is filled with insights on how sleep issues impact family well-being and offers solutions to transform your nighttime routine.
Whether you're a new parent or navigating s...
Ep.27-The Role of the Nervous System in Your Child’s Sleep
There is a profound impact that chiropractic care can have on infant and child sleep. Dr. Renee Schneeman with Verve Holistic, shares her insights on how birth trauma and chronic stress can affect a child's nervous system, leading to sleep disturbances.
We explore the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and how gentle, targeted chiropractic adjustments can help shift children into a state of relaxation, promoting better sleep. Whether you're a parent struggling with a child who can't sleep or you're curious about the holistic benefits of chiropractic care, this episode provides v...
Ep.26-Breaking the Cycle: Overcoming Birth Trauma to Improve Parenting and Sleep
In this episode, Irene Gouge sits down with licensed psychologist Vanessa Roddenberry with Breyta Psychological Services to explore the connection between trauma and sleep. Vanessa shares her expert insights into how unresolved trauma, including birth trauma, can disrupt sleep and affect parenting.
She provides practical grounding techniques to manage stress and discusses how cognitive processing therapy can help parents heal from trauma in just 12 sessions. If sleepless nights and emotional overwhelm are part of your parenting journey, this episode will offer hope and practical tools for healing.
Tune in to learn how to recognize the s...
Ep. 25 The Power of YES Spaces: Simplify Parentings, Improve Sleep
In this episode we explore the powerful impact of YES spaces on your child’s sleep and overall development. Discover how creating intentional wake windows filled with independent play can simplify parenting and help your child sleep better at night.
By fostering healthy play habits, you’ll not only improve your child’s ability to sleep peacefully in their crib or room but also build stronger connections with your little one. YES spaces provide the safe environment children need to explore, learn, and thrive—without constant adult intervention. Join us to learn practical tips for setting up these spa...
Ep.24- Building Emotional Intelligence as a Family
In this week’s podcast interview, Claudia Rickard, the English Hypnotist, delves into the essence of building emotional intelligence within families. Emotional intelligence, the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as the emotions of others, plays a crucial role in creating harmonious family dynamics. Claudia emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering a nurturing environment where both parents and children can thrive.
But why is this so vital?
Emotional intelligence helps us respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, a skill that is particularly imp...
Ep.23- Approaching Whole Body Wellness from All Sides of You
Are you truly aware of the subtle nuances of movement and how they might be affecting your body? How we feed, move, and notice sensations in our bodies can pave the way for remarkable whole-body wellness. Today, we have Lauren Mages from Mind and Body Vitality guiding us through an exploration of the pelvic floor. She'll reveal how movement influences various parts of our body and the importance of nourishing ourselves, especially during the postpartum season.
One of the things you'll notice about the conversation Lauren and I have is that we begin by...
Ep 22.- Little Foodies: Overcoming Picky Eating in Early Childhood
Meal times should be a time of enjoyment and connection. But if you have a picky eater, then the power struggle is real. Today, on our latest podcast episode, I had the pleasure of connecting with Kerry Lett from Milestones Nutrition, who shares valuable tips to help families overcome picky eating in early childhood.
💤The Sleep Connection💤
Over the years, I've observed thousands of parents worry and wonder if their child has eaten enough. To be honest, this was my struggle too for so many years. Feeding and sleepin...
Ep. 21 Nourishment after Birth in the Fourth Trimester
Nourishing your body after giving birth can be a challenge. Asking for what you need to recover and heal is a skill and process. Today I’m connecting with Stephanie who is a postpartum doula from Au Petit Jour and she shares some tips and ways you can make nourishing meals a priority for your family.
It's crucial to understand that nourishing your body after giving birth plays a vital role in your overall recovery and well-being. Proper nutrition helps replenish the vital nutrients lost during childbirth, supports your body's healing process, and boosts your energy levels...
Ep.20- Dancing through the Wakeful Windows
Sleep needs vary in each season of parenting. As our children grow and develop, their wake windows also expand.
As these wakeful windows lengthen, it can create some stress for parents trying to figure out what to do next while their child is awake. My guest on today’s podcast, Ashley Borromeo with Tap Fit Fam, is a seasoned dance instructor, homeschool mom of three, and life enthusiast who will take you on an inspiring journey with her unique D-A-N-C-E framework.
This transformative framework explores self-discovery, aligned act...
Ep. 19 Building Resilience:Taking Action through Movement in your Community
What do you do during the wakeful windows with your little one? That play window can feel like a daunting task and can sometimes make parents feel like they can’t wait for the next sleep window.
In this encouraging episode, we tackle a pressing concern for many parents: fostering resilience in their children. Yes, in the wakeful window we can do some amazing skill building. My guest, Colleen from Mother Ruckers NC, dives into invaluable tips and tricks to help parents build resilience through movement and doing hard things.
Colle...
Ep.18- Sleepless and Overwhelming Beginnings: becoming the parent I wanted to be
Parenting is a journey filled with expectations and realities that rarely align perfectly. As a parent, I've experienced overwhelmed emotions, sleepless nights, and the constant struggle between how I thought things would be and how they actually turned out. But you don't have to do parenting this way. It's possible to transform your parenting journey by reaching out for help and finding a team of providers who can support you.
Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:
🟣You're not alone- Every parent experiences overwhelmed emotions and sleepless nights.
🟣Reach out for help- Building a support...
EP. 17 Why is my baby waking up at night? - Understanding Sleep Cycles & Sleep Stages
Why is your little one waking up and keeping you up at night?
That is the question that so many parents ask. In this episode I’ll address the reasons why your little one, whether you have a newborn, an infant, a toddler or preschooler, might be waking up. When you understand your child’s sleep cycle and the sleep stages, active and deep sleep patterns, you’ll understand your best next steps to improve sleep in your home.
Key Loving Lessons Learned in this episode:
🟣 00:00 Introduction: Why Your Child Wakes Up at Night
Ep. 16 When Good Sleep Goes Bad- Understanding the so called “Sleep Regression”
Ah, sleep regressions – when good sleep goes bad, that can leave even the most seasoned parents feeling like they're back at square one. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, your little one decides to throw a curveball and suddenly, sleep becomes a distant memory. But fear not, because in the world of parenting, the so-called “sleep regression” is just another bump along the journey to better sleep for everyone involved.
In this episode I’ll share the answers:
🟣 What is a sleep regression...
Ep. 15- Part 3 Raising Hounds & Humans- Progress to Frustration- How's it really going?
Today we dive into the journey of parenting, dog ownership and all the challenges life throws our way. Have you had those moments when you feel like you're at the end of your rope? Whether it's parenting struggles, dealing with a high needs pet, or any other frustrations life brings, I'm here to share insights and lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Today, we're exploring the power of taking inspired action when we find ourselves in those tough spots. Sometimes, it's when we're at our most sleep-deprived and overwhelmed moments that we learn the m...
Ep. 14 Bedtime Battles: Why is my child fighting me at bedtime?
Bedtime battles - we've all been there, right? Whether it's a newborn, an infant, a toddler, or even a preschooler, those nightly battles and protests can leave both parent and child feeling exhausted and frustrated. We're going to uncover the reasons behind these battles and explore practical strategies to make bedtime a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Listen in or watch to learn more about:
⭐️The disruption of the sleep process.
⭐️ Too late of a bedtime
⭐️Insufficient activity during...
Ep. 13 Navigating Temperament and Parenting Styles for Better Sleep
Welcome to another episode where we dive into the world of parenting and sleep. I'm here to shed light on how your child's temperament and your parenting style might be influencing your sleep journey.
Learn about the connection between parenting styles and sleep quality, exploring the impact of approaches like permissive and authoritative parenting. Learn how understanding your child's temperament can impact sleep and your routines, and discover practical tips for creating a nurturing sleep environment. Say goodbye to bedtime battles and hello to restful nights for the whole family!
Read more o...
Ep.12- 5 Sleep Principles for Sleep-Filled Nights using the SLEEP Acronym
Use the acronym SLEEP to help you understand the 5 sleep principles to help you get a good night of sleep with your newborn, infant, toddler, or preschool child.
These gentle sleep coaching ideas and principles help parents get their baby to sleep without leaving their baby to cry it out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Is your child still not sleeping?
Watch my free video series — Six Things That Kept Your Child From Sleeping Last Night — and get a quick win you can try tonight.
👉Link here.
❓❓❓Have sleep questions or concerns❓❓❓ ...
Ep.11-Part 2-Raising Humans & Hounds: The Parenthood Connection- Flexibility in Parenthood & Pet Ownership
⭐Can there be a rhythm of life? Will it always be chaotic? Are we just surviving?
In today's episode, I'll be sharing the four loving lessons that I've learned in creating routines that bring flexibility of parenthood and owning a pet and letting you know that there are ways for us to THRIVE and not just survive.
These four key lessons that I've been learning:
✅Establish clear boundaries- what’s ok, what’s not ok.
✅ Create flexible routines- routines that meet the needs of ever...
Episode 10- Part 1: Raising Humans & Hounds: The Parenthood Connection- From Fears to Cheers
Welcome to "Raising Humans & Hounds: The Parenthood Connection," where we embark on a journey from fears to cheers and the rhythms of life exploring the connection of parenting and pet ownership.
In Part 1, titled "From Fears to Cheers," we delve into what it takes to overcome fears, exploring your identity that changes, and the next steps you can take to face your fears head on.
From the fear of dogs to the fears parents may have around sleep training, we explore the common threads that weave through these seemingly disparate experiences. It's not just about pa...
Episode 9: Does travel and sleep on the go create stress?
💟Does the thought of traveling with your child and sleeping on the go create stress for you?
✅Notice the 3 things you can check for to minimize your stress when you travel with your newborn, infant, toddler, or preschool child.
✅Take action to make travel easier.
🟣➭➭➭➭FREE Guide to Breathe LOVE ➭➭➭➭ Get the free guide to help you Breathe LOVE and become more calm, confident and respond from a place of love and learning
https://www.lovinglessonslearned.com/BreatheLOVE
🟣➭➭➭➭FREE Packing List for Travel ➭➭➭➭Download the packing list to personalize it today💤
https://www.lovinglessonslearned.com...
Episode: 7- Transforming Sleep: From Android to iPhone- A gentle journey
Today, I'm talking about how I made the switch from my Android to an iPhone. And how this is actually very similar to the sleep coaching process and any change that you're ready to make in your life. I'll share the 4 key takeaways when making change in your life, especially when it comes to sleep
#sleepconsultant #babysleep #iPhone #Android #babysleeptips #babysleepconsultant #babysleepexpert #howtogetkidstosleep #babysleeproutine #babysleephelp #babysleepsolutions #tiredmom #toddlersleep #newparents #newmom #parenthood #parentproblems #newborntips #sleeproutine #weaning #naps #waketime #sleeptime #parentsupport #overtired #grateful #transitions
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Is your child still not sleeping?
...
Episode 8: Daylight Saving Time for Baby, Toddler & Preschool Children to Fall Back Time Change Tips
Discover practical tips to help your family smoothly transition through Daylight Saving Time. Learn how adjusting bedtime gradually, leveraging light exposure, and maintaining consistent routines can support your child’s circadian rhythm and sleep health.
Whether you're a parent or caregiver, these strategies will guide you through the time change with ease. Watch now to keep your home well-rested and ready for the season!
Key Loving Lessons Learned:
✅ Daylight Saving Plan - Fall Back Guide
Resources mentioned to help you keep learning & growing:
👉Sleep Out Darkenin...
Episode 6- Daylight Saving Time- Spring forward with Ease
⭐Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday of March. Parents delight at the springing forward as they may have a bit more time to themselves and they have hopes that their children might actually sleep later. This is typically the easier transition for younger children but I’ll share some tips to help you ease into Daylight Saving Time.
💟 ➭➭➭➭FREE Daylight Saving Time- Spring Forward Guide ➭➭➭➭ https://www.loving-lessons.com/2023/03/02/daylight-saving-time-spring-forward/
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Is your child still not sleeping?
Watch my free video series — Six Things That...
Episode 5- Bloom Where You're Planted- Loving Lessons Learned When You are Sleep Deprived
📌I’ve been in awe and inspired, and encouraged to see how God has shown up in my journey to becoming a calm, confident & rested parent, and helping me transform sleep in the homes of families that I get to work with as a sleep coach and postpartum doula.
Some adults will get many hours of sleep & still feel tired or sleep deprived OR some adults may get a few hours of sleep- believe they don’t need that much sleep & be sleep deprived. Today I'm talking about the loving lessons I learned when I was sleep depriv...
Episode 4- Say Yes & Have Limits with the One Finger Touch - Loving Lessons Learned
📌Do you feel like you are saying NO All the time to your toddler or preschooler? In today's show we are going to talk about how to say yes AND have limits to make a win win for everyone! This can even be used with an older infant to begin reframing how you speak and communicate with your loved ones. You can try the one-finger touch right after you listen in.
✅Let’s learn together!
🟣➭➭➭➭FREE Video Series Training ➭➭➭➭ 6 things that are keeping your child from sleeping
https://www...
Episode 3- Part 2- Top 12 reasons why sleep training is hard
✅Sleep training is hard for parents. When you are sleep deprived, we have a difficult time being consistent and dealing with the sleep deprivation. In part 2 of this episode learn the last 6 of 12 reasons I see sleep training be a challenge for families coaching their infant, toddler or preschooler.
🟣FREE Sleep Coaching Methods Guide
https://www.lovinglessonslearned.com/sleep-coaching-methods-loving-lessons
🟣Understanding your child and their crying
https://www.loving-lessons.com/2022/07/20/understanding-your-child-and-their-crying/
🟣➭➭➭➭FREE Video Series Training ➭➭➭➭ 6 things that are keeping your child from sleeping
https://www.lovinglessonslearned.com/6thingsthatkeptyourchildfromsleeping
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Is your child still not sleep...
