The Baby Tribe

Content note: This episode discusses stillbirth, bereavement and mental health. Please listen when it feels right for you. Irish support details are included below. “If I have a son, I’m a father.” Dylan McKenna’s son Hunter was stillborn on 15 October 2025. In this episode, released on Hunter’s first birthday and Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, Dylan joins Afif and Anne to share his son’s story and what the past year has meant for him as a dad. Dylan speaks about losing his own father during Caitlín’s pregnancy, the hope Hunter brought to their lives, and the devastating experience of leaving hospital without him. He explains why recognising bereaved parents as mothers and fathers matters, and how even well-meant words can leave them feeling unseen. We explore fathers’ mental health, the exhaustion of appearing to cope at work, and the challenges of supporting each other when grief feels different for each partner. Dylan also shares his experience of counselling and his plans to connect with other bereaved fathers through Féileacáin. As Dylan and Caitlín prepare to welcome Hunter’s little brother, he describes the fear, guilt and growing joy of pregnancy after loss, and their determination that both sons will always have a place in their family. We also hear about his request for the Late Late Toy Show to light a Christmas tree blue and pink in memory of babies who have died, and why that small gesture could mean so much to families watching. A conversation about love, fatherhood, saying our children’s names and continuing to show up for grieving parents. Support in Ireland If this conversation brings up difficult feelings, support is available: Féileacáin: Call 085 249 6464 for support following stillbirth or neonatal death. Visit feileacain.ie. Féileacáin Fathers: Connection and peer support for bereaved dads through football and social activities. Visit feileacainfathers.com or email feileacainfathers@gmail.com. A Little Lifetime Foundation: Bereavement support and counselling, including a dedicated dads’ group. Visit alittlelifetime.ie or email info@alittlelifetime.ie. Irish Hospice Foundation Bereavement Support Line: Freephone 1800 80 70 77, Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm, for support with grief or concern about someone who is grieving. More information. Samaritans Ireland: Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day, if you need someone to listen. samaritans.org.

Can having a baby later in life really help you live longer? And what do scientists actually mean when they say pregnancy changes your biological age? This week on The Family Tribe, Afif and Anne investigate the research behind the headlines linking motherhood, ageing and longevity. They explore the remarkable demands pregnancy places on the body, changes in biological ageing markers during pregnancy and after birth, and why having your first baby later is a different question from having your last baby later. Along the way, they discuss telomeres, epigenetic clocks, genetics, menopause and family size, asking whether later motherhood might reflect better underlying health rather than cause a longer life. There is also Anne’s recollection of planning her family around turning 35, a discussion of age-related pregnancy risks, and some strong feelings about the phrase “geriatric pregnancy”. With plenty of teasing and a healthy scepticism towards Instagram science, this is a conversation about understanding the evidence without turning it into another reproductive deadline. Your child’s birth certificate cannot predict your lifespan.

What happens when Anne’s lifelong best friend joins the podcast? Afif discovers just how much history he has missed, and a birth story somehow involves an offer to do the midwives’ hair. In this bonus episode, we welcome Martha Galvin, hairdresser, business owner, mother of three boys and honorary fifth Doherty sister. Martha shares the stories of her first son’s arrival and the later birth of her twins. She reflects on preparing for labour, discussing her preferences with her maternity team, choosing pain relief and understanding what might happen if plans needed to change. At the heart of her experience was feeling heard, supported and involved in the decisions being made. Martha also introduces her planned podcast, The Invisible Bag, exploring the unseen experiences and worries people carry through life. An affectionate, candid conversation about birth, friendship and the people who help us feel supported. Every birth is different, and Martha’s story reflects the choices and circumstances that were right for her. Put the kettle on, join us, and share this episode with someone who loves a good birth story.

Would banning teenagers from social media make them safer? And what might we miss if we judge their online lives by screen time alone? This week on The Family Tribe, Afif and Anne explore teenagers, technology and the daily negotiations happening in family homes, including their own. Maggie explains why she felt she received access to social media too late, while Faisal’s experience shows how recognising a problem and asking for help can become part of learning to manage it. There is also an alarming screen-time total that turns out to involve rather more Lego than expected. Alongside these family stories, Afif and Anne discuss Irish online safety rules, research on teenage mental health, school phone restrictions and the arguments for and against blanket bans. An honest conversation about setting limits, listening to teenagers and recognising our own scrolling habits. Follow The Family Tribe, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a parent navigating the same conversations. Content note: This episode includes discussion of self-harm and suicide.

Headlines about babies swallowing millions of plastic particles can make an ordinary bottle feed feel like a parenting mistake. So what does the research actually tell us? In this episode of Baby Tribe Shorts, Afif and Anne explore microplastics in baby bottles, silicone teats and milk storage bags. They revisit the Trinity College Dublin study behind many of the headlines, discuss why measuring particles is surprisingly complicated, and explain the distinction between detecting exposure and demonstrating harm. They also separate microplastics from BPA, consider the practical drawbacks of glass bottles, and discuss why concerns about plastic should never undermine established advice on sterilisation and formula preparation. Along the way, Afif loses patience with Instagram fearmongering, Anne recalls a toddler licking a shoe, and a disagreement over millimetres becomes surprisingly competitive. An episode about feeding choices, scientific uncertainty and helping parents make decisions without unnecessary guilt.

Weight-loss drugs are everywhere in the headlines. But what might they mean for our health beyond the number on the scales? This week, Professor Afif EL-Khuffash and Dr Anne Doherty explore GLP-1 medicines and the research into their effects on the heart, kidneys, liver and painful knees. They explain how these medicines influence blood sugar and appetite, unpack “food noise”, and discuss why managing obesity involves much more than willpower. They also explore emerging research on alcohol cravings, the findings in Alzheimer’s disease, and the practical realities of treatment, including side effects, nutrition, maintaining muscle and medical supervision. For breastfeeding parents, Afif explains what the available research can tell us, what remains unknown, and why individual circumstances matter. Along the way, Anne questions both the evidence and Afif’s increasingly busy social calendar. Science, scepticism and a little marital cross-examination as we explore what these medicines can offer, and where the questions remain. This episode provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice.

In this Baby Tribe Short, Afif and Anne look at a recent New South Wales paper asking why birth interventions are rising. The study found that so-called cascade interventions, including induction or augmentation, epidural or spinal analgesia, and instrumental birth or intrapartum caesarean section, increased over time, even among women labelled low risk. But what does “low risk” really mean? And does a rise in intervention automatically mean harm, overmedicalisation, or poor practice? Afif and Anne unpack what the paper shows, what it does not show, and why the missing outcome data matters. They discuss maternal risk, hospital culture, birth preferences, induction, epidurals, caesarean birth, and the danger of drawing strong conclusions from incomplete data. The big question is whether mothers and babies are doing better because of them. Link to paper: https://www.mdpi.com/3042-898X/1/1/2

Baby Tribe has grown up. In the first episode of The Family Tribe, Afif and Anne explain why they are widening the conversation from babies to the whole messy, funny and complicated world of family life. They reflect on 18 years of parenting, raising teenagers, marriage, multicultural family life, ageing parents, disappearing villages, financial pressure and bringing up children in a digital world that none of us fully understands. Along the way, they discuss 3:30 am wake-ups at every age, negotiating with teenagers through ChatGPT, growing up in Palestinian and West of Ireland families, and why loading a dishwasher remains one of marriage’s most dangerous tests. They also share what they wish they had understood when their children were small, including the fleeting nature of ordinary moments and the unexpected joy of not only loving the adults your children become, but genuinely liking them. The baby grew up. The podcast did too. Welcome to The Family Tribe.

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual but The Family Tribe is here to be part of the village that helps you through it. Hosted by husband-and-wife medical experts Dr Afif El Khuffash and Dr Anne Doherty, The Family Tribe offers honest, evidence-based advice for parents and guardians of children from newborns right through to teenagers. Bringing together more than 40 years of combined clinical experience, as well as their own lived experience as parents, Afif and Anne help listeners navigate the chaos, love, worry, tears and awe of family life. With two episodes each week, the podcast cuts through the noise of online advice and misinformation to explore the topics that matter most — from pregnancy, newborn care and child development to mental health, family relationships, teenage challenges and common parenting worries. Main episodes are released every Tuesday, with a shorter Baby Bonus episode focused on pregnancy and baby health every Thursday. Expect myth-busting conversations, expert interviews, real listener stories, well-known guests and practical guidance designed to reassure, inform and support parents, guardians and the wider family at every stage of the journey.

A large Australian study comparing public and private maternity care seemed to show better outcomes for mothers and babies in private obstetric-led care, including lower rates of stillbirth, NICU admission, severe perineal tears, and maternal haemorrhage. But the story is much more complicated than the headline suggests. In this episode of Baby Tribe Shorts, Afif and Anne unpack the study and ask whether it really proves that private care is safer, or whether the results reflect something deeper: differences in patient selection, continuity of care, intervention thresholds, and the fact that public hospitals often absorb the highest-risk pregnancies. They also discuss why the findings may not translate neatly to Ireland, where private obstetric care usually sits within public maternity hospitals rather than separate private maternity units. The take-home message is not that public care is worse, but that fragmented care, lack of continuity, and risk transfer matter. A high-risk hospital having worse outcomes does not mean it gives worse care. Sometimes it simply means it is looking after the patients who need the most help. Link to Article: https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1471-0528.18286

In this episode of Baby Tribe Shorts, Afif and Anne tackle the anxiety caused by recent headlines linking paracetamol use in pregnancy with autism, ADHD and intellectual disability. They walk through a major Lancet systematic review and meta-analysis, explaining why the best-quality evidence, especially sibling comparison studies, does not support a causal link between paracetamol use in pregnancy and these neurodevelopmental outcomes. The episode also explains why paracetamol remains the recommended first-line option for pain and fever in pregnancy, why untreated fever can itself be harmful, and why earlier studies may have suggested a risk because of confounding, recall bias and the reasons people take medication in the first place. The key message for parents is clear: use paracetamol when needed, at recommended doses, and don’t let fear-driven headlines make pregnancy harder than it already is. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanogw/article/PIIS3050-5038(25)00211-0/fulltext

In this episode of Baby Tribe Shorts, Afif and Anne take a closer look at one of the most influential obstetric studies of the last decade: the ARRIVE trial. The trial is often used in conversations about elective induction at 39 weeks, especially for low-risk first-time mothers. But what did it actually show? Did induction improve outcomes for babies? Did it really reduce C-section rates? And what happens when the findings of a carefully controlled clinical trial are applied to busy real-world maternity units? Afif and Anne break down the design of the trial, including who was included, how the induction and expectant management groups were managed, and why the distinction between internal validity and external validity matters. They discuss the key findings, including the lack of significant difference in neonatal outcomes, the reported reduction in C-section rates, and the importance of patience, staffing, careful selection, and clinical context when translating research into practice. This is not an anti-induction episode. It is an episode about nuance. Induction at 39 weeks may be a reasonable option for some women, but the ARRIVE trial does not mean that every low-risk pregnancy should automatically end at 39 weeks. As always, the real question is not just “what did the study show?” but “does this apply to this person, in this hospital, with these resources, and these priorities?” Link to Trial: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1800566

This week on Baby Tribe, Afif and Anne take a closer look at the baby products being marketed to exhausted parents, from sleep pods, reflux pillows and weighted sleep suits to formula prep machines, nasal aspirators, rectal wind devices, baby monitors, walkers and bouncers. The episode is not about shaming parents for buying products that promise help. It is about asking better questions before clicking “add to cart”. Does the product support safety, or does it introduce risk? Is it solving a real problem, or selling reassurance to tired parents? And does it follow the basic principles of safe sleep, safe feeding, safe movement and sensible monitoring? With practical advice, plenty of honesty, and a healthy suspicion of pastel-coloured nonsense, this episode gives parents a simple framework for deciding what is useful, what is unnecessary, and what should probably stay out of the cot, the bottle, the buggy, or the baby’s holes. https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/first-aid/choking-in-babies/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Baby Tribe, Afif speaks with Irish Times journalist Ellen Coyne about her reporting on the rise of freebirth in Ireland: giving birth without a midwife, doctor or trained medical professional present. Ellen discusses what led her to investigate the movement, the concerns raised by senior midwives, the lack of clear data around unassisted births, and how online communities can frame freebirth as empowering while failing to fully engage with the risks. After the interview, Afif and Anne debrief the issue from neonatal and obstetric perspectives. They explore why some women may feel drawn away from maternity services, including previous trauma, poor communication, lack of continuity of care and fear of intervention. They also examine the role of social media, doulas, birthkeepers and unregulated advice in shaping decisions during one of the most vulnerable times in a woman’s life. This is not a conversation about shaming women. It is about safety, autonomy, trust and accountability. Birth trauma is real. Consent matters. But real empowerment is not being left alone with risk. It is having accurate information, respectful care and skilled support available when things change. Birth is not a purity test. There is no gold medal for suffering. https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2026/06/06/free-births-in-ireland-concern-grows-for-women-choosing-births-without-medical-help/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Baby Tribe, Afif and Anne take on one of the most emotionally charged topics in maternity care: caesarean birth. Online birth content often presents two true statements side by side: caesareans carry more risk than vaginal birth, and caesarean rates are rising. The implied conclusion is often that unnecessary caesareans are harming women. But is that a fair interpretation of the evidence? Afif and Anne unpack why context matters, especially the concept of confounding by indication: the idea that the reason someone receives an intervention is often linked to the outcome being measured. Using a NICU analogy, they explain why comparing caesarean outcomes with uncomplicated vaginal births can be deeply misleading. They also discuss planned versus emergency caesareans, absolute versus relative risk, the risks of doing nothing, and why both hospital maternity care and private birth care can carry their own biases. The episode includes a breakdown of a 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis comparing planned caesarean delivery with planned vaginal delivery in randomized trials. This is not an episode about promoting caesareans or dismissing vaginal birth. It is about evidence, nuance, and helping women recognise the difference between informed consent and fear-based messaging. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alcohol, pregnancy and breastfeeding are surrounded by myths, slogans and a fair amount of internet nonsense. In this episode, Afif and Anne look at what alcohol actually does before conception, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. They discuss paternal alcohol exposure, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, the “sober enough to feed” slogan, pumping and dumping, beer and milk supply, and the misleading comparison between breastmilk and orange juice. No shame, no panic, just biology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Afif and Anne take a deep dive into vitamin K at birth and the growing wave of misinformation surrounding it online. They explore why newborn babies are naturally low in vitamin K, how clotting works, and what vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) actually is. The discussion covers the differences between intramuscular and oral vitamin K, why the injection remains the most reliable protection, and the devastating consequences VKDB can have, including brain bleeding and death. Along the way, they unpack some of the most common myths circulating on social media, from claims about “toxins” and cancer to misconceptions around breastfeeding and “natural” birth. As always, the episode combines evidence-based medicine with honesty, humour, and practical conversations about how healthcare professionals and parents can navigate fear, risk, and misinformation together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Pelvic floor problems affect a huge number of women, yet many suffer in silence, unsure what’s normal and what isn’t. In this episode, we’re joined by Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and urogynaecology specialist Breffini Anglim O'Regan to break down everything you need to know about pelvic floor health, from prolapse and urinary incontinence to the real impact of pregnancy, childbirth, and ageing. We explore the full range of treatment options, from physiotherapy and pessaries to surgical interventions, including a clear and balanced look at the mesh surgery controversy, what it is, why it was widely used, what went wrong for some women, and why it is still being used in other countries but not in Ireland. We also unpack why leakage is not something women should just “put up with,” the role of vaginal estrogen and why it is often misunderstood, how to know when to seek help, and what questions to ask before considering surgery, with the aim of giving women clear, evidence-based information so they can make informed decisions about their own bodies without fear, stigma, or misinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Baby Tribe, Afif and Anne tackle an important but often overlooked topic: what happens when things don’t go to plan after a baby is born. While most women recover well after delivery, a small number require closer monitoring or escalation of care. Anne, a consultant obstetric anaesthesiologist, explains how maternity teams identify early warning signs, what triggers a move from the postnatal ward to high dependency or intensive care, and what that experience looks like in practice. They break down the differences between ward care, HDU, and ICU, the most common reasons mothers need escalation such as haemorrhage, infection, and preeclampsia, and why early recognition is so important for good outcomes. The episode also explores the emotional impact of unexpected complications, how hospitals support mothers and babies during these situations, and what symptoms should never be ignored after going home. This is an honest, reassuring, and informative conversation designed to give parents a clearer understanding of how maternity care works when it matters most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all grow up with a version of how life is supposed to go. Meet someone, settle down, have kids. But what happens when that version doesn’t unfold the way you expected? In this episode, comedian Aideen McQueen joins us for a funny, honest, and deeply personal conversation about identity, addiction, recovery, and coming to terms with not having children. From always imagining herself as a mother to confronting that reality in her 40s, Aideen shares the emotional complexity of grief, acceptance, and finding purpose in unexpected places. This isn’t a story about giving up. It’s a story about redefining what a meaningful life looks like and discovering that care, connection, and fulfilment can exist in many different forms. FInd Aideen and info on all her shows at: https://www.instagram.com/comedymcqueen/ Sponsored by Happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenting is hard enough… so when did “wellness” become another thing to get right? In this episode, we’re joined by Clare McKenna, host of Alive & Kicking and author of Would You Be Well?, to unpack the modern obsession with wellness and why, for many parents, it’s doing more harm than good. We explore Clare’s journey from chasing diets, routines, and “perfect health” to realising that wellness had quietly become another source of pressure. Together, we talk about how social media, unrealistic expectations, and guilt-driven habits are shaping how we think about health… and why so many parents feel like they’re getting it wrong. Afif shares his own experience of going all-in on fitness and achieving the goal… only to feel worse. Anne reflects on how motherhood reshapes identity, routine, and self-care in ways nobody prepares you for. This episode is about stripping things back. Not perfection. Not optimisation. Just figuring out what actually works in real life. If your version of wellness is making you feel worse… it might be time to rethink it. Proudly sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Sleeping like a baby” is one of the biggest myths in parenting. In this episode, we strip back the noise around infant sleep and look at what the science actually tells us. From circadian rhythm development to night waking, we explain why babies don’t sleep the way we expect them to, and why that doesn’t mean anything is wrong. We explore the full spectrum of sleep training methods, from cry-it-out to so-called “gentle” approaches, and break down what they are really doing: not changing biology, but changing behaviour. We also examine the evidence behind sleep training, what improves (parent perception, sometimes sleep onset), what doesn’t (night waking), and why the conversation around “self-soothing” is often misunderstood. Finally, we talk about the modern sleep industry, the rise of rebranding, and how vulnerable parents are being sold solutions to a problem that may not exist in the first place. No guilt. No ideology. Just clarity. Proudly Sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becoming a parent changes how you see everything. In this episode, we’re joined by Hilary McGann (News by Hil), journalist and creator, to talk about what happens when someone whose job is to understand the world becomes a mother in it. Hilary shares her deeply personal journey through a complicated and anxiety-filled pregnancy, including emergency surgery, ovarian torsion, and the constant fear of losing her baby. What follows is a powerful reflection on resilience, perspective, and what it really means to become a parent. We also explore how parenthood reshapes our relationship with the world around us: Does the news hit differently after having a child? How do you stay informed without becoming overwhelmed? And how should we talk to our children about a world that often feels chaotic? This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about motherhood, information overload, and finding balance in a noisy world. Proudly Sponsored by @happytummy.ie and @biogaiaireland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A practical and honest conversation with clinical psychologist Dr David Coleman, author of Fear Less, on childhood anxiety. We explore why anxiety feels so common in children today, the difference between normal fear and something more serious, and how parents can support their child without overprotecting them. From the science behind anxiety to simple tools that actually work, this episode focuses on one key idea: your child doesn’t need to be fearless, they just need to know how to handle fear. Proudly sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Emma McGuinness was pregnant with her second child, she discovered a swelling in her neck that turned out to be Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Her son was delivered at 36 weeks and spent his first 14 days in neonatal intensive care. Just weeks later, Emma began six months of chemotherapy while caring for a newborn. In this powerful episode, Emma shares the reality of navigating cancer during pregnancy, the emotional experience of having a baby in NICU, and how her own experience exposed a gap in Irish maternity leave legislation. That gap ultimately led to a national campaign and a change in the law. This episode is recorded in collaboration with Daffodil Day in support of the Irish Cancer Society. To donate check out www.cancer.ie You can find Emma's page here: https://www.instagram.com/a_little_link/ Proudly sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When parents hear the word NICU, it can feel frightening. But the reality is that many babies who spend time there are simply adjusting to life outside the womb. In this episode, Afif and Anne break down the most common reasons newborns are admitted to the neonatal unit, including breathing difficulties, low blood sugar, infection checks, temperature regulation, and feeding challenges. Afif explains the physiology behind these issues and why most NICU stays are short and part of a baby’s normal transition after birth. If you’re expecting a baby or have ever wondered what really happens in NICU, this episode offers clarity and reassurance. Proudly sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Epidurals are often blamed for triggering a cascade of interventions, harming babies, and interfering with breastfeeding. But what does the actual evidence say? This week we’re joined by Professor Rachel Kearns, consultant anaesthetist and population health researcher, to unpack the data. From maternal morbidity and fever to neonatal outcomes and long term child development, we examine what large scale studies really show and where the myths fall apart. If you’re making decisions about pain relief in labour, this is the evidence based conversation you need. Proudly sponsored by www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Baby Tribe, we’re joined by broadcaster and podcaster Doireann Garrihy for an honest and deeply personal conversation about pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks of becoming a parent. Doireann shares her experience of induction on her due date, the moment plans changed in the delivery room, and what it felt like to hear that a C-section was needed. She reflects on the relief of hearing her daughter Rosie’s first cry, the unexpected challenges in recovery, and the surreal first night as a family of three. We also talk about feeding, the pressure new mothers put on themselves, and the “wins and losses” mindset that can quietly take over in those early weeks. Doireann opens up about the emotional weight of breastfeeding struggles, delayed milk, sleep deprivation, and how easy it is to become your own harshest critic. As always, we explore what it means when birth doesn’t go to plan, why emergency doesn’t always mean catastrophe, and how partners can play a vital role in advocacy and support. Proudly sponsored by www.happytummy.ie 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

Pregnancy and postpartum can absolutely chaos your skin. This week we’re joined by Sara Stokes, founder of SKN to SKN, to break down hormonal skin changes, what ingredients to be cautious with in pregnancy (without the panic), and a simple 3-step routine that’s realistic when you’ve got about five minutes. We also talk matrescence, postpartum anxiety, and the pressure to “look fine” when you’re not. https://skntoskn.com/ Proudly sponsored by: 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

This week on The Baby Tribe, Afif and Anne return after the Christmas “break” (parenting, but with more chocolate) and ease back in with a totally non-controversial topic: home birth and free birth. We start by clearly separating free birth (no medical care, no trained attendant, outside healthcare infrastructure) from planned home birth (full antenatal care, risk assessment, trained midwife support, and an escalation plan). This episode is not about shaming women or taking choice away. It’s about risk, and what happens when birth stops being straightforward. We unpack what can go wrong for mothers, including postpartum haemorrhage and sepsis, and why peripartum deterioration can be sudden, making rapid multidisciplinary response crucial. Then we shift to babies, discussing why the initial steps of newborn resuscitation can happen at home, but more advanced interventions cannot, and why that matters when minutes count. We also talk about water birth, why labouring in water is different from delivering in water, and the rare but serious neonatal complications reported in the literature. Finally, we discuss Irish transfer realities using data from a recent audit of the HSE home birth service (2012–2021), including transfer rates and travel times, and why “transfer if needed” is not always the reassurance people think it is. If you’d like to support the podcast, subscribe to HeadStuff Plus for Baby Tribe Shorts, where we break down the science, the headlines, and listener questions. Sponsored by www.happytummy.ie 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

In this final episode of the year, we navigate the often perplexing world of baby growth patterns. New parents, it's time to take a deep breath! We’re here to reassure you that when it comes to your tiny human’s growth, the individual journey matters more than rigid centile expectations. From understanding why newborns might shed some birth weight initially, to celebrating those steady growth milestones, every story and insight is shared with the aim of easing your concerns. We even explore the cultural quirks of growth tracking, like the tales of our Irish babies and their adorably large heads causing quite the stir abroad! Sponsored by www.happytummy.ie 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

Anne, our resident expert anaesthetist, offers a candid look at the epidural procedure, breaking down the steps with precision and empathy. From the first sting of the local anaesthetic to the teamwork involved in ensuring comfort and safety, Anne and Afif shed light on how understanding the process can alleviate fear and guilt. For those curious about mobile epidurals, we explore the balance of pain relief and mobility along with the real-world challenges of making it accessible to all. Celebrate the resilience of women in childbirth and burst through the myths surrounding epidurals with our engaging, insightful episode that champions both clarity and comfort. 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

Unlock the keys to compassionate communication and discover transformative support for families with newborns diagnosed with Down syndrome. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Silvia Segales-Angel, an early intervention specialist from Down Syndrome Ireland, and Emer O'Sullivan, mother of the spirited Maisie. We'll shed light on the powerful Tell it Right program, which aims to guide healthcare professionals in delivering a Down syndrome diagnosis with empathy and clarity. Emer shares her candid experience, emphasizing the profound impact of language and early support on her journey with Maisie. Through this episode, we offer guidance on navigating the overwhelming influx of information, fostering a supportive environment where families can thrive together. For more information: https://downsyndrome.ie/ Sponsored by: www.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

In this special live show from Smock Alley Theatre, Afif and Anne share hilarious parenting fails, marriage confessions, and the story of how they first met. They’re joined by writer and creator Stefanie Preissner, who opens up about her autism diagnosis, motherhood, and her new TV project The Walsh Sisters. Later, Dr Nicola Fox-Hamilton dives into one of the biggest modern parenting challenges—kids, phones, and digital literacy. From tantrums to TikTok, this episode is packed with honesty, humour, and big conversations every parent needs to hear. Proudly 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

105: Emma Doran on Comedy, Motherhood, and Family Dynamics We had an absolute blast chatting with Emma Doran on Baby Tribe. From becoming a mum at just 18 to building a thriving career in comedy, Emma shared the ups, downs and laugh-out-loud moments that have shaped her journey. She opened up about finding humour in the chaos of parenting, the viral sketches that made us cry with laughter, and how social media has helped her connect with audiences by celebrating the madness of everyday family life. Emma spoke honestly about resilience, family support, her relationship with her own mum and dad, and the awkward truths of sex ed that we all secretly relate to. We also got a glimpse into her new show Emmaculate, inspired by her own experiences of raising kids across different ages while juggling the comedy stage. This conversation is heartfelt, funny, and full of those “thank God it’s not just me” moments. You’ll laugh, nod along, and maybe even feel a bit empowered too. Proudly Sponsored by www.Happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Baby Tribe, Afif and Anne sit down with Sophie Morris, entrepreneur, nutrition coach, and author of Sophie’s Swaps, to talk about supermarket savvy, consumer awareness, and family food choices. Sophie shares her journey from Kooky Dough founder to one of Ireland’s most-followed voices on food labels, explains why packaging claims can be misleading, and offers simple, budget-friendly swaps that help parents shop with less stress and more confidence. We discuss what “ultra-processed” really means, the limits of current research, and why balance matters far more than perfection. This is an episode about awareness, not food policing; the goal is to empower families with information, not add guilt. Ultra-processed food evidence is observational, additives in the EU are regulated, and convenience foods have their place. If food chat feels heavy, mind yourself and skip, and for personalised guidance always seek a registered dietitian. Sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadcaster and podcaster Louise McSharry joins the Baby Tribe Podcast to share her witty, honest take on modern parenting. From managing ADHD while juggling motherhood and creative work, to unapologetically choosing joy, Louise highlights the importance of balance and self-compassion. Our chat delves into the raw realities of early parenthood, loneliness, medical challenges, and the pressure of “perfect” parenting, while stressing the value of empathy, honesty, and community support. We also discuss raising tech-savvy, emotionally intelligent kids, setting healthy boundaries, and preparing the next generation with kindness and resilience. Sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices