Postpartum University® Podcast

Maranda Bower, Postpartum Nutrition Specialist

Top-Ranked Podcast for Postpartum Care Providers in Nutrition + Holistic Care

The current postpartum care model is failing—leaving countless mothers facing postpartum depression, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune issues. For providers, the call is clear: advanced, root-cause care is essential to real healing.

The Postpartum University® Podcast is the trusted resource for professionals committed to elevating postpartum support. Hosted by Maranda Bower—a medical researcher, author, mom of 4, and the founder of Postpartum University®—each episode delivers powerful insights into functional nutrition, hormonal health, and holistic practices for treating postpartum issues at the root. This podcast bridges the gaps left by Western medical education, empowering providers to support their clients with individualized, science-backed, and traditional-aligned solutions.

Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive insights, resources, and tools to revolutionize your impact in postpartum wellness and functional nutrition: www.PostpartumU.com/Subscribe.

All episodes

Best episodes

Seasons

Top 10 Postpartum University® Podcast Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Postpartum University® Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Postpartum University® Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Postpartum University® Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Creating a Postpartum Wellness Toolkit with The Mama Thrive Method EP 148

Postpartum University® Podcast

01/23/24 • 41 min

Send us a text

We need to talk more about postpartum wellness.

Information and resources for thriving during the postpartum period (which is way longer than most people think, by the way), are severely lacking in our culture.

Creating a postpartum wellness toolkit, covering essentials like self-care practices, mental health support, and nutrition guidelines is essential to long-lasting well-being in motherhood, and even can affect the way your body experiences menopause.

In this episode, we're sharing:

The five components of the Postpartum University Mama Thrive Method at Postpartum University that support healing.
How the components of whole-body support, nutrition and detoxification, better sleep, nervous system care, and cyclical living, are all interconnected.
Practical steps to take to put these pieces into place.
The benefits of preparing this postpartum wellness toolkit.
Real-life examples of how I put these components into practice in my life with four kids.

Rather than focusing on buying tools to make life easier, this episode emphasizes honoring basic needs and making lifestyle changes for a beautiful life in motherhood.

NEXT STEPS:
📩 Join our newsletter for more evidence-based insights and strategies
🔔Sign up for the Postpartum Nutrition Certification Waitlist

👍Rate, REVIEW & share the podcast
📱Connect on Instagram!
📚Get a Copy of the BOOK: Reclaiming Postpartum Wellness
🎒FREE Provider's Postpartum Nutrition Toolkit
🧠Perinatal Mental Health Certificate Training & Additional Courses for Providers & Postpartum Professionals

Mindfulness Tools to Help Moms with Postpartum Anxiety | Kelly Smith EP 194

Postpartum University® Podcast

12/10/24 • 33 min

Send us a text

Could Meditation Be the Key to Easing Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety can be relentless and exhausting, leaving countless mothers feeling overwhelmed and sleep-deprived. Maranda sits down with Kelly Smith, global yoga & meditation teacher, founder of Yoga For You, to explore meditation as a practical tool for postpartum mental health. Kelly shares her personal journey through postpartum anxiety and dives deep into the science of how meditation calms the brain, helping us manage the endless cycle of “what if” thoughts.

Kelly and Maranda bust myths around traditional meditation, proving that mothers can find peace without needing a totally “clear mind.” Kelly uses relatable analogies and science-backed insights to explain how meditative practices can ease maternal stress and help moms navigate the demands of early motherhood. Plus, she shares realistic ways to bring meditation into your life, even if you're pressed for time. Small, consistent meditation practices can reshape the postpartum journey and make lasting impacts on mental health.

Check out this episode on the blog:
https://postpartumu.com/mindfulness-tools-to-help-moms-with-postpartum-anxiety-kelly-smith-ep-194/

KEY TIME STAMPS:

04:01 — Meditation as a tool for postpartum anxiety relief & how it affects the brain’s stress response system

07:45 — Practical ways meditation changes the postpartum brain

10:22 — Meditation as a daily “micro habit” for mental resilience

12:06 — The trap of “meditating on fears” vs. meditating for calm

18:39 — Addressing the myth that meditation requires a blank mind

20:49 — Accessible meditation practices for busy moms

24:59 — Techniques like body scans and guided sessions

33:32 — Final words: Trusting yourself as the perfect mother for your child

Connect with Kelly:

Kelly Smith is a global yoga and meditation teacher, author, E-RYT 500/ YACEP, founder of Yoga For You, and the host of the iTunes chart-topping podcasts Mindful in Minutes and Meditation Mama. Kelly believes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to yoga and meditation and encourages her students to find their own personal practice, listen

Does the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Really Work? EP 202

Postpartum University® Podcast

02/11/25 • 25 min

Send us a text

Is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) Failing Mothers? What Providers Need to Know

Postpartum depression screenings are essential—but are we actually identifying the mothers who need help? The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is the standard tool used in postpartum mental health screenings worldwide. But here’s the hard truth: it’s not catching every mom who’s struggling.

In this episode, we break down why the EPDS falls short and what providers must do to bridge the gap between a screening tool and real, effective postpartum mental health care. We dive into why mothers feel unseen and unheard in postpartum appointments, the danger of reducing depression screenings to a checklist, and most importantly, how we as providers can do better. Let’s Change the Way We Support Postpartum Mental Health, Moms deserve more than a checklist.

Check out this episode on the blog: https://postpartumu.com/does-the-edinburgh-postnatal-depression-scale-really-work-ep-202
KEY TIME STAMPS:

00:00 – Why postpartum depression screening is missing the mark
02:29 – The truth about the EPDS and why it’s not enough
06:18 – When moms do report depression, but nothing changes
10:45 – The lack of postpartum mental health training for providers
14:25 – The missing tools for real postpartum support
18:07 – The danger of using checklists instead of real conversations
22:33 – Why trauma often goes undiagnosed in postpartum women
24:17 – The big takeaway: How providers can take real action

EP 13: Postpartum Dads: Interview with Joshua Maze

Postpartum University® Podcast

06/20/21 • 20 min

Send us a text

For full show notes go to https://marandabower.com/postpartum-dads-interview-with-joshua-maze-podcast-ep13/
While Mothers go through so much in postpartum, it’s important not to forget about the family unit and fathers during this huge change in everyone's life.

In this episode, I chat with Joshua Maze about his personal journey through postpartum with his wife after they had their daughter & the different struggles he faced with his mental health prior to her birth, and how it continued to get increasingly worse after the baby arrived with depression and anxiety.

We get into conversations that are so often not discussed, how postpartum affects Dad’s as well as Mom’s, and the importance of getting all important parties involved and offering support and guidance to them all.

If you are struggling, and in need of some answers, especially immediately and you're not able to get in to see a provider, reach out to PSI (Postpartum Support International).

This is a wonderful place to receive education and get the support that you need!

PSI Phone number: 1-800-944-4773

PSI Website >>>>here<<<<

In this episode, we share with you:

Introducing Joshua Maze
His postpartum journey
Finding Postpartum Support International
How depression can present itself differently, especially between males and females
A huge transition for both parents, not just moms
How can we do better to support the entire family, not just the mom?
Including the spouse
Oftentimes healthcare professionals neglect to support the whole family
Screening both parents for depression
Men generally do not get any parental leave & the issue with it
Starting to see change
The biggest piece of advice from Joshua for Mom listeners
The importance of communication
Offering support to your spouse
If you are struggling with your postpartum journey or know someone who is and need some answers, I encourage you to reach out to PSI for more education, support, and answers.

PSI Phone number - 1-800-944-4773

When Your Postpartum Health is Failing: Essential Tips for Holistic Postpartum Recovery EP 181

Postpartum University® Podcast

09/10/24 • 16 min

Send us a text

Are you struggling with fatigue, hair loss, mood swings, thyroid issues, or other major health concerns in the years after birth?

If you’ve been searching for answers on “How do I feel like myself again after having a baby?” or “What’s the first step in taking control of my postpartum health?”—this is for you. Maranda’s no-nonsense, five-step roadmap tackles the real issues: fatigue, mental health struggles, physical recovery, and how to get back to feeling whole again.

We’re talking practical, whole-body healing here—simple but powerful actions to help you reclaim your health while supporting your mental wellness and the needs of your baby. Forget the quick-fix advice you’ve seen online—this is real, doable, and designed for the actual life of a new mom.

Blog Link: https://postpartumu.com/when-your-postpartum-health-is-failing-essential-tips-for-holistic-postpartum-recovery-ep-181/

KEY TIME STAMPS:

00:04 – Introduction to holistic postpartum healing and this week’s topic.
01:34 – Why conflicting postpartum advice overwhelms new moms.
04:03 – Step 1: Start by taking a deep breath—you’re not alone.
05:48 – Step 2: Assess your physical and mental state.
07:40 – Importance of addressing physical health to support mental wellness.
08:47 – Step 3: Discover actionable knowledge with Maranda’s free course.
10:35 – Why practical, supportive info is key to real postpartum healing.
11:56 – Step 4: Build a support network that champions your healing.
13:03 – Shifting mindset: making self-care a priority without guilt.
15:42 – Step 5: Heal for yourself, past generations, and future ones.

Exciting Announcement
We are thrilled to announce the 10th launch of the Postpartum University Certification Program! We provide in-depth training and certification for postpartum professionals, enhancing their ability to support new mothers effectively. Click here on how you can become a certified postpartum specialist and make a significant impact in the field.

Maternal Mental Health and Returning to Work with Dr. Emily Guarnotta EP 158

Postpartum University® Podcast

04/02/24 • 21 min

Send us a text

It's no secret that mothers in the U.S. return to their careers after childbirth way too early.
Today's conversation dives into the effects of returning to work on maternal mental health.

I'm speaking with Dr. Emily Guarnotta, founder of Phoenix Health who brings her expert perspective as a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health specialist.
In this episode, we're sharing:

The perspective mothers can take when returning to work to ease the effects of the transition on their mental health.
How changes in breastfeeding correlate with the timing of returning to work and what to expect emotionally with this experience.
Thoughts on whether maternal mental health conditions are caused or exacerbated by returning to work.
5 steps to take to make the most of returning to work.
Whether or not to discuss your mental health condition with your colleagues or employer.

Until paid family leave is part of our society in the U.S., we'll continue to deal with the reality of returning to work too early and the effects it has on maternal mental health.
This episode is packed with tips that will help you make the most of whatever situation you find yourself in and remind you that you're not alone.
To learn more about Emily and her expert tips, head to:
https://postpartumu.com/maternal-mental-health-and-returning-to-work-with-dr-emily-guarnotta-ep-158/

Turning Your Postpartum Passion into a Business with Jodi Cognan EP 70

Postpartum University® Podcast

07/24/22 • 22 min

Send us a text

We are shifting the conversation back towards you, the professional who is showing up to serve every single day.

You are where the biggest impact in postpartum health will take place.

If you burnout, if you quit, if you show up as less than your best self...

You are doing the world an injustice.

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Jodi Cognan about the important ways professionals can show up for their business and start to create a legacy.

The truth is, you deserve more time, more money, and more freedom. And the amazing news is, you will be able to offer higher levels of support to so many more mothers and families in the process.

Go to https://postpartumu.com/postpartum-university-podcast-ep70/ for more!

Where to find Jodi Cognan:

Facebook Group
Instagram
In this episode, we are sharing:

Many professionals enter the field with a similar story and purpose
Balance caring for the mother with running a business
Why you cannot only trade time for money
The astronomical burnout and divorce rates among professionals
Investing in continuing education
Paying attention to what the community is asking for
You deserve to be paid well for the way you show up

*BRAND NEW - 18 Pages of Free Postpartum Nutrition Handouts*

Download the free collection HERE!

Are your symptoms being caused by postpartum depletion, or something else?

Take The Postpartum Assessment HERE!

Postpartum University® Training for Professionals:

-Holistic Postpartum Nutrition Training

-Postpartum Nutrition Certification
- If you are in need of support, or have questions you can send an email to [email protected] OR you can reach out in The Postpartum Circle Facebook group.

Mother's Day: What We REALLY Want EP 111

Postpartum University® Podcast

05/09/23 • 13 min

Send us a text

I don't know about you, but I've been INUNDATED with all the Mother's Day gift ideas. What to buy. What not to buy. What a mother really wants...

I was initially going to start this podcast with what we really needed. Paid maternity leave, bridging the gender pay gap, better healthcare, and science for women, acknowledgment of the sacred rite of passage of motherhood... *cue the head nods and "amens", right?!*

But I see a need for something else here...

This trend I've been seeing lately of not celebrating Mother's Day at all because we'll just be left with the pain of grief, loss, and feeling unappreciated and overlooked every other day of the year is really concerning.

Sweeping this pain under the rug and refusing to celebrate Mother's Day isn't the way to shift things for the better.

So in this episode, I'm sharing how you can have the absolute best Mother's Day ever.

When you use the approach I'm suggesting here the way you experience your reality in motherhood and your family relationships will change.

Listen in to learn what I'm giving you permission to celebrate this Mother's Day and the simple steps you can take to feel the bliss and joy you deserve, this time of year, and ALWAYS!
****For more juicy tips, information, and links you absolutely want to check out, go to
https://postpartumu.com/mothers-day-what-we-really-want-ep-111/ for more!

Breath As Medicine: Healing the Nervous System, Soothing Anxiety with Cindy T. DeBonis EP 119

Postpartum University® Podcast

07/04/23 • 20 min

Send us a text

In this episode, Cindy T. DeBonis, Postpartum & Breathwork Practitioner and Professional Member of Postpartum University joins us with her incredible knowledge of breathwork and how that impacts so much of our health.

This is a fascinating conversation because we're breathing all the time but we don't think about how much our breath connects with the health of our mind and body.

Cindy T. De Bonis is a Postpartum & Breathwork Practitioner who helps overwhelmed pregnant and postpartum moms get out of their chaotic minds with simple mindfulness tools.

Let's dive into how this incredible tool you always have at your disposal is a critical part of your health and well-being in motherhood.

In this episode, we're sharing:

The two types of breathwork (intentional practice and daily awareness) and how you can incorporate them into your routines.

The importance of understanding the body's states of being: rest and digest vs fight or flight and how your breath determines which state you're in.

Some techniques for diaphragm breathing for mental and physical postpartum recovery.

The most important thing to take away from this conversation is that it's not necessary to dive headfirst into an extensive breathwork practice. Rather, start where you are and focus on your breath a few times a day.
During this conversation, Cindy will give you some practical and amazing tips for exactly how you can get started and the research to support exactly why you'll want to.
****For more juicy tips, information, and links you absolutely want to check out, go to:
https://postpartumu.com/breath-as-medicine-postpartum-university-podcast-ep119/

Connecting with Your Postpartum Culture EP 73

Postpartum University® Podcast

08/16/22 • 12 min

Send us a text

“Bounce back” culture has failed us terribly.

Although the signs that this isn’t working are everywhere, where do we look when stepping outside of the modern norm?
It is this crossroads where we’re given the opportunity to come home to the traditions and cultural practices that have been lost across generations.

The secret to a better way of experiencing motherhood rests in this wisdom.

The way back, however, requires a deep process of discovery and digging back to our roots. Today, we’re here to share our best advice and what we’ve been working on at Postpartum University to help you get started.

Go to https://postpartumu.com/postpartum-university-podcast-ep73/ for more!
In this episode, I am sharing:

Digging back into our own culture for information can be difficult
Conversations with our elders usually include many hardships that shifted the way we had to show up as mother
For traditional practices and wisdom, we have to go back deeper
Why we desperately need to move away from the modern “bounce back” culture
Using tradition to get back to the root of who we are
Where can we go to find this information
Finding community and asking questions

*BRAND NEW - 18 Pages of Free Postpartum Nutrition Handouts*

Download the free collection HERE!

Are your symptoms being caused by postpartum depletion, or something else?

Take The Postpartum Assessment HERE!

Postpartum University® Training for Professionals:

-Holistic Postpartum Nutrition Training

-Postpartum Nutrition Certification
- If you are in need of support, or have questions you can send an email to [email protected] OR you can reach out in The Postpartum Circle Facebook group.
Where to find me: postpartumu.com

Face

Show more best episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Postpartum University® Podcast have?

Postpartum University® Podcast currently has 212 episodes available.

What topics does Postpartum University® Podcast cover?

The podcast is about Breastfeeding, Health & Fitness, Natural Birth, Alternative Health, Mental Health and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on Postpartum University® Podcast?

The episode title 'Telling the Truth and Calling Out the System EP 87' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Postpartum University® Podcast?

The average episode length on Postpartum University® Podcast is 26 minutes.

How often are episodes of Postpartum University® Podcast released?

Episodes of Postpartum University® Podcast are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Postpartum University® Podcast?

The first episode of Postpartum University® Podcast was released on Apr 12, 2021.

Show more FAQ

Postpartum University® Podcast

Maranda Bower, Postpartum Nutrition Specialist

Top 10 Postpartum University® Podcast Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Postpartum University® Podcast have?

What topics does Postpartum University® Podcast cover?

What is the most popular episode on Postpartum University® Podcast?

What is the average episode length on Postpartum University® Podcast?

How often are episodes of Postpartum University® Podcast released?

When was the first episode of Postpartum University® Podcast?

Comments