Mothering From Within

• Ep. 42: Torticollis & Flat Head Syndrome: What Every Parent Needs to Know

  In this expert-packed episode of Mothering From Within, pediatric OT Kaili Ets is joined by Marisa Marino, a seasoned pediatric physical therapist who specializes in torticollis and plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) in babies as well as pre/postnatal women's health.Together, they break down:What torticollis and plagiocephaly actually are (and what causes them)The difference between a baby’s head turning preference and a true diagnosisSimple positioning strategies to try at homeHow to spot early signs before it becomes a bigger issueWhen to seek professional support—and what therapy might look likeWhether you're noticing a flat spot on your baby’s head, struggling with tummy time, or hearing new words like “plagiocephaly” or “torticollis” from your provider—this conversation will help you feel more informed, empowered, and supported.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Welcome to Mothering From Within 01:14 – Meet Marisa Marino, pediatric physical therapist 03:03 – What is torticollis? What is plagiocephaly? 04:50 – How head shape and positioning are connected 09:44 – Treatment strategies + tummy time tips 12:11 – What the research says & how to advocate for your baby 26:22 – Final reflections & where to find MarisaPerfect for parents who are: • Noticing their baby always turns their head one way • Concerned about flat spots on their baby’s head • Wondering if tummy time is enough • Looking for holistic, gentle alternatives to “wait and see”💜 Know a mama who needs this? Forward the episode or tag us on IG!Follow Kaili → @theholisticbabyguru Find Marisa → [email protected] to participate in my Torticollis research study?  Book your FREE session here

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• Ep.41: Understanding Torticollis in Babies – Causes, Red Flags & Holistic Treatment Options

  In this episode of Mothering From Within, Kaili Ets—pediatric occupational therapist and holistic baby guru—dives deep into the often misunderstood condition of Torticollis in babies.If your baby constantly turns their head to one side, struggles with tummy time or latching, hates one breast, or seems tight and fussy when lying flat—this episode is a must-listen.You'll learn:What torticollis actually is (spoiler: it's more than just a neck issue)The connection between torticollis and tongue tiesCommon causes, from in-utero positioning to birth interventionsWhy your baby’s tension might be showing up as feeding, sleep, or motor issuesWhy passive stretching alone often isn’t enough—and what you can do insteadKaili also shares how craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, and whole-body approaches can gently support babies with head turning preference—without forcing movement or waiting it out.If you’re local to Stoney Creek, Burlington, or Ancaster, she’s also inviting families to participate in her osteopathy thesis research project focused on gentle, effective support for babies with torticollis.🕒 Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Mothering From Within 01:11 – Personal update + what inspired this episode 01:43 – What is torticollis? Signs & red flags 04:07 – Common causes of torticollis in babies 05:51 – Why torticollis is more than a neck issue 09:39 – Torticollis & tongue tie connection 15:06 – Why stretching alone isn’t always enough 18:52 – Join Kaili’s local research study (free treatment opportunity!) 19:54 – Final thoughts + how to support your baby holistically✨ Resources Mentioned: 📘 Mothering From Within – Kaili’s book: A holistic guide to sleep, reflux, feeding, baby development & maternal well-being. Buy your copy here. 🎁 [Free Baby Body Tension Guide] – Learn how to identify subtle signs of body tension at home 📍 [Join Kaili’s Research Study] – For local families with babies experiencing torticollis or head turning preference

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• Ep.40: Is It Really Just Colic? When Crying Means Something.

  In this episode, Kaili dives deep into the topic of “colic” and what it really means when your baby is crying inconsolably. She challenges the catchall label of colic, encouraging parents to trust their instincts and look beyond the surface for possible root causes.Key Topics Covered:[01:12]  What “colic” actually means and why it’s often just a label, not an explanation.[03:10] The importance of trusting your parental intuition when something feels off with your baby.[04:28] Common root causes of excessive crying in babies, including:Nervous system sensitivity and sensory overloadEmotional processing from birth or in utero experiencesDigestive issues (food intolerances, gut health, reflux, etc.)Body tension and compression from birth or positioningOral dysfunction and feeding challengesPractical steps for parents:[09:37]  What Parents Can DoTrust your gut and observe patterns in your baby’s behaviourConsider holistic support options like craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, or pediatric OTFocus on co-regulation—your calm helps your baby’s calmSeek support when needed; you don’t have to do it aloneResources Mentioned:Free Baby Body Tension Guide Kaili’s book, “Mothering From Within” In-person and virtual support options for parentsTakeaway Message:You know your baby best. Colic is not the end of the story—it’s a signal. With the right support and clarity, you and your baby can find your rhythm again. Trust yourself, trust your baby, and remember: you’re doing an incredible job.Connect with Kaili:Kaili's WebsiteKaili's InstagramBook a Right Fit Call with KailiFor in-person support (Stony Creek/Hamilton area) or virtual resources - www.kailiets.comShare this episode with another mama who needs to hear it!

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• Ep.39: From NICU to Nurtured - One Mama’s Journey Through Prematurity, Healing & Hope with Gail Gabriel

  In this heartfelt episode, Kaili sits down with Gail Gabriel, a fellow occupational therapist, NICU mama, and founder of The NICU Collective. Gail shares her raw and powerful journey from the unexpected early delivery of her son at 30 weeks to navigating the NICU, early intervention, and her own emotional healing.Whether you’ve experienced a high-risk birth, a NICU stay, or just the intense uncertainty of new motherhood, this episode offers real talk, deep compassion, and hard-earned wisdom.You’ll hear about:What it's really like to bring home a premature babyHow to shift from fear to trust—even after traumaThe power of community and sharing your storyMental health, NICU PTSD, and finding your way back to selfWhy creating space for your healing matters as much as your baby’s developmentGail’s story will resonate deeply with any mama who’s ever felt out of control, isolated, or overwhelmed—and her insights will help you feel seen, supported, and not alone.🕒 Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Kaili’s intro 03:18 – Meet Gail Gabriel: OT, mom, NICU warrior 06:46 – Gail’s birth & NICU story: a 30-week surprise 11:25 – Trauma, healing, and finding her footing again 17:52 – Mental health, fear, and building resilience 22:00 – Finding support when no one else gets it 26:49 – The NICU Collective: creating safe spaces for NICU families 30:25 – Why sharing your story matters 31:40 – Redefining self-care as a NICU mom 36:35 – Gail’s takeaway: the NICU journey shapes you 41:00 – Final reflections + where to find Gail💜 Connect with Gail: Instagram: @nicu_collective Facebook: NICU Collective📘 Grab Kaili’s Book: Mothering From Within – your compassionate, holistic guide to baby sleep, development, reflux, and more - https://www.kailiets.com/book✨ Loved this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend who needs this kind of soul-deep support. And tag us on IG @theholisticbabyguru and @nicu_collective—we love hearing your thoughts!

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• Ep.38: Should You Hire a Doula? How to Know If It’s Right for Your Family

  Should You Hire a Doula? How to Know If It’s Right for Your Family.In this episode of 'Mothering From Within,' host Kaili Ets sits down with Kristen Revere, the owner and founder of Gold Coast Doulas, to discuss the critical role doulas play in both birth and postpartum care. Kristen, an elite certified birth and postpartum doula, shares her journey from political fundraising to founding a successful doula agency in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The conversation touches on the various services doulas offer, including emotional support, breastfeeding assistance, and overnight care. Kaili and Kristen also highlight the often-overlooked importance of preparing for the postpartum period, offering valuable advice for new parents. Tune in to learn how doulas can provide essential support during the magical yet challenging first years of parenthood.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:15 Meet Our Special Guest: Kristen Revere02:23 Kristen's Journey to Becoming a Doula05:05 The Role and Importance of Doulas14:16 Personal Experiences with Doulas16:17 Planned Medical Births and Doulas20:18 Postpartum Support and Planning22:51 Fertility Benefits and Postpartum Support23:26 The Importance of Rest for New Mothers24:51 Sharing Responsibilities and Overcoming Challenges26:02 Role and Benefits of Postpartum Doulas32:08 Hiring a Doula: What to Look For34:04 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights36:57 Final Thoughts and Takeaways37:44 Where to Learn More and Closing RemarksTo learn more about what Kristen offers:Kristen's WebsiteKristen's InstagramStay in Touch With KailiKaili's WebsiteKaili's InstagramBook a Right Fit Call with Kaili 📘 Want more holistic support? Grab Kaili’s book Mothering From Within 💜 Subscribe + share with a mama who needs this insight. 

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