Podcast
THE MILK
Hosted by Tayla Burke · EN
Welcome to The Milk- the podcast that pours it all out: the messy, the magical, & the mildly unhinged moments of motherhood and womanhood. Real talk, honest stories, and reminders that none of us really know exactly what we’re doing- and that’s kinda the best part! I’m Tayla- your host and mom of soon to be three. So let’s laugh, learn, and milk this season of life for all that it’s worth.
21episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep. 27 What Does a Night Doula Actually Do? Newborn Sleep, Postpartum Support & Building Your Village
1w ago01:02:05Tap to summarizeEveryone talks about the newborn phase, but no one really talks about what happens at 2 a.m. when you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering how you’re possibly going to do it all again tomorrow.In this episode, I’m sitting down with Marianella Mendoza, founder of Laguna Baby Collective, to pull back the curtain on what a night doula actually does and why so many families consider overnight postpartum support one of the most valuable investments they make during those early weeks with a new baby.Before we dive in, I want to acknowledge that hiring a night doula is a luxury and something that isn’t financially accessible for every family. This episode isn’t meant to suggest that anyone needs a night doula to be a great parent or survive the newborn stage. I wanted to have this conversation because I think every mom deserves to know what support options are available when building her village—especially if you don’t live near family or have extra hands to help. Whether your support comes from a partner, friend, family member, postpartum doula, or night doula, my hope is that this episode helps you feel less alone and more informed.Marianella walks us through exactly what overnight support looks like, from feeding and diaper changes to sleep shaping, tracking routines, and helping parents get the rest they desperately need. We talk about how support differs for breastfeeding, pumping, and formula-feeding families, what a typical night actually looks like, and the small things that can make a huge difference when you’re running on very little sleep.We also discuss dream feeds, newborn sleep, safe sleep practices, how to know if a night doula is the right fit for your family, and the questions every parent should ask before inviting someone into their home. Whether you’re currently pregnant, deep in the newborn trenches, or simply curious about what postpartum support can look like, this episode offers an honest, practical look at one of the most talked-about—but often misunderstood—forms of help available to new parents.In this episode, we cover:• What a night doula does (and doesn’t do)• What overnight postpartum support actually looks like• How night doulas support breastfeeding, pumping, and formula-feeding families• The benefits of sleep shaping versus sleep training• Tracking feeds, diapers, and sleep patterns• Dream feeds: when they help and when they don’t• How overnight support benefits moms, partners, newborns, and older siblings• When to book a night doula and how long families typically use one• Budget-friendly ways to make overnight support work• Green flags, red flags, and questions to ask before hiring a night doula• Safe sleep practices and newborn care expectations• Building your postpartum village and asking for helpIf this episode resonates with you, please share it with a new or expecting parent and leave a review. Your support helps more moms find these conversations and feel empowered during one of the biggest transitions of their lives.MORE FROM MARIANELLA:Laguna Baby CollectiveWebsite: HEREInstagram: HEREFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 26 4 WEEKS POSTPARTUM UNFILTERED
May 2000:42:16Tap to summarizeScarlette is literally asleep in my carrier while I record this because apparently the sleepy newborn era has officially left the chat. In this solo episode, I’m giving you a real-time update on what life looks like at 4 weeks postpartum — the good, the emotional, the mildly unhinged, and the surprisingly funny.We talk about the end of the super sleepy newborn phase, the loose schedule we’re gently guiding her toward, what postpartum has felt like this time around, and my “Top 5 Horror Movies” of postpartum (because if you know, you know). From D-MER to leap anxiety to the absolute chaos of older siblings coughing directly on your newborn…nothing is off limits.Basically just one tired mom, a baby strapped to her chest, and a postpartum life update straight from the trenches.NEWBORN MUST-HAVES LINKED HEREFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 25 Birth & Postpartum Q&A: I Feel Better Than I Expected After Baby Three
May 1200:45:44Tap to summarizeThree weeks postpartum and I’m finally back on the mic with the honest update I wish existed when I was a first-time mom. I’m sharing what recovery really feels like after baby number three, including the biggest surprise: how much better my body feels this time around. We talk postpartum bleeding, why a vaginal birth recovery can be wildly different from a C-section, and the tug-of-war between feeling “so good” and still needing to heal.We get into the day-to-day reality of going from two kids to three. I unpack the mom guilt I carried into this transition, what’s actually working in our routine, and why support systems matter more than any perfect plan. Childcare help, a temporary night nurse, school schedules, and tag-team bedtime are not just logistics, they’re currently how we are surviving. I share my breastfeeding journey across all three babies, why triple feeding burned me out, how formula supplementation became part of our plan early, and what it’s like navigating possible cow’s milk protein allergy and switching to a hydrolyzed formula. I also talk about D-MER (dysphoric milk ejection reflex), that sudden wave of dread during letdown, plus postpartum anxiety and why staying on a low dose of Lexapro helps me keep a steadier baseline.More On What’s Discussed:• what feels surprisingly easier this time and what still catches us off guard• recovery differences across vaginal birth and C-section healing • postpartum bleeding timelines and what felt unexpected • the transition from two kids to three and why it feels smoother • how support systems change everything, from childcare to a night nurse • breastfeeding history, low supply, exclusive pumping, and letting go of pressure • formula choices, cow’s milk protein allergy concerns, and switching formulas • D-MER symptoms during nursing or pumping and why it feels so intense • postpartum anxiety signals and why staying on Lexapro helps our baseline • VBAC prep tips like stretching, walking, acupuncture, and pelvic alignment • epidural fears, what it actually feels like, and why we choose it • postpartum vs first trimester and why both can be brutal in different ways • staying calm while waiting for spontaneous labor and considering a membrane sweep • baby name ideas and handling nasty social media comments Follow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 24 Breastfeeding: WTF Is Normal? With Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Shelly Jacobs
Apr 2700:47:13Tap to summarizeThis week on The Milk, we’re getting into the breastfeeding conversation so many moms wish they had before baby arrives.I’m joined by Shelly Jacobs, a Newport Beach–based board certified lactation consultant, founder of Lolo Baby, and creator of online programs for moms. Shelly breaks down what a lactation consultant actually does, when to reach out for support, and how they can help make breastfeeding feel less overwhelming and more doable.We talk through the basics of breastfeeding, common challenges moms face in those early days, tips for building and protecting your milk supply, what to know about pumping, and the simple things that can make a big difference when you’re trying to feed your baby and keep your sanity.Whether you’re currently breastfeeding, planning to, exclusively pumping, combo feeding, or just trying to understand what support is available, this episode is full of practical, reassuring advice for every mom navigating feeding.In this episode, we cover:• What a lactation consultant actually does and when to call one• How to set yourself up for breastfeeding success before baby arrives• Common breastfeeding challenges in the early days• Tips for increasing and protecting milk supply• Pumping, latching, and feeding support basics• How to feel more confident and less alone in your feeding journeyYou can find Shelly on Instagram at @shellyjacobs_iblc and learn more about her online course Early Milk Matters and breastfeeding sling Lolo BabyFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 23 My Dream VBAC Birth Story + Life As A Fam of 5!
Apr 2200:51:14Tap to summarizeScarlette is here!! It truly still all feels so surreal. This week, Scotty is back on the mic with me as we finally share Scarlette’s birth story — from my water breaking in the middle of the night, to me somehow still showering and doing skincare before leaving for the hospital, to one very fast, very healing delivery that still feels a little surreal. I'm not sure how but I feel like I manifested the birth I so desperately wanted and somehow got it this time around- they do say 3rd times a charm?!In this episode, we talk about what went into my decision to try for a VBAC after a previous C-section, how we navigated the risks with my doctor, and everything I did to prepare in hopes of going into labor naturally. We also share the full labor and delivery story — getting to the hospital, realizing things were moving very fast, getting the epidural just in time, and the completely surreal moment Scotty actually got to help deliver Scarlette.We also get into the real-life aftermath: bringing her home, introducing her to Aspen and Bash, the sibling prep that actually helped, some big feelings that have come up, and what this transition to three kids has really been like so far. And let me just say… the newborn is not the one keeping us on our toes as we thought.If you love birth stories, postpartum talk, sibling transitions, and hearing the honest, unfiltered version of what this season has looked like for us, this episode is for you.Follow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 22 Acupuncture For Fertility, Pregnancy, Labor Prep & Postpartum With Dr. Christine San Miquel
Apr 1400:54:53Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever been acupuncture-curious but had no idea what it’s actually doing in the body, this episode is for you. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Christine San Miquel, a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a medical qigong practitioner, and a research professor. Together we break down how acupuncture can support women through so many major phases of life — from trying to conceive, to pregnancy, labor prep, and postpartum recovery.We talk about why so many women turn to acupuncture for fertility support, what it may help regulate in the body, and the most common reasons women seek it out during early pregnancy (hint hint it works wonders for 1st trimester symptoms). We also get into what “labor prep” acupuncture really means, whether acupuncture can actually induce labor, and what it can realistically support in those final weeks before birth and into the postpartum phase.Whether you’re trying to conceive, currently pregnant, newly postpartum, or simply curious about holistic support for women’s health, this episode is full of grounded, helpful insight.What We Discuss:• How acupuncture supports balance through individualized patterns and point combinations • Why you can feel calmer after a session and how benefits can last • What to look for when choosing an acupuncturist for fertility, pregnancy, or postpartum • Fertility support for irregular cycles, ovulation, PCOS patterns, and IVF protocols • First trimester help for nausea, fatigue, sleep, and miscarriage prevention support • The difference between labor induction and an invitational labor prep series • Simple labor acupressure points partners can use for pain and progression • Postpartum support for healing, mood, digestion, capacity, and long-term hormone health • Milk supply regulation and why acupuncture research is hard to standardize • When you can start acupuncture after birth and how baby support can work for colicMore from Dr. Christine San Miquel:Website: www.whitephoenixwellness.comInstagram: @drchristine.sanmiquelPodcast: The Dao Of HumaningFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 21 Final Pregnancy Q&A: VBAC, Labor Prep, Sibling Transition, & Postpartum Plans
Apr 700:54:58Tap to summarizeI’m in the final few weeks of pregnancy, and I still find myself trying to process the fact that I’m about to have a teeny tiny newborn in my arms so soon. This week, I thought it would be fun to prep together with one last little pregnancy Q&A. You submitted the questions, and I’m answering them.And let me tell you… you all sent in such thoughtful, good questions. A few of them even made me pause and reflect on what I want for birth and postpartum, so truly, thank you for your service.In this episode, we talk through VBAC fears, labor prep routines, sibling transitions, postpartum mental health, and the real-life logistics that make this whole season possible.Questions We Cover:Deciding on a VBAC/TOLAC after a prior C-section and processing birth traumaBirth prep strategies, including walking, acupuncture, raspberry leaf tea, evening primrose, curb walking, the Miles Circuit, and colostrum collectionWhether siblings should meet baby at the hospital or at homeAnything I want to do differently this birth and postpartumWho will be watching the kids while we’re at the hospitalHow I’m mentally and physically preparing for birth in the final two weeksWhat vaccines or medications I’m delaying after birthThoughts on placenta encapsulationHow to prep older kids for a new babyWays I’m preparing for postpartumHow we plan to divide kids and responsibilities with my husbandAnd more!Thanks for hanging out with me this week- I'm so grateful you're here xo - TaylaFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 20 Dr. Paul Nassif- Postpartum Skincare Secrets & Hot Takes On Beauty Trends
Mar 3100:49:12Tap to summarizeWhy does postpartum skin suddenly make you look so much more tired than you feel? Buckle up ladies, in this episode Tayla sits down with world-renowned facial plastic surgeon & doctor many of you know from Botched, Dr. Paul Nassif to talk about the real skin changes women experience during pregnancy and postpartum, and that overall “I don’t look like myself” feeling.Dr. Nassif breaks down what’s actually worth your money when it comes to skincare and treatments, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, niacinamide, lasers, peels, PRP, PRF, Botox, and more. He also shares his honest take on the beauty trends everyone is debating right now, including filler migration, preventative Botox, and even salmon sperm facials.This is a practical, honest conversation for moms who want real answers on postpartum skincare, melasma treatment, under eye concerns, Botox, and aesthetic procedures without the pressure to "fix everything" For more from Dr. Paul Nassif:Follow him for skincare tips on Instagram @drpaulnassifTry his skincare product line for yourself www.drpaulnassif.comFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 19 Shayna Babb: How To Act Fast In A Child Choking or CPR Emergency
Mar 2401:13:12Tap to summarizeThe scariest parenting moments usually don’t come with a warning. One second your baby is eating, playing, or fighting bedtime, and the next you’re trying to decide if it’s normal gagging, real choking, or something that needs CPR. I sit down with pediatric nurse, mom of three, and expert behind The Medical Mamas, Shayna Babb to get practical, calm, and specific about what to do when seconds matter during a child's medical emergency.We unpack the important of CPR and choking education, and why “I’ll figure it out in the moment” is a dangerous plan. We talk through the most common choking hazards, the biggest mistakes to avoid (like blind finger sweeps), and the exact infant choking steps that could save your child's life. We also dig into her hot take on trendy dechoker devices, when they might help, and why your hands and knowledge should always come first and so much more.More Of What We Discuss:• why CPR and choking training matters because we are the first responder as parents• how pediatric emergencies often start with sick lungs from RSV flu pneumonia and asthma • the differences between gagging versus choking • what NOT to do when a child is gagging• a step-by-step demonstration of how to safely and effectively handle a choking emergency • why devices like dechokers can delay action if you do not practice • febrile seizures basics and the biggest misconception about themFollow Shayna Babbs on Instagram @themedicalmamasIf you're interested in Shayna Babb's CPR, & Choking or Pediatrics 101 courses, use code MILK when you purchase for a price of $127 (usually $197).Help do all that you can to educate our community and save children's lives by sharing this episode with your family, friends, and any caretakers in your lives. Follow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →Ep. 18 Free Couples Therapy: Relationship Questions, Answered by Licensed Psychologist Dr. Bahaur Amini (Part 2)
Mar 1800:36:29Tap to summarizeWe're back with two episodes this week babes! We're here with a Part 2 with licensed psychologist, Dr. Bahaur Amini. A couple of weeks ago you ladies submitted your (anonymous) relationship questions and struggles in hopes of getting some professional insight. So today is the day- Dr. B dishes out some freebie advice and valuable tools to help talk you through the situations so many of us go through yet feel so alone in. We dig into high-stakes parenting disagreements like vaccines and medicine, how to stop "keeping score", what to do when resentment is the big elephant in the room, how to rebuild intimacy when you're constantly too tired, & so much more. More Of What We Discuss:clarifying shared values before making high-stakes parenting decisions like vaccines and medicine the impact of banning “always” and “never,” making invisible labor visible with the Fair Play cards and dividing tasks more objectively a simple boundary rule for dealing with in-laws issuesdate night expectations navigating one partner wanting another baby and making it a true joint decision exploring loss of attraction trying a reset code word to stop escalation and take a break If you feel seen by this conversation, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so more parents can find the support. We appreciate you! xo - TaylaFollow The Milk Podcast on all platforms for weekly episodes that remind you you're not alone, you're not crazy, and you're doing way better than you think.Follow & Subscribe For More:YouTube: @TheMilkPodcastInstagram: @TheMilkPodcast_@TaylaBurkeTikTok: @TheMilkPodcast @Tayla_Burke
Transcribe →