When All Of Your Family Lives Abroad But You Still Need Help

In this episode, I talk with Paige—a proud member of the Twiniversity mom squad—about her journey through twin parenthood and the unexpected challenges that reshaped her family’s first year. What started as a smooth pregnancy shifted dramatically at the 20-week scan, when Paige’s daughter was diagnosed with a congenital lung defect requiring surgery right after birth.Paige shares what it was like to navigate the NICU with both twins, including the emotional ups and downs, the critical role of hospital social workers, and the resources that made all the difference—from Medicaid to home nursing care. She opens up about the relief that came with finding financial and emotional support systems, and why advocating for your family’s needs is so essential when medical complexities enter the picture.We also dive into the realities of transitioning home from the NICU, balancing medical care with everyday parenting, and the challenges of finding the right support team. Paige’s story is not only about resilience but also about the importance of knowing where to turn for help.Whether you’re a parent preparing for the NICU, navigating a complicated pregnancy, or simply curious about the resources available to families with unique medical needs, this conversation is full of honesty, encouragement, and practical guidance.EPISODE THEMES 📝Paige’s twin pregnancy journey and medical diagnosis at 20 weeksLife in the NICU and navigating early interventionsHow social workers support families with insurance, services, and resourcesThe financial and emotional relief of finding the right support systemsPreparing for life after the NICU and adjusting to home nursing careAdvocating for yourself and your family in the medical systemWhy community and resources make all the difference for twin parents GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkoutCONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TwiniversityPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I chat with Kerri Otto—a twin mom, author, and advocate for parents of multiples—about her remarkable journey from pregnancy surprises to publishing her first children’s book.Kerri opens up about the shock of learning she was expecting twins, the challenges of a high-risk pregnancy, and the emotional rollercoaster of discovering her girls were actually identical after doctors initially told her otherwise. She shares candidly about bed rest, navigating fears of viability, and the community of twin parents who supported her along the way.We dive into what it’s really like raising identical twins—the attention, the misconceptions, and the struggle to protect their individuality—while also celebrating the magic and “enchantment” that surrounds them. Kerri also talks about the inspiration behind her book The Twin Enchanted Tales, how she carved out time to write while parenting three young kids, and why finishing creative projects can leave a lasting legacy for your family.Whether you’re a parent of twins, curious about the twin experience, or someone chasing a passion project of your own, this conversation is filled with honesty, encouragement, and a whole lot of twin magic.EPISODE THEMES 📝The shock and joy of discovering a twin pregnancy Navigating bed rest and high-risk pregnancy challenges Discovering her twins were identical after doctors misdiagnosed Raising identical twins and protecting individuality The inspiration and process behind The Twin Enchanted Tales Balancing motherhood, career, and creative pursuits Why finishing your passion projects matters GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkoutCONNECT WITH KERRI OTTO 💌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twinchanted/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-otto-mba/Website: https://www.twinchantedtales.com/   CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with…In this episode, I chat with Myer—a dad of five, twin parent, and former Navy officer—about the unexpected journey that took him from anti-terrorism operations to parent coaching. Myer shares how raising twins shifted his perspective on fatherhood and inspired his mission to help other dads show up with presence, confidence, and support.We dive into the unique challenges dads face today, why community and preparation matter so much, and how Myer’s own parenting experiences continue to shape his work with families. From balancing discipline and connection to navigating the everyday chaos of raising multiples, Myer offers honest insight into what it really looks like to step into fatherhood with intention.Whether you’re a twin parent, a dad looking for support, or simply curious about the evolving role of fathers in today’s world, this conversation is full of practical wisdom, personal stories, and encouragement for every stage of the parenting journey. EPISODE THEMES 📝Myer’s journey from Navy officer to parenting coachHow raising twins reshaped his view on fatherhoodWhy presence and preparation are key for dadsThe evolving role of fathers in parentingBalancing structure and connection in family lifeBuilding community and finding support as a parent GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH MYER KRAH II 💌Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/here4thedads/LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/here4thedads?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=536a6aef-57a0-40b9-972a-e3abd2b0ee8dPodcast (Here For The Dads): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-4-the-dads-podcast/id1678025206 CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I chat with Traci—a lifelong book lover and twin mom—about her reading journey and how it’s evolved alongside parenting. From the books that shaped her childhood to the ways she sneaks in reading time now, Traci shares how stories have always been part of her life. We dive into the joys and challenges of introducing kids to reading, how audiobooks can be a lifesaver for busy parents, and why making reading a family activity matters so much.Traci also opens up about her approach to reviewing books, curating recommendations for expectant and new parents, and finding the right titles to spark curiosity in little ones. Whether you’re a parent of twins, an avid reader, or someone looking to bring more books into your home, this conversation is full of practical tips, personal stories, and a whole lot of love for reading. EPISODE THEMES 📝Early reading inspirations and lifelong learning Making time for books while parenting twins The value of audiobooks and e-readers Finding the right books for expectant and new parents Practical tips for encouraging kids to read Parenting philosophies and book recommendations Creating a family culture around reading GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH TRACI THOMAS 💌Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacks/id1362164483Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ANOw4YOd7suJrKkt1Xg2s?si=b7e322db5a414504Website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/  CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Helen—a twin herself and now pregnant with boy-girl twins—to talk about her incredible path to motherhood. Helen shares her experiences with IVF, the challenges of endometriosis, and the highs and lows that come with fertility treatments. We dive into how growing up with a twin has shaped her parenting outlook, the unique bond she hopes her twins will share, and the importance of advocating for your health.We also talk about the role of twin psychologists like Joan Friedman and Nancy Siegel in understanding twin relationships, and how she’s preparing—mentally and practically—for life with two newborns at once. Helen’s story is honest, heartfelt, and full of insight for anyone on a fertility journey or raising twins. #TwinLife #TwinMom #TwinPregnancy #TwinJourney #TwinsOnTheWay #BoyGirlTwins #LifeAsATwin #ParentingTwins #IVFJourney #FertilityStruggles #EndometriosisAwareness #IVFMom #TTCCommunity #InfertilityWarrior #PregnancyJourney #MotherhoodUnplugged #MomLifeUnfiltered #PregnantAndProud #MotherhoodJourney #ExpectingTwins #MomCommunity #TwinParentPodcast #RealMomStories #PodcastInterview #MotherhoodPodcast #WomenSupportingWomenEPISODE THEMES 📝What It’s Like Growing Up as a TwinLiving with Endometriosis & Navigating Fertility TreatmentsThe Emotional & Financial Toll of IVFDeciding to Have TwinsChanging Clinics & Finding the Right FitPregnancy Prep with Family SupportExpert Advice from Twin PsychologistsRealistic Expectations for Parenting Twins GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I talk with Carol—a Brazilian mom who moved to the U.S.—about her incredible journey through motherhood abroad. From trying to conceive to navigating the U.S. healthcare system and adjusting to life with twins, Carol opens up about the emotional and logistical challenges she faced. We discuss what it’s really like to raise a family far from home, the ups and downs of NICU life, and how she managed postpartum without immediate family nearby. Her story offers encouragement and insight for anyone parenting in a different country or navigating the realities of twin life.EPISODE THEMES 📝Challenges of Getting Pregnant Abroad Postpartum Doula Support (and the Lack of It) Navigating U.S. Healthcare as an Immigrant Mom Singleton First, Twins Next: A Story of Two Very Different Births Planning for Birth with Limited Family Help NICU, Travel Visas, and Juggling Family Responsibilities Finding Community and Support in a New Country What Carol Wishes She Knew SoonerGIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected] 

In this episode, I sit down with Danielle Ferguson—a speech and language pathologist and fellow twin mom—to dig into the hot-button topic of tongue tie, lip tie, and buckle tie. We talk honestly about the myths, the hype, and the reality behind these diagnoses. As an IBCLC, I emphasize the importance of functional assessment over simply looking at structure, and Danielle brings her professional insight on feeding challenges from her work in the field. We also share personal stories and highlight the critical difference between when a medical intervention is truly needed and when over diagnosis may be doing more harm than good.EPISODE THEMES 📝Debunking Myths About Tongue TieChallenges in the Lactation FieldThe Complexity of Tongue Tie RevisionsIdentifying and Addressing Feeding IssuesInsurance and Medical NecessityGIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH DANIELLE FERGUSON 💌Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-ferguson-499a2b1a3/?originalSubdomain=ca CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I talk with twin mom Emilia Merchen about her honest and emotional journey to completing her big family—with a surprise twist that ended in twins! Emilia shares how she and her husband went from planning for baby #4 to discovering they were actually expecting #4 and #5. She takes us back to that unforgettable moment in the OB’s office, the wave of emotions that followed, and the incredible support she received from her medical team and fellow twin parents. We also dive into the decision to be “done,” the bittersweet feelings of a last pregnancy, and the beautiful (and sometimes chaotic) reality of raising five kids under seven—complete with minivan life, vacation logistics, and mealtime mayhem. If you’ve ever wondered how you’ll know when your family is complete, you’ll want to hear this conversation.EPISODE THEMES 📝Deciding when your family is completeSurprise twin pregnancy after planning for one moreEmotional and logistical impact of going from three to five kidsMaking the decision to remove tubes during C-sectionComparing singleton pregnancies to twin pregnancyReal-life logistics of big families (cars, travel, bedtime)Breastfeeding twins and feeding choicesNavigating toddlerhood while raising twinsEmbracing the joys and challenges of a large familyGIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, we sit down with twin mom Sinead to explore what it’s like to navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care in Australia. As a mother of fraternal twins, Sinead walks us through her experience with Australia’s healthcare system—from planning a C-section to receiving postnatal support that’s inclusive, accessible, and surprisingly personal.We talk about the differences between public and private healthcare, the role of midwives and obstetricians, and how Australia’s approach to maternity leave stacks up against that of the U.S. Sinead also opens up about the emotional side of twin parenting, the importance of mental health support, and the role that community and social media played in helping her feel prepared and connected.Whether you’re a parent, expecting multiples, or just curious about how other countries support families, this episode offers a heartfelt, eye-opening look into maternal care from a global perspective.EPISODE THEMES 📝Navigating Australia's public and private healthcare systemsPlanning a C-section and hospital stay for twinsMaternity leave policies and financial support in AustraliaPostnatal care and mental health resourcesDifferences in cultural attitudes toward motherhoodThe impact of social media and community for new parentsComparing maternal care in Australia vs. the U.S. GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/MKse3EVR/checkout✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkout CONNECT WITH SINEAD FINN 💌Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@sinead.finn_Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinead__finn_/LinkTree: linktr.ee/sinead_finn?utm_source=linktree_profile_share CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, I talk with Lucy—a twin mom whose pregnancy took an unexpected and life-threatening turn when she was diagnosed with Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) at just 16 weeks. Lucy walks me through the whirlwind of emotions and decisions that followed, including undergoing fetal surgery at Johns Hopkins to save her babies. We dive into what TTTS is, how it’s diagnosed, and what every parent of twins should know about monitoring and care. Lucy’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of maternal-fetal health, self-advocacy, and trusting a mother’s intuition.EPISODE THEMES 📝Understanding Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Lucy’s Diagnosis and Surgery Fetal Surgery and Johns Hopkins Experience Emotional Toll of High-Risk Pregnancy The Power of Advocacy and Support Systems Twin Pregnancy Monitoring and Follow-Up Resources for Twin Parents GIVEAWAYS 💰🎉 YOU'RE INVITED: Need more support, join us each month for our Twiniversity Virtual Meeting. Meet Nat and Lauren and bring them your biggest twin life challenges each month of the year. For dates and more details visit. www.twiniversity.com/Membership✔️Subscribe to the Twiniversity Email Newsletter! https://www.twiniversity.com/subscribe/Expecting twins? Twiniversity has you COVERED with online classes! ⬇️Breastfeeding Twins: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/HTaVcGhH/checkoutTwins After Singletons: https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/hegrd8Ez/checkoutBaby Safety (CPR, First Aid, Car Seat Safety, Childproofing): https://twiniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/AccFMLk8/checkoutCONNECT WITH LUCY FITZPATRICK 💌LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lucy-fitzpatrick-m-ed-b4ab1020 CONNECT WITH US 🎙️Instagram: instagram.com/Twiniversity Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/twiniversity/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Twiniversity/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twiniversityX: twitter.com/TwiniversitySpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/60TDcDJoEtQHwqLzZ8L9rX?si=9734d507f23845e6Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twiniversityEmail: [email protected]