Dr. Carole Keim continues the It Takes a Village season with an encouraging solo episode focused on one of the biggest questions new parents ask: How do I build a village when I don’t already have one? Whether you're far from family, new to your community, or simply feeling overwhelmed, Dr. Keim shares practical ideas for creating a strong support network during pregnancy, the newborn period, and beyond. She explores how modern parenting has changed, why raising a child is truly a team effort, and how every family can build a village that fits their unique circumstances.
Dr. Keim discusses the different pressures often experienced by birthing and non-birthing parents, practical ways partners can support one another, and why asking for, and accepting, help is one of the healthiest things new parents can do. She shares realistic strategies for meeting parents' basic needs, including meal trains, meal preparation, sleep, household responsibilities, and protecting mental health during the postpartum period. Dr. Keim also offers practical ideas for finding community through friends, neighborhood groups, religious organizations, local parent groups, and trusted online resources, while reminding parents that genuine, in-person connection is an important part of building the village every family deserves.
Key Moments
00:00 Why every family needs a village in today's world
01:24 How modern parenting has changed—and why parents feel stretched so thin
02:48 Understanding the different pressures on birthing and non-birthing parents
05:18 Helping partners feel supported, capable, and connected
08:54 Resources that help parents feel informed and empowered before baby arrives
11:06 Postpartum mental health affects both parents
16:16 Meeting moms' basic needs with food, water, and practical support
22:24 Meal trains, meal prep, and making nutrition easier for new families
27:31 Sleep strategies and realistic expectations during the newborn period
32:12 Accepting help, lowering expectations, and building your village through community
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Resources discussed in this episode:
- The Baby Manual is available on Amazon
- The Holistic Mamas Handbook is available on Amazon
- Meal kit services:
- Grocery delivery options:
- Restaurant delivery services:
- Household Support
Shop Dr. Keim’s must-have baby and toddler items: https://www.amazon.com/shop/drcarolekeim
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Contact Dr. Carole Keim MD
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Amazon
Shop Dr. Keim’s must-have baby and toddler items: https://www.amazon.com/shop/drcarolekeim.
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