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Identity and MatrescenceBaby DevelopmentPhysical Recovery

Welcome to Functional Fourth Trimester: Rethinking Daily Life After Birth

With Lauren Zatezalo, OT student, and Melissa O'Neal, OTR/L

20 minFebruary 2026

This is the episode that explains everything. What this podcast is, why two occupational therapists made it, and what the OT framework for postpartum life actually means in practice. If you are new to Functional Fourth Trimester, start here.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

  1. What the fourth trimester actually is, and why the twelve weeks after birth deserve as much preparation as the birth itself.
  2. What occupational therapy is and why its framework is uniquely suited to the functional challenges of new parenthood.
  3. Why Lauren and Melissa started this podcast: the specific gap they observed and what they want it to fill.
  4. What topics this show covers and what kinds of guests you will hear from in future episodes.
  5. Whether this podcast is for you. By the end of this episode, you will know.

Show Notes and Resources

American Occupational Therapy Association (aota.org). The Postpartum OT, Melissa O'Neal's practice. Postpartum Support International (postpartum.net).

From This Episode

Transcript excerpt coming soon.

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From Chaos to Calm: Simple Sleep Strategies for New Parents

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Kaili Ets is both an occupational therapist and a mother who has been in the middle of postpartum sleep deprivation. This episode is the practical follow-up to the nervous system conversation, focusing less on why and more on what to actually do about it. Three sleep strategies, built for the real conditions of new parenthood.

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