In the first episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast for 2025, I am joined by the wonderful Tracey Anderson Askew, a distinguished educator in breathing retraining and parenting, who sheds light on a fundamental yet overlooked aspect of our physiology—breathing. Together we explore how intentional breathing techniques can alleviate stress, lower cortisol levels and boost blood flow, which can ultimately enhance fertility and overall reproductive health.

We discuss the connection between breath and the nervous system, revealing how different breathing patterns affect us both physically and emotionally. Tracey introduces practical strategies to combat over-breathing—a common yet misunderstood practice and distinguishes between typical breathwork and breathing retraining. Her practical advice will be a game-changer if you’re struggling to fall pregnant.

Tracey Anderson Askew is a seasoned teacher, hypnotherapist, breathing retrainer, and educator specialising in childbirth and parenting. She is the director of Transform Parenting and the former director of the Better Breathing Centre in Canberra. With over two decades of experience, Tracey has assisted more than 6,000 new parents with her face-to-face and online workshops. As a mother of four, she combines her vast knowledge and personal insights to guide families through pregnancy and early parenting. Her expertise in breathing retraining aims to enhance physiological wellness and subsequently, reproductive health.

Key Takeaways:

• Breathing is a powerful, free resource that plays a critical role in managing stress and supporting fertility.
• Breathing retraining helps to optimise oxygen utilisation and reduce stress.
• Nose breathing and maintaining an upright posture are cornerstones of optimal breathing habits.
• Over-breathing can lead to lower CO2 levels, impacting the body’s ability to utilise oxygen effectively.
• Simple changes in breathing technique can significantly influence physiological states and promote both relaxation and reproductive health.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The pathway to the deep relaxation response, or one of the most direct pathways, is the breath."
2. "The opposite to the stress response is what’s called the deep relaxation response."
3. "The myth is that CO2 is just a waste gas. No, it's actually vital for oxygenation processes."
4. "Nose breathing is generally much calmer and signals to the body that you're not being chased by a tiger."
5. "When you're stressed, you get dumber because you can't access your whole brain."

Mentioned in this episode:

FREE Guide - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Aging on Fertility

FREE Guide - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Aging on Fertility

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

In this bonus episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I invite several women within my community, whose advice I trust, to provide their real life advice for you. From personal tips to professional advice, this episode has been created to help you navigate the emotional challenges the festive season can bring while facing fertility struggles.

The episode features contributions from notable community figures including Joanna Sampieri, known on Instagram as IVF Mumma Tribe, Rachael Casella from Macenzies Mission, who you can find on Instagram as My Life of Love, Trish Tselepi from Pink Elephants support, Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran and we also have someone my patients would know well and that’s Emilee Nichols, Emilee is my Patient Care Coordinator and Marketing Coordinator who experienced her own IVF journey.

These beautiful guests have kindly taken the time to offer their practical tips and advice around managing difficult conversations, finding time for self care, emphasising the importance of being kind to yourself and finding moments of joy.

Resources:

• Rachael Casella - www.instagram.com/mylifeof_love
• Pink Elephants Support Network - https://www.instagram.com/pinkelephantssupport/

https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/

• Fertility Psychologist Cath Corcoran - www.instagram.com/cathcorcoranpsychologist
• Joanna Sampieri - www.instagram.com/ivf_mumma_tribe

Mentioned in this episode:

FREE Guide - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Aging on Fertility

FREE Guide - The 5 Game Changing Supplements Reversing the Impact of Aging on Fertility

Fertility Over 40 Supplements Guide

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, I am joined by World Renowned Entrepreneur Lisa Messenger and Seasoned Lifestyle Columnist and Finance Expert Sarah Megginson who share with us special insights into their story detailed in their book, "The Power of Two." Lisa, a dynamic force in the business world as the CEO of Collective Hub, opens up about her challenging path to motherhood, spanning eight years and 18 rounds of IVF. Sarah, a respected lifestyle columnist and financial expert, joins her as both co-author and the incredible surrogate who carried Lisa's child. Their story is not just about overcoming fertility challenges; it's a testament to the power of connection, resilience, and unwavering support.

Lisa’s candid recount of living a "private hell" while maintaining her successful career is a sentiment many can resonate with. Sarah’s empathetic leap into surrogacy, highlights the beautiful nature of a true friendship and of mutual empowerment.

Both Lisa and Sarah share insights into the nuances of asking for help and maintaining open communication and boundaries, not only through their personal journey but also as invaluable life lessons for listeners facing any form of adversity.

About the Guests

Lisa Messenger: Lisa Messenger is a renowned entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker. She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Collective Hub, a multimedia brand dedicated to empowering individuals to pursue their passions. With over 40 books to her name, Lisa is a leading figure in business innovation and positive psychology. Her journey through diverse professional landscapes and personal challenges, including an extensive fertility journey, culminates in her new book, "The Power of Two."

Sarah Megginson: Sarah Megginson is a seasoned lifestyle columnist, editor, and financial expert with notable works appearing in Cosmopolitan, Mamma Mia, and Yahoo Finance. She is dedicated to simplifying finances for a broader audience, using her platform to educate and empower. Sarah’s transformative experience as a surrogate mother for Lisa Messenger frames the heart of "The Power of Two," where friendship and resilience shine through adversity.

• Lisa’s journey through 18 rounds of IVF highlights the emotional and financial strains associated with fertility struggles and the importance of support systems.
• Surrogacy in Australia is an altruistic process deeply embedded in trust and mutual respect, as exemplified by Sarah's unwavering support.
• Open communication and clearly defined boundaries can strengthen relationships and ensure mutual understanding in challenging journeys.
• Empowerment stems from shared experiences, as Sarah and Lisa illustrate the power of sharing struggles to inspire and uplift others.

• "Sometimes the unthinkable becomes thinkable." — Lisa Messenger

• "The power of possibility is really what our book is all about." — Sarah Megginson

• "If you have tried that yourself or watched that path yourself, then that's when advice is helpful." — Lisa Messenger

• "There's so much that went into it…for me it was about open communication and understanding each other's needs." — Sarah Megginson

• "Hugo is my baby. He is the one I was always meant to have." — Lisa Messenger

• Check out the book "The Power of Two" for a detailed narrative of Lisa and Sarah's extraordinary journey - https://www.panterapress.com.au/product/the-power-of-two/

Mentioned in this episode:

FREE Guide -...