Born Wild Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with infant sleep educator and Nurture Neuroscience Circle facilitator, Linda Fitzgerald, to explore how nurturing parenting practices shape emotional and mental health starting in infancy. Linda shares her personal story of moving to the U.S. during the pandemic, her journey into neuroscience-based parenting, and why “normal” infant sleep is so often misunderstood. We also dive into research on co-regulation, bedsharing, and the powerful impact of responsive care on long-term well-being.What You'll Learn: • What biologically normal infant sleep really looks like • Why emotional attunement and co-regulation matter • The 7 “Safe Sleep” steps vs. sleep training myths • How nurturing parenting supports long-term mental health • Differences in parenting and healthcare between the U.S. and Czech Republic • The science behind responsive parenting and childhood resilienceLinda Fitzgerald is an infant and child sleep consultant who specializes in attachment-based, brain-informed approaches that honor the parent-infant bond. Originally from the Czech Republic, she blends European and American perspectives in her work. Linda has been mentored by Dr. Lyndsey Hookway and trained as a Nurture Neuroscience Practitioner by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum. She facilitates the Nurture Neuroscience Circle for new mothers in Fairfax, CA, and offers 1:1 sleep consultations.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Nurture Neuroscience Circle – Fairfax Registration • Instagram: @nurture_neuroscience_circle • The Nurture Revolution – Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum • Sweet Sleep – La Leche League • Why Your Baby's Sleep Matters – Sarah Ockwell-Smith • Evolutionary Parenting – Sleep Resources • KellyMom.comSafe Sleep Resources: • Safe Sleep 7 – La Leche League infographic • Cuddle Curl & Safe Chest Sleeping • Free Co-Sleeping Guide – CosleepyRecommended Book: • Nurture Revolution by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum — A beautiful guide to infant brain development and the healing power of nurturing care.Instagram Accounts to Follow: • @drgreerkirshenbaum • @lyndsey_hookway • @cosleepy • @happycosleeper • @thebreastfeedingmentorResearch We Discussed: • Maternal Affection & Mental Health: Study linkHigher early maternal affection predicts lower adult anxiety and physical stress symptoms. • Maternal Sensitivity & Brain Development: Study linkLower maternal sensitivity linked to larger amygdala volume—associated with greater emotional reactivity. • REM Sleep & Memory Integration: Study linkREM sleep “replays” experiences, supporting memory consolidation and brain development during milestones.Share this episode with a new parent, birthworker, or anyone curious about infant brain development. Tag us with your favorite takeaway!Connect with Us:@sophiabirth@bayareahomebirth@bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, we sit down with holistic prenatal nutritionist and mother of two, Anisa Woodall, to explore how intentional nourishment before conception can transform pregnancy and birth. Anisa shares her personal story of healing from depletion, her transition from midwife-attended birth to sovereign free birth, and how her work empowers women to reclaim their innate fertility and vitality. Together, we discuss how deep nourishment and self-trust prepare women for a resilient motherhood journey.What You'll Learn: • Why pregnancy is inherently safe when the body is well resourced • How undernourishment before conception increases risks like hypertension, preeclampsia, and poor fetal development • The connection between fertility challenges and postpartum depletion • Practical ways to support fertility through nourishment and cycle awareness • What it means to truly listen to the voice of your womb • Anisa's personal birth journeys — from home birth to free birth — and how they shaped her workAnisa Woodall, MS CN, is a holistic prenatal nutritionist with over nine years of experience in functional nutrition. After overcoming her own health and fertility challenges stemming from a vegetarian diet, Anisa now guides women to prepare for pregnancy through deep nourishment, cycle awareness, and self-trust. She is the creator of Resilient Motherhood, a comprehensive preconception course, and host of The Resilient Fertility Podcast. Anisa is passionate about helping women reconnect with the wisdom of their bodies for fertility, pregnancy, and empowered birth.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Website: anisawoodall.com • Instagram: @anisawoodallnutrition • Podcast: The Resilient Fertility PodcastIf you loved this conversation, be sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast — and share this episode with a friend who's preparing for pregnancy or walking the motherhood path!⸻Connect with Us:@sophiabirth | @bayareahomebirth | @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild.

In this honest and empowering episode, Lizzy Morris shares her journey through breastfeeding with IGT (Insufficient Glandular Tissue), a condition that made feeding her baby a complex and emotional challenge. She opens up about the realities of IGT, using donor milk, supplemental nursing systems, and the grief of not producing enough milk—while also reclaiming her power through freebirth and radical motherhood. Lizzy's story is a beacon of hope and solidarity for anyone navigating unexpected feeding struggles and medical dismissal.What You'll Learn: • What IGT is and how it affects milk production • How Lizzy navigated donor milk, SNS systems, and migraines from lactation medications • The emotional side of breastfeeding struggles and learning to release guilt • Her choice to freebirth after trauma and medical dismissal • How she kept her pregnancy and freebirth a secret from family until the end • How her freebirth experience brought healing to her marriage • The value of radical community support for mothers facing feeding challengesGuest Bio:Lizzy Morris is a mother, childcare provider, and co-founder of the Radical Moms Union—a growing movement of mothers who challenge the systems that profit off parental disempowerment. From navigating IGT to advocating for body autonomy and authentic parenting, Lizzy's voice resonates with mothers who want to choose their own path, even when it's not easy.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Instagram: @thelizzymorris • Community: @radical_moms_union • Contact: lizzymorrisbooking@gmail.comShare this episode with someone who's struggling to breastfeed or has felt let down by mainstream postpartum care. You're not alone, and there are more ways to feed and mother than the ones we're sold.Connect with Us:@sophiabirth@bayareahomebirth@bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lori Barklage, founder of Birthing Peace Within, to explore how unresolved trauma shapes our births—and how healing it can transform generations. Lori shares her own story of a traumatic hospital transfer at 42 weeks, the arrest of her midwife, and how her personal healing journey inspired her to help others do the same. Her perspective blends trauma-informed midwifery with ancient wisdom and energy work, offering a deeply compassionate path for parents and birth workers alike.What You'll Learn:​ How Lori's traumatic birth experience shaped her midwifery journey​ Why some providers unknowingly treat clients from their own trauma responses​ How secondary trauma in birth is often actually primary trauma​ What it means to be “beholden to trauma” and how to get free​ Why some families choose unassisted birth not out of desire, but trauma-driven fear​ The RISE UP Method and how it helps shift generational patterns​ How to use “The 4 Whys” to get to the root of fear in pregnancy and birthGuest Bio:Lori Barklage is the founder of Birthing Peace Within, where she helps families heal their traumatic births in order to better nurture future generations. Her understanding that healed people heal people is the driving force behind her work. Her sessions blend cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom to teach tools for healing intergenerational and epigenetic trauma.Lori trained under Kam Yuen and Tapas Fleming and developed the RISE UP Method for personal compassion and trauma healing. Formerly an instructor at Ancient Art Midwifery, Lori carried forward the school's legacy when founder Carla Hartley retired in 2016.She is passionate about:​ Breaking unhealthy energetic ties​ Dispelling myths that trauma defines us​ Teaching how to reclaim energy and power through neutrality and conscious investment​ Understanding and dismantling trauma loops in the birth worldYou can find her at:​ Website: BirthingPeaceWithin.com​ Facebook: Birthing Peace Within​ Hashtags: #BirthingPeaceWithin #AAMidwiferyRecommended reads:​ The Universe Fucking Loves Me by Sara Arey​ The Neutrality Exercise Workbook by Nekole ShapiroLinks and Resources Mentioned:​ BirthingPeaceWithin.comIf this episode touched something in you, please share it with a friend or leave us a review. If you're a birth worker or parent looking to heal trauma and shift generational patterns, reach out—we'd love to hear from you.Connect with us:@sophiabirth@bayareahomebirth@bornwildmidwifery#BirthingPeaceWithin #AAMidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, we sit down with Kristin Hauser—mother, acupuncturist, herbalist, and somatic sex educator—for a rich conversation about birth, cyclical wisdom, and embodied healing. Kristin shares her personal experience of birthing all four of her children at home and how her deep-rooted work in Traditional Chinese Medicine, somatics, and womb-centered care invites women back to their power. From fertility to postpartum, she offers insight into trusting the body, building hormonal resilience, and reclaiming the sacred nature of our reproductive journey.What You'll Learn: • Kristin's path through yoga, acupuncture, and womb medicine • Navigating intuition vs. fear in the birth process • How somatics and TCM support reproductive health • Creating hormonal resilience across the reproductive continuum • The teenage menstrual journey and pain support • Educating partners around free birth • Nourishing the postpartum period with food and rest • The wisdom of placenta medicine • Why the first 28 days after birth are vital • Community, sovereignty, and self-trust in womanhoodKristin Hauser is a mother, acupuncturist, herbalist, and somatic sex educator supporting women to create lasting hormonal resilience—from fertility through postpartum. Her work is inspired by the ancient wisdom of Chinese Medicine, the modern understanding of hormonal physiology, and a deep reverence for the innate intelligence of the body. As the founder of Womb Medicine, she offers online consultations, courses, workshops, and TCM-inspired herbal medicinals. Kristin is also the co-facilitator of The Blood Mysteries School, a journey through the menstrual cycle as a path of nourishment, agency, and healing for every woman.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Website: wombmedicine.com • Herbal Shop: shopwombmedicine.com • Instagram: @kristinhauser • Birthing From Within: https://www.birthingfromwithin.comIf this episode speaks to you, share it with a friend, tag us on social, and leave a review—it helps others discover the magic. Subscribe for more conversations rooted in sovereignty, intuition, and the wild wisdom of the body.Connect with Us:@sophiabirth@bayareahomebirth@bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, we sit down with Alexandra, the founder of Just the Inserts, to discuss informed medical decision-making, birth choices, and vaccine research. Alexandra shares her personal experience with birth in both hospital and home settings, the importance of understanding medical inserts, and how parents can advocate for themselves in the medical system. Whether you're expecting a baby, questioning routine interventions, or simply seeking more transparency in healthcare, this conversation is for you.What You'll Learn:​ What The Motherhood Guide offers for parents navigating medical choices​ Key considerations for newborn interventions (Vitamin K, Hep B vaccine, antibiotics in labor)​ The importance of checking titers before vaccinations​ How vaccine research and informed consent empower parents​ Understanding vaccine ingredients ​ The role of public trust in healthcare and MRNA vaccine concerns​ Disease prevention beyond vaccines and medical mandatesAlexandra is the founder of Just the Inserts, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals with accessible, transparent information about medical choices. With a research background and a passion for informed consent, she helps people navigate the complexities of pharmaceutical products and medical decisions. Her commitment to clear, reliable information has earned her recognition as a trusted voice in the community.Links & Resources Mentioned:​ Just the Inserts Website: www.justtheinserts.com​ Alexandra's Instagram: @Justtheinserts​ The Motherhood Guide: https://justtheinserts.com/the-motherhood-guide/Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who needs this information! Don't forget to tag us and leave a review—it helps others find the show and supports our mission of informed, empowered birth and parenting.Connect with Us:​ Instagram: @sophiabirth | @bayareahomebirth | @bornwildmidwifery

In this episode, we dive into the world of breech birth, home birth, and the wisdom of birthing instincts. We explore personal birth stories, the nuances between birthkeepers, doulas, and midwives, and the power of intuition in labor. Plus, we discuss the concept of orgasmic birth, Hypnobirthing techniques, and what happens when an External Cephalic Version (ECV) doesn't go as planned. Join us as we challenge the norm and celebrate the beauty of birth in all its forms.What You'll Learn: • The safety considerations and experiences of breech home birth. • How birthkeepers, doulas, and midwives differ in their roles. • The power of intuition and instinct in labor. • Exploring pleasure and empowerment through orgasmic birth. • Insights from the Down to Birth Podcast and Birthing Instincts. • When an External Cephalic Version (ECV) fails due to fetal distress. • Advocacy and resources through Breech Without Borders.Links and Resources Mentioned: • Orgasmic Birth – https://www.orgasmicbirth.com • Down to Birth Podcast – https://www.downtobirthshow.com • Birthing Instincts Podcast – https://www.birthinginstincts.com/podcast • Breech Without Borders – https://www.breechwithoutborders.orgIf this episode resonates with you, share it with a fellow birth nerd, leave us a review, or reach out with your thoughts—we'd love to hear your story!Connect With Us:@sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, hosts Lea and Sophia sit down to debrief the whirlwind of January—sharing updates from their personal lives, the highs and lows of the month, and what's been happening in their practices. They also dive into an important topic: dystocia, with a focus on shoulder dystocia—what it is, how it presents, and why it's often just a “sticky baby” situation rather than an emergency. They break down common misconceptions, share real-world experiences, and discuss how simple position changes can often resolve the issue. Whether you're a birth worker, an expecting parent, or just curious about birth, this conversation is full of insights, reflections, and wisdom from years of experience.What You'll Learn:​ Personal updates from Lea and Sophia's January​ The emotional and physical demands of midwifery work​ Shoulder dystocia: what it is and why it's usually not an emergency​ Why 90% of cases resolve simply by changing the birthing person's position​ Tools and techniques for navigating difficult labors​ Stories and experiences from the birth worldIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow birth worker or expecting parent! Tag us on Instagram with your biggest takeaway, and don't forget to leave a review—it helps us keep bringing these conversations to life.Connect With Us:@sophiabirth | @bayareahomebirth | @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

Join us as we explore Jalicia's inspiring birth journey, emphasizing faith, preparation, and trusting in God's perfect timing. Through her story, Jalicia shares how she leaned into her faith, combined spiritual and practical tools, and embraced the beauty of childbirth. This episode provides practical advice, spiritual reflections, and empowering resources for expecting families.What You'll Learn: • Faith and Birth: How Jalicia integrates her Christian faith and hypnobirthing techniques into labor and delivery. • Resource Highlights: • The Happy Homebirth Podcast: Stories and tips for creating a positive homebirth experience. • Books for Birth Partners: Insights from The Birth Partner and Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. • The Business of Being Born: Key takeaways from this eye-opening documentary (linked resource). • Preparation Tips: • Nutrition and placenta smoothies for postpartum recovery. • Using tools like Sneak Peek for early gender revelation (linked resource). • Healing After Birth: Managing episiotomies, recovery tips, and finding balance postpartum.Guest Bio:Jalicia NasibeboJalicia is a devoted wife, mother, and friend who centers her life on faith and family. Her love for Jesus inspires her to share stories of hope, good food, and the miracle of birth. Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook to follow her journey of faith and inspiration.Instagram: @jalicia.nasibeboFacebook: Jalicia NasibeboLinks and Resources Mentioned: • The Happy Homebirth Podcast • The Business of Being Born • Sneak Peek - Early Gender TestCall to Action:If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who could benefit! Questions, suggestions, or stories? Email us at bornwildpodcast@gmail.com.Connect With Us:Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of placenta practices with Carissa Rose. Carissa is a daughter, partner, tender of wombs, and devotee to the portal of life and death. With a deep belief in the sacredness of life and the innate wisdom within each body, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work. Carissa shares her unique perspective on honoring the placenta through cultural, spiritual, and scientific lenses, highlighting its potential benefits for postpartum healing. Whether you're curious about placentophagy, Lotus Birth, or sacred rituals, this conversation provides valuable insights for parents and birth workers alike.Carissa Rose is a Full Spectrum Doula, birth assistant, and Innate Postpartum Care Provider with over 8 years of experience. She is passionate about supporting women from pregnancy through postpartum with physiologically-based wisdom. Carissa incorporates Western Herbalism, nutrition, and elemental connection into her practice, guiding women from womb to tomb. She is now focusing on her dream of becoming a midwife and works as the primary student midwife with Born Wild Midwifery. Learn more about her offerings, including Placenta Encapsulation and Herbal Consultations, at www.postpartumnourishingritual.com.What You'll Learn • Quick Release vs. Lotus Birth: Exploring the differences between these two placenta practices and their benefits. • Expert Insight: Dr. Johnson's perspectives on placenta healing and postpartum recovery. • Sacred Practices: The role of spirituality in honoring the placenta and connecting to its life-giving energy. • Robin Lim's Wisdom: Teachings from the internationally recognized midwife on placenta care. • Placentophagy: Comparing raw consumption vs. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) preparation methods for placenta encapsulation. • Breastfeeding Benefits: How the placenta may support lactation and early postpartum bonding. • Placenta Rituals: Unique and meaningful ways to incorporate ceremonies, including burial, artwork, and keepsakes. • Practical Tips: How to integrate spiritual, cultural, and health-oriented practices into postpartum recovery.Links and Resources Mentioned • Dr. Johnson's Article on Placenta Healing • Robin Lim's Resources and Teachings • Further exploration of Lotus Birth and its significance in various cultures. • Insights on placentophagy and preparation methods for postpartum recovery.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review! For questions or suggestions, email us at bornwildpodcast@gmail.com. Stay tuned for more episodes exploring the sacred journey of birth and beyond.Links • Carissa Rose's Website: www.postpartumnourishingritual.com • Instagram: @Carissarosehayes and @postpartumnourishingritual • Follow Us: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, Patricia Siegel, a semi-professional runner, triathlete, and Pelvic Floor Expert, shares her story of overcoming postpartum trauma and creating innovative solutions for pelvic floor recovery. After a challenging 57-hour labor, Patricia faced significant postpartum challenges, including incontinence, pain, and emotional distress. Using her expertise in sports therapy and experience as an athlete, she developed a groundbreaking program to help women heal their pelvic floors and regain their strength.What You'll Learn in This Episode: • Patricia's birth story: From a birth center transfer to a 57-hour labor and a vaginal birth • The prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction postpartum and how it can manifest as pain, incontinence, diastasis recti, and emotional tension • Why 80% of pelvic floor issues are fixable with proper exercises • The role of functional pelvic floor health and how Patricia's program incorporates swimming, running, and cycling • Tools like vaginal weights and pelvic wands for recovery (link in resources) • Understanding hypo- and hypertonic pelvic floor conditions and their impact • The importance of starting pelvic floor healing exercises immediately postpartum • Benefits of pelvic floor health for cesarean recoveryAbout Patricia Siegel:Born in Germany, Patricia studied sports medicine and became a semi-professional runner specializing in the 800m event. After moving to the U.S. on a scholarship, she competed in triathlons, including Ironman events, and qualified for the national age group championships in the Olympic Distance. Patricia now lives with her husband and two-year-old in Arroyo Grande, California, where she works as the Pelvic Floor Expert Columnist for STRONG Fitness Magazine and offers online courses to help women overcome postpartum pelvic floor challenges.Exclusive Offer for Our Listeners:Patricia is offering 20% off her course for our listeners! Use the code BORNWILD20 at checkout at www.thefitpelvicfloor.com.Connect with Patricia: • Website: www.thefitpelvicfloor.com • Instagram: @thefitpelvicfloor and @thepatsiegel • Connect with this podcast community: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwiferyResources Mentioned: • Patricia's online course: The Fit Pelvic Floor • Vaginal weights and pelvic wands for healing (links in resources) • STRONG Fitness MagazineKey Takeaways:Patricia reminds us that healing the pelvic floor is possible, and many postpartum challenges can be overcome with the right guidance, exercises, and support. Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned athlete, this episode will empower you to prioritize your pelvic floor health and reclaim your strength.Stay Wild

In this episode, we chat with Morissa Gruder, a vibrant mom of two, fitness enthusiast, and HR professional with a heart for learning and connection. Morissa shares her unique birth stories, starting with her first baby, who was born breech at home at 37 weeks. She opens up about her second home birth at 40 weeks, describing how challenging it was to wait and trust the process.Born and raised in Vacaville, Morissa balances her career at PG&E with her passion for fitness, working at her CrossFit gym, where she's been a dedicated member for over five years. She talks about how her fitness journey has shaped her perspective on parenting and life.Morissa is blessed with an incredible husband and two beautiful daughters. Together, they enjoy food, camping, and time with their close-knit community of friends and family. She attributes all her blessings to God and brings a positive, grounded perspective to motherhood and beyond.Topics we cover in this episode: • Morissa's experience with a breech home birth at 37 weeks • The emotional journey of waiting for her second baby at 40 weeks • How fitness and CrossFit have influenced her parenting and mindset • Embracing patience, trust, and faith in birth and life • The importance of community and learning from othersWhere to connect with Morissa: • Instagram: @mbgruder • Follow the amazing midwives and birth advocates: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwiferyFavorite Topics:Morissa loves talking about fitness, parenthood, and almost anything else that sparks meaningful conversations.Stay Wild

Podcast Show NotesEpisode Title: Your Baby, Your Way: Medical Freedom, Unassisted Birth, and More with Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D.Episode Overview:Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D., award-winning science journalist, author, and advocate for medical freedom and safe vaccination practices. In this episode, Jennifer shares her experiences as a mother of four, navigating hospital, midwife-assisted, and unassisted births, and discusses the importance of parental intuition, making informed decisions, and creating a vaccine-friendly birth plan.Jennifer's work as a writer and educator has taken her across the globe, championing the rights of women, children, and families while shedding light on the hard truths about for-profit medicine. Together, they dive into topics like wild pregnancy, advanced maternal age, Stokholm syndrome in medicine, and midwife interventions, offering listeners tools and insights to reclaim autonomy in pregnancy and parenting.Key Topics Discussed: 1. Your Baby, Your Way • The inspiration behind Jennifer's book and how it empowers parents to take charge of their pregnancy, birth, and parenting decisions. 2. Navigating Birth Choices • Jennifer's personal experiences with hospital birth, midwife-assisted birth, and her powerful journey to an unassisted birth. 3. Medical Freedom and Safe Vaccination • Insights into the importance of informed decision-making and advocating for personal medical choices for your family. 4. Parenting Intuition and Fear • How to trust your instincts during pregnancy and overcome fear-based decision-making. 5. Wild Pregnancy and Unassisted Birth • Exploring the concept of wild pregnancy and taking radical responsibility for your birth experience. 6. Advanced Maternal Age and Birth Planning • How to navigate societal pressures and medical interventions as an older parent. 7. Sitting on Hands and Minimal Interventions • Jennifer's thoughts on when intervention is necessary and when less is more. 8. Hard Truths About For-Profit Medicine • An honest look at how the medical industry impacts women's health and autonomy.About Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D.:Jennifer Margulis is an award-winning science journalist, author, and advocate for medical freedom and safe vaccination practices. She is the author of the book Your Baby, Your Way: Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Parenting Decisions for a Happier, Healthier Family. A mother of four, Jennifer has firsthand experience with various birth settings, including hospital, midwife-assisted, and unassisted birth.Jennifer's international work includes: • Advocating for child survival campaigns in Niger, West Africa. • Championing the rights of child slaves on live television in Paris. • Teaching non-traditional students in Atlanta. • Promoting medical freedom and education in Copenhagen.Her work empowers parents to trust their instincts, make informed decisions, and embrace autonomy in pregnancy and parenting.Connect with Jennifer Margulis: • Website: www.JenniferMargulis.net • Substack: Jennifer Margulis on Substack • Facebook: Personal | Your Baby, Your Way Book • X: @JenniferMarguli • LinkedIn: Jennifer Margulis on LinkedInListen to the Episode: • Podcast Link: Spotify • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery • Facebook: Podcast LinkFinal Thoughts:Jennifer Margulis's work is a call to action for parents to reclaim their autonomy, challenge societal norms, and trust their instincts. Her experience and advocacy bring fresh, empowering perspectives to the topics of pregnancy, birth, and parenting.Stay Wild

In this episode, we dive into topics like granting yourself permission to push, navigating free birth, and managing a busy December as midwives. We also cover practical tips for handling diaper rashes, the pros and cons of cloth versus disposable diapers, and how to streamline diaper services. On a deeper note, we touch on the role of spiritual midwifery and explore resources like Weallda and Badger for natural care solutions to rashes. What You'll Learn:​ The empowering mindset of giving yourself “permission to push” during labor.​ Insights into free birth and how it can differ from traditional birth choices. ​ Managing diaper rashes naturally and choosing between cloth and disposable diapers.​ Tips for staying calm and organized during a busy holiday season as midwives. ​ Resources for natural baby care, including Weallda and Badger products.Links and Resources Mentioned:​ EC (Elimination Communication): https://open.spotify.com/show/6ir3EbNKNrAz5chD9SFZjd​ Spiritual Midwifery Book/Resource: https://thefarmcommunity.com/spiritual-midwifery/​ Weallda Products: https://www.weleda.com/product/calendula-diaper-cream-g009831​ Badger Natural Products: https://www.badgerbalm.com/products/zinc-oxide-diaper-creamHave a question or a story to share? Connect with us on social media or check out the links above for more resources to support your parenting journey.Connect with Us:Instagram:​ @sophiabirth​ @bayareahomebirth​ @bornwildmidwiferyStay Wild

In this episode, we sit down with Tori and Jeremie, a couple from Marin County, to hear their remarkable journey into parenthood. Their daughter, Chloé, was born on August 1st, 2024, and her arrival reshaped their lives in profound ways.Tori and Jeremie share how their passion for a holistic, natural lifestyle grew during Tori's pregnancy. They immersed themselves in podcasts, books, and research, becoming strong advocates for birth outside the medical system. However, Tori's pregnancy presented unexpected challenges, including: • Fainting and a car accident that tested their resilience • A suspected partial placental abruption late in pregnancy • Managing a stomach bug These complications ultimately led them to have a hospital birth instead of their planned home birth. Despite the sudden change in plans, Tori and Jeremie faced the experience with unwavering faith and teamwork. They credit their strong advocacy as a couple and their thorough preparation for enabling them to navigate the hospital system while staying aligned with their values.In addition to sharing their birth story, they dive into topics such as: • Birthing instincts and the business of being born • Thoughts on wild pregnancy and embracing natural rhythms • Postpartum recovery and Tori's journey through PPD (postpartum depression) • Their vision for future home births and trusting in God's planThey also discuss their commitment to health and intentional living, from long walks in their neighborhood to making thoughtful parenting choices for Chloé. Looking ahead, Tori and Jeremie hope to have a home birth for their next child, trusting in God's plan for their family.This episode is a testament to the power of adaptability, advocacy, and faith in the face of unexpected challenges.Links & Resources:• Follow Tori on Instagram: @victoriabarbe_• Follow Jeremie on Instagram: @jeremie.barbe6• Connect with @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, and @bornwildmidwifery.

Podcast Show NotesEpisode Title: Embracing Homebirth, Homeschooling, and Life on the “Compound” with Sarah ArimuraAbout Today's Guest: Sarah ArimuraSarah Arimura is a mom of three living in California's beautiful North Bay. Once a professional photographer, Sarah has transitioned into her roles as a stay-at-home mom and, most recently, a homeschooling parent. She and her family live on what they lovingly call “the compound” alongside her husband, three kids, her grandmother Gigi, two dogs, and 20 chickens.A true homebody at heart, Sarah cherishes simple joys like playing outside with her kids and sitting in the garden with Gigi, sharing stories and reflections on life. Passionate about supporting women, Sarah loves encouraging moms and moms-to-be to explore options outside the traditional medical system and serves as a vibrant cheerleader for those considering homebirth.Episode Overview:In this heartwarming episode, Sarah shares her journey from photography to full-time motherhood and homeschooling. She opens up about her experiences raising three children, life on “the compound,” and the joy she finds in living a simple, connected life. Sarah also shares her passion for empowering women to consider alternative birth choices and embrace the magic of homebirth.Key Topics Discussed: 1. Life on “The Compound” • What it's like raising three kids alongside extended family, 20 chickens, and two dogs. • The importance of slowing down and finding joy in simple, everyday moments. 2. From Photographer to Stay-at-Home Mom • Sarah's transition into full-time motherhood and the beauty of being present with her children. 3. Adventuring into Homeschooling • What inspired Sarah to begin her homeschooling journey this fall. • Reflections on creating a learning environment rooted in family, curiosity, and connection. 4. Encouraging Moms to Trust Themselves • Why Sarah is passionate about educating moms on their options outside the traditional medical system. • The importance of supporting women considering homebirth and reclaiming their birth experiences. 5. The Magic of Gigi's Garden • The special bond Sarah shares with her grandmother, Gigi, and how time in the garden becomes a place of connection, reflection, and wisdom.Guest's Message:Sarah reminds us that there is beauty and empowerment in trusting ourselves, slowing down, and exploring options that align with our values as mothers and women. Whether it's through homebirth, homeschooling, or simply being present with our loved ones, she inspires us to embrace the simplicity and joy of a life well-lived.Final Reflection:This episode is a heartfelt reminder to trust your instincts, savor the small moments, and embrace the freedom to create a life that feels true to you and your family. Sarah's story will leave you inspired, encouraged, and grounded in the magic of motherhood.

Podcast Show NotesEpisode Title: Reclaiming Birth as Ceremony: Catalina Clark's Journey of HealingAbout Today's Guest: Catalina ClarkCatalina Clark is a woman, mother, sister, daughter, midwife, and student on the healing path. With over 10 years of experience in birth work, Catalina has dedicated her life to supporting women in alignment with the natural world and the profound power of physiologic birth.Her journey began entrenched in the medical model, where disempowering experiences led her to seek wisdom from traditional healers outside the medical industrial system. Through this path, she reawakened her calling as a spiritual midwife, holding space at the sacred portal between life and death. Catalina walks alongside women with love, humility, and trust, offering support through all realms of transformation: birth, death, and rebirth.Episode Overview:In this episode, Catalina shares her inspiring journey of self-healing, remembrance, and reclaiming birth as ceremony, ritual, and prayer. Through personal stories and insights, she offers a unique perspective on the power of birth as a transformative experience and the role of the midwife in holding space for this sacred process.Key Topics Discussed: 1. Catalina's Journey of Healing • From disempowering experiences in the medical model to discovering the wisdom of traditional healing. • How her role as a spiritual midwife emerged over a decade of learning and transformation. 2. Wild Pregnancy and Free Birth • The birth of her second child as a profound teacher of trust and radical responsibility. • Reclaiming birth as a sacred ceremony and a portal for self-rebirth. 3. Birth as a Sacred Threshold • The midwife's role in holding space, witnessing, and protecting the transformative journey of birth. • How birth connects us to ourselves, nature, and the divine. 4. Healing Through Ceremony and Prayer • The integration of ritual, tradition, and community support in all realms of life transformation, including birth, death, and rebirth. 5. A Call to Radical Responsibility • How stepping into the unknown allows us to untangle old stories and return to our hearts.Guest's Message:Catalina reminds us that to heal is to reclaim and reweave the fabric of our True Selves, recognizing our wholeness and perfection just as we are. She invites us to approach birth—and life itself—as an opportunity for transformation, empowerment, and deep connection to the divine.Connect with Catalina Clark: • Instagram: @catalina.clark • Website: www.catalinaclarkbirth.com • Email: catalinaclarkbirth@gmail.comFinal Reflection:This episode is an invitation to explore birth as a sacred, empowering, and transformative act. Catalina's wisdom guides us toward radical trust, love, and remembrance of our innate power as women, mothers, and human beings.

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Adelaide Meadow, birth and body worker. They discussed topics, including biomechanics, biodynamics, soft tissue and bony alignment, anatomy, physiology, pelvic health, prolapse, unlicensed midwives, spinning babies, posterior babies, breech, movement for pregnancy, heartburn, prodromal, labor, cardinal movements,post-dates, vaginal exams, asynclitic, and tongue tie. Adelaide is a female physiology academic, movement teacher, bodyworker, and home birth attendant. She has been studying birth and female biomechanics for over ten years. She approaches women's health, birth, movement, and women's culture from a physiological perspective, and believes in the genius of the body and the brilliance of women. Her professional contributions are at the intersection of birth, movement, and biomechanics, and how physiological birth requires physiological womanhood. She is a sought-after teacher, leader, and speaker on women's health and women's culture. Recommendations by Adelaide: •The Breech Release: https://thebreechrelease.com/about-us/ •Born Through Movement: https://adelaidemeadow.mykajabi.com/born-through-movement Connect with Adelaide: •IG: @adelaidemeadow_ •WEBSITE: adelaidemeadow.com Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Nelly on her two births and the diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy for both of her children. They discuss topics including home birth, hospital birth, posterior presentation, cesarean, VBAC, kidney infection, Newborn Screening, geriatric pregnancy (advanced maternal age), and tandem breastfeeding. Nelly is a 2 under 2 mom living off-grid with her husband and a slightly chaotic amount of animals  in Cazadero CA. Learning to work in harmony with and navigate the medical system through two wildly different births and the diagnosis and treatment of both her children who have Spinal Muscular Atrophy- a rare degenerative genetic disease that affects about 1 in 10,000 births. She is passionate about spreading awareness of the disease, treatment, and talking about the importance of newborn screening.  Recommendations by Nelly: •Business of Being Born documentary Connect with Nelly: •IG: @hughescandoit Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Jen Santos for her third time on the podcast! This time she shares about her three home birth experiences. They discuss topics including ultrasounds, breech, unknown due date, back labor, torticollis, ECV, postpartum anxiety, PTSD, geriatric pregnancy, and precipitous birth. Dr. Jen Santos, DC, CACCP, is a second generation chiropractor. She received her first adjustment at 45 minutes old by her dad. Dr. Jen graduated from Life Chiropractic College West in 2013, with honors (Cum Laude) and received the prestigious “Clinical Excellence Award.” She is a full time chiropractor and owner of Acorn Chiropractic Club with 3 locations. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at Life Chiropractic College West where she teaches obstetrics, gynecology, pediatric and prenatal adjusting, and pediatric pathology. Dr. Jen also periodically teaches pediatric and perinatal chiropractic seminars to students and chiropractors in her offices. And also teaches for the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Contact: Email: DrJen@AcornChiropracticClub FB Jen Santos IG @JenSantosDC Dr. Jen Santos Ultrasounds Dopplers EFM Concerns: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/85--Dr--Jen-Santos---Ultrasounds--Dopplers--EFM-Concerns-e20btg7 Jen Santos - Tongue and Lip Ties: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/62-Jen-Santos---Tongue-and-Lip-Ties-e1ne243 Jen Santos - Chiropractic and Dynamic Body Balancing: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/Chiropractic-and-Dynamic-Body-Balancing-with-Jen-Santos---S1E28-e19fk2u Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/109--Jen-Santos---Breech-Home-Birth--OP-Home-Birth--Precipitous-Home-Birth-e2khrr1 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - Carrie Caillouette, IBCLC - #108 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Carrie on all things breastmilk. They discuss insurance coverage, mental prep, prenatal prep, pacifiers, favorite nursing tools, colostrum harvesting, tongue tie, inverted nipples, chiropractic care, and cranial sacral support. Carrie is an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) living in West County Sonoma! After the birth of her second baby she felt called to transition her career to helping other parents meet their infant feeding goals. She believes that education and small tweaks are usually all it takes to have a long and successful breastfeeding journey. She offers home visits or virtual ones to help parents develop a plan to meet their goals and feed their little one. In most cases folks are covered at 100% by insurance for lactation care by her. She is especially proud of her volunteer work with a local non-profit called Better Beginnings. Recommendations by Carrie: •Sebastopol Postpartum Support Group at the Public Library each Tuesday morning 11a-12p. •First Droplets: https://firstdroplets.com Connect with Carrie: •IG: @golden_State_Lactation •Website: https://www.goldenstatelactation.com/ Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/108--Carrie-Caillouette--IBCLC-e2jb8qo @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - Kristine Laurie - #107 Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Kristine Laurie once again. First interview linked below. They discuss Doctors without Boarders, preterm birth in the USA, steriods, antibiotics, jaundice, kangaroo care, IVF, IUI, infection, UTI, PROM, cord prolapse, triplets and twins, fetal demise, BPP, and placenta previa. Kristine has been practicing for 33 years as a CPM and LM and has worked internationally for over 20 years. She currently works with MSF (Doctors Without Borders) providing humanitarian aid in developing countries. She specializes in high risk obstetrics in low resource settings. When Kristine is home, she teaches virtual AP midwifery classes through Midwifery Wisdom Collective and she also facilitates master classes with Breech Without Borders. She provides expert witness testimony in court cases involving breech birth. Kristine has attended over 5,000 births, the majority out of hospital and has attended 516 breeches, 387 sets of twins and 7 sets of triplets to date. She is a staunch advocate for autonomy in women's health and for physiologic birth. Connect with Kristine: •IG: @globalmidwife64 •Website: https:/midwifewithoutboundaries.wordpress.com/ Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/107--Kristine-Laurie---Preterm-Birth-and-Babies-e2him99 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Caley on her last birth story. Caley shared her first two births in link below. They discuss free-birth verse home-birth, relationship turmoil with her husband, traveling during pregnancy, wild pregnancy, hypnobirthing, nutritional depletion, placenta previa, pregnancy bleeding, fear of hemorrhage, velamentous cords, and bed sharing.

SABIA WADE - LUXURY EXPERT - #105 Please join your host Lea as she interviews Sabia Wade. They discuss voluteering in prison, health disparities, equality, helping pregnant people of color, doula training and business, and preventing burnout. Sabia Wade (she/they) is a Black, Queer, CEO, Investor, Author, Educator, Full Spectrum Doula, and expander of Black Luxury. Her novel, Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free, is now out and available for purchase! She's dedicated to building bridges for a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable world through reproductive justice, distribution of financial wealth to BIPOC communities, and investing in emergent and innovative businesses. Sabia recommends: •Birth doula training: https://www.badoulatrainings.org/ •For the Village: https://forthevillage.org/ Connect with Sabia: •IG: @sabiawade Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/105--Sabia-Wade---Luxury-Expert-e2h8qb3 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - KIM'S BIRTH STORIES - INSTANT BABY, JUST ADD WATER - #104 Please join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Kim on her three home water birth stories. They discuss conception journey's, medical providers who choose home birth, postpartum baby blues, covid, en veil verse en caul births, post term, hemorrhoids. Kim was born and raised in Napa, CA, and still lives there today with her husband Aaron, her two sons Noah (5) and Teo (2), and their most recent addition to the family, daughter Isla (3 months). Kim became a bit of a “birth junkie” about a year before her first pregnancy and gained most of her knowledge about birth from listening to birth story podcasts. This shaped her ideas for what she wanted her births to look like, and she went on to have home births with all three kids. Kim is a high school World Languages teacher in the Napa Valley and enjoys spending time with friends, taking weekend adventures with her family and of course, listening to birth stories! Kim recommends: •Why Not Home: https://www.whynothome.com/ •Business of Being Born: https://www.thebusinessof.life/the-business-of-being-born Connect with Kim: •IG: @kbh_hurtado Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bornwild/episodes/104--Kims-Birth-Stories---Instant-Baby--Just-Add-Water-e2gaibh @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - KELSEY'S BIRTH STORY - PLACENTAL ABRUPTION - RETURN TO TRUSTING - #103 Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Kelsey on her birth story. They discuss topics such as obstetric violence, fetal heart arrhythmia, post term pregnancy, placental abruption, and cesarean. Kelsey is an herbalist living and working on a farm in Petaluma. Her and her husband, Roberto welcomed their baby boy, Julio, in November 2023. They are finding their groove as a family of 4 (including their sweet and sassy shiba inu, The Maki Dog!) and they love going for walks around the farm and watching the Warriors together. Kelseys favorite hobby is aerial silks- she can't wait to get back into it once Julio is old enough! Kelsey recommends: •Free Birth Society: @freebirthsociety •Birthing Instincts: @birthinginstincts •Hard truths about placental abruption episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683?i=1000642767921 Connect with Kelsey: •IG: @kesocandisco Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/103--Kelseys-Birth-Story---Placental-Abruption---Return-to-Trusting-e2fmsq4 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your hosts Sophia and Carissa (our newest student midwife) as they interview Rhona Berens, a perinatal relationship coach and co-author of the book "Fight Right for Your Baby: The How to Guide for Expecting and New Parents to Shift from Conflict to Connection". They discuss babies and relationships, conflict styles and impact, useful tools, and red flags for birth workers to look out for to refer out. Rhona Berens, PhD, PCC is a seasoned Relationship Coach who helps new and expecting parents capably navigate the momentous shifts that occur with a baby's arrival. For more than a dozen years, Rhona has assisted perinatal professionals in their efforts to better support their clients; she has delivered in-service talks, conference keynotes (e.g., CAPPA), webinars (e.g., InJoy), and in-person workshops in the US and Canada. In her new coauthored book—Fight Right for Your Baby: The How-To Guide for Expecting and New Parents to Shift from Conflict to Connection—Rhona offers birth professionals and their clients a research-based, easy-to-use resource with more than 40 “bite-size” tools for quick intervention in negative conflict, effective repair, and reconnection. Fight Right for Your Baby helps parents move from common yet potentially destructive ways of disagreeing to Fighting Right, an approach to conflict that supports children's developmental health, and parents' individual and relationship satisfaction. Rhona's recommends: •And Baby Makes Three: https://www.gottman.com/product/and-baby-makes-three/ Connect with Rhona: •IG: @fightrightbooks •Website: http://www.rhonaberens.com/ •Book: http://www.fightrightbooks.com/ Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/102--Rhona-Berens---Perinatal-Relationship-Coach-e2egad6 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - KAYLA'S BIRTH STORY - SURPRISE BREECH & TRANSPORT #101 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Kayla on her surprise breech birth and 3rd stage transfer. They discuss topics including chiropractic care, acupuncture, ultrasound, hypnotherapy, back labor, transport, breech, blood transfusions. Kayla is a first-time mom who lives in Santa Rosa with her 5-month-old son Declan, 6-year-old stepdaughter Fable, and husband Joel. She is a work from home mom and has her own business as a Real Estate Transaction Coordinator. When she's not busy changing diapers, Kayla enjoys going on "hot mom walks" around Spring Lake, trips to the beach with her family, and trying new restaurants. You can follow Kayla's #MomLife on Instagram and TikTok and reach out to her if you would like to join the weekly hot mom walks. Kayla recommends: •Episode on ultrasounds: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/85--Dr--Jen-Santos---Ultrasounds--Dopplers--EFM-Concerns-e20btg7 •Placenta Encapsulation - https://www.familyfocus-doulacare.com •Acorn Chiropractic Club - https://acornchiropractic.com/ •Mighty Mama Movement Online Course - https://go.mightymamamovement.com/ •Birth Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DXebxttQCq0zA?si=20f07204af1c4795 Connect with Kayla: •IG: @KaylaShock •TikTok: @CrazyKayla Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/101--Kaylas-Birth-Story---Surprise-Breech-and-Transport-e2e6544 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Gina Mundy, childbirth attorney. They discuss Gina's new book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" which supports families to educate themselves to create a safer environment for their births. They discuss medical advisors verse decision makers, lessons learned from her cases, how certain factors can improve outcomes like doulas and chiropractors. How certain factors like induction and busy hospital units can lead to poor outcomes. They also discuss how important it is to go into your birth educated and to be selective of your care providers.

PODCAST EPISODE - DR. REBECCA COHEN - “NATURAL BIRTH DOCTOR” #99 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Dr. Rebecca Cohen on her journey towards out of hospital birth support. They discuss her 9 children, herbal products, Mayan Abdominal therapy, what she brings to births, painful periods/sex/menopause/prolapse, postdates, breech, twins, shared decision making, and tearing. Rebecca Lasky Cohen, MD is a holistic women's healthcare physician specializing in pelvic wellbeing throughout all stages of women's lives. She has spent the last 30 years dedicated to working with women and has had extensive training in midwifery, family medicine, obstetrics, energetic and physical modalities and traditional healing practices from throughout the world. She is mother to nine children and is devoted to orienting women to their own inner-knowing as they thrive in sovereignty, fully realizing their vibrant health and creative potential. Her practice, Full Circle Holistic, seeks to guide women to reclaim their womb wisdom and honor the sacredness of their bodies. Rebecca recommends: •Radical Birthkeeper School: https://www.freebirthsocietycourses.com/radicalbirthkeeper •Whapio: http://www.mhvdoula.info/holistic-doula-program-2/ •Wild feminine book Connect with Rebecca: •Website: https://www.fullcirclelouisville.com/ •IG: @fullcircleholistic Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - REBEKAH WHEELER - TRAUMA HEALING #98 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Rebekah Wheeler, CNM working in the hospital based setting. They discuss the difference in care between hospital and home birth, how hospitals can be slow to change outdated policies, evidence based verse experience based informed consent, perinatal mental health, sanctuary trauma, uterine massage, birth control, and transport from home to hospital. Rebekah Wheeler is a Certified Nurse-Midwife, an educator, and an expert in birth trauma prevention and treatment. She has worked as a birth professional for almost 20 years, during which she has learned a lot about what helps support people to feel pride and a sense of accomplishment after giving birth, no matter how labor goes. She became a Perinatal Mental Health and Birth Trauma expert after seeing how little support there is out there to help people heal from difficult birth experiences. She offers birth trauma healing sessions virtually to clients anywhere, and in-person in the Bay area. Connect with Rebekah: •Website: http://birth-trauma-healing.com/ Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/Bekah-Wheeler---Trauma-Healing-e2c6kjo @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - KELLI MOORE - NAVIGATING THE MEDICAL SYSTEM - #97 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Kelli Moore, CEO and Co-Founder of Soulfire Productions, Host of the top-rated podcast: The Naked Mama, and Co-Host of the beloved relationships podcast, OK, Babe. They discuss topics that include IVF, prodromal labor, back labor, Leep procedures and cervical scarring, hemorrhage, cranial sacral, tongue-tie, retained placenta, postpartum mood disorders, sleep regression, and navigating fear, intuition, and the medical system. Kelli has been the good girl, the people pleaser, and she's followed all the rules. She worked for years in a male-dominated sports television industry, only to deal with 15 years of chronic illness and finally reach her breaking point. Today, she pours her heart and soul into helping women set themselves free from expectations and the stories that hold them hostage in their own lives. She asks us all to seek deeper within and become the version of ourselves we've kept buried for so long. If you are ready to be challenged, think outside the box, and finally see yourself clearly, Kelli is here for a radically honest conversation to support you and your audience.  Kelli's Recommendations: •Birthing Instincts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683 Connect with Kelli: IG: @kellitmoore •Website: https://kellimoore.co •Soulfire Productions: https://soulfireproductionsco.com •The Naked Mama Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-naked-mama/id1410824985 •OK, Babe Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ok-babe/id1497534094 Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/97--Kelli-Moore---Navigating-the-Medical-System-e2avb4f @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - EMMA'S BIRTH STORY - PART 2 - #96 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Emma on her second pregnancy and birth experience. They discuss suprise pregnancies, home birth after traumatic hospital birth, birth trauma debrief, wild pregnancy and declining all pregnancy testing, EMDR and hypnotherapy, Celiacs disease, her decision to request no vitals for her or baby in labor, cord burning, tongue and lip ties. Emma is an artist, textile designer and a mom in the East Bay area. Her family includes her husband Matt, three year old Fiona, new baby Stella and a very patient Shepard mix named Dash. •Emma's 1st Birth Story: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/90--Emmas-Birth-Stories---Part-1---We-Have-A-Problem-e25uga0 Emma's Recommendations: •Free Birth Society: https://www.freebirthsociety.com/podcast •Healing Birth Podcast: https://www.healingbirth.net/podcast •Silver nipple cups: https://silveretteusa.com/ Connect with Emma: IG: @emma_shutko and @emmashutkodesign Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/96--Emmas-Birth-Story---Part-2---Intuition-e2a2uj2 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Stesha about her home birth journey. They discuss twins, Covid, prenatal testing decisions, chiropractic care, and what to do if the fetal ejection reflex doesn't kick in. Stesha's recommendations: Lily Nicoles book Real Food for Pregnancy: https://realfoodforpregnancy.com/book/ Sneak Peek: https://sneakpeektest.com/?msclkid=a63e7ebc20421415089e1bb7bfed8553 Acorn Chiropractic Club: https://acornchiropractic.com/ Ina May's Guide to Childbirth book

PODCAST EPISODE - ALISHA MEYER - BIRTH CULTIVATED - #94 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Alisha Meyer at Birth Cultivated. They discuss Alisha's unassisted pregnancy and birth, her student midwifery journey, her decision to not get her Midwifery license, PMA's, postpartum planning, and advise for partners. Alisha was trained primarily hands-on through apprenticeship, then formal schooling, and now serves families through a private home birth ministry as a Traditional Birth Attendant. Her services were “up-leveled” after the unassisted pregnancy and birth of her daughter last year! Some of her passions are cultivating health through nutrition and bringing healing and renewal to postpartum. Alisha's recommendations: •Indie Birth Midwifery School: https://indiebirthmidwiferyschool.org •The First Forty Days book Connect with Alisha: IG: @birthcultivated Website: http://Birthcultivated.com Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @familyfocusdoulacare @love.inlabor @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - ASHLEY'S BIRTH STORIES - QUICK BIRTHS - #93 Join your host Sophia as her and Ashley discuss her two fast births. They discuss GBS, tandem nursing, prodromal labor, anemia, and food sensitivities. Ashley had her second baby at home and now wants every mama to have a home birth. Ashley feels her birth was so empowering, natural, serene, magical....like a dream. She wishes this experience for every mama and without anyone else's intervention. Just you in your power.  Ashley's recommendations: Ina May's Guide to Childbirth book Birth without Fear book Lily Nicols Real Food for Pregnancy book Aspirin for food sensitivities: https://healthnatura.com/aspirin-powder-usp-60g/ and https://www.instagram.com/p/CaQOgLnP49q/?img_index=1 Connect with Ashley: IG: @Coachashleys Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/93--Ashleys-Birth-Stories---Quick-Births-e283vlk @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @familyfocusdoulacare @love.inlabor @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Kit with Katara about yoni steaming. They discuss what steaming is, when to steam and when not to steam, the history around the world of steaming, fibroids, BV, sexual violence, miscarriage, fertility, and more.

PODCAST EPISODE - GEMMA EPP - WYLD BIRTH - PLACENTA WITCH - #91 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Gemma on her journey to traditional midwifery and her love for placentas. They discuss teen pregnancy, lotus birth, and cord burning. Gemma is a homeschooling mother, partner, aspiring homesteader, placenta specialist, traditional birthkeeper, and student traditional midwife in the rural mountains of British Columbia, Canada. She is devoted to rewilding, slow intentional living, and walking with women on their journey through a sacred and sovereign motherhood continuum. In her work she helps weave the spiritual, physiological, energetic, ceremonial, and traditional aspects of conscious conception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood; always turning women back to their innate power and ability to trust in their bodies and intuitions. Gemma's Recommendations: •Robin Lim: https://iburobin.com/ Connect with Gemma: IG: @wyldbirth Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/91--Gemma-Ebb---Wyld-Birth---Placenta-Witch-e267ie9 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - EMMA'S BIRTH STORIES - PART 1 - “WE HAVE A PROBLEM” - #90 Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Emma on her first birth journey. They discuss IUD pregnancy, celiacs, STI false-positive results, ECV for breech, Covid, hemophilia, induction, epidural, episiotomy, forceps, vacuum, manual removal of placenta, and flat nipples. Emma is an artist, textile designer and a mom in the East Bay area. Her family includes her husband Matt, three year old Fiona, new baby Stella and a very patient Shepard mix named Dash. Emma's Contact info: IG: @emma_shutko and @emmashutkodesign Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/90--Emmas-Birth-Stories---Part-1---We-Have-A-Problem-e25uga0 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - GINA'S BIRTH STORIES - “THIS TRAIN HAS NO BRAKES” - #89 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Gina on her two births. They discuss her journey with infertility caused by birth control that led to early menopause, miscarriage, sub chorionic hemorrhage, birth center verse home birth, dual care with an OB, SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction) and how chiropractic care helped, hypnobabies, baby birthed on her due date en caul, postpartum depression, colic, sleep deprivation causing heat palpitations, and IUGR. Gina is a Petaluma local (born and raised), mother of two, business owner, and wife to an amazingly supportive husband.  Gina's recommendations: Acorn Chiropractic Club: https://acornchiropractic.com Bee Johnson (spinning babies): https://sweetbeeservices.com Vanessa Raan (massage): https://www.yelp.com/biz/vanessa-raan-cmt-petaluma Gina doesn't have social media, but if you're interested in working with a bookkeeping and financial coach who specializes in small and creative businesses, look her up at: www.createfreedombookkeeping.com Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/89--Gina-Mercurios-Birth-Stories---This-Train-has-no-Brakes-e259i51 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Madison on her journey into Authentic Midwifery. They discuss obstetrical violence, Twilight sleep, registered midwifery verse free birth, BRAIN acronym, and birth as a ceremony.

Join ALL your hosts Lea, Sophia, Nina, Aly, and Angela as they talk about many topics including how to support families on the phone if you're not going to make it to the birth, Transient tachypnea of the newborn, and holistic approaches to birth.

Join your hosts Sophia and Aly as they interview April on her home birth story. They discuss vaginal exams, epidurals, postpartum support, hypertension, chiropractic care, and forceful let-down. First 40 Days: https://www.amazon.com/First-Forty-Days-Essential-Nourishing/dp/1617691836 Acorn Chiropractic: https://acornchiropractic.com/

PODCAST EPISODE - JEN SANTOS - ULTRASOUNDS, DOPPLERS, EFM CONCERNS - #85 Join your hosts Sophia and Lea as they interview Dr. Jen Santos, again. They discuss Body balancing, chiropractor, spinning babies, double footling breech, precipitous birth, x-ray use in pregnancy, how the use of routine ultrasound does not improve neonatal outcomes, DES, false positives, autism, speech delays, and dyslexia. Dr. Jen Santos, DC, CACCP, is a second generation chiropractor. She received her first adjustment at 45 minutes old by her dad. Dr. Jen graduated from Life Chiropractic College West in 2013, with honors (Cum Laude) and received the prestigious “Clinical Excellence Award.” She is a full time chiropractor and owner of Acorn Chiropractic Club with 3 locations. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at Life Chiropractic College West where she teaches obstetrics, gynecology, pediatric and prenatal adjusting, and pediatric pathology. Dr. Jen also periodically teaches pediatric and perinatal chiropractic seminars to students and chiropractors in her offices. And also teaches for the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Contact: Email: DrJen@AcornChiropracticClub FB Jen Santos IG @JenSantosDC Jen Santos - Tongue and Lip Ties: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/62-Jen-Santos---Tongue-and-Lip-Ties-e1ne243 Jen Santos - Chiropractic and Dynamic Body Balancing: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/Chiropractic-and-Dynamic-Body-Balancing-with-Jen-Santos---S1E28-e19fk2u Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/85--Dr--Jen-Santos---Ultrasounds--Dopplers--EFM-Concerns-e20btg7 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Chelsea and discuss many topics including Lactation consultants, Sleep support, safe bed sharing, Postpartum doulas, and Home birth. Chelsea has had the joy of working to support physiologic infant feeding for 13 years as an IBCLC in the hospital and out-patient clinical settings, and now has a thriving private practice in Los Angeles. She believes in breastfeeding as a most natural form of empowerment, the easiest way to help women find their strength and start to hear their maternal intuition. Chelsea has gone on to pursue mastery in connected modalities and provides wholistic support to her clients and community as a Reiki Master, Baby-Led Sleep and Well-Being Specialist, Body Ready Method™️ Pro, Indie Birth Doula, postpartum specialist, and Bodywork for Babies practitioner. Most importantly, Chelsea is a sovereign being and honored mother to four beautiful children - having experienced three transformative home births with her husbands support, and has been makin' milk consistently since 2011. IG @boobs.sleep.healing Website is www.boobssleephealing.com  Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/84--Chelsea-Poyo-Nieto--IBCLC---Functional-Boobs-e20bhe6 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - HODGEPODGE UPDATE - #83 Join your hosts Sophia and Aly as they discuss a random assortment of topics including fundal "massage", pushing, 2nd trimester loss, Birth Center shifts in our community, 2022 birth stats, hemorrhage webinar, induction methods, GBS vaccine, and advice for beginning midwives.  Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/83--Hodgepodge-Update-e1uts3r @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Devon on her journey from waitress, to vet tech, to hair and skin care, to real estate, and finally to nurse. They talk about what to expect for parents who's babies end up in the NICU. They also discuss the breastfeeding and formula pressure as a new parent as well as postpartum depression, support, girdles, and doulas. For anyone needing guidance around making medical decisions, we love the BRAIN acronym: Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, Need time/Nothing.

Podcast template Interview PODCAST EPISODE - LISA RAWSON - MIDWIFERY LICENSING - #81 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Midwife Lisa Rawson again! They attempt to discuss traveling midwifery, rural midwifery, hemorrhage, chart reviews, pros and cons of licensing, Breech, twins, postdates, transfer of care, and medical abandonment...all while the "California Medical Board" disrupts the podcast over and over. Lisa Rawson is a LM of CA and CPM, with licenses in various states. She has been working with families for 25 years – educating, empowering, catching babies, and enabling equal access. She enjoys infusing humor and joy while discussing difficult topics in her fields of interest. Her dream is to have various modalities of midwifery care accessible to all. She seeks to restore informed consent and choice thru education, social justice and solidarity toward equitable human rights. She comes from a long time rural community based homebirth practice but has worked in a variety of settings-including unlicensed midwifery. At this time, Lisa is a traveling midwife and enjoys infusing her knowledge with the lessons she learns while serving new communities & individual families for a short time. She is a mother of 8 children, a wife of 25 years and the matriarch of a multigenerational family. She enjoys cooking, swimming, playing games, exploring new places and hugging people! Midwifery Wisdom: https://midwiferywisdom.com/experience/conference/ Lisa Rawson LM - Rural Midwifery episode: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/Lisa-Rawson-LM---Rural-Midwifery---S1E13-e1454ll IG-lisa_rawson_lm FB: Mountain Valley Midwifery Website: http://Www.mountainvalleymidwifery.com Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/81-Lisa-Rawson---Midwifery-Licensing-e1tcbkq @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

PODCAST EPISODE - MIKKA'S BIRTH STORIES - SINGLE MOM BY CHOICE - #80 Join your host Sophia Henderson as she interviews Mikka on her two home births. They discuss how Mikka decided to become a single mom by choice with a known donor, her vision of community parenting, dating while pregnant, miscarriages, postdates, NST (non-stress test), newborn transport, NICU stay, placental abruption, and after pains.  Mikka is known for curating experiences that invite you to feel alive, free and inspired. Her current offerings include: family acroyoga, custom cake creation and relationship coaching. She works with people who value authentic connection and desire a life rich in meaningful relationships. Performing stand-up comedy, exploring various forms of art, and cherishing an exhilarating dating life all bring Mikka happiness. She has a reputation for producing unforgettable birthday parties. Finding home in her body, pole dancing, zouk, playing soccer, and beach volleyball are all activities Mikka loves. As a devoted parent, Mikka takes great joy in raising her two young children, Stella and Sylas. She is ecstatic about freebirth, tandem nursing. tandem babywearing with woven wraps, and enjoys connecting with like-minded parents. Contact her to join her cool parent meet ups! Website: http://www.Mikkaminx.com Free Birth Society: https://www.freebirthsociety.com/  Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/80-Mikkas-Birth-Stories---Single-mom-by-Choice-e1t9cl3 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Georgeanne Chapin of Intact America. They discuss Circumcision complications, circumcision as a human rights issue, the functions of the foreskin, sex as nature intends, common myths, the history of circumcision, and intact care. Intact America: https://www.intactamerica.org/ Your Whole Baby: https://www.yourwholebaby.org/ American Circumcision: https://circumcisionmovie.com/ Sex as Nature Intended It: http://www.sexasnatureintendedit.com/

PODCAST EPISODE - LINDSAY'S BIRTH STORIES - “THINKING FOR MYSELF” - #78 Join your host Sophia as she interviews Lindsay on her three births. They discuss due date pressure, planting seeds of fear, induction threats, questioning her intuition, GBS+ and antibiotics, postpartum planning, chiropractor care, Radical Birthkeeper School, severe nausea, covid preterm labor scare, posterior birth, cord burning, and precipitous labor.  Lindsay grew up on a dairy farm in Sonoma county where she spent most of her childhood outside mothering calves, dogs and kittens. She attended a Waldorf elementary school, studied farm business management in public high school FFA and financial management at Sonoma State University. She still lives nearby her family's ranch with her husband, Tyler, and three sons. She runs an event venue on part of her family's farm with her husband and her sister, Lydia. She enjoys spending time with her family, being in nature, gardening, reading, learning about health and nutrition and supporting and encouraging the women in her life. @lindsayolympia Ina May's Guide to Childbirth: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32127.Ina_May_s_Guide_to_Childbirth Complete Guide to Freebirth: https://www.freebirthsocietycourses.com/cgtf Listen here: IG: linktree in bio FB: https://anchor.fm/bornwild/episodes/78--Lindsays-Birth-Stories---Thinking-For-Myself-e1qt0r1 @sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @ninabasker @huggasteele @familyfocusdoulacare @bornwildmidwifery Stay Wild