Empowered Womanhood

Listen in to the final episode of our women's health in 2022 series AND the conclusion of season one of the E.W. podcast.  In this episode, we're breaking down some of the traditional views of what it means to be spiritually healthy and establishing some new questions to ask that help us understand our own personal intimacy with God than our ability to perform.  If you're someone who has felt the pressure of striving or has dealt with what I call the lie of performance, this episode is for YOU.    Contact me samantha@createdfor.co createdfor.co     Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

Join us as we continue on in our women's health in 2022 series. In today's episode, we are unpacking a little bit behind the perspective we have of our physical health, and how we can include God in that narrative in order to be empowered to see lasting changes that truly improve our health.    Mentioned In This Episode Matthias Barker Matthias' FREE 7-Day Getting Motivated Challenge on Facebook   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

Postpartum anxiety is a widely under-recognized, and yet often debilitating challenge that affects women after pregnancy. But with the number of women being affected by postpartum anxiety disorder and difficulty with extreme anxiety during pregnancy, providers are beginning to offer the support these mamas desperately need.  Join me in part two of this candid conversation with Sarah Dean, mother of four incredible kiddos, and woman who has experienced the difficulty of postpartum anxiety personally.  I loved this conversation with Sarah because she shares her story in a way that other moms will surely relate to while helping mamas understand what to look for in their own experience to help them understand if they need some extra support.  If you or someone you know need support, please contact your primary care provider or other licensed professional.    Sign Up For My LIVE Menstrual Health Workshop: Cycle By Design Sign Up For the Workshop Here   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

Postpartum anxiety is a widely under-recognized, and yet often debilitating challenge that affects women after pregnancy. But with the number of women being affected by postpartum anxiety disorder and difficulty with extreme anxiety during pregnancy, providers are beginning to offer the support these mamas desperately need.  Join me in part one of this candid conversation with Sarah Dean, mother of four incredible kiddos, and woman who has experienced the difficulty of postpartum anxiety personally.  I loved this conversation with Sarah because she shares her story in a way that other moms will surely relate to while helping mamas understand what to look for in their own experience to help them understand if they need some extra support.  If you or someone you know need support, please contact your primary care provider or other licensed professional.    Sign Up For My LIVE Menstrual Health Workshop: Cycle By Design Sign Up For the Workshop Here   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

This week's episode of the Empowered Womanhood podcast is part two of our mental and emotional health minisode series within our broader women's health series.  In this episode, we are unpacking some of our "big rocks," or the basic human needs that must be met in order for us to thrive mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and in every other way. We are looking at God's design for our lives, which centers on our spiritual health as the central point of the rest of us enjoying health.  Tune in as we continue an important conversation surrounding one of the most challenged areas of our lives today.    Mentioned in this episode: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer     Sign Up For My LIVE Menstrual Health Workshop: Cycle By Design Sign Up For the Workshop Here   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In today's episode, Sam is breaking down some of the most vital aspects of women's health in 2022: mental and emotional health.  Part one of the emotional and mental health portion of our series raises an important issue that needs to be addressed within the church: the regular over spiritualization of our approach to people who are in pain and need support. Listen in as we talk about some of the mental shifts that must take place in order for the conversation with ourselves to shift, and for our ministry to others who are hurting to better reflect that of Jesus.      Sign Up For My LIVE Menstrual Health Workshop: Cycle By Design Sign Up For the Workshop Here   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

Links Let It Be Easy by Susie Moore Join the Wait List For My LIVE Menstrual Health Workshop: Cycle By Design Click here: Sign Up For the Workshop Here   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

The topic of women's health is wayyyyyyy over-represented in many awful ways, but really not often discussed in a way that empowers women to live according to their God-ordained design.  I'm on a mission as we begin the new year to put real tools into the hands of the women in this community (myself included!). Tools that will empower and embolden us to listen more closely to the messages our bodies are sending us, to create space for our souls to get out from under the pressures of day-to-day life, and our spirits to connect fully to the One who makes all of this possible.  Today's episode is part one of a brand new women's health series in which I'll be discussing important, holistically-minded elements of women's health and wellness. We are going to unpack what health looks like mentally & emotionally, physically, and spiritually, and as we do, we will aim to deepen our understanding of the beauty of God's design and plans for our lives.  Join us as we dive into this topic head-first, aiming to not only understand ourselves but our incredibly thoughtful Designer we well.    Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

As we round out the final days of 2021 and head into 2022, I wanted to take an opportunity to speak to your heart. In this episode, I'm sharing three hopes that I have for YOUR next season. These hopes are founded in Biblical truths and promises I believe the Lord is inviting each of us to step into in greater ways as we process this past year (or longer), and as we head into the next season of our lives.  I pray this episode encourages you and gives you a couple of really simple things to focus on to unlock the peace of God in your life and to know and pursue the vision He has for you.      Grab My FREE Guide To Hiring the Right Doula Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, Sam is joined by special guest (& BFF), Erynn Reinhardt. Listen in and Sam and Erynn break down three of the most common stigmas that surround our periods, and some ways we can take back the narrative.  Highlights 08:11 Stigma #1: Your period is something shameful you should hide. 20:34 Stigma #2: Your period is gross. 28:46 Stigma #3: Your period is something you have to get through. Links Woman Code by Alissa Vitti Grab My FREE Guide To Hiring the Right Doula Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

How much do you know about your menstrual cycle?  If you're like the average woman, the answer to that is not much beyond how bad your period week can be. BUT, that doesn't need to be the case.  Our menstrual cycle is made up of four distinct and intentionally designed phases that each carries some incredible benefits to our wellbeing, fertility, energy and capacity management, creativity, and much more!  In this week's episode, we are introducing some basic elements of the menstrual cycle and chatting about how we are going to further unpack this incredible and oh-so-strategically designed part of womanhood.  Tune in to hear a bit about our sweet Aunt Flo, and to hear about an upcoming workshop I'll be hosting to help you take back your cycle, and to get every benefit from it that the Lord designed you to experience!        Follow Along   www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation     Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course

Have you ever felt intimidated by the idea of spending time with God? Or wondered what it would even look like to spend time with God as a family?  Well, my friend, you are certainly not alone.  In today's episode, I'm breaking down the intimidation factor of spending time with Jesus and sharing some super practical and simple suggestions for cultivating a life dependent on Jesus, both as a family, and as individuals who make up your family unit.  Join in as we talk about some simple ways to start covering your family in prayer, starting a daily Bible reading practice, and spending time communing with God together.  I pray you're encouraged and inspired by this episode and that you'll create your appointment time with Jesus and set it on your calendar today! I mentioned at the end of this episode that the doors to Birthing Bravely Academy are closing on December 10th for the remainder of 2021, and when it comes back in February, the price will have increased. If you've been on the fence about joining in on my faith-based and oh-so-empowering birth class, now is the time to jump into your spot in Birthing Bravely Academy + to take 15% off! Details + link below.   Special Offer: Birthing Bravely Academy is now open for enrollment! If you're looking for a faith-based + digital childbirth education program designed to empower you as you prepare for birth, Birthing Bravely Academy is for you.    Use code Empowered15 to take 15% off   Link to course: Createdfor.co/bba-course   Follow Along   www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation     Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course  

In this episode, we're continuing the conversation surrounding the importance of creating a plan for postpartum support. We are discussing some questions you and your partner should talk through in order to create realistic expectations for who will manage which aspects of your life together so your relationship can grow stronger instead of strained.      Links mentioned in this episode Download my free Check-In  Questions/Connection Guide  Keep Your Love On by Danny Silk Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In part one of our two-part series on practical postpartum support, we're talking about creating a plan for the first seven days after parents return home with baby.    We're breaking down the importance of having a solid plan for postpartum support in place BEFORE baby comes (if possible!). Listen in as we look at six areas you should consider when creating your plan for help in the first seven days after baby.  Timestamps mentioned in this episode---   Questions to ask as you create your plan: 06:49 Will both parents be present after the baby's born or will one or both of you need to return to work immediately?   07:46  Do you have older kiddos who will need care and support during this transition?   Six areas you may need or want support: 08:36 Meals 08:48 Sleep 10:35 Tidying Up 10:45 Running Errands 10:55 Babysitting (especially when you have older kiddos)  11:37 Processing/Emotional Support Special Offer: Birthing Bravely Academy is now open for enrollment! If you're looking for a faith-based + digital childbirth education program designed to empower you as you prepare for birth, Birthing Bravely Academy is for you.  Use code Empowered15 to take 15% off Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, we're diving deep into the ways fear + anxiety rob us of the experience of peace in pregnancy and birth. Our physiology was designed so intentionally by God, and His plan for us so specific that our ability to receive all of the physiologic support needed for birth (specifically feel-good hormones!) depends on us gaining victory over the thieves of peace: fear and anxiety.  Tune in as we look at biblical ways to overcome fear and anxiety in pregnancy and birth, and in the other areas of life where we may be experiencing their effects.      Special Offer: Birthing Bravely Academy is now open for enrollment! If you're looking for a faith-based + digital childbirth education program designed to empower you as you prepare for birth, Birthing Bravely Academy is for you.    Use code Empowered15 to take 15% off Link to Birthing Bravely Academy: Createdfor.co/bba-course   Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

Ever wondered what a birth class is for, or if you should take one? Or, wondering how taking a birth class differs from asking your doctor or midwife questions?    Those questions (and a few more) are the topic of today's episode. We're breaking down why everyone should take a birth class, regardless of which one it is, and how taking a birth class can and should help you to make informed decisions you actually align with.    Listen in as we break down how Birthing Bravely Academy, my brand new go-at-your-own-pace & faith-based birth class aims to hit all the most important parts of an informative birth class, but with a perspective that covers all the parts of who you are. A holistic approach to birth can help you trust the natural process of labor, birth, and all your body is designed by God to do after your baby is born.    (1:50) Question One: What exactly is a birth class, and why would I need to take one if I have a doctor?  (12:48) Question Two: How is this class different from what you'll get with insurance?  (19:26) Question Three: How much opportunity/expectation/commitment is required for partners? (22:06) Question Four: What are the benefits of a holistic birth course?    Special Offer: Birthing Bravely Academy is now open for enrollment! If you're looking for a faith-based + digital childbirth education program designed to empower you as you prepare for birth, Birthing Bravely Academy is for you.    Use code Empowered15 to take 15% off Link to Birthing Bravely Academy: Createdfor.co/bba-course   LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: CDC Article 2020 Maternal Mortality in US Maternal Mortality/Morbidity- AJMC Review Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

The best birth plan is the one that's easy to follow & execute!  Spending a ton of time creating a birth plan only to have it left on a table in the corner of the room is a huge bummer. But it doesn't have to be that way. In today's episode, we're breaking down some of the important aspects of developing a birth plan you actually care about and how to create a visual birth plan your team can truly use.  (Exercise time-stamp: 2:49)   Special Offer: Birthing Bravely Academy is now open for enrollment! If you're looking for a faith-based + digital childbirth education program designed to empower you as you prepare for birth, Birthing Bravely Academy is for you.  Birthing Bravely Academy Use code Empowered15 to take 15% off Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, I'm chatting with my good friend, Kirsten Vossler, all about how the birth class and her husband took to get ready for their first birth has changed the game for them ever since.  Kirsten is mom to 8 kiddos + counting, a homeschooler, and podcaster! She has a beautiful view of motherhood that is so empowering, she genuinely believes, and experiences a ton of joy from the fact that God called some women to be mothers, and is using their platform with their families to influence the generations.  She has a wonderful podcast called Rejoicing In Motherhood, which I have found to be super encouraging myself, even pre-babies of my own, and she uses that platform to empower other Jesus-following moms to believe in the power their lives hold in the very simple, normal, day-to-day mothering of their children.  Join me as I hear about how Kirsten has begun preparing for births alongside the Holy Spirit, and how one question changed the way she engaged in birth spiritually.   Connect with Kirsten + Listen In! KirstenVossler.com Rejoicing In Motherhood Podcast Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

This week's episode is centered on the why behind Created For's faith-based methodology.    If you're looking for a birth class, there are more options out there than one could possibly count. They range from very specific methodologies behind strategy, preparation, and mindset to basic breakdowns of when and how things will happen.    As I've worked to develop Created For, and the soon-to-be-released Birthing Bravely Academy, I've learned the faith-based approach to pregnancy, birth, and the development of healthy families is absolutely fundamental to me.    Listen in as I share a little bit behind the decision to keep the Lord at the center of all I teach through Created For.   Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Links Free SAME PAGE DATE Download Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, I'm sharing a bit about me, and the journey to Birthing Bravely Academy!    If you're someone who likes to have a little context or wants to hear the story behind things, this episode is for you. My journey into healthcare and out of the traditional midwifery training track is anything but ordinary, but I wouldn't change it.    Listen in as I share about the career changes that led me to missionary midwifery, and why I'm focusing on family education instead of catching babies these days.  Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Links Free SAME PAGE DATE Download   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, we're continuing the conversation about the first 24 hours after baby is born. The period of time immediately after birth is a beautiful and incredibly special time for parents and for baby. When we are intentional with it and have an idea of what we want that time and space to look like, it can even feel sacred.    With the rise of mother-baby friendly facilities in the last decade or so has come a greater awareness of the power of this beautiful time. However, not all facilities currently observe an undisturbed golden hour approach.    Listen in as we talk through some of the main components of this time and learn which parts of the process may be skippable, depending on your family's particular desires.  Highlights 01:52 Newborn exam 02:40 Immediate vaccination: your choices 03:22 Vitamin K 04:49 Eye ointment 07:13 Hep. B Series 08:55 Newborn screen 11:05 TDAP (mom) 12:03 Flu shot (mom) 12:55 Postpartum support 15:18 Newborn sleep 20:14 Breastfeeding 22:09 Decisions you can/should make Grab My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: Pregnant?! Now What…?? Click here to snag a spot in my free course Links Free SAME PAGE DATE Download Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick   https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, Sam is breaking down the flow of the first few hours after baby is born. We'll discuss some differences in how things may be managed by provider type (OB, midwife) and location (hospital, birth center, home), as well as some benefits to an undisturbed golden hour that may surprise you.  Join us for part one of this two-part series on the first 24 hours after baby is born.  Highlights 04:26 Baby-friendly facilities 05:36 Benefits of an undisturbed golden hour 13:02 Delivery of the placenta   “Skin to skin contact allows mom and baby to get to know one another. Baby is highly sensitive to the pheromones mom and dad produce through the skin and will learn their parents scents immediately, which promotes attachment. Studies have also shown that mothers who have skin-to-skin contact with their newborn are more likely to feel comfortable meeting their baby's needs and more confident as mothers than those who did not get to bond with baby immediately after birth.” - Sam LeGassick Sign Up For My FREE 5-Day Mini-Course: "Pregnant?! Now What…" Click here to snag a spot in my free course Links Delayed Cord Clamping BellyBelly Article: Benefits of An Undisturbed Golden Hour   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation   Sources mentioned in today's episode Benefits of An Undisturbed Golden Hour Babyfriendlyusa.org

In this episode, I'm answering some questions that were submitted to me via an Instagram question & answer poll I put up. I loved the questions that came in and had a blast answering the first 9 of this series.    Questions we're answering this episode:  Question 1. What are the phases of the menstrual cycle + what do they mean?  Question 2: Why am I so incredibly exhausted and moody the week of ovulation?  Question 3: I'm wondering what the research says about how alternative period products like menstrual cups, period, underwear, etc, affect menstruation. Question 4: Can you talk about the process of getting your menstrual cycle back after you give birth?  Question 5: Best fertile signs to watch for when breastfeeding? Question 6: Can you really only get pregnant a few days a month? And if so, which days? Question 7: Why do we cramp and how do we manage it?  Question 8: What are some natural ways to deal with pain management from cramping? Question 9: What are your favorite oils and ways to calm PMs and PMs rage? I'll be answering more in episodes coming up later this fall & winter so join us for more talk about the menstrual cycle soon and feel free to DM me on Instagram if you have a question that can't wait that long.  “As women, we function on a 28-day cycle typically, or, you know, whatever the length of your cycle in particular is. But men actually function on a 24-hour hormone cycle, so our needs are really different in a lot of ways, which I'm sure we all have known. But there are also some ways that we can work within our phases to get the most out of them and to ensure that we're taking the best care of ourselves physically, emotionally, spiritually, in terms of our work life and family life and all of that so that's probably something that we'll do together in the future.” - Sam LeGassick Highlights 02:18 Question 1. What are the phases of the menstrual cycle + what do they mean?  12:03 Question 2: Why am I so incredibly exhausted and moody the week of ovulation?  13:44 Question 3: I'm wondering what the research says about how alternative period products like menstrual cups, period, underwear, et cetera, affect menstruation. 18:13 Question 4: Can you talk about the process of getting your menstrual cycle back after you give birth?  23:24 Question 5: Best fertile signs to watch for when breastfeeding? 24:43 Question 6: Can you really only get pregnant a few days a month? And if so, which days? 25:30 Question 7: Why do we cramp and how do we manage it?  27:09 Question 8: What are some natural ways to deal with pain management from cramping? 28:26 Question 9: What are your favorite oils and ways to calm PMs and PMs rage?   Links Mentioned in this Episode Dot Cup (Sam's favorite menstrual cup) Woman Code by Alissa Vitti    Grab My FREE Guide To Hiring the Right Doula For You Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, Sam discusses the importance of engaging in the process of healing from pregnancy and birth-related trauma.  *Special note: today's episode will touch on some difficult topics today. These will include miscarriage and infant loss, infertility, and trauma in labor and birth. If you or someone, you know, has experienced difficulties in one of these areas, this episode could be difficult to hear. No explicit details are shared in this episode.  Join us as we uncover some practical ways to begin taking steps toward breakthrough and healing from difficulty relating to growing a family.  Highlights 1:23 A note for your heart 9:43  Key 1: Dealing with fear 4:49  Key 2: Forgiveness 15:23 Practical strategies to move toward breakthrough 18:00 Seeking healthy re-connection 21:36  Key 3: Creating a New Expectation “I believe in every single circumstance, there is always an opportunity for redemption. To me, redemption is the restoration of the heart after a significant hurt. In this case, it's found in the fact that you have a Heavenly Father who is so loving that you don't have to pretend the pain you're experiencing. Isn't valid. It's understanding that there is healing available, no matter how deep the wound. He takes what the enemy intended for evil and makes it work for your good. Does that mean the pain goes away or even fades immediately? No, absolutely not. There's almost always a process involved in true healing. But what this does mean is he wants to release supernatural hope and peace over you. If you want them, you can have access to these things in the midst of processing your pain, even right now.” - Sam LeGassick Links BetterHelp Counseling Services (Christian trauma counselors available) Cornerstone Christian Counselors (Christian trauma counselors available) Hinds Feet On High Places by Hannah Hurnard   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You Sources mentioned in today's episode PATTCh, Prevention & Treatment of Traumatic Birth   PATTCh Resource Guide   Bible Verses to help conquer the spirit of fear Psalm 34:4 ESV I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 56:3-4 ESV  When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.  Isaiah 35:4 ESV Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.” Isaiah 43:1 ESV But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.

In this episode, Sam discusses how to share with your community about your out-of-hospital birth. This topic can be a loaded bag depending on your audience. Sam breaks down the three most common personalities that may emerge: Researcher Rita, Super-Helper Susan, and Fearful Franny.  Listen in as we discuss some tips for healthy dialogue and connection with these ladies (and those who share their concerns).    Highlights 3:56  “Researcher Rita” 5:48  “Super-helper Susan” 7:18 “Fearful Franny”   “Franny is worried. She's worried about you. She's worried about the baby worried. You'll get a flat tire on the way to the birth center. Worried your midwife won't make it in time and your baby will be born on the bathroom floor like that woman in the lifetime movie. She's just worried. But this worry isn't exclusive to your birth. And it'll probably continue on long after you've had your baby, it'll just be directed at other things. ” - Sam LeGassick   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You   Sources mentioned in today's episode MacDorman MF, Mathews TJ, Declercq E. Trends in out-of-hospital births in the United States, 1990–2012. NCHS data brief, no 144. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2014. Click here for this article   Goer H. Dueling Statistics: Is Out-of-Hospital Birth Safe?. J Perinat Educ. 2016;25(2):75–79. doi:10.1891/1058-1243.25.2.75 Click here for this article   Cheyney M. Understanding Recent Home-Birth Research: An Interview With Drs. Melissa Cheyney and Jonathan Snowden. J Perinat Educ. 2016;25(2):80–86. doi:10.1891/1058-1243.25.2.80 Click here for this article Quote by Emma Bombeck: "Worry is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but it gets, you nowhere."   Bible verse from Isaiah: “Perfect, absolute peace surrounds those whose imaginations are consumed with you; they confidently trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

In this episode, Sam talks about the benefits of having a doula's support during labor. We're diving into the research behind doula support and how the presence of a trained birth professional is linked to improved outcomes for both mom and baby.  Doulas provide evidence-based resources to help mom and dad make decisions that are involved in birth. It's incredibly underestimated how many decisions there are leading up to birth itself, and then especially in the few weeks surrounding baby's birthday, there are so many things that aren't going to need to be decided. A doula can help present that information in a way that brings clarity for parents, and empowers them to make decisions that align with their values.   Highlights 1:20 What exactly is a doula? 3:26  How does a doula help parents plan for birth? 4:49  What does a doula do during labor? 8:22 What's the difference between a birth doula and a postpartum doula 9:30  Research behind doula-support birth statistics 12:00 How do I find the right doula?  15:15 Interviewing your potential doula 16:58 A few questions to ask your potential doula during your interview 17:52 Note about certification   “Remember, hiring the right doula for you comes down to how comfortable you feel and how assured you feel of her willingness to work with you throughout the process.” - Sam LeGassick   Links Click here to download my Free Guide to Hiring the Right Doula For You DONA- Find a doula search engine (scroll down to enter location info) https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/find-a-doula/   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation   Sources mentioned in today's episode Benefits of a Doula. https://www.dona.org/what-is-a-doula/benefits-of-a-doula/ Gruber K, Cupito S, Dobson C. Impact of doulas on healthy birth outcomes. The Journal of Perinatal Education. 2013;22(1):49–56. doi: 10.1891/1058-1243.22.1.49. [PMC free article] [PubMed] Having a Doula: Their Benefits and Purpose. (2017, July 22). http://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/having-a-doula/ Sauls D. J. (2002). Effects of labor support on mothers, babies, and birth outcomes. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing, 31(6), 733–741  [PubMed] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Approaches for Ob-gyns and Maternity Care Providers to Limit Intervention During Labor and Birth in Low-Risk Pregnancies You Have a Doctor, So Why Get a Doula? (n.d.). from https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/doula/do-you-need-a-doula/

In this episode, Sam discusses the importance of partnership + unity among parents, especially within growing families. As far back as we're aware, men have all but been disqualified from parenting, but what if there is more to the design of growing families than we have believed? What if a father's role is just as important, albeit different? What if dad is meant to not only be included in the process but was also given the opportunity to learn and grow as a parent, in order to prepare for the arrival of his little ones?  Join us as we talk through how a decision to prioritize partnership + unity can establish a foundation of trust and security for the family to be built on.    “I believe part of God's original design for men is that they would care for their families, especially through the vulnerabilities of growth and development.” - Sam LeGassick   Links Click here to download my FREE Same-Page Date Guide + Discussion Questions   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

In this episode, Sam answers the most common questions she's heard about unmedicated birth. We're diving into the nitty-gritty of your most-asked questions, but don't worry- we're keeping the perspective of peace and hope, even with the tough stuff. Questions we're covering in today's show: How do I manage pain without medication? What's the difference between a midwife and a doula? Am I going to be mean to my husband? Am I going to tear?  What if I poop? Join us as we talk about prioritizing effective support, and a peaceful atmosphere for birth- both of which are bound to set a laboring mama up for success! Highlights 4:37 Question one: How do I manage pain without medication? 10:05  Question two: What's the difference between a midwife and a doula? 14:52  Question three: Am I going to be mean to my husband? 21:13  Question four: Am I going to tear?  24:54  Question five: What if I poop?    “The atmosphere of birth is really important. And I believe it's more than possible for mamas to be in a peaceful place, even when they're working so, so hard..” - Sam LeGassick   Links Midwife Kira at Natural Birthhouse   Follow Along www.instagram.com/samantha_legassick https://www.facebook.com/groups/createdforbirtheducation

A pregnancy, family growth, and women's health and wellness podcast for busy women who want to learn about their bodies through the lens of God's intentional design. Every Tuesday, I'll bring you encouraging truths and actionable tips to help you feel empowered on your journey. You'll hear us cover topics from pregnancy and birth planning, postpartum life, and uncovering what's most important to your family. But this isn't just a pregnancy and birth podcast! I'll also cover topics like singleness, body image, the Father's heart for family and marriage, hacking your menstrual cycle, miscarriage and infant loss, and God's plan for sustainability through rhythms like rest and sabbath. I believe we were designed intentionally and created for a significant purpose. Ready to uncover your design and feel empowered along the way? Great! See you there.