Podcasts about homebirth

In this deeply personal episode, Erin shares the healing and liberating home birth of her second child, Rami. After weeks of anticipating labor, everything shifted on the Fourth of July. What began with contractions at an art fair quickly became a powerful five-and-a-half-hour labor at home as a massive thunderstorm rolled through. Erin shares the moment she discovered she was already nine centimeters dilated, the instant relief of entering the birth pool, and the extraordinary experience of birthing her son into the water and pulling him onto her chest herself. From navigating birth after a difficult first experience to surrendering to her body, becoming a family of four, and watching Eden meet her baby brother, this is a story about healing, intuition, motherhood, trust, and the profound power of birth. Links: Hypobirthing course: https://www.hypnobirthing-positive-birth.com/ Postpartum freezer meal guide with Stefanie Adler: https://www.stefanieadler.com/postpartum-freezer-meal-guide Call booking link to talk to Erin about Spiritual Psychology Coach Certification: https://www.instituteforspiritualpsychology.com/thank-you-spiritual-psychology-certification Interested in diving deeper? Enrollment is now open for Spiritual Psychology Coach Certification®, Erin's signature year-long program where you become both a Certified Meditation Teacher and a Certified Spiritual Psychology Coach. Inside the certification, you'll study meditation, nervous system regulation, positive psychology, Kabbalah, spiritual psychology, coaching methodologies, emotional intelligence, and research-backed frameworks that support both your own transformation and your ability to guide others. If you're ready to deepen your spiritual journey, build a meaningful career, or simply become the fullest expression of yourself, we'd love to connect. Book a call with Erin's team to learn more and mention this podcast episode to receive $500 off tuition. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would love to reveal the light. Book your call here:https://www.instituteforspiritualpsychology.com/spiritual-psychology-coach-certification access snapshot manifestation: https://www.instituteforspiritualpsychology.com/snapshot-manifestation-123-sign If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use these lessons today.

Dr. Morgan is back with her fifth baby, and this time, she's sharing the full, unfiltered story of her fifth home birth. From going past her due date and days of early contractions to the moment labor suddenly intensified, she walks Leah through what labor actually felt like, how she used breath, movement, and visualization to cope with contractions, and the transition that she says is one of the hardest and least talked-about parts of birth. She also shares the moment baby McLean was born, what it was like having her older children present, and the emotional experience of catching her own baby.But the conversation doesn't end with birth. Morgan also opens up about her first 10 days postpartum, including the routines, nutrition, movement, sleep strategy, and support system that have made this her best postpartum recovery yet. She also shares an unexpected realization about her baby's positioning and why pelvic floor physical therapy may have been the missing piece during pregnancy.00:00 — Trailer & Introduction01:43 — Going Past Her Due Date06:34 — The Hardest Part of Pregnancy11:15 — Early Labor Begins15:29 — Walking Through Early Labor21:37 — Labor Starts Intensifying24:54 — The Cervical Check26:46 — Getting Baby Into Position32:24 — What a Contraction Really Feels Like37:37 — The Transition Into Active Labor39:49 — Breath, Movement & Visualization43:48 — Back Labor Begins45:30 — Getting Into the Birth Tub50:19 — The Hardest Transition of Labor58:16 — Her Water Breaks & Baby Descends62:18 — Baby's Head Is Born65:40 — Baby McLean Is Here71:56 — Delivering the Placenta74:22 — Her First 10 Days Postpartum77:10 — Morgan's Postpartum Routine82:44 — Nutrition, Supplements & Movement88:25 — Prioritizing Sleep With Five Kids90:50 — The Pelvic Floor PT Realization92:20 — A Conversation for Another EpisodeResources From This Episode:Check out all of our birth story episodes here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGU59IXH2I4Q&si=EG-pWz6bWb18P3gmEpisode #32 - The Vital Importance of Baby's Position During Birth with Ann Gilligan, RN, LNC, RYPT - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2IMXN6PmYDZBUcm78G3QeX?si=yNNZH5-sQDG3OaKeRlXD6AHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have StephanieSteph is a first-time mama from Aotearoa (New Zealand) and she is a proud Sacred Birth Worker graduate.Her pregnancy, birth, and mothering journey have been guided by the rhythm of nature, the innate wisdom of other mammals, and her own intuition. She attended her first birth when she was 3 months pregnant which deeply informed her about the birth and especially the postpartum care she wanted for herself.She had a great home birth midwife who held her through pregnancy, but in her birth she felt that having her partner and best friend was all she needed and ended up free birthing her baby undisturbed. Curious about Stephanie? Find her on instagram as @goddessinclayWant to work with Anna or join The Sacred Birth Worker Mentorship?Find Anna's Website, about her Mentorship & How to Work with Her, as well as all Links & Resources she mentions in the episode here:⁠www.sacredbirthinternational.com/links-podcast⁠

Today's guest reached out to me just after welcoming her fifth baby at home, in what she described as a deeply healing birth. Her journey to this birth was shaped by four very different experiences before it, including a hospital birth, two previous homebirths and a traumatic freebirth with her fourth baby. Looking back, she doesn't blame freebirth itself for what happened. Instead, she recognizes that there were moments when she needed support and didn't seek it, an experience that profoundly changed the way she approached birth the next time around. For her fifth baby, she chose to birth at home again, this time with trusted support around her. What unfolded was the beautiful, attended homebirth she had hoped for and an experience that helped bring healing to the birth that came before it. In this episode, she shares what her five births have taught her about intuition, support, and knowing when to reach for help. She reflects on why she still believes in the beauty of freebirth while also recognizing that, sometimes, having the right person beside you can be lifesaving. Most of all, her story is a reminder that healing doesn't require us to erase or reject the births that came before. Each experience can shape us, teach us, and become part of the mothers we are becoming. Find Desirae on Instagram @womb.2.grow If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

On today's solo episode, I'm sharing my positive birth story and taking you through my journey. I dive into how I prepared for labor, why I chose to keep an open mind rather than create a strict birth plan, and the role my doula, midwife, and birth team played throughout the process. I also share what labor actually felt like, how quickly everything progressed, what helped me get through the most intense moments, and the moment I finally met my baby girl, Reign. We also talk about the mindset shift that helped me approach pregnancy and birth with more confidence, why surrounding yourself with positive stories can make such a difference, and the lessons I learned about trusting your body, letting go of control, and expecting good things. If you're pregnant, preparing for birth, or simply curious about what my experience was like, this episode is for you. Enjoy!To connect with Siff on Instagram, click HERE.To connect with Siff on Tiktok, click HERE.To learn more about Arrae, click HERE. To check out Siff's LTK, click HERE.To check out Siff's Amazon StoreFront, click HERE. This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Text DREAM to 64000 to get 20% off all IQBAR products, plus FREE shipping. Message and data rates may apply. Visit www.sleep.me/dreambigger to get up to $225 off your Chilipad 2.0 with code dreambigger. This special offer is available for Dream Bigger Podcast listeners – and only for a limited time! Order it today with free shipping and try it out for 30-days. You can return it for free if you don't like it with their sleep trial. Visit www.sleep.me/dreambigger and never wave up tired again.Head to vitaclean.co and use code DREAM at checkout (Shower Head Starter Kits). Again, that's code DREAM to vitaclean.coIt's time to stop thinking about starting your business and start doing, and you can do that by heading to shopify.com/dreambiggerVisit www.Lilysilk.com/dreambigger and use code dreambigger for 20% off your LILYSILK order.Upgrade your sleep with Boll & Branch. Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/dreambigger with code dreambigger. That's Boll and Branch, bollandbranch.com/dreambigger, code dreambigger to unlock 15% off. Exclusions apply. Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When high-profile cases like Lindsay Clancy hit the news, public fear and sensationalism surrounding Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) spike—making clinical clarity and lived experience more vital than ever. In this special re-released episode, we sit down with Aaisha Alvi, author of "A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis." Aaisha is a two-time PPP survivor who navigated severe hallucinations, delusions, and several medical dismissals before finally receiving life-saving psychiatric treatment.Community birth workers, midwives, and doulas are often the primary line of defense in the first 14 days postpartum. In this conversation, we break down:* The clinical differences between Postpartum Depression (1 in 5) and Postpartum Psychosis (1-2 per 1,000).* What hallucinations and delusions actually look and feel like from the inside.* Why calling PPP "rare" leads to dangerous medical dismissals in emergency rooms and clinics.* Exact red flags, key phrases, and emergency protocols birth workers must use when advocating for a client in crisis.CONTENT WARNING: This conversation includes discussion of severe perinatal mental health crises, intrusive thoughts, and psychiatric emergencies. RESOURCES & LINKS:• Learn more about Aaisha Alvi & grab her memoir: https://www.aaishaalvi.com• Follow Aaisha on Instagram: @AaishaAlviWrites• Postpartum Support International (PSI): Call or text 1-800-944-4773 | https://www.postpartum.net• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988• Explore Midwifery Wisdom courses & resources: https://www.midwiferywisdom.com

When Alysa Seeland's health began falling apart after the birth of her first baby, she was told she would likely need surgery and was left searching for answers. Instead, that journey led her to discover the power of nutrient-dense foods, healing through nourishment, and eventually building Fond Regenerative: a company dedicated to truly traditional bone broth and regenerative foods.In this conversation, Alysa shares her incredible postpartum healing story, why quality bone broth matters, the role of healthy fats during pregnancy and breastfeeding, recovering from Lyme disease, home birth experiences, homeschooling six boys, running a thriving business with her husband, and the practical systems that make large family life possible. If you've ever wondered how to nourish yourself while raising children, or how to let go of perfectionism in motherhood, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom.00:00 Trailer & Introduction03:46 Why Real Bone Broth Matters 05:24 Alysa's Postpartum Health Crisis 09:20 Healing Through Nourishment 12:20 Why Moms Need More Nutrients 19:06 Healthy Fats During Pregnancy & Postpartum 20:46 Childhood Health & Choosing Birth Centers 23:31 Fast Birth Stories & Home Births 26:18 Letting Go of Perfectionism 30:14 Babies Close Together & Pregnancy Nutrition 34:14 Lyme Disease & Pregnancy After Healing 37:27 Managing Expectations With a Large Family 43:06 Homeschooling Six Kids 49:46 Running a Business Together as Parents 52:25 The Problem With Perfectionism 56:40 Family Systems That Actually Work 60:10 Why the Company is Named FOND 61:51 Daily Routine & Work Schedule 65:05 Traveling & Building a Business With Kids 68:36 Healthy Sports Snacks for Kids 72:35 Favorite Ways to Use Bone Broth & Tallow 75:20 Are They Done Having Kids?Resources From This Episode:Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond - https://fondregenerative.com/HAAMCheck out Fond on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fondregenerativeFollow Alysa on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alysaseeland/Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call Course - https://milkmedicine.com/lessonsonly/Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Althea Hrdlichka opened a birth center in Colorado in 2020 — a state where CPMs were not legally allowed to practice in birth centers. She then changed the law. She opened a second location in 2026. She has attended over 1,000 births and she's far from done.In this episode Augustine sits down with Althea for one of the most unfiltered conversations this podcast has had about what it actually takes to build midwifery infrastructure in a hostile system — the legislation, the license battles, the EMS protocols that she believes are being used deliberately against out-of-hospital providers, the rivals who tried to bring her down, and the moment she almost didn't keep going.And why she kept going anyway.In this episode:Four births that led her to midwifery — and the one that changed everythingOpening a birth center she couldn't legally practice in — and changing the lawA two-year license battle, $70,000 out of pocket, and what pulled her back from the edgeThe EMS "stay and stabilize" protocol and what it means for out-of-hospital birthWhy she pays herself zero and what her sustainability plan actually looks likeThe homegrown midwife model — and why it's the only one that worksWhat midwives eating each other is costing the profession• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MidwiferyWisdom • Birth Center Incubator: https://www.skool.com/birth-center-incubator-4343/about • Guest Contact: https://tendergiftsmidwiferyandbirthcenter.com/about-us/

  Links: The Birth Hour: Real Birth Stories to Inform, Inspire, and Empower (book available for preorder now!) Get your breast pump, lactation support, and maternity compression garments for free at aeroflowbreastpumps.com/birthhour and use promo code BIRTHHOUR15 at for 15% off supplies and accessories. Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course - use code 100OFF for $100 off Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Support The Birth Hour via Patreon! 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Hannah, a midwife herself, shares her journey to motherhood, from her family's birth history in Ireland to choosing homebirth for her own baby.Having worked as a midwife within the system, Hannah knew she wanted a physiological birth and chose a model of care that supported this. She talks openly about navigating Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), discovering she had a placental shelf, and the testing she chose to have and chose not to have during pregnancy.We also chat about her labour starting just days before her due date, breastfeeding, and the reality of postpartum mental health, including her experience with postpartum OCD.Links:Gidget Foundation Australia Support the show@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show. 

After spending years supporting families as a doula, Nina Spears had witnessed birth in hospitals, birth centers, and homes. So when it came time to welcome her own babies into the world, she made a choice that surprised many: she chose to give birth at home. In this episode, Nina shares her own birth story, why home birth felt like the right path after years of witnessing birth in so many different settings, and what becoming a mother taught her that no amount of professional experience could. Our conversation then turns to the transition into motherhood. Drawing from decades of experience as a doula, childbirth educator, founder of The Baby Chick, and now author, Nina reflects on a pattern she's seen again and again: women often spend months preparing for labor, yet many still enter postpartum feeling emotionally overwhelmed and underprepared. We discuss: • What mothers commonly wish they had prioritized before birth and postpartum • The hidden mental load that often begins during pregnancy • How to choose a provider and birth setting that aligns with your values • Practical ways to prepare emotionally for the postpartum season Whether you're expecting your first baby or welcoming another, this conversation offers both a deeply personal birth story and practical wisdom for preparing not just for birth, but for the life-changing transition into motherhood. Nina also shares insights from her new book, The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy, a resource designed to help women feel informed, confident, and emotionally supported throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Find Nina @thebabychick and www.baby-chick.com If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

What started with contractions and the excitement of finally meeting her baby quickly turned into something Tori never could have prepared for.In this episode, Tori takes us through her birth story from the very beginning, the first contractions, the anticipation, heading into hospital, labour, the moment her baby arrived… and then how everything suddenly took a terrifying turn.What was meant to be one of the biggest and most special moments of her life became an emergency, with things unfolding completely differently to how she imagined.We're talking the full birth story, the moments that scared her, what was happening behind the scenes, how she felt in the aftermath and what it was really like going from “I'm about to meet my baby” to “something is seriously wrong.”Raw, emotional, chaotic and completely unfiltered. This is Tori's birth story.

Hannah's first labor began at 40 weeks, the day after a membrane sweep. She opted for an epidural but due to fetal tachycardia, had an unplanned cesarean. It was a lonely and confusing postpartum not coping well with the emotional trauma of that birth. Hannah prepared for a VBAC and planned a home birth with a midwife hoping for a different experience. She felt peaceful about transferring to the hospital when labor stalled at 9cm. She talks about what made that transfer feel empowering, including the sweetest affirmations from her cute husband. She also shares about her baby girl's diagnosis with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) at just 7 weeks old and how walking through a rare childhood illness (quite literally 1 in a million!) changed her perspective on birth, motherhood, and life's hardest seasons.Hannah was a TVL podcast listener herself long before she had her own VBAC. We hope you can find the same inspiration and love that Lily, Paige, and Hannah did when prepping for their own births!To Lily, she said, “The way that you and Paige honor women's birth stories is just so beautiful. It's such a powerful service you provide. It was so inspirational and hopeful, and I still listen every week.”Our birth stories are meant to be held and shared communally. And this is why we are here.Keywords: VBAC, planned HBAC, hospital transfer, cesarean birth, tachycardia, membrane sweep, epidural, PPA, birth trauma, husband, birth advocacy, Histiocytosis, infant cancerHystiocytosis AssociationThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Corina was literally born into midwifery. She came into the world in an old school bus on The Farm — the legendary intentional community in Tennessee founded by Stephen Gaskin and Ina May Gaskin — and grew up surrounded by communal living, the absence of money, and birth as an ordinary, community experience. After years of practicing midwifery across six countries, raising three daughters as a single mother, navigating a nine-year mental health journey, and returning to The Farm as part of a new generation of midwives, she has arrived at something extraordinary: a framework for motherhood that she believes could change everything.This episode is for every midwife who has ever burned out, every mother who has lost herself, and everyone who believes birth work is about so much more than catching babies.In this episode we cover:Growing up on The Farm — communal living, kid herds, no money, and birth as a normal community eventLeaving The Farm at 10, landing in Hollywood Florida, and the culture shock of the "real world"Her first birth on her 21st birthday — and three months apprenticing with Ina May and the Farm midwives that summerGetting licensed in 1999, practicing in Florida, taking students to Honduras, and attending births across six countriesBecoming a mother as a midwife — and how her first postpartum experience shattered every expectation she hadA nine-year mental health journey including depression, anxiety, and eventually a bipolar diagnosis — and the shame of suffering in silence as "the one who knows"The vision for Motherfly — a new archetype for motherhood rooted in self-compassion, creativity, and community rather than martyrdom and supermom mythologyWhat matrescence is, why it matters, and why it should be a household wordReturning to The Farm in 2020 — driving through the Confederate-flag South with her Black daughters, the financial relief, and the racial reckoning of arriving in a predominantly white communityThe onboarding meeting that became a confrontation — and the "Midwives for Black Lives" sign that nobody would respond toHolding Ina May's legacy with nuance — the good, the harm, and the missed opportunityFounding Community Birth and Wellness with three other midwives — and the spontaneous passing of the torch at the Sanctuary SummitThe Motherfly nine-month group coaching container, the Matrescent Circle, and what's coming nextWhy our culture does a so-so job birthing babies and a terrible job birthing mothersResources & Links:

In today's episode, we welcome Ange who, as a homebirth midwife, had dreamed of birthing at home since she was a 21-year-old midwifery student. Ten years later, that dream was finally within reach, until she experienced unexpected transfer and emergency caesarean for fetal distress.In this deeply moving episode, Ange shares how her first birth challenged not only her expectations but also her identity as a midwife. Although she knew her caesarean was necessary, the grief, triggers and disconnect from her body that followed led her on a profound healing journey.Working in home birth and private practice during her second pregnancy, Ange was surrounded by physiological birth while doing the personal work needed to prepare for her own. Through birth debriefing, psychology, somatic therapies and deep self-reflection, she found peace with her first birth and built trust in herself, without placing the weight of healing solely on her next birth.Ange takes us through her remarkable HBAC, a long and unpredictable labour that tested her patience, resilience and instincts. Supported by a trusted birth team and grounded in the work she'd done before labour began, she welcomed her son at home in an experience that was empowering not because it was easy, but because she felt deeply supported every step of the way.Together, we explore how birth experiences shape us, the importance of processing difficult births, and why birthplace, continuity of care and a supportive birth team matter so much.Whether you're planning a VBAC, recovering from a difficult birth, or simply passionate about evidence-based, woman-centred maternity care, Ange's story is a beautiful reminder that while we can't always control how birth unfolds, we can be profoundly changed by how we're cared for through it.You can find Ange at @hermidwife on Instagram. Ange also wishes to thank the following practitioners and professionals who helped her on her journey:Acuneedling @heldbyjessIntuitive massage Kayla from @thebalanceprojectauCraniosacral therapy @kirstie.smith.midwifePrivate midwives @soulmidwifesydney @kirstie.smith.midwife Birth photographers @annatodd_photography @intemporelle_x Please join us on our journey to bringing you all kinds of VBAC stories from across the country from here on in by subscribing and following us on social media, @australianvbacstories on Instagram and Australian VBAC Stories on Facebook. If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to rate or review, and tell your friends!If you are feeling that you might benefit from mental health support after listening to our podcast, please reach out to one of the organisations below:PANDA https://panda.org.au/Gidget Foundation https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/COPE Australia https://www.cope.org.au/If you've experienced mistreatment or disrespectful care in your pregnancy, birth or postpartum and are seeking advocacy support, please contact one of the following organisations:Maternity Choices Australia https://www.maternitychoices.org/Maternity Consumer Network https://www.maternityconsumernetwork.org.au/Thank you for tuning in to our podcast.

Heads up, all! If you'd like to learn more about our parenting conversation, join our Patreon event: Parenting without Reward & Punishment**********This week's Q&A begins with a conversation that struck a chord with our community: why mothers need creativity, hobbies, and joy, and sharing inspiring stories from postpartum women who rediscovered parts of themselves through music, art, and new passions.We also dive into an impassioned discussion about parenting values, including the things we all swore we'd never do as parents (and now do regularly), co-sleeping, screen time, bribes, eating toddler food, rewards & punishments, and raising children with confidence, respect, and strong boundaries.Then we answer listener questions about:What truly qualifies a pregnancy as “high risk” and who gets to define what makes someone high riskPlanning a home birth after a previous pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia Building confidence after a difficult first birth experience Manifesting the birth you want and the role of mindset in labor, despite how discouraging someone (ahem, your own midwife) respondsWhether third babies are really “wild cards” and where that idea comes fromCytotec, balloon catheters, and induction recommendations in home birth care.Plus, our Quickies cover wearable breast pumps, mastitis, vitamin D, breech babies, postpartum supplements, homeschooling, friendship, feeding schedules, and more. Thank you to everyone who called us with questions and comments for the show!Livestream: Should we homeschool? Ask a Mom whose family thrived.If you'd like to learn more about our parenting conversation, join our Patreon event: Parenting without Reward & Punishment**********Send us Fan Mail Support the showAccess our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs RhetoricNeeded

In this episode, Augustine sits down with Dr. Koen Deurloo, a Dutch gynecologist at the Diakonessenhuis in Utrecht and the first physician in the Netherlands to perform a maternal-assisted cesarean (MAC) — a technique that lets the birthing parent help lift their own baby from the incision during a planned cesarean. What began as a single patient's request in 2018 has grown into a practice Dr. Deurloo has now performed more than 200 times, and one he freely shares with hospitals around the world.This conversation goes far beyond the surgical technique. Dr. Deurloo talks candidly about the home births of his own two daughters and how that experience shaped his respect for the midwifery model of care, learning to ask "why" instead of overriding a patient's choice, and building one of the most collaborative OB-midwife relationships in the Netherlands — a country where roughly 90% of pregnancies start with midwifery-led care. He shares research on women who request care outside standard guidelines, why the "dead baby card" says more about a provider's own trauma than about safety, and how he trains residents, midwives, and doulas to work from a shared goal instead of competing silos.Dr. Deurloo is also the author of Door de ogen van een gynaecoloog ("Through the Eyes of a Gynecologist"), a collection of 35 stories from his clinical life.Whether you're a physician, midwife, doula, or student, this episode offers a rare, first-hand look at what it looks like when a high-risk hospital system chooses trust and autonomy over rigid protocol — and how that shift actually happened, person by person.In this episode we cover:The story behind the first maternal-assisted cesarean in the Netherlands and how the procedure has evolved since 2018What selection criteria Dr. Deurloo uses for MAC, and why he doesn't offer it routinely to every patientHow the Dutch maternity system integrates first- and second-degree midwives with hospital-based obstetric careDr. Deurloo's research on women who request birth outside clinical guidelines — and what happened to their outcomesReframing the "dead baby card" as a signal of provider trauma, not patient riskHow to build trust between physicians, midwives, and doulas without changing the actual clinical carePractical advice for starting pilot programs and finding your "pioneers" when introducing new practices into a hospital systemResources & Links:

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Siobhan as she shares the stories of her two very different birth experiences and the lessons she learned along the way.For her first pregnancy, Siobhan chose private obstetric care, hoping for a vaginal birth. She reflects on how, in hindsight, the model of care she chose didn't align with her birth preferences and unpacks the decisions she made throughout labour, including navigating conversations around induction, choosing an epidural, and experiencing an episiotomy.She also opens up about the often-overlooked postpartum period, sharing her breastfeeding challenges during the COVID pandemic and reflecting on the gaps she experienced in private obstetric care after birth.Determined to have a different experience the second time around, Siobhan chose a completely different model of care with a private midwife and planned a homebirth. She shares what led to that decision and how this birth transformed the way she viewed pregnancy, labour and birth.Support the show@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show. 

In this episode, Augustine shares a real one-on-one consult from the very first Midwifery Wisdom Fellowship cohort — a conversation with Emmelia.Emmelia is navigating a question many apprentice and student midwives face: what does a sustainable path in this work actually look like? She's processing betrayal by a preceptor who left her stranded without signed-off skills, wrestling with whether solo practice or a birth center model fits her life, and trying to figure out if she can be both a hands-on provider and a business owner without losing herself — or her family — in the process.Augustine and Emmelia talk through the Dunning-Kruger effect and why that crash in confidence after early competence is actually a sign of real growth. They talk about processing trauma from an unsupportive preceptor relationship, the difference between scarcity and abundance mindset in a competitive field, and why so many birth centers close within a few years while others last for decades. It's an honest look at the tension between calling and capacity — and a reminder that building something sustainable is its own form of midwifery.Emmelia generously gave us permission to share this consult, believing other students and apprentices working through similar struggles might find something useful in it.To learn more about the next cohort of the Midwifery Wisdom Fellowship starting September 1, 2026, visit our website https://www.midwiferywisdomcollective.com/midwifery-wisdom-fellowship-2

In this episode, Augustine sits down with Rafia Islam, a midwife from Bangladesh with eight years of experience spanning refugee camps, mentorship roles, and one of Dhaka's busiest labor wards. Rafia walks us through her training, her path from data collector to midwife, and what a 12-hour night shift with 13 deliveries actually looks like.The conversation turns to the realities shaping birth in Bangladesh: a cesarean rate as high as 80% in some private hospitals, the financial incentives driving unnecessary surgery, and the coercion many families face in the delivery room. Rafia also shares why midwives are legally barred from home birth in Bangladesh, how the country's neonatal mortality rate has dropped dramatically since 2000, and a harrowing memory of delivering a baby during a hospital fire.This is a candid look at what it means to fight for autonomous, respected midwifery care in a system still learning what a midwife is for — and a reminder that no matter where you practice, the work of holding space for birth looks remarkably the same.

Today Jade shares her inspiring journey into motherhood, from conception to her decision to have a home birth, highlighting the importance of personalized care and informed choices.Key Topics: Journey into motherhood and conceptionDecision-making process for home birthImportance of personalized prenatal careManaging labor and birth at homeBreastfeeding challenges and solutionsPostpartum recovery and support▶︎Afterease Tincture by Wish Garden Herbs▶︎Sitz Bath Herbs by Motherlove Organics▶︎HIRO diapers: ▶︎Mioberry Organic Muslin Swaddle sets & more: Save 15% with code: Bornwild15Connect with Sophia ▶︎https://www.bornwildmidwifery.com/Connect with Jade: ▶︎ IG @ hippiechickjadeThis podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice.We are not providing medical or legal guidance, nor are we encouraging listeners to engage in any practice that may be unsafe or unlawful in their jurisdiction. Birth choices, medical care decisions, and midwifery practices are highly regulated and vary by state and country.Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified, licensed professionals and to research the laws applicable to their location before making any health or birth-related decisions.By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own decisions and actions.The show notes may contain affiliate links. IF you click and purchase product or service I might be compensated. Thank you for your support. 

Madelyn's first son's birth came with an induction, a NICU stay, and a feeding journey she never expected. Although she wasn't ready for another baby right away, she carried with her a desire for a more healing birth experience. Four years later, she welcomed her second baby in a completely different way: a peaceful homebirth surrounded by love, trust, and support. With the guidance of a trusted midwife, the presence of her husband, her two best friends, and her hypnobirth doula, she experienced a birth that was truly on her terms. In this episode, she shares her journey from a difficult first birth to a transformative second birth, and how creating a supportive birth team and trusting her intuition allowed her to experience the healing birth she had hoped for.  If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jemima shares her journey through five pregnancies, two births, two miscarriages, and the exciting news that she's currently expecting her third baby.She takes us back to her first pregnancy, when she was accepted into a publicly funded homebirth program. Although she planned to birth at home, labour took an unexpected turn, leading to a hospital transfer and a birth that looked very different from what she'd hoped for. Jemima talks about the impact that experience had on her, and how birth debriefs afterwards helped her process what had happened.After experiencing a miscarriage, Jemima approached her next pregnancy differently, choosing to hire a private midwife and preparing for the birth she hoped for. She shares what led to that decision, how much she'd learnt since becoming a first-time mum, and the confidence she found along the way.When Jemima unexpectedly fell pregnant for the fourth time, she was faced with another heartbreaking miscarriage. She shares what it was like waiting three weeks for her baby to pass naturally before ultimately choosing to have a D&C, and the emotional toll that journey took.Now pregnant again, Jemima reflects on everything she's learnt through the highs and lows of growing her family. It's an honest conversation about birth, loss, healing, and finding your own path through motherhood.Support the show@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show. 

Was home birth different in the 1970s compared to today?This week, two midwives take us inside the world of birth beyond the hospital: from pioneering one of the earliest home water births to facing the realities, risks, and unexpected moments that come with bringing a baby into the world at home — even when the carpet is cream!If you're interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we'd love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.ukLinks from our midwives:All4Maternity is the go to place for education and support if you're a midwife or student midwife.And All4Birth is the home for expectant and new parents - free, non-biased, evidence-based information! Curated by a midwife ❤️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this beautiful and powerful episode, host Augustine sits down with Eva Rose — Norwegian birth photographer, doula, advocate, documentarian, and creator of Birth Mood — for a conversation that spans birth rooms, operating theatres, Ethiopian hospitals, and the fragile future of midwifery-led care across the globe.Eva has been attending births for nearly 30 years, building one of the most extraordinary visual archives of physiological birth in the world — and along the way becoming an unstoppable voice for women's birth rights and informed consent.In this episode we cover:How witnessing her baby sister's home birth at age seven — and growing up in a family of photographers — set Eva on her pathHow a midwife told Eva "you are a doula" — and what happened nextThe closure of ABC, Norway's most beloved midwifery-led unit, and how Norway went from 70 such units to just fourWhy Norwegian hospitals profit from over-medicalizing birth even within a free public healthcare systemThe fetal scalp electrode post that went viral globally — and why Norwegian midwives were furiousHow Eva's role as a doula shifted from loving birth companion to consent advocateThe mother-assisted cesarean in the Netherlands — and Eva's mission to bring it to NorwayBirth culture across countries — the stark difference between consent practices in Norway, the UK, and SwitzerlandBirth Around the World — selling everything to document birth globally before COVID shut it downFundal pressure in Ethiopia and Eva's campaign to make it illegal worldwideBurnout, her lowest two years, and what slowing down has taught herBirth Mood — the visual birth preparation course now used by birthing women, midwives, and doctors worldwideResources & Links:

Ep. 33 | Home Birth Midwife in Oahu - Daniela Martinez by Sofia Scheuerman

In today's Tea Talk, I'm sharing how I found the courage to choose a home birth for my first baby, my thoughts after listening to The Birthkeepers podcast slash what I think about the Free Birth Society and how my Christian faith has shaped the way I approached birth. Watch this podcast HEREFetal cell use in vaccines (cartoon): HEREJess Doula Freebirth InterviewThe song that ministered to me @ the end of my pregnancy:)Mentioned or used in this podcast:· Homestead Brand: Beautiful leather products from a family I love!: (use code NIKKIP for 10% off)· HoneyMark: CUTE "modest" Swimwear: (Use my code NIKKI10 for 10% off)· BIOptimizers: The BEST magnesium supplement! (USE: NIKKIP10 for 10% off)· Rode MicrophoneIf you'd like to support us on Patreon. I have a huge library of extra content.♥ YOUTUBE♥ INSTAGRAM♥ FACEBOOK♥ TIK TOK♥ XLinks for Products or Brands I am loving:· CUTE Modest Swimwear, Honeymark: code NIKKI10 for 10% off· The BEST magnesium supplement- BIOptimizers code NIKKIP10 for 10% off· Don't Freak It's Faux blankets: code nikki15 for 15% off· Conservative Homeschool Books! Tuttle Twins· MASA Chips: Code NIKKIPHILLIPPI for 20% off first order· EQUIP PROTEIN: Clean Protein Powder use NIKKIP for 15% off· Frownies:  use link or code NikkiP for 10% off· Ginger June Candle Co: non toxic + smells amazing! (code nikki20 for 20% off)· Mome-the most beautiful dresses!*Many of the above links are affiliate links. If you use these links to purchase items, I may earn a commission on your purchase. I obviously only recommend products or services that I use and enjoy! ☺️ Thank you!

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have Hanna.Hanna is a mama of two daughters now based in Uppsala, Sweden but living from time to time in Melbourne.Her husband is Australian and her 1st born was born in Melbourne in the hospital, while her second was a home birth bubba.Hanna and her family has chosen to step out of the every day hamster wheel life and is now living in a little red cabin in the countryside not too far away from where I live actually, where she works a lot in her garden.She grows food and spends a lot of time out in the woods and her aim is a slow paced life. And she is on the path of becoming a Parish Educator and is in the process of heading back home Down under to Australia.Today she shares about her natural hospital birth in Australia and her fast home birth in her red little cabin here in the woods of Sweden.Want to work with Anna or join The Sacred Birth Worker Mentorship?Find Anna's Website, about her Mentorship & How to Work with Her, as well as all Links & Resources she mentions in the episode here:www.sacredbirthinternational.com/links-podcast

Links: AquaTru.com use promo code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off. Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course - use code 100OFF for $100 off. Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course)  Support The Birth Hour via Patreon! You can now gift memberships to Patreon here! 

Choosing where to give birth is about much more than proximity, provider preference, or a friend's recommendation. Your birthplace shapes your options, your support, your experience, and even how safe your body feels during labor.In this episode, we're exploring how to evaluate birth settings in Massachusetts and the questions every expecting parent should ask before making a decision.In this episode, we cover:Why your birthplace is more than just a buildingHow birth culture influences your experienceThe differences between hospital birth with an OB and hospital birth with midwivesFreestanding birth center options in MassachusettsHome birth as a model of careHow to determine where you feel safest giving birthQuestions to ask when touring hospitals and birth centersUnderstanding provider models and who may attend your birthTransfer plans, NICU levels, and escalation of careGreen flags and red flags when evaluating a birth settingHow to identify whether a birth environment aligns with your goalsThe best birth location isn't the same for everyone. The right choice is the setting that aligns with your values, risk profile, desired level of intervention, and what helps you feel supported and safe.Resources MentionedMassachusetts Pregnancy Guide for Low-Intervention BirthEpisode 117: Home Birth with Noel FernandezA Path to a Powerful Birth: Childbirth Education ClassesQuestions to Reflect OnWhere do I feel safest giving birth?Do I want midwifery-led care?How important is immediate access to medical interventions?What level of support for physiologic birth am I looking for?How does this facility respond when I ask questions?Connect with Clear Light BirthDownload the Massachusetts Pregnancy Guide:clearlightbirth.com/maguideLearn more about childbirth education and birth preparation through Clear Light Birth. Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.

In honor of Father's Day today, I am rebroadcasting one of my favorite interviews I've ever done, first aired in 2024, and one of the only times I've had a father on the show to share his experience of what it was like to support his birthing partner. Couple Marion and Banks together share the sweet, intimate conception and homebirth story of their daughter. Banks was Marion's sole support person during the birth and shares what it was like to witness, hold space, and play a vital role in this transformative experience. I got to ask Banks some of the questions I've always wanted to hear from a conscious, intentional father about birth. Among other things, he shares: • How witnessing his partner birth their baby at home, sovereignly, helped heal generational birth trauma from his family of origin • How this birth experience transformed their relationship • What he would say to other fathers who carry fear around childbirth This is a wonderful story to share with the men in your life! If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto    

What actually happens during a home birth?In part two of this Home Birth 101 conversation, Dr. Morgan walks through what makes home birth safe, the role of midwives, what labor looks like at home, when transfers happen, newborn care, cost considerations, and how to prepare physically and mentally.If you've ever wondered what home birth looks like behind the scenes, or what happens if things don't go according to plan, this episode gives you the practical breakdown.00:00 Trailer + Introduction01:26 What Makes Home Birth Safe?06:36 Different Types of Midwives Explained11:56 Why Candidate Selection Matters15:11 What Actually Happens During a Home Birth20:56 Common Reasons for Hospital Transfer26:11 Emergency vs Non-Emergency Transfers29:06 Newborn Care After Home Birth33:46 Finding the Right Midwife39:36 Home Birth Cost & Insurance45:41 Birth Prep & Classes51:56 Managing Labor Pain at Home57:46 Common Home Birth Fears1:01:36 Final Thoughts: Is Home Birth Right for You?Resources From This Episode:Birthing from Within bookBradley MethodHypnobirthing40 Blinks EyemaskNew Earth Mama Spotify PlaylistOther Related Episodes:Birth Plan EpisodeBirth Episode PlaylistHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Jeff Krasno didn't expect to become a home birth convert. When his wife Schuyler handed him a pregnancy test on Christmas morning 2003, everything changed. In this episode, Jeff shares the birth story of their eldest daughter, tracing the unlikely path from a cramped Manhattan seminar with midwifery legend Ina May Gaskin to a blustery August delivery at the old family cottage in Fenwick, Connecticut, and the two weeks it took to finally name her. This is the first episode of Diaries of a Dance Dad, an audio memoir series in Jeff's own words. It spans the full arc of parenthood: the inhale of birth and early chaos, the grind of no sleep and travel with kids, the gut-punches of failure, and the slow exhale of letting go. Order Diaries of a Dance Dad audiobook & hear the tales that bookend my paternal journey from cradle to empty nestdom at ⁠onecommune.com/dancedad⁠. This episode was made possible by: LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/commune.
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Emmy's first birth experience ended in a way no one imagines: an "emergency" cesarean under general anesthesia. Her son was welcomed into life by strangers rather than into the loving arms of his mother and father, a source of pain that stayed with her for a long time. Determined to have a different experience with future pregnancies, Emmy began exploring her options and learning more about physiological birth. Her journey ultimately led her to have two subsequent home births: one attended by a midwife and another supported by her sister. Through these experiences, she discovered the healing power of informed decision-making, trusting her instincts, and creating the birth environment she desired. A pivotal part of Emmy's healing journey was finding Birth Story Medicine, a counseling process that helps mothers process their birth experiences. Find Emmy on Instagram @emmy_kissinger  If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

Thinking about a home birth but unsure whether it's actually safe?In part one of this Home Birth 101 series, Dr. Morgan breaks down the biggest myths around home birth, who is actually a good candidate, why some women choose home birth over hospital birth, and what the research says about safety outcomes for low-risk pregnancies.We also unpack intervention rates, C-sections, epidurals, transfers, and why birth environment matters more than most people realize.If you've been curious about home birth but overwhelmed by fear-based messaging, this episode is a must-listen.00:00 Introduction + Trailer02:39 Why We Needed a Home Birth Episode09:05 What We're Covering in This Series09:54 Home Birth vs Birth Center vs Hospital Birth13:19 Why Women Choose Home Birth20:09 Who Is a Good Candidate for Home Birth?23:05 The Mindset Required for Home Birth26:32 COVID & The Shift Toward Home Birth28:09 Is Home Birth Actually Safe?36:47 What Research Says About Home Birth Outcomes44:37 Part 1 Wrap-UpResources From This Episode:Maternal Outcomes StudyOther Related Episodes:Dr. Morgan's First Three Home Birth StoriesDr. Morgan's 4th Birth StoryDr. Leah's 1st Birth StoryDr. Leah's 2nd Birth StoryEverything You Need to Know About Hospital Birth with Care MesserHow Breech Birth Exposes Hospital Dysfunction with Dr. Stuart FischbeinHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

In this week's podcast episode, Katonya shares the incredible story of her son Kareem and the unimaginable journey that led her into motherhood. At just 22 weeks and 6 days pregnant, Katonya unexpectedly went into labor and delivered Kareem alone at home before emergency responders arrived. She opens up about those terrifying moments, the shock of becoming a NICU mom in an instant, and the emotions of watching her son fight for his life.Katonya shares what it was like to navigate Kareem's 180-day NICU stay, the many medical hurdles he faced as a micropreemie, and the incredible NICU staff who helped carry their family through some of their darkest days. She also reflects on coming home as a medical mom, learning to navigate life after discharge, and how her perspective has evolved throughout the eight years since Kareem's birth.Today, Katonya is the founder of Konnected Thru 22, a nonprofit supporting NICU families through connection, resources, and hope.Whether you are in the NICU today or years beyond your stay, this conversation is a beautiful reminder to take life day by day and trust that you do not have to carry this journey alone!To get connected with Katonya:Website | Instagram | Podcast | BookTo get connected with DNM:Website | Private Facebook Group | InstagramSupport the show

This week Giovanna welcomes legendary singer-songwriter Laura Marling to the studio!Laura tells Gi about her early fears that becoming a mother might stifle her creativity, and shares her experiences of having two home births.She also discusses her mission to create children's music that parents can genuinely enjoy, and introduces her new venture, 'Laura Sings Raffi,' a 17-track cover album of beloved children's songs. Each song is brought to life with videos illustrated by Laura and animated by Rob Shuttleworth. Out now at Laurasings.co Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Mindful Womb Podcast, I'm joined by Noel Fernandez, CPM of Solid Ground Midwifery for a conversation about home birth in Massachusetts — what it actually looks like, what people often misunderstand about it, and why more families are exploring it as a thoughtful, evidence-based option.We talk about the different types of birth professionals people may encounter, including OBs, midwives, and doulas, and how those roles differ. We also explore why so many families are drawn to home birth not just because they want fewer interventions, but because they are longing for something deeper: more continuity, more autonomy, more time, more relationship-based care, and a birth environment that feels calm and familiar.In this episode, we cover:what makes planned home birth safe and responsiblehow home birth midwives are trained and what equipment they bringwhy the prenatal care experience in home birth care often feels so differenthow to think about both physical and emotional safety when choosing where to give birthwhat hospital transfer actually looks like and why it is often misunderstoodthe unique logistics of planning a home birth in Massachusettswhat postpartum care at home can offer familiesand what questions to ask when interviewing a home birth midwife.This conversation is a helpful reminder that the “best” place to give birth is not one-size-fits-all.The real goal is not to defend one birth setting over another. It is to help each family find the provider, environment, and support system where they feel safest, most respected, and most able to labor well.If you've been curious about home birth, or simply want a more nuanced and grounded understanding of your options, this episode is a beautiful place to start.Resources MentionedUp to Date - medical statistics: https://www.uptodate.com/loginVBAC Information: https://www.ican-online.org/Evidence on Homebirth and Pregnancy & Birth Overall: www.evidencebasedbirth.comIf you'd like to learn more about Noel Fernandez's midwifery practice: www.solidgroundmidwifery.com/Get the free Massachusetts Pregnancy Guide: www.clearlightbirth.com/maguideLearn more about A Path to a Powerful Birth Classes: www.clearlightbirth.com/classes***If these topics light you up, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening.After you review the show - snap a pic and upload it here - and I'll send you 70 printable affirmation cards as a thank you.Your feedback helps this podcast grow, and I am so grateful for your support!Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice. Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice.

A home birth means welcoming your baby in your own space with the freedom to labor however feels right to you. It is also the birth setting that raises the most questions and concerns because safety is the central issue. This episode takes that debate seriously. It digs into the research on safety and outcomes, including where the evidence is strong, where it is genuinely contested, and the conditions that make the biggest difference. It also walks through what a home birth actually involves, who provides care, how to prepare your space, and what happens from early labor through your first days postpartum at home. Whether you are curious about a home birth, weighing it against a hospital or a birth center, or simply want to understand all your options, this episode gives you the full picture so you can make an informed and confident decision. Full article and resources for this episode: https://pregnancypodcast.com/homebirth/ Thank you to the brands that power this podcast: The VTech RM7968-2 Video Baby Monitor has 4K video, a 7-inch HD parent unit, and 360-degree pan, tilt, and zoom to follow every move. It also includes enhanced night vision, a soothing adaptive night light, two-way talk, and free remote access through your phone or tablet. Available at Target. Check it out at https://pregnancypodcast.com/vtech 8 Sheep Organics makes amazing, 100% Clean, Natural Pregnancy Products. From skin care to treating common pregnancy symptoms like stretch marks with clinically proven ingredients, 8 Sheep Organics has you covered. Every product from 8 Sheep Organics comes with a 100-Day Happiness Guarantee. You can try it completely risk-free for 100 days. If you feel the product has not worked for you, or if you're not 100% happy with your purchase, simply send them an email and they will get you a refund, no questions asked. Check out 8 Sheep Organics and save 10% when you go to https://pregnancypodcast.com/8sheep/ AG1 is the Daily Health Drink that combines your multivitamin, pre- and probiotics, superfoods, and antioxidants into one simple, green scoop. It's one of the easiest things you can do to support your body every day. When you first subscribe to AG1, you'll get an AG1 Welcome Kit, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, AND you'll get to try each new flavor of AG1. Unlock the Ultimate AG1 Starter Kit at https://drinkAG1.com/pregnancypodcast Get More from the Pregnancy Podcast Join thousands of expecting parents who stay up to date with the latest pregnancy news, new episode alerts, exclusive offers, and more: https://pregnancypodcast.com/newsletter Upgrade to Pregnancy Podcast Premium for ad-free episodes, full access to the back catalog, and a free copy of the Your Birth Plan book: https://pregnancypodcast.com/premium Save with discounts and deals available for Pregnancy Podcast listeners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/resources Follow your pregnancy week-by-week with the 40 Weeks podcast. Learn how your baby grows, what's happening in your body, what to expect at prenatal appointments, and get tips for dads and partners: https://pregnancypodcast.com/week Find more evidence-based information on the Pregnancy Podcast website: https://pregnancypodcast.com

Everything worthwhile is on the other side of a risky conversation—especially when it comes to women's health, birth, and career. In this episode, I sit down with professional investor–turned–hypnobirthing educator Maria Lernerman to talk about how hypnosis, birth preparation, and self-advocacy can transform one of life's most intense experiences into a joyful, empowering memory.Maria shares how she navigates being a daytime asset manager and nighttime hypnobirthing educator, hypnotist, lactation counselor, and mom of three, and why talking openly about hypnosis in a buttoned-up industry was a risky (and worthwhile) career conversation. You'll learn what hypnobirthing actually is (beyond the woo), how it helps many parents have calmer births—often with less or no medication—and why these tools become “meta skills” you can use in high-stakes work situations, from boardrooms to hospital rooms. Maria also offers grounded advice for women and couples planning to grow their families, including those going through IVF or navigating “high-risk” labels in the medical system.If you care about self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and having real choices in your healthcare, this conversation will expand what you think is possible—for birthing, working, and beyond.Timestamps 00:00 – Who is Jamie Lee? Introducing executive coaching, “risky conversations,” and guest Maria Lernerman03:17 – Maria's “risky conversation”: bringing hypnobirthing and hypnosis into a traditional investment career09:24 – What is hypnobirthing? The Mongan Method, full-spectrum birth prep, and why partners matter14:12 – How can birth be more comfortable with little or no medication? Fear, tension, relaxation, and the body's design18:08 – Maria's own birth stories: from terrified first-time mom to hypnobirthing educator (and the Uber-driver tipping point)23:12 – Self-hypnosis as a meta skill: staying grounded in chaotic hospitals, high-stakes meetings, and everyday conflict26:22 – Client success stories: natural births, empowered C-sections, partners stepping up, and redefining what a “good birth” looks like31:55 – Advice for women and couples (including IVF and “high risk”): choice, providers, and protecting your sense of agencyYou can learn more about Maria's work at DiscoverYourPowerBirth.com and about the Mongan Method at hypnobirthing.com.Learn more about bespoke executive coaching with Jamie Lee at JamieLeeCoach.com and book a free hour-long consultation with Jamie here. Text me your thoughts on this episode!Enjoy the show? Don't miss an episode, listen and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify.  Leave me a review in Apple Podcasts. Connect with meBook a free hour-long consultation with me. You'll leave with your custom blueprint to confidence, and we'll ensure it's a slam-dunk fit for you before you commit to working with me 1:1. Connect with me on LinkedIn Email me at jamie@jamieleecoach.com 

In this candid life update, Leah and Morgan share the highs, lows, and unexpected twists they've been navigating behind the scenes. Leah opens up about the emotional weight of supporting fertility patients through both pregnancies and losses, her husband's exciting startup milestone, and how the "Chinese bamboo tree" analogy is reshaping her perspective on purpose, patience, and growth. Morgan shares a challenging pregnancy season filled with health scares, a surprising viral infection, a powerful experience supporting a home birth, and a frightening family medical emergency involving her father. Together, they explore motherhood, identity, business, resilience, and what it means to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming.00:00 Trailer: High Highs, Low Lows & Life Updates00:43 Why We Love Life Update Episodes05:28 The Emotional Weight of Fertility Care09:58 Looking Beyond Root Causes: The Bigger Infertility Crisis12:13 Startup Wins & A New Season of Life14:13 The Chinese Bamboo Tree Lesson on Patience18:43 Growing a Podcast Without Clickbait20:43 Work, Motherhood & Identity Shifts24:43 Toddler Sleep, Nursing & Parenting Updates26:58 The Dream Life Formula & Becoming Your Future Self30:43 Morgan's Pregnancy Challenges Begin31:43 Bee Stings, Swelling & Pregnancy Surprises36:43 A Painful HSV Infection & Health Scare41:13 The Doctor Who Showed Up When It Mattered Most44:28 Missing the Dance Recital for a Birth47:28 Supporting a Long Labor & Hospital Transfer53:13 Baby Archer Arrives54:33 A Family Emergency: Dad's ICU Stay01:01:13 Navigating Stress, Caregiving & Pregnancy01:05:43 Preparing for Baby #3 & Summer Plans01:09:28 Therapy, Support Systems & Looking Ahead01:10:43 Final Thoughts & OutroHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

In this wide-ranging and utterly fascinating episode, host Augustine sits down with Vandana — doctor, public health expert, MBA, entrepreneur, beekeeper, candle maker, and one of the most multi-dimensional humans to ever grace this podcast. Born and raised in Bangalore, India, now based on Long Island, New York, Vandana has spent over two decades working across 13 countries in disaster zones, war zones, and underserved communities — always following the woman, always asking: what does she actually need to thrive?This conversation moves from the villages of rural India to the boardrooms of global philanthropy, from beehives in Brooklyn to the operating table, and from the burnout of nonprofit founderitis to the liberating power of learning to ask. There is so much in this episode for midwives, birth workers, nonprofit founders, and anyone who has ever built something from scratch and wondered why it won't grow.Resources & Links:

Links: The Birth Hour: Real Birth Stories to Inform, Inspire, and Empower (book available for preorder now!) Get your breast pump, lactation support, and maternity compression garments for free at aeroflowbreastpumps.com/birthhour and use promo code BIRTHHOUR15 at for 15% off supplies and accessories. Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course - use code 100OFF for $100 off Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Support The Birth Hour via Patreon! 

After more than a decade working inside the education system, Ally shares the deeply personal journey that led her to walk away from not only her career, but her prior beliefs, identity and the structure she had always known.Ally touches on regulation techniques for children in school and for parents homeschooling, partial enrolments and half days, the realities of 'learning support' dynamics and funding within the system and the moment she spoke aloud the decision that her own daughter was not going to enter the school system - when she was still in an active teaching role.What unfolds throughout this conversation is the realisation that Ally's own decision to leave the schooling system mirrors the exact threshold many parents are now finding themselves at with their children.The same fears arising around choosing differently. "What if I leave the safety of what everyone else is doing? What if I trust my own knowing over the system?"This conversation explore how questioning mainstream education often becomes a much bigger initiation into sovereignty, nervous system healing, self trust and redefining what security truly means for a family.Ally shares what she witnessed firsthand inside schools, from overwhelmed teachers trying to support children within rigid structures, to the increasing rise of labels, diagnoses, dysregulation and children struggling to thrive in environments they were never designed for.This episode opens a conversation around alternatives for children: homeschooling, traditional schooling, hybrid learning, conscious parenting, creating family rhythms and allowing children to remain connected to themselves while still honouring each family's unique path. "If I can, as a teacher myself, as an assistant principal, de-school myself, decondition myself enough to know that I don't need to follow the rules and what's possible, you can do it too." - AllyYou can find Ally at @allyyblanch_ And find Anita at @themidwitch

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off monthly plans at thisisneeded.com. Needed Experts Podcast: Apple Podcasts and Spotify The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon! 

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have Kirsty.Kirsty is a mama of two from the Scottish Highlands and it's her second time on the natural birth podcast.Her first time ended up being the episode called “Cholestasis and Rh negative First Time Mama Kirsty's Home Birth in Rural Scotland”.In that episode she discussed how she naturally medicated her cholestasis diagnosis and in today's episode she will share what she did to prevent getting it again during her second pregnancy, as well as the story of the birth of her second baby which was a rapid 2hr 20min labour and birth.It resulted in Kirsty birthing her baby alone with just her husband at home in front of the fire because the midwives didn't make it on time. Although it was an unplanned free birth it was a wonderful experience and the perfect way to welcome their little one into the family. Curious about Kirsty? Find her on instagram as @kirsty.may3 And here is a sweet little reminder about the 50% discount on the bundle for Mother's Day Month. The Bundle includes The Natural Birth Course, The Nourishing Postpartum Course & 1yr membership in the Maiden Mother & Maga Village.Use the coupon code: MOTHERSDAY26 at the checkout for 50% of the already reduced Bundle. That's 50% with the Coupon Code: MOTHERSDAY26 Find the link to the bundle in the shownotes or visit sacredbirthinternational.com/the-bundle

Links: Eightsleep.com/BIRTHHOUR use code BIRTHHOUR to save $500 Airdoctorpro.com code BIRTHHOUR for up to $300 off! Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course - use code 100OFF for $100 off. Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course)  Support The Birth Hour via Patreon! You can now gift memberships to Patreon here! 

Birth doesn't always go the way you planned, but preparation never goes to waste.In this encouraging birth story, My Essential Birth Mama Mary Richardson shares her journey from planning a home birth to an unexpected hospital transfer, a Pitocin induction she never saw coming, and over 24 hours of unmedicated labor that pushed her further than she ever thought she could go. From the daily prep she did throughout pregnancy, to the moment everything shifted at 41 weeks and three days, to delivering a 9lb 12oz baby boy, I just know you are going to love Mary and everything she shares in this episode. ❤️ What I love most about Mary's story is not just what happened, it's how she handled it. She is honest about the hard parts, gracious about the things she would do differently, and so genuinely encouraging to every mama who is doing all the things and wondering if it will matter when birth surprises her. It absolutely does. This episode is proof of that. I promise you do not want to miss this one, in fact, save it and come back to it as you get closer to your birth!Here are some highlights from the episode:How Mary navigated... nausea, sciatica, white coat syndrome, and a GBS positive result throughout her pregnancyThe provider switch she made at 20 weeks and why finding the right support changed everything for herThe daily habits and preparation that carried her through 24+ hours of unmedicated laborWhat happened at her 41 week ultrasound and how she and her husband navigated the decision to transferWhat unmedicated labor through a Pitocin induction actually felt like — and the coping strategies that helped mostThe moment during transition in the bathtub that she says was one of her favoritesHer third degree tear recovery and the holistic healing tips that actually made a differenceHer honest breastfeeding journey from those first hours to four months inHer most powerful advice for both moms and dads going into birth Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

296: I'm joined by Emily Stanwyck to dive into the conversations around pregnancy, birth, and the medical system that many women aren't fully informed about. We talk through topics like Rh factor and RhoGAM, common interventions and testing, and how to approach pregnancy decisions with more clarity and confidence. This episode is all about understanding your options, asking better questions, and feeling more empowered in your care, whether you're currently pregnant or planning for the future. Topics Discussed: → Rh Negative Pregnancy & RhoGAM → Informed Consent in Pregnancy Care → Hospital Birth vs Home Birth → Pregnancy After 35 → Routine Testing & Interventions → Vitamin K & Newborn Care → Fear-Based vs Individualized Care Sponsored By: → Cowboy Colostrum | Get 25% Off Cowboy Colostrum with code REALFOODOLOGY at ⁠https://cowboycolostrum.com/realfoodology⁠ → Our Place |  Our Place is having their biggest sale of the season right now! Save up to 40% on your sitewide now through April 12th. Head to ⁠https://fromourplace.com/REALFOODOLOGY⁠ to see why more than a million people have made the switch to Our Place kitchenware. And with their 100-day risk-free trial and free returns, you can shop with total confidence. Shop Our Place's best sale of the season right now → Manukora | Head to ⁠https://manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY⁠ to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook! → Timeline | Timeline's clinically proven formula is now available at a new, lower price. Mitopure now starts at $79, when you go to ⁠https://timeline.com/REALFOODOLOGY⁠ → Shopify | It's time to turn those “What Ifs” into “cha ching” with Shopify today. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at ⁠https://shopify.com/realfoodology⁠ Timestamps:  → 00:00 - Introduction → 01:15 - RhoGAM + Rh Negative Blood Types → 06:00 - Testing, Pregnancy Decisions + Options → 09:30 - When You Do / Don't Need the Shot → 16:30 - Birth Philosophy + Medical System → 25:30 - Hospital vs Home Birth → 33:00 - Fear in Pregnancy + Care Approaches → 41:30 - Preeclampsia, Nutrition + Baby Aspirin → 48:30 - Genetic Testing + Amniocentesis → 53:24 - Vitamin K, Circumcision, GBS + Epidurals   Show Links: → ⁠realfoodology.com⁠ Check Out Emily: → ⁠Instagram - emilystanwyck⁠ Check Out Courtney:  → ⁠LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE⁠ →  ⁠Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!⁠ →  ⁠@realfoodology⁠ → ⁠⁠PEOPLE VS THE POISON - Sign up now!⁠⁠⁠⁠ →  ⁠www.realfoodology.com⁠ →  ⁠My Immune Supplement by 2x4⁠ →  ⁠Air Dr Air Purifier⁠ →  ⁠AquaTru Water Filter⁠ →  ⁠EWG Tap Water Database⁠  Produced By: Drake Peterson

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off monthly plans at thisisneeded.com. Needed Experts Podcast: Apple Podcasts and Spotify The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon!