Podcast appearances and mentions of penny simkin

Send us a textThe birth plan has become a staple of pregnancy preparation, but most expectant parents are approaching it all wrong. What began as a revolutionary tool for restoring autonomy during the natural birth movement of the 1960s has too often devolved into a rigid checklist that sets birthing people up for disappointment and even trauma.I reframe how we think about birth plans, explaining that they were never meant to be a list of demands but rather a foundation for communication, informed choice, and emotional preparation. Drawing on wisdom from pioneers like Sheila Kitzinger and Penny Simkin, I reveal why the most powerful birth plans focus not on controlling external events but on cultivating internal strength.You'll discover the five most common birth plan mistakes and practical strategies for avoiding them—from treating the plan like an inflexible checklist to using it as a shield against your deepest fears. Through guided visualization exercises and nervous system training techniques, I introduce the concept of a "birth vision" that keeps you anchored in your power even when birth takes unexpected turns.Perhaps most powerfully, I draw parallels between birth and athletic performance, explaining why elite preparation involves not just visualizing your ideal scenario but training for every possible challenge. Just as no professional athlete enters competition without a coach, I share  why dedicated prenatal coaching helps birthing people show up with clarity, confidence, and the ability to stay grounded under pressure.Whether you're preparing for your first birth or looking to heal from a previous experience that left you feeling powerless, this episode offers a revolutionary approach to birth preparation that honors both the unpredictability of birth and your capacity to lead your experience with strength and grace. Ready to transform how you think about birth planning? Book a free birth vision call at kellyhof.com and start preparing not just for birth, but for one of life's most profound transformations. Coaching offerKelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth CoachBasically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!Support the showConnect with Kelly Hof!Grab The Book of HormonesMedical Disclaimer:This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman's medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Today, Stephanie King, founder of My Essential Birth, shares her knowledge on natural childbirth and the importance of education and preparation. She emphasizes the need for knowledge and understanding of the birthing process, as well as hands-on techniques to align the body and prepare for contractions. Stephanie also discusses the significance of having a supportive birth provider and the role of visualization in creating a positive birth experience. All my expectant mamas out there you are not going to want to miss this one!   Tune in as she tells us all about:

Welcome back to The Birth Geeks podcast! In today's episode, hosts Hillary Melchiors and  Robin Elise Weiss catch up after a long break and dive into a range of exciting updates and developments in the birth and doula community. They talk about Hillary's upcoming trip to France for the European Doula Network conference and reflect on their busy year, including Hillary's rebrand of her doula agency. From discussing the challenges of balancing doula work with personal life to sharing insights from recent conferences and legislative advocacy efforts, this episode is packed with valuable information and heartfelt moments. Stay tuned as they also hint at upcoming topics and interviews that will enrich the birth and doula community. Let's get started! Links mentioned in this show: Cost of Living Doula Fee Calculator EPDUS-US (Mental Health Screening Tool) Overview Hosts Hillary and Robin reconnect after a long break. They discuss a road trip from Louisville to Minneapolis. Hillary prepares for the European Doula Network in France. They reflect on their busy lives and roles in DONA International. Robin organized the Doulas Doing Business Summit for business management support. They share challenges doulas face in balancing passion and business. Hillary is involved in academic activities related to doulas. Both discuss personal challenges, including Hillary's house fire. They reflect on parenting and the transition to becoming empty nesters. A recent vacation sparked a desire for more travel and reading. The speaker advocates for doulas and perinatal mental health screening. They highlight legislative progress for doulas and maternal care improvement. The agency's rebranding and certification efforts are mentioned. Emphasis on community outreach and agency operations amid challenges. Upcoming plans include discussions on rebranding and financial sustainability. Excitement about interviews and research on perinatal mental health. The speaker shares a personal experience attending a memorial for Penny Simkin. Light-hearted discussion on fame preferences and humorous birth community anecdotes.

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village! Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to our first international guest, Brittany, all the way from Southern California.  In today's episode, Brittany shares her empowering journey through pregnancy and her beautiful hospital birth story. After feeling pressured by her OBGYN about her rapid weight gain that didn't reflect her overall health, she made the brave decision to switch care providers and hire a private midwife and a doula. Brittany's experience highlights the importance of finding supportive care that truly understands and respects your body and your journey. Brittany will also take us through a touching moment in her postpartum journey—an intuitive ceremony in her first shower after giving birth, where she expressed gratitude to her incredible body for carrying her baby, giving birth and healing postpartum. Brittany also opens up about the challenges she faced in the postpartum period, and how she sought help through a postpartum doula, counselling, and lactation support. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the strength we all possess, the importance of community, and the journey of motherhood. So, let's dive into Brittany's inspiring story! Resources Books: 1. The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin  2. Hypnobirthing: The Breakthrough to Safer, Easier, More Comfortable Childbirth by Marie Mongan 3. Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn by Penny Simkin    Courses:  1.        https://www.hypnobirthing-positive-birth.com/birthbox   Don't forget that if you like the podcast, please subscribe! If you would like to share your pregnancy, birth and postpartum story, or if you have education in the space to share, please send me a direct message on Instagram or email the.mamavillage@outlook.com For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103  Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Figuring out a newborn's needs can be tricky, and sometimes a baby will cry no matter what you do. Wouldn't it be great to have a tool to help you automatically soothe your child? One that also reduces your stress? Join Adriana in this In Memoriam episode, as she revisits her conversation with the renowned Penny Simkin to discuss the profound impact of singing to your baby in utero. Discover this invaluable life-long bonding tool that's fully portable and affordable!Sponsor offers - TIME SENSITIVE! NEEDED - Get 20% off at ThisIsNeeded.com with code BIRTHFULHONEYLOVE - Get 20% off at HoneyLove.com/Birthful FAMILYALBUM APP - Check out FamilyAlbum at family-album.comAQUATRU - Get 20% off at AquaTru.com with code BIRTHFULARTIFACT UPRISING - Get up to 20% off at ArtifactUprising.com with code BIRTHFUL through December 31.Get the most out of this episode by checking out the resources, transcript, and links on its show notes page.  If you liked this episode, listen to our interview on the Effects of Stress During Pregnancy and our episode on Healing Your Birth Story and Birth Trauma. You can learn more about Penny at PennySimkin.com. You can connect with Birthful @BirthfulPodcast on Instagram or email us at podcast@Birthful.com. If you enjoy what you hear, download Birthful's Postpartum Plan FREE when you sign up for our weekly newsletter! You can also sign up for Adriana's Own Your Birth online BIRTH preparation classes and her Thrive with Your Newborn online POSTPARTUM preparation course at BirthfulCourses.com.Follow us on Goodpods, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts.Our Sponsors:* Check out FamilyAlbum: family-album.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/birthful/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Matthew Bannister onThe Irish rugby star and businessman Sir Tony O'Reilly. He made billions but ended up bankrupt.The hardline President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi.Penny Simkin, who championed the role of birth doulas to help mothers during and after labour.Professor Alasdair Geddes, the infectious diseases expert who diagnosed the world's last ever case of smallpox – in Birmingham.Producer: Ed PrendevilleArchive used: Penny Simkin, YouTube upload, PSfromPenny, 27/10/2009; Penny Simkin, YouTube upload, PSfromPenny, 22/03/2011; Today Programme, Radio 4, BBC, 20/05/2024; Newshour, BBC World Service, 20/05/2024; News report by Philip Hayton, Sound Archive, BBC Radio 4, 11/02/1979; Ebrahim Raisi interviewed by Lesley Stahl, CBS Interactive Inc., YouTube upload, 60 Minutes, 19/05/2024; BBC profile on Tony O'Reilly, 24/01/1975; Conversation Piece, Radio 4, 02/12/1985; People in profile, Radio Ulster, 06/09/1980; The Last Case of Smallpox in the UK, BBC News, 31/08/2016

The Doula Dispensary is a monthly podcast, prescribing a monthly dose of all things doula. Siobhan and Kicki bring you a show which is a bit like sitting down with your mates for a cup of tea... So put the kettle on, sit down and enjoy listening to familiar issues as a working doula, woman, and mother. This month's doula dilemma discusses a situation where a doula is with a client whose birth plan is not being respected.  There's a question from a listener about the easiest way to maintain a social media account as a doula. The Doula Dose pays tribute to the Mother of the doula movement, Penny Simkin. There is, of course, also a lot of general chit-chat about life.  You can follow Siobhan and Kicki on social media -@siobhan_thebirthdoula@kickihansard@birthblissacademy

In this episode, Justine and Sarah honor Penny Simkin, physiotherapist, doula, co-founder of DONA and PATTCH, and author of numerous books including When Survivors Give Birth. We talk about her impact of our work and the legacy she has created in the birth world. On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals. Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic. Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience. Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence. Learn more about our course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals

Host Debra Pascali-Bonaro examines the overuse of epidurals and explores its impact on people's chances to experience a pleasurable orgasmic birth. She encourages listeners to be aware of their options when it comes to epidurals - understanding both the benefits and risks associated with using one. This conversation provides tips on oxytocin enhancers and other techniques to manage pain during childbirth. Debra also discusses how hospitals often use language that can create fear or anxiety around birth, which can lead to unnecessary medical interventions. Tune in to this episode to learn more about how you can have an empowered and pleasurable birthing experience!   In this episode: • The importance to know all options, benefits, risks, alternatives and intuition before making an informed decision about epidural • Exploring Pain vs Suffering in the Hospital • Understanding how comfort measures can provide calm and comfort in labor • How to create a code word for when an epidural is offered • Penny Simkin's Pain Medication Preference Scale helps to understand preferences • Evidence-basedbirth.com provides resources on pain management during labor and birth   Key Takeaways: • Epidurals can be a valuable tool, but overuse is putting people at risk and decreasing their chance of having a pleasurable orgasmic birth • Epidurals typically slow labor and create a hormonal gap • Pain is not a descriptor for many people, but in hospitals it is • The language and environment of hospitals can create pain • Pain and suffering are different; one can exist without the other   Tweetable Quotes: "No one should suffer in childbirth. But by having someone there and now personalizing that we need to justify the budget it's now a personal thing." - Debra Pascali-Bonaro "Pain can be a normal part of labor. It's giving you the messages. When you listen to your body and listen to your baby, you'll be able to feel if you get in one position that feels better that's often leaning forward and moving." - Debra Pascali-Bonaro   Connect with Debra! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orgasmicbirth/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/OrgasmicBirth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/OrgasmicBirth1 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@orgasmicbirth   Visit https://www.orgasmicbirth.com/ for more information on how to Positively Prepare for birth and parenting   Check out Orgasmic Birth: The Best-Kept Secret, the film creating buzz around the world: https://www.orgasmicbirth.com/the-film/     Orgasmic Birth Podcast: Pleasure in pregnancy, birth, and parenting. I believe pleasure is our birthright - from our sexuality, birth, parenting, and beyond, we can find pleasure when we create space for joy and intimacy in our lives. Join me to have deep conversations about breaking the taboos of Sexuality + Motherhood/Parenthood.  Listen to leading experts in sexuality, healing, and childbirth as well as stories from new parents, doulas, doctors, midwives, and nurses. We will discuss how to positively prepare for childbirth and parenting by expanding love and intimacy in your life.    

Juanita's story begins with the heart wrenching experience of becoming pregnant at 14 after a sexual assault, and giving that baby up for adoption. Later in life, the birth of her second child was a re-traumatizing experience for her, as it commonly can be for survivors. The third time, Juanita used mindfulness tools, meditation, a trauma-informed team to support her, and super strong boundaries to have exactly the birth she desired, even in the midst of a time of national chaos. She says that you (yes, you!) CAN you have the birth you desire. At the 1:08 minute mark Juanita leads us in a grounding meditation that she wrote just for listeners of this podcast! We mention a few there resources during the conversation that both of us strongly recommend, especially if you are survivor of sexual assault who is planning for birth: 1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk 2. When Survivors Give Birth by Penny Simkin and Phyllis Klaus Be sure to go to our instagram page this week to see the grounding and centering resource that Juanita created herself and generously shared with us all. We are @healingbirth You can find Juanita @thesnappiehippie and @pauseanywhere Go too www.pauseanwhere.com to see all of Juanita's mindfulness offerings! If you love the podcast, please consider supporting the show! www.patreon.com/healingbirth I love to hear from you! Send me a note at www.healingbirth.net

Get the Heart of Freedom III Replay here: https://hof3replay.thefuturegen.com/hof3recording Join the Future Generations Community here: https://community.thefuturegen.com   Remember to Rate, Review and Subscribe on iTunes and Follow us on Spotify Follow us on Instagram: @futuregenpodcast   San Diego area residents, take advantage of our special New Patient offer exclusively for podcast listeners here. We can't wait to experience miracles with you!   This radical conversation with Dr. Thomas Seager spans a wide range of topics including self-realization, Covid, being deplatformed, doula Penny Simkin, and of course - cold exposure. Drs. Stan and Seager talk about the benefits of purposely triggering one's fight or flight response in order to heal and the issues that come with living a life of comfort in today's world. You are sure to get more and more out of this episode each time you listen!   Thomas P. Seager, PhD is an Associate Professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering & the Built Environment at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ.  His teaching and research is focused on a new approach to personal development called Self-Actual Engineering, which is about redesigning ourselves, our relationships, and our lives to realize more of our fullest potential.  He has authored over 150 scientific articles, but you can read more about his work on human resilience, personal psychology, and entrepreneurship at his personal blog Self-Actual Engineering.    Stay Connected with Dr. Thomas Seager: Substack: https://seagertp.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seagertp/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/seagertp/    __________________________________________________________   Stay Connected with the Future Generations Podcast:  Instagram: @futuregenpodcast, @thefuturegensd  and @drstantonhom_  Facebook: Future Generations Podcast and Future Generations | Clinic of Chiropractic  Website: Future Generations | Clinic of Chiropractic  Remember to Rate, Review and Subscribe on iTunes and Follow us on Spotify!

Dad's/partner's need more recognition in the birth world! We don't often hear about how birth affects dad/partner, so that is the goal for this episode. Dr. Danny Leach joins us to share about his perspective of his wife's births. He tells his both stories & how he felt each time. GREAT PRODUCTS FOR DADS/PARTNERS TO HELP SUPPORT MOM, buy on Amazon:*"The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin (my #1 book recommendation for partners)*Handheld Massaging Tool*Battery Powered Candles for ambiance *Microwavable Heat Pack (great for lower back & shoulders)*"The Fourth Trimester" by Kimberly Johnson (my #2 book recommendation for partners)Buy Me a Coffee- DONATION PAGEResources Mentioned:Learn more about Spinning Babies®Find a local doula on Doula MatchFind a local chiropractor trained in pregnancyNOW IT'S YOUR TURN!The NaturalBirth Site Read *natural birth stories*- and submit your ownSign up for the NaturalBirth Education course to best prepare your body & mind for natural birthShare with anyone interested in natural birthShare my podcast with anyone you know who is interested in natural birth!"Like" my Facebook and Instagram pagesSubscribe to my YouTube Channel 

Jasmine McGee is a Bay Area native who has deep seeded passions for education, social justice and women's reproductive health and rights. She is counselor by trade and practice for the past 10 years. She is a doula and reproductive health advocate. Jasmine is committed to creating spaces, dialogues, and resources that promote womb care, self-love, and holistic health for all women. There are two pillar brands that she pours her passions into Proud Legacy and Coco Coalition. Proud LegacyProud Legacy is focused on offering spaces, products, and resources that support women's reproductive health, prenatal, and postpartum holistic care. This is a collection of resources, recommendations, and supportive tools to promote healthy womb, prenatal and postnatal experiences. Although each woman is unique the resources found on this site may offer some comfort and possible resolution.Coco Coalition Coco Coalition, lovingly called Coco, is a social enterprise that is dedicated to curating holistic, safe and empowering opportunities for women of the African Diaspora to connect, grow and thrive.Email: info@cococoalition.orgLocation: Oakland, CAThe Birth Partner by Penny SimkinSince the original publication of The Birth Partner, new mothers' mates, friends, and relatives and doulas (professional birth assistants) have relied on Penny Simkin's guidance in caring for the new mother from the last few weeks of pregnancy through the early postpartum period. Fully revised in its fourth edition, The Birth Partner remains the definitive guide for preparing to help a woman through childbirth and the essential manual to have at hand during the event. This completely updated edition includes thorough information on: Preparing for labor and knowing when it has begun; Normal labor and how to help the woman every step of the way; Epidurals and other medications for labor; Non-drug techniques for easing labor pain; Cesarean birth and complications that may require it; Breastfeeding and newborn care; And much more. For the partner who wishes to be truly helpful in the birthing room, this book is indispensable.  (Description from Barnes&Noble)   

Today's home birth story features Jamie Lazzeri, an Ayurvedic Wellness Practitioner, DONA Trained Birth Doula and Holistic Pregnancy Coach.  Jamie talks about her obsession with birth before becoming a mother, her doula work and how that all influenced the kind of birth she wanted to have for her and her baby.  She also shares a number of great resources that helped her in her journey - including the importance of learning from and sharing birth stories and the benefits of prenatal yoga.  Jamie's birth was peaceful and empowering overall. Coming out of the birth, she realized a number of triggers that brought on PPD and activated hidden PTSD, related to past sexual trauma. She realizes that her birth opened up the space to look at the traumas and begin to heal. This is an incredibly courageous and important conversation to have, as many experience this but do not talk about it.  From Jamie: “I wish I had heard someone talk about this so I could have gotten the help I needed before going through that for so long and I imagine if I'm able to be on your podcast, there will be birthing people that could benefit from this information and not feel alone.”  Things we talk about in this episode: Importance of birth stories Why home birth Prenatal yoga Resources for birth and postpartum planning PPD and PTSD EMDR therapy Links: Resources that Jamie listed: Hypnobirthing Evidence Based Birth  Spinning Babies  The Birthful Podcast The Informed Pregnancy Podcast Birth Kweens Podcast "The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskin "When Survivors Give Birth" by Penny Simkin and Phyllis Klaus "The Mama Natural Week-By-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth" by Genevieve Howland "Birthing From Within" by Pan England and Rob Horowitz "Breastfeeding Made Simple" by Nancy Mohrbacher and Kathleen Kendall-Tackett "The First Forty Days - The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother" by Heng Ou, Amely Greeven and Marisa Belger "This Isn't What I Expected - Overcoming Postpartum Depression" by Karen Kleiman and Valerie Davis Raskin Jamie's Instagram Doing It At Home book on Amazon DIAH website DIAH Instagram DIAH YouTube DIAH Resources DIAH Merch Give Back to DIAH

EP99. Contractions come on quick. The couple rushes to the hospital. They are admitted right away. A few uncomfortable contraction later and she is pushing. After 3-5 screams, the baby pops out and the doctor puts them on the mother's chest. She starts sobbing. Cut to the scene where they are happily walking out of the hospital with their new baby. If only this was reality. The truth is, the overwhelming majority of birth stories do not play out like this. In this episode, Renee discusses the differences between what we see on TV vs. reality. Book recommendation: The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin. This episode is sponsored by Better Help. Visit www.betterhelp.com/momroom to get 10% off your first month. THE MOM ROOM: Instagram: @themomroompodcast | @the.mom.room www.themomroompodcast.com TikTok: @the.mom.room Facebook Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Piyar and Kayte, inspired by a listener, discuss trauma in childbirth. We review examples of trauma, consequences of trauma and what we can do better. References: All Birth Trauma is Valid: Here's How to Have it Recognized and Get the Support You Need2020 English C. Shortsleeve Parents Beck CT. Middle Range Theory of Traumatic Childbirth: The Ever-Widening Ripple Effect. Glob Qual Nurs Res. 2015 Mar 18;2:2333393615575313. doi: 10.1177/2333393615575313. PMID: 28462301; PMCID: PMC5342633. Beck, C. T., Watson, S., & Gable, R. K. (2018). Traumatic Childbirth and Its Aftermath: Is There Anything Positive?. The Journal of perinatal education, 27(3), 175–184. https://doi.org/10.1891/1058-1243.27.3.175 Beck CT, Casavant S. Synthesis of Mixed Research on Posttraumatic Stress Related to Traumatic Birth. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2019 Jul;48(4):385-397. doi: 10.1016/j.jogn.2019.02.004. Epub 2019 Apr 5. PMID: 30958993.Birth Trauma: Definition and Statistics by Penny Simkin, PT, PATTCh Founder http://pattch.org/resource-guide/traumatic-births-and-ptsd-definition-and-statistics/ 

Today I'm sharing my top 3 books to read while pregnant I do not recommend What to Expect When You're Expecting or other mainstream resources on pregnancy and reproductive health Mainstream maternity education or reproductive health education tends to err on side of very medical, very fear-based and often fairly inaccurate information I do suggest reading very specific things by some brilliant leaders in the space Also opening your mind up to the experience of other people who have been pregnant, who have tried to get pregnant and who have given birth in many ways. https://www.amazon.ca/Killing-Black-Body-Reproduction-Meaning/dp/0679758690/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=killing+the+black+body&qid=1617225010&sr=8-1 (#1 Start with Killing the Black Body by Dorothy E. Roberts) This podcast is called an ethical exploration of parenthood so we need to talk about racism right at the beginning Killing the Black Body is something that will help you understand the immense privilege you have as a white person, and the far reaching effects of racism in the world of reproductive health and pregnancy https://www.amazon.ca/Ina-Mays-Guide-Childbirth-Material/dp/0553381156/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2FMP6FDXQLVHA&dchild=1&keywords=ina+may+gaskin+a+guide+to+childbirth&qid=1617224941&sprefix=ina+may+gas%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-1 (#2 Ina May Gaskin's Guide to Childbirth) A cult classic if you will, amongst birth workers and natural birth movement followers The stories that are shared in this book are inspirational and full of hope We do not have to accept the status quo cascade of interventions leading to a surgical birth This is showing us that there is another path; that there are more options available The thing that I find disappointing about this book is that it's very hard to replicate the environment that the book promotes There are some really practical, tactical, strategic things that you will have to do in preparation to have an experience similar to that.  If we're going to give birth in a hospital, we are already stepping outside of our environment and into someone else's I come in at the middle ground, I want you to have a great birth experience in the hospital or at home https://www.amazon.ca/Birth-Partner-5th-Childbirth-Companions/dp/1558329102/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2L77XX872U15B&dchild=1&keywords=the+birth+partner&qid=1617224882&sprefix=the+birth+partner%2Caps%2C201&sr=8-1 (#3 Birth Partner by Penny Simkin) The best resource for birthing partners: the person who will be the primary support for the person giving birth It's an encyclopedia of all the things you need to know  There is a special focus on pain, coping with pain, and the unique experience of pregnancy and birth among survivors of traumatic abuse and sexual assault This book will help YOU understand how to deal with YOUR pain Pain and suffering looks different for everyone It's not a moral issue, something we have to endure or not endure Pain is an intimate issue, which is why I don't spend very much time speaking about pain management in general - however, I am very knowledgeable about pain and it's management so don't be afraid to ask me about it These are my favourite books! Let me know what your favourite are by sending me an email at emily@thegoodbirthco.com Final note: when you are reading about pregnancy and birth, don't feel like you have to finish the book. Just pick and choose what you need! Pain Scale mentioned: Clarifying Your Feelings About Pain and Medications in Childbirth by Penny Simkin https://birthtools.org/birthtools/files/BirthToolFiles/FILENAME/000000000006/MOC-CnC-PainMgmtPreferenceScale-Simpkin.pdf How to prepare for the pregnancy of your dreams is a masterclass revealing the 4 easy steps to take you from stressed about what to expect to excited for what's about to happen. Learn the simple steps to creating the intentional + empowered pregnancy you've always dreamed of so...

Certified clinical Somatic Practitioner, IAYT certified functional movement Yoga Therapist. Other trainings: trauma informed spaces, RMTi, Brain Gym, Anatomy Trains movement immersion, improvisational movement. Pregnancy, Birth and Postpartum, prenatal yoga certification, Birth and Postpartum doula with Michelle L'Esperence, Healing Touch for Babies with Rita Kluny, When Survivors Give Birth with Penny Simkin, currently Physiological Baby Care with Rachelle Garcia Seliga.    www.emergewithamylepage.com @emergechildbirth      @lepageamy  www.emergeyoga.net https://www.instagram.com/lepageamy  

Are you planning to have an unmedicated birth? Even if your planning to have all the drugs it would be a good idea to plan how you will cope with contractions until you can get an epidural or in case it fails. In this episode I talk about The 3 R's coined by Penny Simkin. The 3 R's are tools you can add to your labor tool box!! ENJOY!! I would love a rate and a review so we can reach more people and always if you have questions you can reach me at transformedmaternityandbirth@gmail.com and @tristabdoula on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/tristabdoula/?hl=en LINKS mentioned in this show Penny Simkin Video: https://www.pennysimkin.com/three-rs/ The Birth Partner Book: https://amzn.to/2pW1MIZ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/transformedmaternitybirth/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/transformedmaternitybirth/support

Hello gang, we missed you! But we are back to check in. Ross is very pregnant. On this episode, for the entire 54 minutes, we discuss various perineal massage techniques that Patrick is reading about in the Penny Simkin classic, The Birth Partner. Follow us on instagram for video demonstrations!! @who.cares.podcast

Coming at you from the depths of quarantine when we’ve never needed a hug more. Full disclosure, this shit is hard and self-isolation is not always easy-going fun, lounging in your sweats. We are here for all of the parents and parents-to-be (Liz is still pregnant!) who are living Groundhog’s Day for 5 weeks now without a break. Frustration has peaked, the nerves are getting shot, and when you cannot leave your house, it is harder to feel like you have had a break (mental or physical) and reset your energy. In this Episode Forgive yourself, keep the humor going, take small steps in the best direction you can see today. Also, addressing your fears in these moments without giving those fears too much of your energy. Share with us your "when quarantine is over" dreams! There's also the task of building a virtual birth support team for mamas to be like Liz. Connect with a doula! Reach out to Jenny on Instagram (@birdie.in.bend) with a DM and get a free consultation and help starting your plan. Book Recommendations: The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin, Guide to Natural Childbirth by Ina May Sending you all the mama love, labor love, parenting love, personal growth and blue skies from our homes to yours. About the BEYOND BIRTH PODCAST Welcome to the Beyond the Birth Podcast. Co-hosted each week by Liz Winters ( Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, certified pre and post-natal coach, and mama) and Jenny Anderson (full spectrum doula, certified yoga instructor, and mama). Our hope is to inspire, educate, and empower women as they navigate pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood with evidence based guidance, informative interviews, and entertaining anecdotes from our perspectives as moms, entrepreneurs, and birth professionals. FOR MORE FROM LIZ & JENNY Hosted by: Liz Winters & Jenny Anderson Find us: Instagram @lizwinterswellness @birdie.in.bend www.lizwinterswellness.com Please Subscribe, Rate, and Review! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/beyondbirth/message

The Doula Dispensary is a weekly podcast, prescribing a weekly dose of all things doula. Siobhan and Kicki bring you a show which is a bit like sitting down with your mates for a cup of tea... So put the kettle on, sit down and enjoy listening to familiar issues as a working doula, woman and mother.This week we feature an interview that Kicki did with Penny Simkin a little while back. Penny talks about the significance of birth, her research, secondary trauma and share some great 'golden nuggets' for doulas.We apologies for the slightly poor sound quality as this interview was conducted via Skype.You can follow Siobhan and Kicki on social media - @siobhan_thebirthdoula @kickihansard 

Trending Topics: Matrescence – with Sarah Suhrstedt, Certified Birth Educator & Doula   Birthing babies. Teaching new parents. Just how scientifically real “mom brain” is and the physiological transition into motherhood. Listen now to the neonatal nerdout with certified birth educator and doula, Sarah Suhrstedt.   Last podcast episode until late fall! #vaginasareslinkies #illbeback   *** Sarah Suhrstedt, B.S., M.A.T., CCCE, SBD, Owner of SMART Birth Services Website: https://sarahsuhrstedt.wixsite.com/smartbirthservices Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMARTbirthservices/ Email: smartbirthservices@gmail.com   NYT article on Matrescence: “The Birth of a Mother” by Alexandra Sacks, MD https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/08/well/family/the-birth-of-a-mother.html Dr. Sacks’ TEDTalk on matrescence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOsX_HnJtHU And one more article from Dr. Sacks here at Medium https://medium.com/@alexandrasacks/matrescence-what-is-it-bea6aa0450d0 Scientific American® article on the gray matter loss that occurs with becoming a mother, by Catherine Caruso: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/pregnancy-causes-lasting-changes-in-a-womans-brain/ … “New mothers showed evidence of neural remodeling up to two years after giving birth”  Sarah’s Recommended Resources for Expectant Parents: Find yourself a doula! https://doulamatch.net/ The Wonder Weeks book https://www.amazon.com/Wonder-Weeks-Stimulate-Development-Predictable/dp/9491882007 and App https://www.thewonderweeks.com/ Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn by Penny Simkin https://www.amazon.com/Pregnancy-Childbirth-Newborn-4th-Complete/dp/143917511X *** Music by: Wesley Price – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleypricemusic/ Editing by: Tara Voshell at Spooked Girl Productions - Instagram @spookedgirlproductions https://www.instagram.com/spookedgirlproductions/ Thank you to the Podcast Sponsor Saplacor’s “AEGIS” medical neonate wrap! Head to www.saplacor.com to get the wrap that helps facilitate skin-to-skin contact for the new moms and babies in your life. Use the discount code HEADTOTOE35 to get 35% off at checkout.

In this Season 1 finale episode, we interview Lou-Ann and Michael. Lou-Ann is a wife, mom of 2, and Graphic Design Consultant from Northern Virginia. Lou-Ann first gave birth to her daughter, Charlotte, in the hospital. After experiencing a "failed epidural," Lou-Ann decided to have a midwife-assisted home birth when she became pregnant with her son Malcolm. Lou-Ann had an empowered, unmedicated home birth that was beautiful beyond belief! Lou-Ann's book recommendations: Natural Childbirth: The Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin

Of course we wanted to start our podcast with an introduction to who the heck we are! In this episode Hillary interviews Robin Elise Weiss, her fellow Birth Geek so that we can get to know her a little better. Robin was the 20th DONA certified doula (trained by Penny Simkin herself) and is amazingly knowledgeable about all things birth and beyond. She also has some great long-game perspective about changing the birth scene locally and nationally too. 

During this sensitive episode, When Survivors Give Birth, with my guest Jenn Fontaine, we dive into the heart of birthing families who have a history of trauma. Jenn is a 'When Survivors Give Birth' educator, a program and perspective developed by Penny Simkin. Together we talk about: - What inspired her to teach 'When Survivors Give Birth' - How it has changed her practice as a busy Doula - What she is noticing as trends within the birthing milieux - What she would like moms to know about this sensitive topic of conversation Although the topic is heavy in nature, the conversation flowed with deep sensitivity and respect for the nature of the topic. ....... Jenn Fontaine, LCCE, FACCE, CD(DONA), BDT(DONA), PCD(DONA) CLC, CHBE, WSGB Instructor Who been supporting the families of Winnipeg as a birth doula (attending several hundred births) and childbirth educator (preparing over a thousand new families) since 2002. Over the years, while supporting families, Jenn has made education a priority. She has achieved DONA International Certification as both a birth & postpartum doula, become a DONA International Birth Doula Trainer, a certified Lamaze Educator and accredited Lamaze Program Director. In 2016 Jenn was given the honour of being inducted as an FACCE (Fellow of the Academy of Certified Childbirth Educators), a fitting recognition of her significant contribution to childbirth education and her effort to promote safe and healthy birth through evidence-based practice. Currently, Jenn has shifted her focus to include a trauma informed approach to her education specifically, she is an instructor of when survivors give birth. Jenn is passionate about passing along her knowledge to families and other doulas, knowing that she is learning just as much from them! She currently lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada with her husband, Marc, her four amazing kids and two drooling bulldogs: George and Scarlett. You can learn more about Jenn and her offerings at www.itsbirth.ca or www.birthrootsdoulas.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/healingafterbirth/message

In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I had the pleasure of speaking with world renowned author and birth authority, Penny Simkin. We spoke of the important topic of pain versus suffering, how women’s satisfaction and memory of their birth has a direct correspondence to how they perceive being treated during their birth, emotional trauma that can ensue from an unsupported birth experience for the mother and partner and how women can best prepare for birth- especially is she has a history of trauma and abuse or just fear surrounding childbirth. Please enjoy this very rich and moving conversation.   For more on Penny visit our full show notes: prenatalyogacenter.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Notes Lara shares some of her thoughts about the book "The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin and how the principles of supporting a partner during a stressful situation can apply to supporting our spouses during the stressful times of their medical journey.  About Lara Lara McElderry is the podcast host and founder of Married to Doctors.  Her and her husband got married before he decided to start down the medical path. For the past sixteen years, they’ve struggled and triumphed through the MCAT, medical school, residency, and fellowship with several twists and turns along the way, including a specialty change. In addition to this, they both knew they wanted children, and bravely brought five boys into the world! Their sons range in age from fourteen to four. Lara has learned through her own experiences that being married to a physician is not an easy journey, but she’s also realized that having the right mindset can help make a successful home happier. Click here to see a timeline of Lara and Josh’s medical journey.

My guest today does not know this, however, I met her many years ago, in a friends home on Long Island, NY.  The Birth Partner was a fairly new book and my childbirth educator friends and I were just learning about what it means to be a labor support person and were learning about this new profession called a Birth Doula.  We were a small group of less than 10 moms and we were suppose to meet for about 2 hours and we wound up talking until the wee hours of the morning.  She really left us with a good impression and I have followed her career ever since.

Guest: Dr. Jay Warren, prenatal and pediatric chiropractor, member of APPPAH (and PPNE candidate) and the ICPA as well as podcast host of The Dadhood Journey. In this episode, Dr. Jay will: Go over 9 ways that Dads-to-be can support their partner during pregnancy so that they feel loved, supported and nurtured (yes, rubbing their feet every night is one of them!). Resources mentioned in the conversation: Penny Simkin's book: The Birth Partner and the link to my podcast interview with her on it the link to the podcast interview I did with Dr. Bruce Lipton about the effect of STRESS on pregnancy and the baby to learn more about Dr. Jay's online program for pregnant women, Connecting with Baby: www.DrJayWarren.com/CwB About Dr. Jay Warren: Dr. Jay Warren has been a prenatal and pediatric chiropractor for 17 years. He is also the Wellness Care Coordinator at the CAP Wellness Center in San Diego, CA where 90% of his practice is pregnant or postpartum women and babies under one year old. Dr. Jay is a proud member of the ICPA and APPPAH (the Association or Pre and Perinatal Psychology and Health) and the host of the podcast “Healthy Births, Happy Babies” found in iTunes, Google Play Music, Stitcher and Spotify as well as "The Dadhood Journey" which may be found in the same places you listen to podcasts. His online program, “Connecting with Baby” guides pregnant women through processes to that have been proven to strengthen maternal bonding creating a healthier pregnancy, gentler birth with less interventions and easier postpartum experience with less infant crying, more sleep and decreased postpartum depression.

During pregnancy and birth, trauma can happen. Dr. Tracey Vogel, an OB anesthesiologist from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania talks to us about the stories of such traumas – especially those related to anesthesia and surgery – that she will be featuring in her upcoming book, and how the medical community can help prevent further birth trauma. > “There is a big gap between how providers think they are doing, and how patients think those providers are doing.” There are many problems with how maternal care providers deal with their clients. First, they aren’t asking the right questions. The focus is almost exclusively on the physical; there is little to no addressing of the emotional or mental wellbeing of the patient. If they do ask the right questions, however, they aren’t considering that not all mothers want to tell you about their feelings, especially if they see you as responsible for their terrible experience. Care providers carry on thinking they are doing a good job. Meanwhile, women are traumatized. > “Women end up with PTSD after what should be a positive event.” Conversations about trauma and wellbeing should happen before anyone ever gets to the operating room. Be clear beforehand about views, wishes, and expectations, and talk about contingency plans. Instead of telling the patient how things will be done, there needs to be a shift to inquiry. In order to do that, the medical establishment needs to learn new skills – how to listen and how to plan collaboratively. Being open to feedback isn’t enough; there is a need for proactively seeking feedback, really listening, and being willing to dig a little deeper. So many people are so unaware that they have trauma, or that childbirth, under care, can be retriggering of that trauma. > “One size fits no one.” All of the protocols that we are adopting aren’t for everyone. Birthing needs to be a tailored experience. It’s hard to go through all of this training and find out we need to start again with new skills, but we do. Advice to other clinicians: - Get some education and learn listening skills. - Beware of the phrase “at least.” - Be careful with your words, even “congratulations.” Let patients put their own words to their experience. Resources mentioned: When Survivors Give Birth, Penny Simkin, https://www.pennysimkin.com/shop/when-survivors-give-birth/ You can reach out to Dr. Vogel at anesobstories@gmail.com WANT TO LEARN MORE? Go to www.birthmonopoly.com WANT TO CONNECT? Email: birthallowedradio@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/birthmonopoly Twitter: www.twitter.com/birthmonopoly Instagram: www.instagram.com/birthmonopoly WANT TO SUPPORT US? Review us on iTunes, SoundCloud, or wherever you listen to the podcast. Businesses and organizations: Underwrite the show! For more information, contact us at birthallowedradio@gmail.com

Did you know Chennai had it's first Doula more than nine years ago ? Deepa shares the story of how she came about supporting families in Chennai, the ups and downs of being a doula, Indian hospitals, family attitudes towards birth and labour and the emotions that go with it. This is extra special because we've done this in Tamil. Did you know Deepa brought the mother of the global Doula movement Penny Simkin to Chennai all those years ago ? This episode massively ups Namba Chennai's cool factor. Kaettu Magizhveer.

My guest today does not know this, however, I met her many years ago, in a friends home on Long Island, NY.  The Birth Partner was a fairly new book and my childbirth educator friends and I were just learning about what it means to be a labor support person and were learning about this new profession called a Birth Doula.  We were a small group of less than 10 moms and we were suppose to meet for about 2 hours and we wound up talking until the wee hours of the morning.  She really left us with a good impression and I have followed her career ever since.   Read more

We have a very special episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies to share with you! I had the pleasure of speaking with world renowned author and birth authority, Penny Simkin. We spoke of the important topic of pain versus suffering, how women’s satisfaction and memory of their birth has a direct correspondence to how they perceive being treated during their birth, emotional trauma that can ensue from an unsupported birth experience for the mother and partner and how women can best prepare for birth- especially is she has a history of trauma and abuse or just fear surrounding childbirth. Please enjoy this very rich and moving conversation. Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: prenatalyogacenter.com If you love what you’ve been listening to, please leave a rating and review! Yoga| Birth|Babies To connect with Deb and the PYC Community:  instagram & facebook: @prenatalyogacenter Youtube: Prenatal Yoga Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest: Penny Simkin, a physical therapist, educator and doula who has specialized in childbirth education and labor support since 1968 and the author of "The Birth Partner: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Doulas, and All Other Labor Companions”. In this episode, we will cover: what 48 years of childbirth education has taught her when it comes to dealing with soon-to-be parents when labor starts why a doula is so important for both the woman and the birth parter (and the baby) what her book, "The Birth Partner" covers and how it can help the birth process go smoother Resources mentioned in the conversation: Penny's website: www.pennysimkin.com DONA International (Doula Services): http://www.dona.org/ The Birth Partner book - (buy it here on Amazon) About Penny Simkin: Penny Simkin, PT, is a physical therapist who has specialized in childbirth education and labor support since 1968. She estimates she has prepared over 14,000 women, couples, and siblings for childbirth. She is author or co-author of books for both parents and professionals, including “The Birth Partner: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Doulas, and All Other Labor Companions”. Penny and her husband, Peter, have four grown children and eight grandchildren from 11 to 28 years of age, two grandchildren-in-laws, and a pug, Lola.

April Haugen earned her Master of Science of Midwifery and Bachelor of Science in Herbal Science from Bastyr University in 2014. Between 2010 and 2014 she attended over 160 births as a student midwife.  And from the year 2000 till now she has also been working as a doula.April is trained in herbal medicine and uses its ability to support the body’s natural healing in her midwifery care.Her master thesis was titled “Using herbal medicine for labor induction and augmentation: An evidence-based practice guideline for Licensed Midwives” Resources: Organic Catnip Tincture: http://amzn.to/1SBwewA Organic Rasberry Leaf Tea: http://amzn.to/1SkaxC6 Supplements for lactation support recommended by Midwife April:Go-Lacta: http://amzn.to/1QuwOrl Motherlove: http://amzn.to/1SBwKKM VIDEOS:Reducing fear of birth in U.S. culture: Ina May Gaskin at TEDxSacramento https://youtu.be/S9LO1Vb54yk How to Calm a Crying Baby in 5 Seconds (This REALLY works!)https://youtu.be/eK4O9N3DjJM After watching that videos, get his book http://amzn.to/1VK5KwJ so you can learn his technique for calming crying babies.  Also, this book is an amazing gift for expecting parents. I was so thankful a good friend of mine gave me a copy when he found out I was pregnant! This is a MUST watch for all future parents and loved ones. We must support parents in delayed cord clamping! Penny Simkin on Delayed Cord Clampinghttps://youtu.be/W3RywNup2CM BOOKS:The Womanly Art of Breast Feeding (Latest edition does not have a purple cover)http://amzn.to/1SBvsiZ Childbirth Without Fear: The Principles and Practice of Natural Childbirth by Ina May Gaskinhttp://amzn.to/1VK5duQ Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding:http://amzn.to/1VK7bvi Websites:It is recommended that you look up local breastfeeding classes from:La Leche Leaguehttp://www.llli.org/ For breast milk donation (to receive or give) Facebook search HM4HB (Human Milk For Human Babies) and Eats On Feets. You will find local Facebook fan pages and Facebook groups to join. Ask them for guidance and recommendations. They are a great supportive community.April’s site: http://sunrisemidwifery.net/ Orgasmic Birth: www.orgasmicbirth.com Midwives’ Association of Washington State: http://www.washingtonmidwives.org/directory.html Penny Simpkin: https://www.pennysimkin.com/ The BIG Push for Midwives:http://pushformidwives.nationbuilder.com/    

Today I got to chat with Julia Aziz. Julia is the mother of three children and author of Lessons of Labor: One Woman's Self-Discovery Through Birth and Motherhood. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a hospice spiritual counselor, Julia leads private classes and silent retreats exploring the bigger questions of self and purpose. Before having children, Julia worked as a counselor for youth, adults, couples, and families. She has facilitated a personal growth group for teens, silent retreats for midwives and doulas, and a mindfulness group for new mothers.  I so enjoyed chatting with her in depth about her birth and postpartum stories! Just a few of the things we chat about: -    How birth is a metaphor for what we need to learn as parents-    Her vivid descriptions of her kids' birth stories-    How a 30 day challenge ted talk inspired her to start her book-    How she learned to let go of control when it comes to parenting, and how labor taught her that. -    Looking for the spaces in between the pain – in labor and in life-    The best advice is to not take any advice too seriously-    Love is expansive, not exclusive Here is some praise from the one and only Penny Simkin about Julia's Book: “From her own unique and varied childbearing experiences, Julia Aziz learned much beyond what labor and birth can be like; she guides us through her musings on the lessons gained from her labors–about life as a woman, life partner, mother, and human being. This engaging book, told in her personable style and warm voice, relates how she was transformed, and her pithy wisdom helps us see how we also may be transformed by life's unpredictable adventures.”–Penny Simkin, author of The Birth Partner, co-founder of DONA International Be sure to check it out here AND enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway to be entered to win a copy of her book!   *** As always, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on iTunes here. Your reviews really help the show out because they allow it to be more visible so that we can reach more moms.  Do you shop on Amazon?  Use this link and do your shopping as you always would and the show will get a teeny tiny kickback.  The podcast is also sponsored by Audible.com.  To get your FREE audiobook and 30-day trial, please go tohttp://www.audibletrial.com/postpartum     You can also support the show by becoming a patron on Patreon.  No donation is too small, for as little as $1 per episode, you can make a huge difference for the show.  Click here to learn more.  Thank you SO much for your support!  

When I was pregnant for the first time, I remember vividly coming back from that first doctor’s appointment. It was the one where the doctor said to me “yes you’re pregnant!”. So now I’m a bit dazed and in shock, and she says to me “well, congratulations! I’ll probably next see you with baby. Good luck!” And I remember thinking WHAT?! What do you mean you’re only going to see me after baby’s born?! Who’s going to look over me? Of course it was the midwife, but I remember feeling completely abandoned in that moment and slightly panicky. Like I needed help being pregnant. It seems silly looking back, but I’m sure I wasn’t alone in feeling this. What I think I needed in that moment was to fast forward in time and listen to the chat that you’re about to hear that I had with today’s guest. Today I’m speaking with Kicki Hansard who’s a bit of a legend in the birthing world. Kicki is a certified birth and postnatal doula with experience in all aspects of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting. During the last 12 years, she has been preparing couples for the arrival of their baby and supported many of them through the birth and postnatal period. Kicki is also a doula course facilitator and has trained over 500 aspiring doulas. Kicki has studied with Ina May Gaskin, Sheila Kitzinger, Dr. Jack Newman and the "grandmothers of all doulas", Penny Simkin and Phyllis Klaus. In 2005, she took part in a television programme called "Mum + One" about doulas, which can still be seen on the Discovery Home & Health Channel. Kicki was also rewarded the Pregnancy & Birth Magazine and Doula UK award "Doula of the Year" in 2009, the first and only time this award has been presented. Kicki is a chapter contributor to the Amazon #1 bestseller, The Roar Behind the Silence and has just launched her own book, The Secrets of Birth. (I'm sorry but this free guide is no longer available.  If you are looking for super useful resources such as this then join the Fearless Mama Ship. Find out more here.) She was also invited to contribute to the UK government initiative 1001 Critcal Days at the Houses of Parliament which is about helping to improve the 1001 days from conception to when a child is 2 years old. Kicki believes that birth is a truly normal, and at the same time, deeply profound event that is optimised by personalised support defined birth goals with flexibility built in and a solid education. Her goals are to instill confidence with true information, equipping women and families for the work of labour, birth and the postnatal period and to understand each family's unique needs and birth goals. During my chat with Kicki we really dance about the whole pregnancy, birth and motherhood thing, but what makes it so great is that you really get a sense listening to Kicki of her philosophy when it comes to pregnancy, birth, and motherhood; and it’s the same for both. Be open and flexible. Know your choices - so do your homework - but trust yourself. Trust your innate wisdom to do what’s right for you and for your baby. There are no shoulds just go with the flow and be flexible to respond to each moment. And be ok with just being ok. It’s really liberating! Pregnancy birth and motherhood Some of the things we talk about include; Using birth and pregnancy to find out more about yourself and use what you learn in other parts of your life Why its important to be flexible and open in your mind when it comes to birth and motherhood The futility of the fight against wanting it to be normal. It being birth or motherhood. She says “it was the struggle that was painful, not what was going on around me. When I accepted it and enjoyed it, it became easier.” Being open to finding a new “normal”  in motherhood and the lessons for us to learn in being flexible Why our need to control things is damaging. "You can’t control birth. Once it starts, it’s about going with the flow. Just like being a parent!"

Today’s show is about connecting with your baby in utero through song. Figuring out a newborn’s needs can be tricky, and sometimes a baby will cry no matter what you do. Wouldn’t it be great to have a tool to help you automatically soothe your child? One that you put in place during pregnancy, that also reduces your stress? Penny Simkin is here to tell us about just that.

Warning! Our show goes a lot of places this week. Luckily they fall into neat categories! (see our trigger warnings note below) This week, Biz and Theresa talk about personal space, which is a thing our kids like to act like they've never heard of! Plus, Biz finds something new to love and Theresa prepares to send her youngest off to daycare. And renowned author, childbirth educator, physical therapist, and doula Penny Simkin joins us to discuss actual helpful ways to prepare for a first childbirth experience as well as ways for those who have suffered sexual trauma can prepare for childbirth.  Trigger Warnings: Opening Segment: Safe but some high emotions about childcare decisions Topic Segment: Mostly safe, but does touch on surviving sexual trauma and how a child who doesn’t respect your space can effect you Interview: Two warnings. 1. It does talk in detail about preparing for child birth while being a victim of sexual trauma. 2. Additional risk of questioning your birth choices if one is sensitive to that.  Rant: Normally fine, but after the previous segments, it might be a tough one! Wrap up: Biz and Theresa try very hard to bring it all together!

Penny Simkin has spent her lifetime observing and supporting the emergence of parents. Since 1968, she has been a childbirth educator and advocate for women. She has prepared over 12,000 women and their families for childbirth and she has assisted hundreds of women as a doula. She produces films and writes books for both parents […]

Interview with Penny Simkin on breastfeeding and early sexual abuse, including common feelings of survivors about breastfeeding, and ways that breastfeeding support people can support survivors. Penny is the author of When Survivors Give Birth, on early sexual abuse and...