Bölümler

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Your Baby, Your Way: Medical Freedom, Unassisted Birth, and More with Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D.

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D., award-winning science journalist, author, and advocate for medical freedom and safe vaccination practices. In this episode, Jennifer shares her experiences as a mother of four, navigating hospital, midwife-assisted, and unassisted births, and discusses the importance of parental intuition, making informed decisions, and creating a vaccine-friendly birth plan.

    Jennifer’s work as a writer and educator has taken her across the globe, championing the rights of women, children, and families while shedding light on the hard truths about for-profit medicine. Together, they dive into topics like wild pregnancy, advanced maternal age, Stokholm syndrome in medicine, and midwife interventions, offering listeners tools and insights to reclaim autonomy in pregnancy and parenting.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Your Baby, Your Way

    • The inspiration behind Jennifer’s book and how it empowers parents to take charge of their pregnancy, birth, and parenting decisions.

    2. Navigating Birth Choices

    • Jennifer’s personal experiences with hospital birth, midwife-assisted birth, and her powerful journey to an unassisted birth.

    3. Medical Freedom and Safe Vaccination

    • Insights into the importance of informed decision-making and advocating for personal medical choices for your family.

    4. Parenting Intuition and Fear

    • How to trust your instincts during pregnancy and overcome fear-based decision-making.

    5. Wild Pregnancy and Unassisted Birth

    • Exploring the concept of wild pregnancy and taking radical responsibility for your birth experience.

    6. Advanced Maternal Age and Birth Planning

    • How to navigate societal pressures and medical interventions as an older parent.

    7. Sitting on Hands and Minimal Interventions

    • Jennifer’s thoughts on when intervention is necessary and when less is more.

    8. Hard Truths About For-Profit Medicine

    • An honest look at how the medical industry impacts women’s health and autonomy.

    About Jennifer Margulis, Ph.D.:

    Jennifer Margulis is an award-winning science journalist, author, and advocate for medical freedom and safe vaccination practices. She is the author of the book Your Baby, Your Way: Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Parenting Decisions for a Happier, Healthier Family. A mother of four, Jennifer has firsthand experience with various birth settings, including hospital, midwife-assisted, and unassisted birth.

    Jennifer’s international work includes:

    • Advocating for child survival campaigns in Niger, West Africa.

    • Championing the rights of child slaves on live television in Paris.

    • Teaching non-traditional students in Atlanta.

    • Promoting medical freedom and education in Copenhagen.

    Her work empowers parents to trust their instincts, make informed decisions, and embrace autonomy in pregnancy and parenting.

    Connect with Jennifer Margulis:

    • Website: www.JenniferMargulis.net

    • Substack: Jennifer Margulis on Substack

    • Facebook: Personal | Your Baby, Your Way Book

    • X: @JenniferMarguli

    • LinkedIn: Jennifer Margulis on LinkedIn

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Jennifer Margulis’s work is a call to action for parents to reclaim their autonomy, challenge societal norms, and trust their instincts. Her experience and advocacy bring fresh, empowering perspectives to the topics of pregnancy, birth, and parenting.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • In this episode, we dive into topics like granting yourself permission to push, navigating free birth, and managing a busy December as midwives. We also cover practical tips for handling diaper rashes, the pros and cons of cloth versus disposable diapers, and how to streamline diaper services. On a deeper note, we touch on the role of spiritual midwifery and explore resources like Weallda and Badger for natural care solutions to rashes.

    What You’ll Learn:

    ​ The empowering mindset of giving yourself “permission to push” during labor.​ Insights into free birth and how it can differ from traditional birth choices. ​ Managing diaper rashes naturally and choosing between cloth and disposable diapers.​ Tips for staying calm and organized during a busy holiday season as midwives. ​ Resources for natural baby care, including Weallda and Badger products.

    Links and Resources Mentioned:

    ​ EC (Elimination Communication): https://open.spotify.com/show/6ir3EbNKNrAz5chD9SFZjd​ Spiritual Midwifery Book/Resource: https://thefarmcommunity.com/spiritual-midwifery/​ Weallda Products: https://www.weleda.com/product/calendula-diaper-cream-g009831​ Badger Natural Products: https://www.badgerbalm.com/products/zinc-oxide-diaper-cream

    Have a question or a story to share? Connect with us on social media or check out the links above for more resources to support your parenting journey.

    Connect with Us:

    Instagram:

    ​ @sophiabirth​ @bayareahomebirth​ @bornwildmidwifery

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Eksik bölüm mü var?

    Akışı yenilemek için buraya tıklayın.

  • In this episode, we sit down with Tori and Jeremie, a couple from Marin County, to hear their remarkable journey into parenthood. Their daughter, Chloé, was born on August 1st, 2024, and her arrival reshaped their lives in profound ways.

    Tori and Jeremie share how their passion for a holistic, natural lifestyle grew during Tori’s pregnancy. They immersed themselves in podcasts, books, and research, becoming strong advocates for birth outside the medical system. However, Tori’s pregnancy presented unexpected challenges, including:

    • Fainting and a car accident that tested their resilience

    • A suspected partial placental abruption late in pregnancy

    • Managing a stomach bug

    These complications ultimately led them to have a hospital birth instead of their planned home birth. Despite the sudden change in plans, Tori and Jeremie faced the experience with unwavering faith and teamwork. They credit their strong advocacy as a couple and their thorough preparation for enabling them to navigate the hospital system while staying aligned with their values.

    In addition to sharing their birth story, they dive into topics such as:

    • Birthing instincts and the business of being born

    • Thoughts on wild pregnancy and embracing natural rhythms

    • Postpartum recovery and Tori’s journey through PPD (postpartum depression)

    • Their vision for future home births and trusting in God’s plan

    They also discuss their commitment to health and intentional living, from long walks in their neighborhood to making thoughtful parenting choices for Chloé. Looking ahead, Tori and Jeremie hope to have a home birth for their next child, trusting in God’s plan for their family.

    This episode is a testament to the power of adaptability, advocacy, and faith in the face of unexpected challenges.

    Links & Resources:

    • Follow Tori on Instagram: @victoriabarbe_

    • Follow Jeremie on Instagram: @jeremie.barbe6

    • Connect with @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, and @bornwildmidwifery.

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Embracing Homebirth, Homeschooling, and Life on the “Compound” with Sarah Arimura

    About Today’s Guest: Sarah Arimura

    Sarah Arimura is a mom of three living in California’s beautiful North Bay. Once a professional photographer, Sarah has transitioned into her roles as a stay-at-home mom and, most recently, a homeschooling parent. She and her family live on what they lovingly call “the compound” alongside her husband, three kids, her grandmother Gigi, two dogs, and 20 chickens.

    A true homebody at heart, Sarah cherishes simple joys like playing outside with her kids and sitting in the garden with Gigi, sharing stories and reflections on life. Passionate about supporting women, Sarah loves encouraging moms and moms-to-be to explore options outside the traditional medical system and serves as a vibrant cheerleader for those considering homebirth.

    Episode Overview:

    In this heartwarming episode, Sarah shares her journey from photography to full-time motherhood and homeschooling. She opens up about her experiences raising three children, life on “the compound,” and the joy she finds in living a simple, connected life. Sarah also shares her passion for empowering women to consider alternative birth choices and embrace the magic of homebirth.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Life on “The Compound”

    • What it’s like raising three kids alongside extended family, 20 chickens, and two dogs.

    • The importance of slowing down and finding joy in simple, everyday moments.

    2. From Photographer to Stay-at-Home Mom

    • Sarah’s transition into full-time motherhood and the beauty of being present with her children.

    3. Adventuring into Homeschooling

    • What inspired Sarah to begin her homeschooling journey this fall.

    • Reflections on creating a learning environment rooted in family, curiosity, and connection.

    4. Encouraging Moms to Trust Themselves

    • Why Sarah is passionate about educating moms on their options outside the traditional medical system.

    • The importance of supporting women considering homebirth and reclaiming their birth experiences.

    5. The Magic of Gigi’s Garden

    • The special bond Sarah shares with her grandmother, Gigi, and how time in the garden becomes a place of connection, reflection, and wisdom.

    Guest’s Message:

    Sarah reminds us that there is beauty and empowerment in trusting ourselves, slowing down, and exploring options that align with our values as mothers and women. Whether it’s through homebirth, homeschooling, or simply being present with our loved ones, she inspires us to embrace the simplicity and joy of a life well-lived.

    Final Reflection:

    This episode is a heartfelt reminder to trust your instincts, savor the small moments, and embrace the freedom to create a life that feels true to you and your family. Sarah’s story will leave you inspired, encouraged, and grounded in the magic of motherhood.

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Reclaiming Birth as Ceremony: Catalina Clark’s Journey of Healing

    About Today’s Guest: Catalina Clark

    Catalina Clark is a woman, mother, sister, daughter, midwife, and student on the healing path. With over 10 years of experience in birth work, Catalina has dedicated her life to supporting women in alignment with the natural world and the profound power of physiologic birth.

    Her journey began entrenched in the medical model, where disempowering experiences led her to seek wisdom from traditional healers outside the medical industrial system. Through this path, she reawakened her calling as a spiritual midwife, holding space at the sacred portal between life and death. Catalina walks alongside women with love, humility, and trust, offering support through all realms of transformation: birth, death, and rebirth.

    Episode Overview:

    In this episode, Catalina shares her inspiring journey of self-healing, remembrance, and reclaiming birth as ceremony, ritual, and prayer. Through personal stories and insights, she offers a unique perspective on the power of birth as a transformative experience and the role of the midwife in holding space for this sacred process.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Catalina’s Journey of Healing

    • From disempowering experiences in the medical model to discovering the wisdom of traditional healing.

    • How her role as a spiritual midwife emerged over a decade of learning and transformation.

    2. Wild Pregnancy and Free Birth

    • The birth of her second child as a profound teacher of trust and radical responsibility.

    • Reclaiming birth as a sacred ceremony and a portal for self-rebirth.

    3. Birth as a Sacred Threshold

    • The midwife’s role in holding space, witnessing, and protecting the transformative journey of birth.

    • How birth connects us to ourselves, nature, and the divine.

    4. Healing Through Ceremony and Prayer

    • The integration of ritual, tradition, and community support in all realms of life transformation, including birth, death, and rebirth.

    5. A Call to Radical Responsibility

    • How stepping into the unknown allows us to untangle old stories and return to our hearts.

    Guest’s Message:

    Catalina reminds us that to heal is to reclaim and reweave the fabric of our True Selves, recognizing our wholeness and perfection just as we are. She invites us to approach birth—and life itself—as an opportunity for transformation, empowerment, and deep connection to the divine.

    Connect with Catalina Clark:

    • Instagram: @catalina.clark

    • Website: www.catalinaclarkbirth.com

    • Email: [email protected]

    Final Reflection:

    This episode is an invitation to explore birth as a sacred, empowering, and transformative act. Catalina’s wisdom guides us toward radical trust, love, and remembrance of our innate power as women, mothers, and human beings.

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Another Bozo on the Bus: Physiological Birth and Biomechanics with Adelaide Meadow

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Adelaide Meadow, a highly respected birth and body worker with over ten years of experience studying female biomechanics, birth, and movement. Adelaide shares her wealth of knowledge on the intersection of birth, anatomy, physiology, and women’s health, offering insight into how physiological birth is deeply connected to the way women move and care for their bodies.

    This episode dives into topics ranging from biomechanics and biodynamics to soft tissue alignment, pelvic health, and practical tools for pregnancy and labor. Adelaide’s work highlights the brilliance of women and the genius of the body, empowering listeners to trust and honor their physiological processes.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Biomechanics, Biodynamics, and Alignment

    • Understanding soft tissue and bony alignment during pregnancy and birth.

    • How movement and posture impact birth outcomes.

    2. Pelvic Health and Prolapse

    • Practical ways to care for the pelvis before, during, and after pregnancy.

    • Addressing prolapse and strategies for recovery.

    3. Spinning Babies and Posterior/Breech Babies

    • Tools for supporting optimal fetal positioning, including movement techniques.

    • Insights into breech and posterior presentations.

    4. Physiology of Labor

    • Exploring heartburn, prodromal labor, cardinal movements, and asynclitic babies.

    • How movement can support a smoother labor process.

    5. Tongue Tie and Breastfeeding

    • Understanding the impact of tongue ties on feeding and solutions for families.

    6. Birth Culture and the Role of Unlicensed Midwives

    • A discussion on autonomy, choice, and alternative models of care.

    About Adelaide Meadow:

    Adelaide Meadow is a female physiology academic, movement teacher, bodyworker, and home birth attendant. With a decade of experience studying female biomechanics, she approaches women’s health, birth, and movement with a physiological perspective. Adelaide is passionate about the genius of the body and the brilliance of women, offering education and support that empowers women to embrace their physiology and culture. She is a sought-after teacher, leader, and speaker on topics at the intersection of birth, movement, and biomechanics.

    Recommendations by Adelaide:

    • The Breech Release: https://thebreechrelease.com/about-us/

    • Born Through Movement: https://adelaidemeadow.mykajabi.com/born-through-movement

    Connect with Adelaide Meadow:

    • Instagram: @adelaidemeadow_

    • Website: adelaidemeadow.com

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    This episode is a deep dive into the physiology of pregnancy and birth, offering tools and wisdom for women to feel empowered, aligned, and in tune with their bodies. Adelaide’s passion for honoring physiological womanhood reminds us to trust the brilliance of the body through every stage of motherhood.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Nelly’s Birth Stories: Two Births and a Double Diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she interviews Nelly, a mom of two under two, living off-grid in Cazadero, CA, with her husband and a slightly chaotic assortment of animals. Nelly shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey through two wildly different births and navigating the diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) for both of her children.

    This conversation touches on everything from home birth and VBAC to the realities of navigating the medical system while raising children with a rare genetic condition. Nelly brings raw honesty, strength, and a deep passion for spreading awareness of newborn screening, treatment, and support for families facing SMA.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Two Birth Stories

    • Nelly’s first birth: navigating a posterior presentation, cesarean section, and a challenging hospital experience.

    • Her second birth: an empowering VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) with the challenges of geriatric pregnancy and a kidney infection.

    2. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

    • What SMA is: a rare degenerative genetic disease affecting about 1 in 10,000 births.

    • The importance of newborn screening for early diagnosis and treatment.

    • Navigating medical care and treatment options with two young children diagnosed with SMA.

    3. Living Off-Grid and Parenting Two Under Two

    • The joys and challenges of raising a family in harmony with nature while managing medical complexities.

    • How Nelly and her husband balance daily life with animals, young children, and medical appointments.

    4. Tandem Breastfeeding

    • Nelly’s experience with breastfeeding two children simultaneously and its role in their journey.

    5. Raising Awareness

    • Why newborn screening for SMA is critical for early intervention and treatment.

    • Encouraging parents to advocate for their children and share their stories.

    About Nelly:

    Nelly is a passionate advocate for Spinal Muscular Atrophy awareness, a mom of two under two, and a nature-loving parent embracing off-grid life. Her resilience and commitment to spreading awareness highlight the importance of early diagnosis, proper treatment, and navigating the medical system while maintaining a grounded, loving family life.

    Recommendations by Nelly:

    • The Business of Being Born (Documentary)

    Connect with Nelly:

    • Instagram: @hughescandoit

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    This episode is a heartfelt and educational conversation about the realities of parenting through challenging diagnoses, navigating birth choices, and advocating for awareness. Nelly’s courage and strength remind us of the power of family, love, and persistence in the face of life’s most unexpected journeys.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Jen Santos: Breech Home Birth, OP Labor, and Precipitous Birth

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she welcomes Dr. Jen Santos back to the podcast for the third time! In this episode, Jen shares her personal experiences with her three home births, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of each. Together, they dive into topics such as breech presentation, back labor, unknown due dates, postpartum anxiety, PTSD, and precipitous birth, offering valuable insights for families and birth professionals alike.

    Dr. Jen also shares her expertise as a chiropractor specializing in pediatric and perinatal care, weaving in her deep understanding of physiology, body balancing, and the importance of trusting the body during pregnancy and birth.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Three Home Birth Stories

    • Jen’s experiences with a breech baby, unknown due dates, and posterior (OP) labor.

    • Navigating the challenges of torticollis and her precipitous birth (a labor lasting under three hours).

    2. Breech Presentation and ECV

    • Understanding external cephalic version (ECV) for turning breech babies.

    • Why trusting your body and care team is essential during a breech birth.

    3. Postpartum Challenges

    • Jen’s journey with postpartum anxiety and PTSD, and how she found support and healing.

    4. Geriatric Pregnancy

    • Discussing the stigma and experiences surrounding pregnancy after age 35.

    5. Back Labor and Movement During Birth

    • Techniques to manage back labor and the importance of movement and body balancing for optimal birth outcomes.

    About Dr. Jen Santos:

    Dr. Jen Santos, DC, CACCP, is a second-generation chiropractor who received her first adjustment at just 45 minutes old by her father. She is the proud owner of Acorn Chiropractic Club, with three locations, and teaches as an adjunct professor at Life Chiropractic College West. Dr. Jen specializes in pediatric and perinatal chiropractic care and is a passionate teacher, leading seminars for chiropractors and students through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.

    Previous Episodes with Dr. Jen Santos:

    1. Ultrasounds, Dopplers, and EFM Concerns

    • Listen Here

    2. Tongue and Lip Ties

    • Listen Here

    3. Chiropractic and Dynamic Body Balancing

    • Listen Here

    Connect with Dr. Jen Santos:

    • Email: DrJen@AcornChiropracticClub

    • Facebook: Jen Santos

    • Instagram: @JenSantosDC

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Dr. Jen Santos’s unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise reminds us of the incredible wisdom of the body during birth. Whether navigating breech presentations, back labor, or postpartum recovery, her stories and insights offer inspiration and support for birthing families.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: All Things Breastmilk with Carrie Caillouette, IBCLC

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Carrie Caillouette, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) based in West County Sonoma. Carrie shares her wealth of knowledge on all things breastfeeding and breastmilk, offering practical advice and insights to help parents meet their infant feeding goals.

    From insurance coverage and colostrum harvesting to tongue ties, inverted nipples, and craniosacral support, Carrie brings both expertise and compassion to this episode. Her goal is simple: empower families with education, small adjustments, and the confidence to enjoy a long and successful breastfeeding journey.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Insurance Coverage for Lactation Care

    • How parents can access Carrie’s services, often fully covered by insurance.

    2. Mental and Prenatal Prep for Breastfeeding

    • Why preparation before birth is key to achieving feeding goals.

    • Tools and resources for parents to feel confident and informed.

    3. Colostrum Harvesting

    • What it is, why it matters, and how to start before baby arrives.

    4. Tongue Tie and Inverted Nipples

    • How to identify and address challenges like tongue ties and inverted nipples.

    5. Nursing Tools and Tips

    • Carrie’s favorite tools for a successful breastfeeding experience.

    • How small tweaks can make a big difference.

    6. Craniosacral and Chiropractic Support

    • The role of bodywork in helping infants latch and feed comfortably.

    7. Pacifiers: Helpful or Harmful?

    • Carrie’s perspective on introducing pacifiers and their role in breastfeeding.

    8. Postpartum Support

    • Carrie’s volunteer work with Better Beginnings and her recommendation for the Sebastopol Postpartum Support Group.

    About Carrie Caillouette:

    Carrie is an IBCLC and lactation specialist who felt called to support families after her own breastfeeding journey with her second baby. She believes that with the right education and small adjustments, families can reach their breastfeeding goals. Carrie offers both in-home and virtual visits to meet parents where they are and help them develop personalized feeding plans.

    She is especially proud of her volunteer work with Better Beginnings, a local non-profit that supports families through postpartum care.

    Recommendations by Carrie:

    • Sebastopol Postpartum Support Group:

    • Tuesdays, 11 AM–12 PM at the Sebastopol Public Library

    • First Droplets: https://firstdroplets.com

    Connect with Carrie Caillouette:

    • Instagram: @golden_state_lactation

    • Website: https://www.goldenstatelactation.com

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    This episode is full of practical tips, heartfelt advice, and empowering education for families navigating breastfeeding. Carrie’s calm expertise and passion for supporting parents remind us that breastfeeding success is often just a few small steps away.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Preterm Birth and Babies with Kristine Laurie

    Episode Overview:

    Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they welcome back Kristine Laurie, a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and Licensed Midwife (LM) with over 33 years of experience. In this episode, Kristine shares her vast knowledge of high-risk obstetrics in both the United States and international low-resource settings. The discussion covers topics such as Doctors Without Borders, preterm birth, steroids, antibiotics, kangaroo care, PROM, and challenges like cord prolapse, placenta previa, and fetal demise.

    Kristine’s invaluable insights, shaped by attending over 5,000 births (including 516 breeches, 387 sets of twins, and 7 sets of triplets), highlight her commitment to autonomy in women’s health and her advocacy for physiologic birth.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Doctors Without Borders and Global Midwifery

    • Kristine’s work with MSF (Doctors Without Borders) in providing life-saving care in low-resource settings.

    • Challenges and triumphs of delivering care in developing countries.

    2. Preterm Birth in the USA

    • Common interventions like steroids and antibiotics for preterm labor.

    • Addressing jaundice and the importance of kangaroo care for preterm infants.

    3. High-Risk Pregnancy Complications

    • Navigating complex cases involving PROM (Premature Rupture of Membranes), cord prolapse, and placenta previa.

    • Managing infection, UTIs, and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.

    4. Multiples and Fetal Demise

    • Kristine’s extensive experience with twins, triplets, and supporting families through fetal demise.

    5. IVF, IUI, and Assisted Conception

    • Insights into the unique challenges of pregnancies conceived through IVF and IUI.

    6. Physiologic Birth Advocacy

    • Why Kristine champions autonomy and education in women’s health.

    • The importance of reducing unnecessary interventions and trusting the body.

    About Kristine Laurie:

    Kristine Laurie is a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and Licensed Midwife (LM) with over 33 years of experience, specializing in high-risk obstetrics. She has attended more than 5,000 births, the majority in out-of-hospital settings, including over 516 breeches, 387 sets of twins, and 7 sets of triplets.

    For over 20 years, Kristine has worked internationally with Doctors Without Borders, bringing her expertise to low-resource settings. At home, she teaches advanced midwifery classes with the Midwifery Wisdom Collective, facilitates masterclasses with Breech Without Borders, and serves as an expert witness in court cases involving breech birth.

    Connect with Kristine Laurie:

    • Instagram: @globalmidwife64

    • Website: https://midwifewithoutboundaries.wordpress.com/

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Kristine Laurie’s decades of experience, both domestically and internationally, make her a true expert in high-risk obstetrics and autonomous birth care. Whether you’re a birth professional or parent, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of physiologic birth and navigating the challenges of pregnancy and birth with confidence and care.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Caley’s Birth Story: Free Birth, Wild Pregnancy, and Empowerment

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Caley to share her inspiring and raw third birth story. In this episode, Caley reflects on her journey, including her experiences with free-birth vs. home-birth, navigating relationship challenges, and embracing the beauty of a wild pregnancy.

    They also discuss critical topics such as hypnobirthing, nutritional depletion, placenta previa, fear of hemorrhage, and velamentous cords, as well as the joys of bed sharing and finding empowerment through the birth process. Caley’s story is an inspiring reminder of the power of trusting your body and making informed choices.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Free-Birth vs. Home-Birth

    • Caley shares her decision to embrace a free-birth and how it differed from her previous home-birth experiences.

    2. Navigating Relationship Turmoil

    • The emotional ups and downs of pregnancy and maintaining connection with her husband.

    3. Wild Pregnancy and Hypnobirthing

    • The beauty of taking radical responsibility for her body and pregnancy.

    • How hypnobirthing supported her mindset during labor.

    4. Pregnancy Complications

    • Managing placenta previa, pregnancy bleeding, and the fear of potential hemorrhage.

    • Navigating the challenges of a velamentous cord and prioritizing informed decisions.

    5. Nutritional Depletion and Recovery

    • Caley’s approach to maintaining physical and emotional health during and after pregnancy.

    6. Postpartum Joys

    • The benefits of bed sharing and how it strengthened her connection with her newborn.

    7. Empowering Women Through Music

    • Caley’s passion for teaching women how to play music and finding empowerment through creative outlets.

    About Caley:

    Caley is a UX designer, musician, and mom of three living in the Sierra foothills on a peaceful mountain property with her Australian husband and their two toddler boys and newborn daughter. She is deeply passionate about empowering women in the birth process and sharing the joy of music.

    Recommendations by Caley:

    • Stardust Period + Pregnancy Tracker: https://stardust.app

    Connect with Caley:

    • Instagram: @ckevlin

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Caley’s story is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of women as they navigate birth, relationships, and personal empowerment. Whether you’re preparing for your own birth or simply inspired by the beauty of motherhood, this episode is full of insights, encouragement, and wisdom.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Luxury and Liberation: Reproductive Justice with Sabia Wade

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Lea as she interviews the incredible Sabia Wade, a Black, Queer, Full Spectrum Doula, CEO, Investor, Author, Educator, and expander of Black Luxury. In this powerful episode, Sabia shares their work in reproductive justice, fighting health disparities, empowering pregnant people of color, and building pathways to equality and equity.

    The discussion delves into topics such as volunteering in prison, doula training and business, preventing burnout, and the importance of redistributing financial wealth to BIPOC communities. Sabia also shares insights from their book, Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free, which is a must-read for anyone invested in creating a more inclusive and equitable world.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Volunteering in Prison

    • Sabia’s transformative experiences working with incarcerated populations and how it shaped their approach to reproductive justice.

    2. Health Disparities and Equity

    • Addressing the systemic challenges pregnant people of color face in accessing quality care.

    • How Sabia advocates for equality in maternal healthcare and beyond.

    3. Doula Training and Business

    • Insights into Sabia’s birth doula training programs and supporting doulas in building sustainable businesses.

    4. Preventing Burnout

    • Strategies for caregivers and advocates to maintain emotional and physical health while serving others.

    5. Birthing Liberation

    • Highlights from Sabia’s book and how reproductive justice can lead to liberation for all.

    6. Redistributing Wealth and Supporting BIPOC Communities

    • Sabia’s work as an investor and their commitment to funding emergent and innovative businesses led by BIPOC individuals.

    7. The Concept of Black Luxury

    • Redefining luxury as a tool for healing, empowerment, and liberation within Black and marginalized communities.

    About Sabia Wade:

    Sabia Wade (she/they) is a visionary leader dedicated to creating a more equitable world through the lens of reproductive justice, business, and education. They are the CEO of multiple organizations, an investor, and the author of Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free. Sabia is passionate about redistributing financial wealth, empowering marginalized communities, and advocating for healing and liberation for all.

    Recommendations by Sabia:

    • Birth Doula Training: https://www.badoulatrainings.org/

    • For the Village (Community Support Organization): https://forthevillage.org/

    Connect with Sabia Wade:

    • Instagram: @sabiawade

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Sabia Wade’s work is a call to action for all of us to reimagine how we approach care, justice, and equity. Whether you’re a birth worker, advocate, or simply someone passionate about creating change, this episode will leave you inspired to step into your power and make a difference.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Kim’s Birth Stories - Instant Baby, Just Add Water

    Episode Overview:

    Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they chat with Kim Hurtado about her three incredible home water birth stories. In this episode, Kim reflects on her conception journeys, her experiences as a medical provider choosing home birth, and navigating challenges like postpartum baby blues, post-term pregnancies, and hemorrhoids.

    Kim also shares her knowledge and passion for birth, including her experiences with en veil vs. en caul births, birthing during COVID, and how listening to birth story podcasts shaped her own birth plans. Her journey is a beautiful example of trusting intuition, embracing birth as a transformative process, and finding empowerment through informed choices.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Conception Journeys

    • Kim’s path to becoming a mom of three and the lessons learned along the way.

    2. Medical Providers Choosing Home Birth

    • Why Kim, with her professional background, chose home birth for all three of her children.

    3. Water Birth and En Caul/En Veil Stories

    • The unique and magical aspects of Kim’s water births, including one baby born en veil and another en caul.

    4. Postpartum Baby Blues

    • Kim’s honest reflection on the emotional challenges of postpartum recovery and how she found support.

    5. Post-Term Pregnancies and Hemorrhoids

    • Navigating post-term pregnancies and the physical realities of birth and recovery.

    6. COVID and Birth

    • How the pandemic impacted Kim’s birthing experiences and postpartum life.

    7. Becoming a “Birth Junkie”

    • How listening to birth story podcasts inspired Kim to pursue home birth and shaped her birth choices.

    About Kim Hurtado:

    Born and raised in Napa, CA, Kim now lives there with her husband Aaron and their three children: Noah (5), Teo (2), and Isla (3 months). Kim is a high school World Languages teacher who enjoys spending time with her family, going on weekend adventures, and listening to birth stories. Her journey as a mom and “birth junkie” has fueled her passion for empowering other families to make informed and intentional birth decisions.

    Recommendations by Kim:

    • Why Not Home?: https://www.whynothome.com/

    • The Business of Being Born: https://www.thebusinessof.life/the-business-of-being-born

    Connect with Kim:

    • Instagram: @kbh_hurtado

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Kim’s birth stories are a testament to the beauty, power, and individuality of birth. Her experiences will inspire and empower listeners to explore the possibilities of home birth and find confidence in their own birthing journey.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Kelsey’s Birth Story: Placental Abruption and a Return to Trust

    Episode Overview:

    Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Kelsey about her powerful and emotional birth story. In this episode, Kelsey opens up about her journey through post-term pregnancy, placental abruption, fetal heart arrhythmia, and ultimately a cesarean birth. She shares her experience with obstetric violence, her challenges in navigating medical interventions, and her path back to trusting her body and instincts.

    This episode highlights the resilience and empowerment Kelsey found as she transitioned into motherhood, offering a deeply personal perspective on healing and growth after unexpected birth experiences.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Placental Abruption

    • Kelsey’s firsthand experience with this rare and serious complication and how it impacted her labor and delivery.

    2. Obstetric Violence

    • Addressing moments of medical mistreatment and how Kelsey found her voice during the process.

    3. Post-Term Pregnancy and Cesarean Birth

    • The challenges and decisions involved in navigating a post-term pregnancy and cesarean delivery.

    4. Fetal Heart Arrhythmia

    • The unexpected diagnosis and its impact on Kelsey’s birth story.

    5. Returning to Trust

    • How Kelsey has found healing, connection, and empowerment in the postpartum period.

    6. Life as a New Family of Four

    • Adjusting to life on the farm with baby Julio, their Shiba Inu (The Maki Dog), and their shared love for family walks and Warriors games.

    About Kelsey:

    Kelsey is an herbalist living and working on a beautiful farm in Petaluma, CA with her husband, Roberto, their baby boy, Julio, and their dog, Maki. She has a passion for aerial silks and is excited to return to her practice as Julio grows older. Kelsey is committed to sharing her story to help other women feel seen and supported in their birth journeys.

    Recommendations by Kelsey:

    • Free Birth Society: @freebirthsociety

    • Birthing Instincts Podcast: @birthinginstincts

    • Hard Truths About Placental Abruption: Listen Here

    Connect with Kelsey:

    • Instagram: @kesocandisco

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Kelsey’s story reminds us of the power of resilience, advocacy, and finding healing after unexpected challenges in birth. Her journey highlights the importance of support, self-trust, and connecting to what truly matters in postpartum life.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Navigating Conflict and Connection with Perinatal Relationship Coach Rhona Berens

    Episode Overview:

    Join your hosts Sophia and Carissa (our newest student midwife!) as they sit down with Rhona Berens, PhD, PCC, a seasoned perinatal relationship coach and co-author of Fight Right for Your Baby: The How-To Guide for Expecting and New Parents to Shift from Conflict to Connection.

    In this insightful episode, they dive into the complex dynamics of relationships during the perinatal period and explore topics such as:

    • How a baby’s arrival impacts relationships

    • Identifying conflict styles and their impact

    • Tools to shift from conflict to connection

    • Red flags for birth workers to recognize when referring clients for additional support

    Rhona’s expertise provides practical tools for both birth professionals and parents to navigate conflict in ways that foster connection, repair, and relationship satisfaction—ultimately supporting the developmental health of babies and families.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Babies and Relationships

    • How the perinatal period shifts relationship dynamics and common challenges for new and expecting parents.

    2. Conflict Styles and Impact

    • Understanding the different ways couples handle conflict and how it can affect family harmony.

    3. Tools for Fighting Right

    • Highlights from Rhona’s book, including 40+ “bite-size” tools to resolve conflict effectively and reconnect.

    4. Red Flags for Birth Workers

    • What birth professionals should watch for in relationships to recognize when to refer out for additional support.

    5. Fostering Connection

    • Why addressing conflict healthily is essential for children’s developmental health and parents’ relationship satisfaction.

    About Rhona Berens:

    Rhona Berens, PhD, PCC, is an experienced Relationship Coach specializing in supporting new and expecting parents as they navigate the shifts that come with a baby’s arrival. With over a dozen years of experience, Rhona has worked with perinatal professionals across the US and Canada, delivering keynotes, workshops, and webinars to help better support families during this pivotal time.

    Her co-authored book, Fight Right for Your Baby, is a research-based resource offering tools for intervening in conflict, fostering repair, and creating connection that benefits both parents and their children.

    Recommendations by Rhona:

    • And Baby Makes Three: https://www.gottman.com/product/and-baby-makes-three/

    Connect with Rhona Berens:

    • Instagram: @fightrightbooks

    • Website: www.rhonaberens.com

    • Book: www.fightrightbooks.com

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Rhona’s expertise reminds us that navigating conflict is a normal part of relationships, especially during the transformative perinatal period. Her practical tools help families shift from conflict to connection, building stronger relationships that benefit both parents and children.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Kayla’s Birth Story: Surprise Breech & Transport

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she interviews Kayla about her powerful birth story featuring a surprise breech presentation and a 3rd stage transfer. In this episode, Kayla opens up about her first-time motherhood experience, navigating chiropractic care, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and back labor before transporting for additional support. She shares the challenges of recovering from a blood transfusion and the importance of trusting her care team during unexpected moments.

    Kayla’s story is a candid and inspiring look into the unpredictability of birth, her resilience as a first-time mom, and her journey of healing postpartum.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Chiropractic Care and Acupuncture

    • How these practices supported Kayla’s pregnancy and prepared her body for labor.

    2. Hypnotherapy for Birth Preparation

    • Using relaxation and mindset tools to stay grounded during labor.

    3. Back Labor and Breech Birth

    • Kayla’s experience with intense back labor and discovering her baby was breech during labor.

    4. Transport During 3rd Stage

    • Navigating the transfer process for postpartum care and receiving a blood transfusion.

    5. Postpartum Recovery and Support

    • Finding strength, healing, and joy in the early months with her son, Declan.

    6. Mom Life and Community

    • The importance of connection and how Kayla started her weekly “Hot Mom Walks” for local moms.

    About Kayla:

    Kayla is a first-time mom living in Santa Rosa with her 5-month-old son Declan, 6-year-old stepdaughter Fable, and husband Joel. She runs her own business as a Real Estate Transaction Coordinator while balancing life as a work-from-home mom. Kayla loves taking family trips to the beach, exploring new restaurants, and leading her “hot mom walks” around Spring Lake for fellow moms.

    Follow her journey through #MomLife and connect for weekly walks!

    Recommendations by Kayla:

    • Episode on Ultrasounds: Dr. Jen Santos - Ultrasounds & EFM Concerns

    • Placenta Encapsulation: Family Focus Doula Care

    • Acorn Chiropractic Club: https://acornchiropractic.com/

    • Mighty Mama Movement Online Course: Mighty Mama Movement

    • Birth Playlist: Spotify Birth Playlist

    Connect with Kayla:

    • Instagram: @KaylaShock

    • TikTok: @CrazyKayla

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Kayla’s story is a testament to the strength and adaptability of mothers as they navigate the unexpected. From surprise breech to recovery, her experience highlights the importance of trust, resilience, and community on the motherhood journey.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Gina Mundy - Childbirth Attorney: A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth

    Episode Overview:

    Join your hosts Lea and Sophia as they interview Gina Mundy, a childbirth attorney with over 20 years of experience specializing in labor and delivery cases. In this episode, Gina discusses her groundbreaking book, A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth, which empowers families with the knowledge to create a safer birth experience.

    The conversation covers critical topics such as:

    • The difference between medical advisors and decision-makers

    • Lessons learned from her extensive work analyzing childbirth cases

    • How doulas and chiropractic care can improve birth outcomes

    • The risks of induction and busy hospital units

    • The importance of educating yourself and carefully choosing care providers

    Gina’s unique perspective brings invaluable insights to help families avoid common mistakes and improve the safety and outcomes of their childbirth experiences.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Gina’s Work as a Childbirth Attorney

    • How Gina’s career has been shaped by analyzing mistakes during labor and delivery and advocating for safer practices.

    2. The Power of Knowledge in Birth

    • Why parents should take an active role in their care and understand the decisions being made during labor.

    3. Medical Advisors vs. Decision-Makers

    • How to identify who is advising and who is making the final calls in your care team.

    4. Lessons Learned from Childbirth Cases

    • Common mistakes and how they can be avoided with preparation, support, and informed decisions.

    5. Improving Birth Outcomes

    • The positive role of doulas and chiropractic care in labor and delivery.

    • How external factors like hospital inductions and busy units can lead to poor outcomes.

    6. Selecting the Right Care Providers

    • How to choose a provider who aligns with your values and prioritizes safety and communication.

    About Gina Mundy:

    Gina Mundy is a childbirth attorney with over two decades of experience investigating and analyzing mistakes made during labor and delivery. Her work has taken her across the country, collaborating with doctors, nurses, midwives, and healthcare teams to understand the critical decisions made during birth.

    Recognizing the need for prevention rather than intervention, Gina authored A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth, published in June 2023. Her mission is to empower families with the tools to avoid mistakes and ensure healthy outcomes for their babies.

    Recommendations by Gina:

    • A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth:

    Purchase Here

    Connect with Gina Mundy:

    • Website: www.ginamundy.com

    • Instagram: @ginamundy

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Gina Mundy’s work serves as a powerful reminder that knowledge is power when it comes to birth. By learning from her experiences and insights, families can better prepare themselves for a safe, informed, and empowering birth journey.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Dr. Rebecca Cohen - “Natural Birth Doctor”

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she interviews Dr. Rebecca Cohen, MD, a holistic women’s healthcare physician with over 30 years of experience. In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Rebecca shares her journey toward out-of-hospital birth support, the wisdom she’s gained from birthing her 9 children, and her approach to supporting women throughout every stage of life.

    Topics include herbal products, Mayan Abdominal Therapy, painful periods, menopause, prolapse, postdates, breech, twins, shared decision-making, and tearing. Dr. Rebecca’s holistic and traditional approach empowers women to reconnect with their womb wisdom and thrive in their sovereignty.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Journey to Out-of-Hospital Birth Support

    • How Dr. Rebecca’s experience as a mother of 9 and training in midwifery, obstetrics, and traditional healing shaped her work.

    2. Mayan Abdominal Therapy

    • The role of this ancient practice in promoting pelvic wellbeing, addressing menstrual discomfort, and supporting postpartum recovery.

    3. Pelvic Health

    • Supporting women through challenges such as painful periods, painful sex, menopause, and pelvic organ prolapse.

    4. Herbal Products and Natural Remedies

    • Dr. Rebecca’s go-to holistic tools for supporting women’s health naturally.

    5. Birth Topics

    • Navigating postdates, breech presentations, twins, and the importance of shared decision-making during birth.

    • Tips for reducing tearing during labor and birth.

    6. Reclaiming Womb Wisdom

    • Why reconnecting with your body and honoring its natural cycles is the foundation for vibrant health and creativity.

    About Dr. Rebecca Cohen:

    Dr. Rebecca Lasky Cohen, MD, is a holistic women’s healthcare physician specializing in pelvic wellbeing and holistic support throughout all stages of a woman’s life. With extensive training in midwifery, family medicine, obstetrics, and energetic and physical healing modalities, Rebecca brings a deeply integrative approach to women’s care.

    She is the mother of 9 children and is passionate about empowering women to trust their inner-knowing, reclaim their womb wisdom, and honor the sacredness of their bodies. Her practice, Full Circle Holistic, supports women in thriving with sovereignty and vitality.

    Recommendations by Rebecca:

    • Radical Birthkeeper School: Free Birth Society Courses

    • Whapio Holistic Doula Program: Learn More

    • Wild Feminine: Book recommendation for connecting with womb wisdom.

    Connect with Dr. Rebecca Cohen:

    • Website: https://www.fullcirclelouisville.com/

    • Instagram: @fullcircleholistic

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Dr. Rebecca Cohen’s wisdom is a beautiful blend of traditional knowledge, modern medicine, and holistic care, reminding women to embrace their innate power and reconnect with their sacred bodies. Whether you’re navigating pelvic health, preparing for birth, or stepping into menopause, her insights will leave you feeling empowered and supported.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Rebekah Wheeler - Trauma Healing in Birth

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she sits down with Rebekah Wheeler, CNM, a Certified Nurse-Midwife, educator, and expert in birth trauma prevention and treatment. In this thought-provoking episode, Rebekah shares her insights from nearly 20 years as a birth professional, highlighting the critical need for perinatal mental health support and trauma-informed care.

    They discuss key topics including:

    • Differences in care between hospital and home birth

    • The challenges of outdated hospital policies

    • Evidence-based vs. experience-based informed consent

    • Sanctuary trauma and its impact on birthing people

    • Transport from home to hospital and the emotional complexities involved

    Rebekah’s expertise offers a compassionate approach to healing from difficult birth experiences, empowering birthing families and professionals alike to navigate trauma with understanding and resilience.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Hospital vs. Home Birth Care

    • Rebekah shares her perspective on the differences in care settings and how hospitals can be slow to adopt evidence-based policies.

    2. Informed Consent: Evidence vs. Experience

    • Why bridging the gap between evidence-based care and experience-based informed consent is vital for empowering birthing people.

    3. Perinatal Mental Health

    • How perinatal mental health is often overlooked, and why addressing it is essential for birth healing.

    4. Sanctuary Trauma

    • Exploring how trauma can arise in medical settings and the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces for birthing families.

    5. Uterine Massage and Birth Control

    • Understanding the physical and emotional implications of postpartum interventions like uterine massage and birth control.

    6. Home-to-Hospital Transport

    • The emotional and logistical complexities of transport and how to support families through this transition.

    7. Healing After Difficult Birth Experiences

    • Tools and strategies Rebekah uses in her birth trauma healing sessions, helping families reclaim pride and accomplishment after challenging births.

    About Rebekah Wheeler:

    Rebekah Wheeler, CNM, is a Certified Nurse-Midwife, educator, and expert in birth trauma prevention and treatment. With nearly 20 years of experience in birth work, Rebekah has dedicated her career to helping people heal from difficult birth experiences and fostering pride and empowerment, no matter the outcome of labor.

    She provides virtual birth trauma healing sessions to clients worldwide and in-person support in the Bay Area. Rebekah’s work centers on compassion, advocacy, and evidence-based care to promote perinatal mental health and well-being.

    Connect with Rebekah Wheeler:

    • Website: http://birth-trauma-healing.com/

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Rebekah’s insights into trauma-informed care and perinatal mental health remind us of the importance of compassion and support in every birth experience. Whether you’re a birth worker or a parent, this episode offers valuable tools and understanding for navigating the complexities of birth trauma and healing.

    Stay Wild 🌳

  • Podcast Show Notes

    Episode Title: Kelli Moore - Navigating the Medical System

    Episode Overview:

    Join your host Sophia as she interviews Kelli Moore, CEO and Co-Founder of Soulfire Productions, and host of two top-rated podcasts: The Naked Mama and OK, Babe. In this candid and empowering episode, Kelli shares her experiences navigating the complexities of the medical system during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

    They discuss topics such as IVF, prodromal labor, back labor, LEEP procedures and cervical scarring, hemorrhage, craniosacral therapy, tongue-tie, retained placenta, postpartum mood disorders, and more. Kelli’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and learning to balance fear and intuition when making medical decisions.

    This episode is a call to women everywhere to reclaim their power, trust their instincts, and break free from the stories and expectations holding them back.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    1. Navigating the Medical System

    • Kelli shares her journey through IVF and navigating decisions around pregnancy and birth.

    2. Labor Challenges

    • Insights into prodromal labor, back labor, and the impact of cervical scarring from a LEEP procedure.

    3. Postpartum Challenges

    • Managing hemorrhage, retained placenta, and tongue-tie in her newborn.

    • Addressing postpartum mood disorders and sleep regressions with self-compassion and support.

    4. Intuition vs. Fear

    • How Kelli learned to balance her intuition with navigating fear in medical settings.

    5. Healing Practices

    • The benefits of craniosacral therapy for mom and baby.

    • Embracing emotional and physical healing postpartum.

    6. Breaking Free from Expectations

    • Kelli’s journey of breaking out of people-pleasing patterns and finding her true self.

    About Kelli Moore:

    Kelli Moore is the CEO and Co-Founder of Soulfire Productions, a podcast network that amplifies powerful voices. As the host of The Naked Mama and co-host of OK, Babe, Kelli shares her raw and honest experiences of navigating motherhood, relationships, and life’s challenges.

    A former sports television professional who spent years in a male-dominated industry, Kelli overcame 15 years of chronic illness and learned to shed the societal expectations holding her back. She now helps women reclaim their inner strength, set themselves free from limiting beliefs, and embrace their authentic selves.

    Recommendations by Kelli:

    • Birthing Instincts Podcast: Listen Here

    Connect with Kelli Moore:

    • Instagram: @kellitmoore

    • Website: kellimoore.co

    • Soulfire Productions: soulfireproductionsco.com

    • The Naked Mama Podcast: Listen Here

    • OK, Babe Podcast: Listen Here

    Listen to the Episode:

    • Podcast Link: Spotify

    • Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @bornwildmidwifery

    • Facebook: Podcast Link

    Final Thoughts:

    Kelli Moore’s story is a powerful reminder to trust yourself, challenge the status quo, and embrace the messy, beautiful journey of motherhood. Whether you’re navigating medical decisions or learning to let go of societal expectations, this episode offers invaluable insights for finding your own way.

    Stay Wild 🌳