Preparing your hospital bag for labor and delivery can feel overwhelming, especially when Pinterest lists make it seem like you need to pack your entire house. In this episode of The Birth Journeys Podcast®, labor and delivery nurse Kelly Hof breaks down what you actually need in your hospital bag, what the hospital already provides, and how to avoid overpacking during pregnancy.

If you’re a first-time mom wondering:

•  What should I pack in my hospital bag? 
•  What does the hospital provide after birth? 
•  When should I pack my hospital bag? 
•  What do I really need for labor and postpartum recovery? 
•  What should I bring for baby? 

…this episode is for you.

As a labor nurse with over a decade in obstetrics, Kelly shares a realistic, minimalist hospital bag checklist that helps moms feel more calm, organized, and prepared for labor, delivery, postpartum recovery, and bringing baby home.

You’ll learn:
 ✔️ What to pack in your hospital bag for labor and delivery
 ✔️ What NOT to pack
 ✔️ What hospitals typically provide postpartum
 ✔️ Hospital bag essentials for mom and baby
 ✔️ Postpartum recovery must-haves
 ✔️ Comfort items that actually make a difference during labor
 ✔️ How overpacking can increase stress and decision fatigue
 ✔️ A simple 5-step hospital bag packing plan

This episode also covers the emotional side of birth preparation and why simplifying your hospital bag can help you feel more confident, grounded, and focused going into labor.

Whether you’re preparing for a hospital birth, creating your birth plan, or getting ready for postpartum recovery with a newborn, this episode will help you feel more prepared without the overwhelm.

✨ Download Kelly’s free Birth Plan Workshop at kellyhof.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

You’ve heard “30 seconds,” “a few minutes,” or “wait until it stops pulsing”… but how long should you actually delay cord clamping?

In this episode, we break down what the research shows, what current guidelines from American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend, and why more time isn’t always more beneficial.

You’ll learn:
 ✔️ Why at least 60 seconds is the evidence-based baseline
 ✔️ How placental transfusion works after birth
 ✔️ The real benefits for term and preterm babies
 ✔️ When delayed cord clamping may not be safe
 ✔️ How to communicate your preferences with your provider

We also cover cord blood banking, cord milking, and how to make a decision that aligns with your values.

This episode will help you move from confusion to clarity—so you can feel confident in what matters most for you and your baby.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Contractions don’t just hurt—they can trigger a full-body stress response. Many moms instinctively tense up, hold their breath, or make high-pitched sounds, which can push the nervous system into fight-or-flight and make labor feel more intense and harder to manage.

In this episode, we break down the science of labor breathing techniques and vocalization in childbirth, and how small shifts in your breath and voice can help you stay calm, grounded, and more in control during contractions.

You’ll learn how longer exhales support the parasympathetic nervous system, why oxytocin flows best when you feel safe, and how stress hormones like adrenaline can increase tension, fatigue, and pain perception in labor.

We also get very practical with coping techniques for labor, including:
• Low, grounded vocalization (humming, “oooh,” “ahhh,” or deep sounds)
• How to use your voice to relax your body and reduce tension
• What to do when deep breathing feels impossible during strong contractions
• Short inhale + long exhale strategies to stay regulated
• Lip trills (“horse lips”) to prevent breath holding and release jaw tension

These are simple, effective tools you can practice before labor so they feel natural when you need them most.

If you’re preparing for birth and want natural pain management techniques, breathing strategies, and mindset tools that actually work during labor, this episode will give you a new way to approach contractions.

✨ Subscribe, share this with a pregnant friend, and leave a review if it helped you feel more prepared.

💛 What breathing or vocalization technique are you going to practice first?

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Postpartum isn’t just physical recovery after birth, it’s the beginning of becoming a mother. In this episode, we talk about what postpartum really feels like and why so many women feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unlike themselves after having a baby.

If you felt prepared for birth but unprepared for postpartum, you are not alone. Many new moms experience intense changes, including hormone shifts, sleep deprivation, and pressure to feel confident. This can lead to thoughts like “something is wrong with me,” which often fuels anxiety, self-doubt, and shame.

We break down the difference between normal postpartum adjustment and signs of postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression, including persistent worry, intrusive thoughts, hopelessness, or feeling disconnected, and when to seek support.

We also introduce matrescence, or “the birth of a mother,” to explain the rapid identity shift that affects your body, emotions, relationships, and sense of self.

You will learn simple tools to manage overwhelming moments, including grounding techniques, breathwork, and understanding emotional waves.

Whether you are pregnant or navigating life with a newborn, this episode will help you feel more informed, supported, and confident.

Keywords: postpartum recovery, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, matrescence, new mom, life after baby, birth preparation

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

How do you mentally prepare for labor — not just physically, but emotionally?

Many pregnant women spend months creating a birth plan and learning about labor positions, breathing, and hospital policies. But one of the most important parts of childbirth preparation is often missing: how you show up for the experience of labor itself.

In this episode of The Birth Journeys Podcast, labor and delivery nurse Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM, shares a powerful conversation with mentor Neri Life Choma, veteran childbirth educator, doula trainer, and founder of the Birth Coach Method.

Together they explore the inner game of childbirth — the mindset and internal motivations that help mothers navigate the intensity of labor with confidence instead of fear.

Birth is often described as “natural,” but that message can be misleading. Like running a marathon, childbirth is an intense physical and emotional experience that benefits from intentional preparation and nervous system training.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• Why natural childbirth is often misunderstood
 • The difference between external and internal motivations in birth
 • How fear affects both medical teams and birthing mothers
 • Why childbirth preparation goes beyond information and birth plans
 • How prenatal coaching helps mothers work with their bodies during labor

If you're pregnant and preparing for birth, this conversation will help you think about labor preparation in a completely new way.

Connect with Neri Life Choma at https://birthcoachmethod.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Preparing Your Older Child for Labor and a New Baby

If you're pregnant with baby number two (or more) and wondering how to prepare your older child for labor, the hospital, and life with a new sibling — this episode is for you.

What happens to your toddler when labor starts?
 What if childcare falls through?
 Should your older child come to the hospital?
 How do you prevent sibling jealousy after baby arrives?

As a labor and delivery nurse and mom of two, I walk you through how to prepare your older child for labor in a way that feels calm, realistic, and emotionally safe — for both of you.

In this mini-episode, we cover:

• How to create a clear labor childcare plan
 • What to do if labor starts unexpectedly
 • How to talk to your child about birth in age-appropriate language
 • Whether siblings can be present during labor or in the hospital
 • The most important thing to do when your older child meets the baby
 • How to reduce sibling jealousy after bringing baby home
 • Simple ways to help your older child feel included without pressure
 • How to handle regression, clinginess, or big emotions postpartum

You’ll learn practical strategies supported by pediatric and child mental health guidance to help your older child adjust to a new baby without guilt, chaos, or heartbreak.

Preparing siblings for a new baby isn’t about forcing excitement. It’s about building emotional safety, predictability, and connection before labor begins — so everyone feels more secure when the family grows.

If you’d like the notes from this episode, including simple scripts and a checklist you can use, visit the show notes or follow the link in the description.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

The first days of feeding a newborn can feel like a test you didn’t study for: alarms go off every two hours, pumps take over your counter, and every ounce feels like a verdict. We open up about low milk supply, the pull to “keep trying,” and the quiet relief that comes from choosing what actually works for your baby and your life. No shaming, no perfect-parent script—just honest stories and practical paths forward.

We dig into the real costs of chasing a plan that doesn’t fit: hours spent researching pumps and flanges, returning to shift work with a cooler bag in hand, and the mental math of leaving tables to pump in cramped back offices. There’s room here for the science and the context. Breast milk has well-documented benefits, yes, and there are safe, tested alternatives when your body says not today. We talk donor milk banks, how formula has evolved, and why cow’s milk shouldn’t replace breast milk or formula before age one. Along the way we unpack the long, messy history of feeding trends and remind ourselves that pressure often hides behind the word “support.”

The heart of the conversation is a mindset shift: do the best you can with the resources you have right now and let that be perfect. That means asking your pediatrician for alternatives if advice doesn’t fit your reality. It means measuring success by a fed baby, a calmer home, and a parent who still feels like a person. You’re not required to carry a story about what would have happened 200 years ago. You are allowed to choose the option that keeps your family steady today.

If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a kinder take on newborn feeding, and leave a quick review to help more parents find us. Your stories help others breathe easier—what choice brought you peace?

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

A healthy baby and a healthy mom can still leave a complicated story behind. We open the door to a birth that didn’t follow the plan: an epidural that didn’t work, Pitocin contractions that crashed like waves, and a mind trying to keep pace with a body doing the unimaginable. What sounded like chaos turns out to be wisdom—instinctive movement that helped a baby rotate and descend, progress made in spite of pain, and a partner steadying the room when words ran out.

Together we examine where control slipped and why that matters. We talk plainly about augmentation, how to assess whether an epidural is effective, and when dialing back Pitocin should be on the table. We explore the emotional fallout of early moments—jealousy when a partner holds the baby first, the sting of being told rather than asked, the reality of stitches and exhaustion. Along the way, we track how hospital culture is changing, from the golden hour of skin-to-skin to more thoughtful language that invites consent and restores agency.

This isn’t a tidy highlight reel. It’s a reframed narrative that honors labor as both physical work and emotional landscape. If your birth story still makes your throat tighten, you’re not broken—you’re human. Come hear how naming the moment things went sideways can loosen the knot, how instinct deserves credit, and how small shifts in communication can transform the way we remember meeting our children. If this conversation helps you see your own story with kinder eyes, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a quick review to help more parents find their footing.

Listen to the full episode where Erin Hall shares her birth stories here: https://www.thebirthjourneyspodcast.com/hurricanes-epidurals-and-holding-on-with-erin-hall/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

A hurricane on the horizon, contractions five minutes apart, and a quick detour through a Chick-fil-A drive-thru—Erin’s first birth story doesn’t read like any class manual. What followed was a long labor, Pitocin without pain relief when an epidural failed, and a body contorting into whatever position brought a sliver of relief. When the anesthesiologist finally got it right and her waters were broken, everything shifted—one push and Kylie arrived. Together we unpack why that experience felt traumatic, how back labor can hint at a sunny-side-up baby, and why instinctive movement often becomes the most powerful tool you have.

The second time was a different world. Early March 2020, open triage bays, “flu” precautions that turned out to be COVID, and a race to get an epidural before the cutoff. Her water broke at home, the pressure told the real story, and a few pushes later, Kason was here. We compare what changed—baby position, timing, hospital flow, mindset—and explore the myth that a smooth birth equals success while a hard birth equals failure. Birth plans help, but listening to your body, asking for options, and protecting your headspace matter more.

We also go deep on postpartum truths: breastfeeding pressure versus low supply, family history that reframes expectations, and the permission to choose formula or donor milk without shame. Erin talks candidly about body image, the relief of having her partner home during lockdown, and how building Bump and Beyond became a lifeline for parents who need more than advice—they need a village. If you’ve ever felt out of control, second-guessed every choice, or wondered whether you did enough, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs reassurance, and leave a review telling us one belief about birth or postpartum you’re ready to let go. Your story can help someone else find theirs.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Control doesn’t create a meaningful birth experience—clarity does. We dive into the real purpose of a birth plan and show how to turn a rigid checklist into a living compass that anchors your values, guides decisions, and strengthens partnership with your care team. Instead of chasing a “perfect” script, we focus on agency, communication, and the skills that keep you grounded when labor takes an unexpected turn.

We trace the history of birth plans from the natural birth movement to modern templates and unpack how the purpose got lost. You’ll hear a reality check on pain management—what hospitals actually offer, how relief varies, and why unmedicated goals can morph into pressure. We lay out practical prep for coping: breathwork, positions, movement, mindset, and the environmental choices that help you feel safe. Then we dismantle the myth that staff are responsible for your experience and replace it with a model of partnership in which you lead with your voice while your team supports with expertise.

To move from scattered preferences to a cohesive vision, we offer coaching questions that clarify what you want to feel, which choices matter most, what’s in your control, and who needs to be aligned—your provider, partner, and doula. This value-first approach reduces confusion, improves decision-making under stress, and lowers the risk of birth trauma by keeping you informed, respected, and engaged. By the end, you’ll have a framework to document preferences with purpose and the confidence to adapt without self-blame.

If this resonates, share it with a friend who’s building a birth plan, subscribe for more coaching-led birth prep, and leave a quick review to tell us which question shifted your mindset.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Most moms are scared of labor because no one ever explains what the sensations actually feel like. So today, we’re breaking it down — in real, simple, honest terms.

In this video, we talk about:
 ✨ What early labor really feels like
 ✨ How contractions change as your body opens
 ✨ Why pelvic pressure feels so intense (and why it’s GOOD)
 ✨ The emotional “crisis moments” that happen right before progress
 ✨ How to reframe sensations so you feel confident instead of scared

When you understand what’s happening in your body, labor stops feeling like something to fear — and starts feeling like something you can move with.

If you want the notes from this video (including the labor sensation guide + the self-coaching prompts), comment NOTES below and I’ll send them to you. 💛

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Birth often feels like a test you can fail, even when you and your baby are healthy. We tackle the missing support layer that changes that feeling: prenatal coaching that builds a grounded mindset, clear communication, and a flexible plan you can trust when things get real.

We start by naming the gap most parents feel between medical safety and emotional steadiness. I walk through how prenatal coaching complements your OB, midwife, nurses, and doula by focusing on beliefs, boundaries, and language. Together, we surface the quiet stories—like “natural is the only good birth” or “if I plan hard enough, I can control everything”—and gently replace them with thoughts that match your values. You’ll hear how to craft a birth vision that guides decisions without boxing you in when clinical realities change.

From there, we practice power-sharing with providers so consent becomes a conversation. I share simple, high-impact questions that help you pause, understand risks and benefits, and consider options without escalating conflict. We dig into what reduces emotional birth trauma: asking for explanations when safe, naming your preferences, and learning grounding tools that work in triage or transition. I also clarify what a prenatal coach does and doesn’t do—I’m not diagnosing or changing meds; I’m your thinking partner before birth and a steady guide in the debrief after.

If you’ve felt anxious at appointments, stuck between induction and waiting, wondering about epidurals or VBAC, or carrying a hard first birth into a new pregnancy, this conversation offers a way forward. You’ll leave with language to advocate, a mindset that lowers shame, and a vision that helps you feel like the leader of your birth story. If you want the detailed notes with questions to ask, common beliefs to revisit, and prompts to start your birth vision, comment “notes” and I’ll send them your way. Like what you heard? Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Your prenatal care should feel calm, respectful, and evidence-based—yet many of us hit a point where advice from a provider doesn’t match what we’ve learned or what our gut is telling us. That moment is disorienting. We break down why it feels so heavy, how to get grounded fast, and the practical steps to find alignment without burning bridges.

We start by naming the emotional waves that follow a shaken trust: fear that you’re missing something, grief for the relationship you thought you had, and the stress of choices you didn’t expect to make late in pregnancy. From there, we anchor to ACOG standards—the baseline for safe, evidence-based care—and highlight five clear red flags: recommendations that don’t align with guidance, dismissive responses to questions, a tone shift toward rigidity near your due date, inconsistent information inside a group practice, and that loud, unsettled intuition after appointments.

You’ll get simple, powerful scripts to slow things down in the room: ask for the medical reasoning, whether the advice is individualized or a policy, and whether there’s time to think before deciding. We talk through the “middle space” between staying and switching—how to sit with your feelings, confirm the guideline, and plan one focused follow-up conversation that can restore trust or confirm misalignment. If a switch becomes the right move, we share how parents successfully transition even late in pregnancy, how to transfer records smoothly, and how to reframe the change as moving toward the birth experience you want and deserve.

By the end, you’ll trust your intuition as data, know how to compare recommendations to ACOG guidance, and feel confident seeking a second opinion or a new provider when needed. If this helped, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a review telling us which question you’ll bring to your next prenatal visit.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Birth feels different when the room feels safe. We dig into how to choose a doula by focusing on connection, clarity, and calm rather than running a rigid checklist. Instead of quizzing someone for the “right” answers, we map the questions that actually reveal fit: their vibe during intensity, their range across home and hospital births, and how they help you stay informed without pushing an agenda. If your goal is a steadier nervous system and a smoother decision path, this conversation gives you the language to get there.

We break down what to ask and why it matters: how they describe their style, the types of births they’ve supported, their comfort with inductions and c-sections, and how they collaborate with nurses and providers when decisions move quickly. You’ll hear how to screen for flexibility and respect for your choices, plus the cues that signal a red flag—like fighting the hospital rather than helping you navigate it. We also cover communication plans, on-call timing, when they typically join you in labor, and how they include partners so your support team works as one.

Backups and advocacy round it out. You’ll learn how to ask about backup doulas and why a quick intro can ease last-minute stress. Then we define real advocacy in the hospital: making space for your voice, slowing moments for consent, and protecting your presence without speaking over others. By the end, you’ll know which few questions to ask, what a good answer sounds like, and how to trust the feeling in your body when the fit is right. If you’re planning a hospital birth, exploring unmedicated options, or anywhere in between, this guide helps you choose support that aligns with your values.

If this helped you get clear, follow the show, share it with someone planning their birth, and leave a quick review so others can find it. And if you want my notes from this video, comment “notes” below.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

The holidays ask a lot from anyone, and even more from someone navigating pregnancy or early postpartum. Between loud rooms, strong smells, and a conveyor belt of opinions about your body and your baby, your nervous system can hit overload fast. We dive into why this happens, how to spot it sooner, and the exact words you can use to step away without guilt or drama.

You’ll hear our favorite “golden ticket” exit lines that protect your peace while sounding perfectly reasonable to family and friends. For pregnancy, phrases like I’m exhausted, I need to lie down for a bit or These smells are overwhelming, I’m going to get some fresh air let you reset before stress spikes. For postpartum, baby-centered lines such as Baby needs to feed somewhere quiet or It’s getting too stimulating for the baby create space for both of you to breathe. We also share boundary scripts for classic comments like Are you sure you should eat that? and You look ready to pop, using neutral redirects, the expert card, humor that disarms, and firm shutdowns for repeat offenders.

We close with clean, kind ways to leave early—We’re heading home, I’m at my limit today, My body’s telling me it needs rest—so you can honor your limits without overexplaining. The goal isn’t to win debates; it’s to protect your energy, reduce overstimulation, and keep your mental health front and center during a season that can quickly become too much. If you’re ready to choose calm over chaos and practice self-trust in real time, this one’s for you.

If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs permission to leave early, and leave a quick review telling us which script you’ll try first. Your peace matters—let’s protect it together.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When contractions hit and the baby feels low, the last thing any parent needs is a clipboard. We walk through the legal protections that guarantee timely care under EMTALA and translate them into practical steps you can use the moment you arrive at the hospital in labor. From spotting red flags of imminent birth to understanding exactly what “medical screening exam” and “stabilizing care” should look like, we break complex policy into clear, actionable moves that keep you and your baby safe.

You’ll hear a grounded, real-world analysis of a widely shared ER incident and why it mattered—not for outrage, but as a lesson in what to demand. We share concise scripts your partner can read verbatim to activate the right team fast: how to ask for the labor and delivery charge nurse, how to request an OB rapid response, and what to say if anyone prioritizes paperwork over care. We also cover what to prepare now: a phone note titled “Hospital: My Rights In Labor,” a simple printed card to hand over if you can’t speak, and smart questions to ask your provider about emergency workflows and who moves you to labor and delivery.

We speak directly to Black mothers and families about the documented risks of delayed care and minimized pain, offering tools to be heard the first time. The goal isn’t fear—it’s confidence. With a few phrases, a plan, and a clear understanding of your rights, you can turn confusion into momentum and make the hospital work for you when minutes matter.

If this helped, subscribe, share with a parent-to-be, and leave a review with the one phrase you’re saving to your phone. Your story could help someone get the care they’re owed.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Birth can be both clinical and deeply human, and few moments capture that better than a planned C-section. I wanted to remove the mystery and the fear, so I walk you step by step through what it actually feels like—from walking into a bright, cold OR to hearing that first cry and settling into recovery with your baby. This is not theory; it’s a grounded, nurse-led guide to sensations, timelines, and choices that help you feel safe and in control.

I start with the spinal: what the quick pinch feels like, how the warmth spreads, and why numbness without sharp pain lets you stay awake and present. You’ll learn how the team preps your abdomen, places the drape, and runs a safety timeout that confirms your identity and plan. Then I get honest about the odd but normal feelings during surgery—deep pressure, tugging, and that famous “doing dishes in my belly” sensation—as the team guides your baby to the incision. I cover cord clamping timing, the brief handoff to the NICU nurse, and options for skin to skin while your surgeon completes the careful, longer closure of the uterus, fascia, and skin.

Recovery gets equal attention. I explain the first two hours in the PACU, why shivering and itching can happen, how often your uterus is checked, and how early mobility lowers clot risk and eases gas pain. You’ll hear practical tips on feeding, pain management, and what soreness and tightness feel like in the first days. Throughout, I keep the focus on respect, safety, and choice, rooted in real clinical steps and clear language.

If you or someone you love is preparing for a C-section, this walkthrough turns the unknown into a map. Listen, share with a partner, and save it for the big day. If you want the deeper dive on anesthesia from Dr. Bella Spate, comment “podcast” below for the link—and don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review to help others find this birth resource.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Making informed decisions for your newborn can feel overwhelming—especially when advice around routine procedures like the vitamin K shot seems contradictory. As a labor nurse and mom, I created this episode to cut through the noise with evidence, empathy, and respect for your values.

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, and all newborns—no matter how healthy the pregnancy—are born with very low levels, about 1/50th of what adults have. The shot offers protection during those early months when even a small internal bleed could become serious. While VKDB is rare (about 1 in 6,000 without supplementation), it can be devastating when it occurs.

We dive into questions parents often wrestle with: If low vitamin K is natural, why intervene? What about ingredients like polysorbate 80? Doesn’t breast milk provide everything? Is oral vitamin K effective? Will the shot interrupt bonding? Each concern is explored with up-to-date research, clinical insight, and compassion.

We also reflect on the emotional and spiritual side. For families concerned about faith or natural design, we consider how human babies—perfect but not fully self-sufficient—may reflect a need for care that honors both science and spirituality.

To close, I walk you through the BRAIN model (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, and doing Nothing) so you can sort through your options with clarity, not fear. Whether you choose the shot, explore alternatives, or take another path, what matters most is that your decision feels informed and aligned.

💬 Want support navigating birth decisions? Book a free birth vision call at kellyhof.com and discover how transformational prenatal coaching can help you prepare with peace of mind.

P.S. If you hear thunder in the background, don’t worry—it was just me recording during a storm! ⚡🎙️

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Alex Wachelka predicted her third baby would arrive on December 15th—despite professionals insisting otherwise—her intuition was right. But the path to that moment wasn’t easy.

After two very different births—one at a birth center and one rapid home birth—Alex expected another fast delivery. Instead, she faced twelve hours of annoying, spaced-out contractions that woke her up every 10 minutes. It wasn’t until she voiced her frustration to her husband that everything shifted. In releasing her fears and feeling truly supported, her labor transformed—and her baby arrived just one hour later, exactly on the date she predicted.

In this episode, Alex shares her third birth story and how it deepened her belief in the mind-body connection. She also talks about her work as an IBCLC and certified nutrition coach, helping moms with everything from breastfeeding challenges to postpartum recovery through programs like her “Boob Ease” mastitis support and “Baby’s First Year” coaching.

Whether you’re preparing for birth or navigating motherhood, this conversation is a powerful reminder to trust your body, trust your instincts, and lean into support.

Connect with Alex here: https://motherhoodbloomslactation.com/

Order the Juice Plus supplements we talked about here:
🇨🇦 Canada → alexwachelka.juiceplus.com
🇺🇸 U.S. → kellyhof.juiceplus.com

Listen to Alex's Lactation Land Podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/lactation-land-podcast/id1670469213

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Navigating the search for your perfect birth doula can feel overwhelming. How do you find someone who aligns with your vision, fits your budget, and helps you feel secure during one of life’s most vulnerable moments?

Drawing from over a decade of obstetric nursing experience, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about finding the right doula for YOU. This isn’t about trends or checking boxes—it’s about building a support system that honors your unique journey.

We’ll start by clarifying what doulas actually do (and don’t do), and bust a few common myths. Whether you're planning an unmedicated birth, hoping for an epidural, or scheduling a cesarean, doulas support all birth paths—without judgment. They don’t replace your partner or provider—they enhance your whole team.

The key to finding your perfect match is understanding your own needs first. I’ll walk you through powerful reflection questions about the energy you want in your birth space, how you handle stress, and the role you want your partner to play. That clarity becomes your compass during doula interviews.

Worried about cost? I share practical strategies to make doula care more accessible, from payment plans to possible insurance or TRICARE coverage.

Interviewing doulas doesn’t have to feel awkward or scary. I give you thoughtful questions to ask about their approach, their experience with different birth scenarios, and how they work with hospital staff. Plus, I cover key red flags—so you don’t end up with someone pushing their own agenda.

Even if hiring a doula isn’t an option right now, I’ll offer supportive alternatives to help you feel calm and confident walking into birth.

Your birth experience matters. Choosing support that fits you isn’t being picky—it’s powerful. Schedule a free Birth Vision Call at kellyhof.com and let’s talk about creating the empowered experience you deserve.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

The 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.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

One Way or a Mother is a new narrative podcast from Dr. Elliot Berlin, DC, host of The Informed Pregnancy Podcast. Each season is an intimate story of one woman, one pregnancy, and all of the preparations, emotions, and personal history leading up to the birth. Episodes feature the expectant mother along with her family, doctors, and birth work team.

In season one of OWAM, we meet Arianna who is pregnant with her second baby after a traumatic first birth experience. Follow along over 10 episodes as we hear her tell her story. She’s a mother of one who is seeking new resources and using learned life lessons to create a different, more positive birth experience for baby number two. Episodes feature Arianna and her inner circle including her mother, husband, doula, doctor, and other birth professionals who supported her process.

One Way or a Mother is an Informed Pregnancy Media original series. Season one is presented by Mahmee.

Expert care, every stage.

Meet your team of doulas, nurses, lactation consultants, and more. One team caring for the whole you. Covered by most insurance plans. Check your eligibility today at mahmee.com.

******

One Way or a Mother is an Informed Pregnancy Media original series. Season one is presented by @joinmahmee.

Curves ahead: Episodes 1-3 are now live wherever you listen!

🚘 #OWAM Episode 1: Filmmaker Arianna welcomes us into her world and details her dreams for the birth of her second child after a traumatic first delivery.

🚘 #OWAM Episode 2: Husband Zach joins Arianna in telling their origin story including pandemic panic and loaded decisions about their first birth plan.

🚘 #OWAM Episode 3: Arianna discusses how she began laboring at home with a midwife for her first birth...until things took an unexpected turn.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

"Congratulations, you're both alive." 

This shockingly low bar for maternal healthcare success reveals everything wrong with how America treats new mothers. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Venice Haynes, Senior Director of Research and Community Engagement at United States of Care, shares the urgent mission behind the groundbreaking 100 Weeks Project - an initiative transforming postpartum care by acknowledging that maternal health needs extend far beyond delivery.

Dr. Haynes pulls back the curtain on America's maternal health crisis, sharing both data and personal stories that highlight the dangerous gap in care during the postpartum period. Most new mothers don't see a healthcare provider between delivery and their six-week checkup, despite the fact that over 60% of maternal deaths occur within the first seven days after birth. This negligence reflects a healthcare system that continues to treat new mothers as afterthoughts.

The cultural expectation of "toxic independence" compounds this crisis. Mothers are expected to handle everything themselves, creating a dangerous reluctance to seek help even when warning signs appear. Meanwhile, essential postpartum services like lactation consulting, pelvic floor physical therapy, and mental health support remain categorized as luxuries rather than necessities, placing them out of reach for many families.

Through the 100 Weeks Project, Dr. Haynes and her team are working to fundamentally reimagine maternal care by 2030. By advocating for expanded Medicaid coverage, better employer policies, improved data collection, and innovative care models, they aim to create a future where maternal health is truly valued - not just for the six weeks after delivery, but for the entire journey through parenthood.

What would it look like if we treated mothers like they matter? Listen now to discover how we can transform maternal care from a bare-minimum survival scenario to a truly supportive experience for all.

Learn more here: https://100weeks.unitedstatesofcare.org/p/1

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

From personal birth trauma to revolutionary solutions for laboring mothers—this conversation with Marya Eddaifi reveals how innovative manual techniques are changing birth outcomes worldwide.

Marya's journey begins with her own disappointing cesarean birth in 1995, a catalyst that eventually led her to become a labor and delivery nurse determined to find better ways to support women through childbirth. After nearly 24 years in the US Air Force and experience across four countries, Marya's quest to understand why some labors stall led her to a profound discovery: the critical role of fascia—our body's connective tissue system—in birth progress.

The conversation takes us through her revelations about positioning, manual techniques, and the strategic approach to helping babies navigate the maternal pelvis. With fascinating insights into techniques like side-lying release and Walchers position explained from both anatomical and practical perspectives, Marya breaks down complex biomechanics into actionable approaches that can help prevent cesarean deliveries.

What makes this episode especially valuable is Marya's explanation of her groundbreaking Dysfunctional Labor Maneuvers (DLM) app—an affordable, accessible tool that brings her expertise to birth professionals and laboring parents worldwide. Through an innovative algorithm, the app provides customized guidance based on labor status, dilation, and specific challenges, with easy-to-follow video demonstrations for immediate application.

Whether you're a birth professional seeking new tools for your practice or an expectant parent wanting to understand more options for labor support, this conversation offers a revolutionary perspective on addressing labor challenges through understanding the body's intricate design rather than defaulting to medical interventions. Mariah's passion for improving birth experiences while respecting individual needs shines through every minute of this enlightening discussion.

Connect with Marya

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Laci Tang experienced painful breastfeeding with her first child, she had no idea it would launch her into a career transforming how mothers receive lactation support. Her journey from anxious first-time mom to innovative IBCLC offers a much-needed blueprint for better postpartum care.

Birthing at a midwifery center opened Laci’s eyes to a different kind of care—one where she was listened to, believed, and supported in finding real solutions. After navigating tongue ties, low supply, mastitis, and then oversupply with her second baby, she realized how vital individualized support is for breastfeeding success.

What makes her practice, Milk in Motion, stand out isn’t just her expertise—it’s her commitment to personalized care. “There has never been a single dyad, a mom and baby team, that has been exactly like the one before,” she says. Her innovative “pump bar” lets moms test different breast pumps before investing, solving a common frustration many face.

Laci also speaks openly about her own postpartum anxiety—from intrusive thoughts to fears about her baby’s safety—reminding moms they’re not alone. Her story shows that mental health and feeding support go hand in hand.

Whether you’re expecting or currently struggling, Laci’s story is proof that the right support can shift your journey from overwhelm to empowerment.

Connect with Laci: https://www.milkinmotion.co/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milkinmotion.co/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Dr. Elliot Berlin transforms how we view childbirth, challenging the check-box mentality that leaves many parents feeling they've failed when birth veers from their rigid plans. Through our conversation, he introduces a revolutionary alternative: approaching birth planning as a flow chart with multiple potential pathways rather than a single desired route.

The discussion delves into the delicate balance between modern medical systems and our innate bodily wisdom. As Dr. Berlin explains, "You're not driving a precision automobile, you're in a hot air balloon" – a perfect metaphor for the need to surrender some control while maintaining agency during birth. His insights on choosing birth environments are particularly illuminating: "If you're buying a hospital ticket, you're going on a hospital ride," highlighting how critical it is to select providers and settings aligned with your birth philosophy.

Perhaps most eye-opening is the exploration of how cultural disconnection from natural birth has left us with only dramatized media portrayals as reference points. This cultural void creates unnecessary fear and unrealistic expectations. Dr. Berlin compares it to forming impressions about air travel solely from disaster movies – we'd be terrified to fly if our only exposure came from Hollywood!

The conversation also explores the disappearing art of vaginal breech delivery and how chiropractic care creates optimal conditions for babies to assume head-down positions naturally. Dr. Berlin's holistic approach addresses not just physical alignment but the emotional journey through pregnancy and birth.

Whether you're planning your first birth or processing a previous experience, this episode offers profound wisdom to help you navigate choices with confidence and flexibility. Follow Dr. Berlin's new podcast "One Way or a Mother" for deep-dive birth stories told across multiple episodes, and explore resources at informedpregnancy.com.

Check out Dr. Berlin on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorberlin/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

🎙️ Special Podcasthon Episode: Breaking Barriers in Birth Work with the BeboMia Doula Scholarship

This Birth Journeys Podcast® episode is part of Podcasthon, a global movement uniting podcasters to spotlight impactful causes. We’re shining a light on the BeboMia Doula Scholarship Program, which provides essential training to those who wouldn’t otherwise have access, transforming birth experiences worldwide.

Birth educator and doula trainer Bianca Sprague shares how birth experiences shape parenthood, yet modern healthcare often prioritizes efficiency over personalized care. Doulas bridge this gap, advocating for birthing people, supporting partners, and ensuring all families receive respectful, individualized care—regardless of background.

Through BeboMia’s Scholarship Program, Bianca has helped train thousands of birth workers, awarding over $350,000 in tuition assistance across 50+ countries. These scholarships combat disparities in maternal health by expanding access to culturally competent care—ensuring that support is available where it’s needed most.

"My goal is to empower women and queer folks, and I chose to do it through doula training." — Bianca Sprague

🎧 Listen now to learn how BeboMia is transforming birth work!
 

Visit BeboMia

Learn more about the BeboMia Doula Scholarship

Donate to the BeboMia Doula Scholarship Program

Grab your Birthworker SWAG - proceeds go to the doula scholarship program

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

What if the journey from womanhood to motherhood offered more transformation than you ever imagined? Join us in a heartwarming episode with Khyati Desai-Seltzer, a mompreneur with a passion for social impact, as she recounts how her own birth stories, including an unexpected cesarean delivery, propelled her into a world of empowerment and community support for new parents. Dive into Khyati's personal experiences with the invaluable support of a doula, as she shares the challenges and triumphs of the fourth trimester. Her transformative path reshaped not only her personal life but also her professional endeavors, spotlighting the importance of advocacy and nurturing environments for mothers.

Uncover the powerful benefits of baby massage, a practice Kiaty champions through her venture, Vyana Infant Massage. This episode offers a glimpse into the immediate and long-term advantages of fostering a touch-positive atmosphere, teaching consent, and nurturing healthy touch within families. From improved sleep for infants to stronger parent-child bonds and mental health support, Khyati’s insights reveal how touch can transform emotional well-being and family dynamics. We also explore the broader societal impact of nurturing touch, emphasizing how it contributes to healthier relationships and emotional security from an early age.

Our conversation with Khyati doesn’t stop with individual practices; it extends into the broader need for community support. Drawing inspiration from global postpartum customs, we explore modern solutions that can help new mothers thrive, such as virtual villages and shared knowledge platforms. Highlighting the significance of self-advocacy and education in healthcare, we champion the idea of seasoned mothers mentoring newcomers, ensuring that no parent feels alone in their journey. This episode is an inspiring call to action, encouraging society to support new moms and celebrate the power of community, touch, and transformation in motherhood.

Connect with Khyati at vyanainfantmassage.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Imagine facing the transformative journey of motherhood armed with the insights you wish you'd known before your first contraction. Our latest episode in the Birth Journeys podcast, part of the Pearls of Wisdom series, does just that by unwrapping the wisdom shared by mothers who've navigated the unpredictable, often challenging experiences of childbirth. We promise to equip you with not only practical tips on managing societal pressures and preconceived notions about natural birth, akin to preparing for a marathon, but also to highlight the significance of staying flexible with your birth plans and the supportive role of tools like epidurals.

In candid conversations, we’re joined by guests Emily Finnell, Natalie Davis, Stefanie Fernandes, and Alex Wachelka, who lay bare the emotional and psychological transitions they experienced during pregnancy and postpartum life. Their stories reveal the power of trusting one's instincts, embracing vulnerability, and overcoming the unrealistic expectations placed upon new mothers. You'll hear about the importance of self-belief, asking for help, and how these insights can serve as a comforting guide through the complexities of early motherhood, offering reassurance that you are not alone in this journey.

As we navigate the early days of parenthood, Jenna Hodge, Amy Suzanne, and Marie Carle share invaluable lessons on self-compassion and balance. Their wisdom sheds light on life's temporary seasons, reminding us to focus on manageable aspects, trust the unfolding path, and cherish fleeting moments with our young ones. From the importance of rest to listening to our instincts, these conversations emphasize the beauty of imperfection in parenting and inspire confidence in trusting our inner voices throughout the adventure of raising children. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of motherhood's challenges and triumphs, as we learn to embrace the journey with courage and grace with additional wisdom from Neri Life Choma, Wendy Powell, Steph Sellen, Devin Garcia, Elise Nicole Kirkpatrick, Brigette Panetta, Maja Miller, Dr. Michelle Gerbi, Kiona Nessenbaum, and Emmy Kissinger.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Natalie Davis, a passionate advocate for maternal healthcare reform, joins us to share her journey and groundbreaking work with the 100 Weeks initiative. Natalie’s personal experiences, from navigating the challenges of preterm labor to working in healthcare policy at the forefront of the Obama administration, offer a compelling narrative. Through candid storytelling, she reflects on how these experiences shaped her commitment to extending postpartum support for mothers beyond the standard timeline.

Listeners are invited to explore the highs and lows of pregnancy and childbirth, including Natalie's frank discussion on the emotional and physical demands faced by mothers. She opens up about the profound learnings from her own unconventional birthing experiences, which included navigating labor pains using natural techniques and the unexpected desire for epidural assistance during placenta delivery. Natalie’s story of her child’s en caul birth serves as a powerful metaphor for new beginnings and the awe-inspiring journey of motherhood.

We also spotlight Natalie’s professional dedication to healthcare policy reform. Her leadership at the United States of Care and the 100 Weeks Project highlights the urgent need for comprehensive postpartum care. This episode underscores the crucial role of effective patient-provider communication and the transformative impact of accessible maternal health services. 

Connect with Natalie: https://unitedstatesofcare.org/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Wendy Powell, founder and CEO of Mutu System, first grappled with postpartum challenges, she unknowingly began a journey to revolutionize women's health conversations globally. In our latest episode, Wendy joins us to share her insights on the often-overlooked aspects of perinatal pelvic health and its profound effect on women's lives. Together, we explore the intricacies of dealing with issues like incontinence and prolapse, which extend beyond mere physical discomfort and touch upon deeper aspects like self-esteem and social participation. Wendy's collaboration with health insurers and hygiene companies globally underscores the pressing need for a holistic healthcare approach, particularly in regions like the U.S., where women's health issues are still under-researched.

Imagine feeling shame and defeat when a birth plan doesn't go as anticipated. This episode tackles the emotional complexities of childbirth, especially the concept of birth shame that plagues many women. Medical interventions, though sometimes necessary, can leave mothers feeling disempowered and disconnected. We dive into the lack of postpartum support and address how dismissive attitudes within the medical community can stall recovery. By sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights, we aim to empower women with knowledge and support, helping them regain confidence in their postpartum bodies.

Bringing to light the challenges of pelvic floor health and its accessibility, we discuss the essential yet often inaccessible therapies needed for recovery. Wendy and I emphasize the importance of understanding our bodies as a cohesive unit, advocating for practical and personalized approaches to health. Through heartfelt stories and expert advice, we paint a picture of non-linear recovery journeys, highlighting how both surgical and non-surgical methods can help reclaim strength post-birth. This episode is a call to action for comprehensive care, where women's voices are heard, and their postpartum journey is fully supported.

Ready to start your pelvic health journey with MUTU System? Click here!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Discover the underestimated power of progesterone with Dr. Shweta Patel, an OBGYN and women's health expert, who shines a light on its critical role in pregnancy and beyond. Gain insights into how this often-overlooked hormone supports everything from the menstrual cycle to postpartum health. Dr. Patel demystifies the scientific intricacies of progesterone, tracing its journey from conception to its protective functions during early pregnancy and its importance in postpartum birth control choices.

Navigate the cognitive whirlwind that new mothers face, as we unpack the hormonal rollercoaster that can leave many feeling foggy and overwhelmed. Through heartfelt anecdotes and expert advice, Dr. Patel illuminates the need for societal empathy and celebrates the resilience of mothers adapting to their transformative roles. Addressing the impact of hormonal shifts on mental clarity, we discuss the pressures of motherhood and the importance of support systems to ease this challenging transition.

Laugh along with us as we tackle the quirkier side of hormone research, dive into the complexities of hormone testing, and tease the rich content of Dr. Patel's upcoming book on women's health. From postpartum depression treatments to the importance of empowering women with knowledge, this episode covers a spectrum of hormonal health topics with a touch of humor. Whether you're intrigued by hormone dynamics or seeking advice on maternal health, this conversation promises to enlighten and entertain.

Grab The Book of Hormones here: https://amzn.to/4fjj6L1

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Emily Finnell returns to the podcast, sharing her deeply personal and emotional journey through the postpartum phase of motherhood. With a background as a certified HeartMath coach and former special education teacher, Emily opens up about the emotional turbulence she faced post-C-section, grappling with isolation, self-doubt, and societal pressures that often push new mothers to "bounce back" too quickly. Through candid conversations, we explore how connecting with one's own body can bring peace and alignment, and Emily shares the tools she developed to cultivate self-trust and well-being in both parenting and personal relationships.

Listeners are introduced to the transformative practice of embracing and naming emotions aloud—a potent method for navigating the intense feelings that arise during motherhood. Emily shares how acknowledging emotions without getting lost in their narrative can lead to clarity and calmness, even in high-stress situations. We also discuss the importance of community support and its impact on mental health, contrasting the security found in shared experiences with the isolation that can occur without a supportive network.

Emily's insights extend to the power of heart coherence, emphasizing personal empowerment rather than controlling others. She shares a heart coherence exercise, illustrating its benefits in everyday life, such as setting boundaries or calming heated discussions. The conversation moves towards accepting a "new normal" after life changes, with Emily introducing her coaching services and courses aimed at helping individuals align with their purpose through somatic and emotional work. From the spontaneous formation of friendships through "stroller chasing" to the significance of small supportive actions, this episode highlights the resilience and growth possible through intentional efforts and community support.

Connect with Emily: https://www.emilyfinnell.com/

Get in Emily’s Unstuck Program: https://www.emilyfinnell.com/Unstuck

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

What happens when your carefully laid plans take an unexpected turn? Jennifer Bernardo, author of "Week 26," brings us into her world as she shares the complexities of premature birth and the NICU journey. Rushed to the hospital at just 26 weeks pregnant, what she thought was a false alarm quickly turned into the premature delivery of twins due to placenta previa complications. Jennifer's story pulls back the curtain on the unpredictability of childbirth and the emotional and physical hurdles of suddenly becoming a NICU mom. Her candid reflections on her previous miscarriage and its impact shine a light on the resilience required in the face of uncertainty.

As Jennifer's twins entered the NICU, the emotional rollercoaster truly began. With hospital visits becoming a daily routine, she faced the challenge of maintaining normalcy for her older daughter while grappling with the demands of caring for her premature babies. Each twin's unique medical needs, from intubation to CPAP, highlighted the critical nature of their early weeks of life. Jennifer's journey is a testament to the support systems that helped her cope, and her book serves as a lifeline for other parents in similar situations, offering solace and encouragement amidst the chaos.

The transition from the NICU to home life was both daunting and transformative. Jennifer opens up about the fears of becoming the primary caregiver without constant medical oversight and the overwhelming responsibility that entails. We delve into the practicalities of managing follow-up appointments, health monitoring, and the delicate balancing act of meeting the needs of all her children. Amidst the worry about health risks and the relentless demands of parenthood, Jennifer's story highlights the strength found in family support and the unwavering hope that fuels her journey. Her memoir, "Week 26: A Memoir of Hope, Faith, and Perseverance," stands as an inspiring beacon for families facing similar trials, offering insights and comfort to those who need it most.

Connect with Jennifer at https://www.week26.com/
And find her on instagram https://www.instagram.com/week26mom/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

To kick off Season 3, we’re going back to where it all began. Emily Finnell’s story of a harrowing birth experience and a “free-fall into faith” culminates in a beautiful open adoption that was more life-changing than she could have imagined.

Have you ever faced a life-altering moment that shattered your expectations and reshaped your path? In this remastered episode, Emily Finnell, a former special education teacher who's become a Leadership Mindset Coach, shares her incredibly moving journey through pregnancy and loss. Emily opens up about her first pregnancy, meticulously planned yet fraught with unexpected challenges like placenta previa, which culminated in a harrowing ambulance ride and an emergency C-section. As she tells her story, Emily provides an honest account of facing a heartbreaking miscarriage during her second pregnancy. With raw emotion, she discusses the physical and emotional trials that followed, shedding light on the unpredictable nature of birth journeys and the profound personal transformation they can inspire.

In our conversation, we also explore the resilience and faith required to navigate infertility and adoption. A mother shares her story of losing her fertility at a young age, driven by a deep desire for her children to have siblings, mirroring her own cherished relationships. Through the shadows of medical struggles and emotional turmoil, she found hope and healing in the unpredictable path of adoption. This journey not only fortified her marriage but also bestowed a unique perspective on motherhood, highlighting the courage needed to embrace such life-altering decisions. Her tale is a testament to the strength found in faith and the power of a supportive community in overcoming adversity.

Throughout the episode, we delve into the emotional intricacies of managing pregnancy loss, the significance of support networks, and the role of authenticity in friendships. We reflect on the necessity of open communication and emotional honesty, especially with those who have endured trauma. Through poignant stories, including one of unexpected connections in an adoption journey, we emphasize the importance of prioritizing a child's well-being and the transformative power of trust and intuition. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the courage and empathy required to navigate life's unexpected paths, offering hope and encouragement to those who face similar struggles.

Connect with Emily at https://www.emilyfinnell.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Dr. Shweta Patel, a respected and innovative OB-GYN, joins us to unveil her upcoming book, "The Book of Hormones," promising a fresh perspective on the complex role of hormones in women's health. Her journey from wanting to write an all-encompassing guide to a focused exploration of hormones reveals untold stories and overlooked aspects of women's experiences. You'll gain invaluable insights into how hormones like cortisol shape everyday life, often dismissed by healthcare providers, empowering you to better understand your body.

Through engaging conversations, we explore the scope of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, tackling societal misconceptions with humor and realism. Our chat touches on everything from the misinterpreted success rates of conception to the humorous yet chaotic experiences of early motherhood. As we discuss the importance of informed health decisions and the role of diet and lifestyle, you'll discover the surprising truths behind pregnancy myths and the essential need for self-awareness.

Dr. Patel also obligingly dives into the significance of folic acid, especially concerning the MTHFR mutation, and the choices surrounding supplementation. The episode features a sneak peek into a book filled with diverse topics spanning sex, nutrition, and exercise, sprinkled with entertaining personal stories. Join us for an enlightening and entertaining journey, ensuring you walk away with both knowledge and a smile.

Pre-order "The Book of Hormones" here: https://amzn.to/4e1ES5G

Connect with Dr. Patel at: https://gayawellness.org/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Facing the daunting challenges of new motherhood amid a pandemic, Brigette Panetta's story is a testament to resilience and unwavering dedication. Just days before giving birth to her daughter Emerald, Brigette found herself embroiled in an unexpected legal battle over her family business, all while navigating the tumultuous waters of a global pandemic. Journey with us as Brigette shares her harrowing experience of an attempted home birth that led to severe complications and an ICU stay. Her narrative is one of strength, as she remained a pillar of support for her partner, James, during his legal struggles, while also ensuring the well-being of their newborn. 

Brigette’s healing journey post-birth is a profound exploration of resilience through transformative practices like forgiveness, kinesiology, breathwork, and cold showers. She opens up about how these practices helped her address and release the emotional trauma stored in her body, bringing a sense of peace and balance to her new role as a mother. The discussion shines a light on the importance of balancing hormones, embracing discomfort to build mental fortitude, and learning to control emotions, which is crucial in parenting and personal growth. Brigette's insights offer invaluable lessons on how acknowledging and processing past experiences can lead to liberation and greater personal strength.

Coping with isolation during motherhood, Brigette's experience highlights the importance of self-care and mental health in navigating the challenges of parenthood without immediate support. She candidly discusses the identity transformation motherhood brings, the pressures of social expectations, and the necessity of releasing mom guilt. Brigette’s story encourages embracing imperfections and prioritizing self-love, all while maintaining family responsibilities and adapting to a new normal. Her journey underscores the power of resilience, the value of support systems, and the need for prioritizing one's well-being amidst life's challenges.

Connect with Brigette here:

• https://media.com/brigettepanetta
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigette-panetta-80967545/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

How does a mother endure the stress of a high-risk pregnancy and the NICU during the early days of the pandemic? Join us as Ashley Martin from Southern Missouri bravely shares her incredible journey, from the initial excitement of a planned pregnancy to the harrowing moments of dealing with complications like a subchorionic hemorrhage and a diagnosis of PPROM and incompetent cervix. Ashley’s candid storytelling sheds light on the overwhelming emotions of facing her daughter’s premature birth at just 24 weeks and four days, and how she transitioned her experience into creating the NICU Notebook to support other families.

The postpartum experience can be particularly challenging when your baby is in the NICU. Ashley opens up about the pain of being in a postpartum ward without her newborn, the isolation of pumping breast milk without her baby nearby, and coping with the stress of hearing other newborns crying when she couldn't comfort her own. We discuss the emotional toll and the unique challenges of postpartum discharge when your baby remains in the NICU, highlighting the need for hospitals to adopt more sensitive, NICU-informed postpartum care practices. Ashley's heartfelt reflections offer a raw and powerful narrative of resilience.

Navigating the NICU's medical complexities and celebrating unique milestones amidst the pandemic presents its own set of challenges. In this episode, we explore car seat safety for premature babies, the logistical and emotional hurdles of NICU life, and the importance of being informed about NICU resources. Ashley shares her tips and advice for other parents in similar situations, making this episode not just a story of struggle, but one of hope, practical wisdom, and unwavering strength. Whether you are a new parent, have experience with the NICU, or simply want to hear an inspiring story, Ashley's journey offers valuable insights and heartfelt moments that resonate deeply.

Connect with Ashley on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicunotebookco/

Check out The NICU Notebook here: https://thenicunotebook.com/welcome

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Unlock the secrets to a more empowering childbirth experience! Join me as I sit down with Suzzie Vehrs, a dedicated doula and mother of two, who made a remarkable transition from finance to birth advocacy. Suzzie opens up about her personal journey through pregnancy, loss, and the incredible power of support during childbirth. You'll gain insight into the vital role doulas play in helping mothers make informed decisions and letting their voices be heard in the delivery room. Plus, we dive into the recent legislative changes that have made insurance coverage for doula care more accessible than ever.

Navigate the complexities of hospital births as Suzzie shares strategies for ensuring informed decision-making and effective communication with medical staff. We discuss the varied policies of different hospitals, especially concerning interventions such as inductions and the use of drugs like Pitocin and Cytotec. Suzzie emphasizes the importance of having birth preferences that accommodate both an ideal vision and potential complications. Learn how doulas and labor nurses can collaborate to advocate for the mother's choices, fostering a supportive and understanding environment.

In our final chapter, we delve into practical tips for hiring the right doula and the nuances of creating a positive birth experience. Suzzie offers guidance on financial considerations, conducting thorough interviews, and the benefits of prenatal planning with techniques like hypnobirthing. We also explore how to maintain a calming environment in a bustling hospital setting. Wrapping up, we highlight the collaborative relationship between nurses and doulas and the incredible resources available on shebirthsbravely.com to further support expectant mothers. This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you feel confident and empowered as you prepare for childbirth.

Connect with Suzzie Vehrs: https://shebirthsbravely.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Can pelvic floor therapy be the missing piece in postpartum recovery? Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Katie Bayer, PT, DPT, owner of Transition Physical Therapy and co-founder of Behive Wellness. Katie shares her deeply personal journey through a twin pregnancy, a premature delivery at 33 weeks, and the emotional rollercoaster of a NICU stay. Her experiences, culminating in a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), have shaped her dedication to specializing in pelvic floor therapy for pregnant and postpartum women. Listen as Katie recounts the vital role family support played in her recovery and how her challenges have fueled her mission to aid mothers on their own paths.

Discover the critical yet often ignored importance of pelvic floor physical therapy in postpartum care. Katie shines a light on the gaps in standard PT education and emphasizes the need for integrating pelvic floor awareness into core training. She offers practical, realistic advice for new mothers on how to seamlessly incorporate pelvic floor exercises into daily routines. By tailoring strategies to meet individual needs, Katie underscores the effectiveness of manageable and functional approaches, aiming to make postpartum recovery more attainable for every mother.

Explore how Katie and Megan McCutcheon, a perinatal mental health therapist, have joined forces to create a collaborative perinatal care center. This space offers a comprehensive support network for expectant and new parents, fostering a community that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of postpartum care. From the development of the online Bundle Birth Course to the emphasis on rest and recovery, Katie and Megan's center provides essential resources to make the perinatal period less overwhelming. Tune in for invaluable insights and support strategies that aim to revolutionize postpartum care and ensure mothers feel supported every step of the way.

Work with Katie! https://www.transitionphysicaltherapy.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Discover how to transform your childbirth experience with insights from Neri Life Choma, a seasoned childbirth educator, birth doula, and the visionary behind the Birth Coach Method. We delve into the emotional and mental readiness that modern childbirth demands and explore how traditional methods may no longer suffice. Neri shares her vast experience, emphasizing the significance of aligning internal motivations with birthing plans and preparing for potential medical interventions. This episode promises to offer a fresh perspective on childbirth preparation, especially for those facing high-risk pregnancies.

What if societal expectations and medical interventions are shaping your childbirth experience more than you realize? Explore this provocative question with us as we discuss the disconnect between patients' goals and their preparation. Neri and I reflect on personal anecdotes and underline the importance of emotional and mental preparedness. We also touch upon the evolution of menstrual management and how it impacts women's readiness for natural childbirth. Honest and realistic discussions about birth experiences are crucial, and this episode champions just that.

Join us for a deep dive into the dynamics between doulas, nurses, and obstetricians. We highlight the necessity of collaboration and patient-centered care, advocating for the unique roles each professional plays in enhancing the birth experience. Learn practical tips for building patient rapport and strategies for reducing cesarean rates through effective coaching. From fostering self-awareness in expectant parents to the broader impact of transformational coaching on everyday life, this episode is packed with valuable insights aimed at empowering birth support professionals and expectant parents alike. Don't miss this enriching conversation with Neri Life Choma, designed to revolutionize your approach to childbirth.

Connect with Neri here: https://birthcoachmethod.com/

Buy Neri’s book The Art of Coaching for Childbirth here: https://amzn.to/4dDcxTd

Follow The Birth Coach Method on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birthcoachmethod

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Join us as we uncover the journey of Elise Nicole Kirkpatrick, an internationally acclaimed feminine authenticity and embodiment mentor. Elise shares her powerful birth stories—one marked by trauma, the other by peace. From a challenging 16.5-hour labor at a birth center to the serene home birth of her second child, Elise emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and grounded during childbirth. Her background in yoga, meditation, and hypnobirthing prepared her for these profound experiences.

Explore Elise's transition from a yoga instructor to a doula, driven by her passion for supporting women's transformation during labor and birth. We highlight the significance of mindset and environment in creating blissful birth experiences, balancing masculine and feminine energies during pregnancy and motherhood. Elise shares practical strategies for creating a supportive environment and the importance of inner validation.

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the concept of "fives" and how surrounding yourself with the right people, information, and activities can support your identity as a woman and mother. Elise introduces the transformative "Worthy Woman Visualization Meditation," a tool for reconnecting with your inherent worthiness. Learn how focusing on choices and embodying desired qualities can transform childbirth and all life experiences into fulfilling journeys. Join us for an episode that promises to inspire and empower every listener, whether you're navigating motherhood or looking to reconnect with your feminine essence.

Connecxt with Elise here:

Website - https://www.elisenicolekirkpatrick.com 

Gifted Worthy Woman Visualization Meditation - https://elise-nicole-kirkpatrick-aeba.mykajabi.com/Worthy-Woman-Meditation the 50% off code will be presented to you once you receive the meditation! 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/__elisenicole__

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Discover the extraordinary journey of Amy Suzanne, the founder and CEO of Pink Stork, as she navigates the trials of infertility, debilitating nausea and vomiting, and life threatening sepsis—all while supporting her husband during military deployments. Amy's inspiring tale of resilience and faith takes center stage as she shares how her battles with hyperemesis gravidarum led to the creation of Pink Stork, a company dedicated to women's health. Through her personal story, Amy illustrates the transformative power of holistic approaches in her own pregnancies, turning her despair into a mission to help other women.

We also dive deep into the essentials of holistic pregnancy support. From the significance of vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and magnesium, to the benefits of prenatal vitamins and herbs such as red raspberry leaf tea, we cover it all. Learn about the impact of magnesium supplements on preterm labor and the importance of understanding unique nutritional needs, including those related to MTHFR deficiency. Finally, celebrate the beautiful chaos of early motherhood with Amy, who turned her personal challenges into a thriving business that supports moms worldwide with products available on Amazon, Target, Walmart, and their website. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the community of mothers standing strong together.

Connect with Amy! 
https://www.instagram.com/amy.suzanne_
https://linktr.ee/amysuzanne

Find her products at https://pinkstork.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Unlock the secrets to a smoother postpartum recovery with Lynn Schulte, a seasoned pelvic floor physical therapist and the visionary behind the Institute for Birth Healing. In today's episode, Lynn shares her journey from experiencing positive births to developing specialized techniques for postpartum care. Discover how she identified common pelvic misalignments in her clients after moving to Boulder, Colorado, and how her innovative realignment techniques can dramatically reduce pain and improve muscle function.

We'll explore the critical role of pelvic bone realignment and how a simple exercise can bring relief to new mothers, addressing issues like vaginal heaviness and painful intercourse. Learn about the often-overlooked impact of childbirth trauma on the body’s recovery and how specialized therapy can make a world of difference. Lynn's insights offer a roadmap for new mothers looking to enhance their pelvic floor health and achieve a more comfortable postpartum experience.

We also dive into the complexities of postpartum healing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing both emotional and physical trauma. From engaging and relaxing pelvic floor muscles to the significance of proper baby positioning, Lynn provides practical advice for facilitating childbirth and preventing complications. We highlight the need for professional postpartum rehabilitation and the benefits of working with certified birth healing practitioners. This episode is packed with valuable information designed to empower new and expectant mothers on their healing journey.

Connect with Lynn!
https://instituteforbirthhealing.com/
https://www.facebook.com/InstituteForBirthHealing/
https://www.instagram.com/instituteforbirthhealing/

Listen to Kelly on Lynn's podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmWub7Uo3Wo

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

What if the toughest decision of your life could lead to profound personal growth? In our latest episode, we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Amanda Kingsley, a life and after-abortion coach, who opens up about her deeply personal and multifaceted reproductive health journey. Amanda shares her story of navigating planned and unplanned pregnancies, challenging pregnancies and childbirths, and the emotional labyrinth of abortion, offering listeners a rare and compassionate insight into the complexities of reproductive choices.

Join us as Amanda offers a raw and honest look into her experiences, from a planned home birth that turned into a hospital induction to enduring 17 weeks of bed rest during a challenging pregnancy. Her tales of unexpected twists and the need to let go of control are not just about her personal journey but are reflective of the broader human experience in dealing with life's unpredictability. By examining these pivotal moments, Amanda’s narrative underscores the profound lessons learned and the personal growth that comes with facing such challenges.

Throughout the episode, we touch on the societal pressures and the nuanced feelings that surround abortion decision-making. Amanda bravely addresses the often unspoken realities, such as the illusion of choice in difficult circumstances. This conversation emphasizes the need for compassionate and open discussions about abortion, recognizing the emotional and ethical complexities involved. Amanda’s courage in sharing her story highlights the importance of brave, albeit imperfect, conversations in fostering deeper understanding and empathy.

Connect with Amanda:

https://www.instagram.com/amandastarkingsley

https://amandastarkingsley.myflodesk.com/amandastarkingsley

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

What would you do if your pregnancy took an unexpected turn? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Tara Accardo, a first-time mom and grief and transformational life coach, who shares her compelling journey through pregnancy, an emergency C-section, and the early arrival of her daughter, Audrey. Tara’s powerful story not only highlights the importance of trusting maternal instincts but also provides deep insights into the critical role of timely medical intervention. Her narrative is a testament to the strength and resilience of new parents navigating unforeseen circumstances.

Our discussion extends into the complexities of prenatal care, emphasizing the necessity of monitoring fetal movements and understanding blood type compatibility. With Tara’s personal anecdotes and medical insights, we break down the protocols and tests used by doctors to safeguard both mother and baby. This episode underlines the significance of parental intuition and timely medical consultation, offering valuable advice for expecting and new mothers on recognizing when something might be off and taking proactive steps to ensure their baby’s well-being.

Finally, we address the emotional and psychological challenges that come with childbirth, particularly in cases involving premature birth and NICU stays. Tara opens up about the trauma of an unplanned C-section, the emotional rollercoaster of having a baby in the NICU, and the importance of a supportive medical team and clear communication. She provides tangible advice for parents facing similar experiences, calling for more compassionate, patient-centered care from healthcare providers. This episode is an emotional journey that celebrates the incredible resilience of parents making the best choices for their families amidst unexpected challenges.

Connect with Tara at:

https://lossesbecomegains.com/

https://www.instagram.com/lossesbecomegains/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Marcella Jewell, a warrior in the realm of motherhood, shares her story, you can't help but be enveloped by a tapestry of raw emotion and profound strength. Her journey through the complex world of fertility is one that mirrors a mosaic of life's most tender and tumultuous moments: the joy of welcoming children, the heartache of five miscarriages, and a decision that tested the very essence of her hope and courage. Our conversation is an intimate exploration of those often unspoken struggles, a testament to the resilience required to navigate the unpredictable waves of pregnancy and loss.

Marcella's vulnerability in recounting the decision to terminate a pregnancy due to anencephaly, a decision made amidst a sea of grief and love, is both harrowing and deeply moving. It's a reminder of the silent battles fought and the strength found in the naming and memorializing of those we've lost—a salute to her son Caleb and a bridge to healing. As she speaks of the memorials that keep his memory alive, we are reminded of the collective need to find solace within our communities, and the profound impact of shared experiences in mending the heart.

Our episode journeys further into the depths of Marcella's fertility path, from the laughter-tinged tale of her amniotic fluid-filled minivan, to the solemn considerations of family planning amid the shadows of miscarriage. The discussions ebb and flow through the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive and the piercing reality of loss, culminating in a narrative that is both a beacon of hope and a safe harbor for understanding. Join us, as we embrace the complexity of our human experiences with grace, compassion, and a shared sense of enduring love.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When the waves of parental grief and loss crash upon us, navigating their unpredictable swells can be a journey as unique as our fingerprints. Therapist Jennifer Byrnes, LPC, PMH-C, EMDR certified therapist, joins me to explore these deeply personal experiences, shining a light on the many forms grief can take — from the pain of miscarriage and infant loss to the silent suffering of fertility challenges. Through our discussion, Jennifer helps us understand that mourning has no prescribed path, and that the company we keep can make all the difference in weathering the storm.

This episode isn't just about the struggle; it's also about the solace found in support networks. We delve into the nuances of assisting those in the throes of grief, discussing the importance of listening and responding to individual needs rather than leaning on our own assumptions. Jennifer and I tackle the complexities of what it means to grieve 'productively', uncovering the varied ways people express and process their pain. 

Lastly, we confront the challenge of balancing joy and sorrow when life's milestones intersect with another's loss. With Jennifer's insights on EMDR and other therapeutic approaches, this episode offers a guiding hand to those seeking to navigate the complex emotional landscapes of grief and support others through their darkest hours.

To connect with Jennifer go to www.mytherapygoals.com

The links below are resources discussed in the episode:
psychologytoday.com
grief.com
emdria.com

Empty Cradle Broken Heart by Deobrah Davis

The Art of Holding by Karen Kleinerman

Ianacare - Caregiving Support App 
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ianacare-caregiving-support/id1441737626

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Steph Sellen, a mother of six with her seventh bundle of joy on the way, sat down with me, she didn't hold back. Her first childbirth, marred by a traumatic induction, was a stark contrast to the empowered births that followed. As a real estate dynamo and podcast host, Steph's life is as multifaceted as it gets. Our conversation ventured through the landscape of her birthing experiences, from the cold sterility of her initial hospital labor to the warmth and personalized care provided by midwives in later deliveries. She candidly details how each birth, with its own unique challenges and triumphs, became a lesson in self-advocacy, highlighting the profound difference knowledge and support can make.

Amid the laughter and poignant moments of our chat, Steph peeled back the curtain on managing a bustling household while navigating a demanding career. The balancing act of family life, professional obligations, and personal growth was a frequent touchpoint, with Steph sharing both the humorous realities of parenting a large clan and the emotional weight of pregnancy after loss. Her tales ranged from scheduling mishaps to moments of deep introspection about the legacy of her own mother and grandmother, painting a vivid picture of modern motherhood.

Listeners are sure to find resonance in Steph's reflections on preparing for childbirth, dealing with pregnancy anxiety, and embracing unexpected blessings. Her insights on striving for normalcy in the whirlwind of life with six kids and a seventh on the way—while closing deals and preparing freezer meals—offer a dose of reality laced with an infectious can-do spirit. Join us as we navigate the beautiful chaos of Steph's world, where every day is a juggle, every birth story is a source of strength, and every moment is a chance to laugh, learn, and love a little more.

Connect with Steph on instagram @stephsellenhomes

Listen to her podcast: Real Life - Real Estate - Real Deal
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-life-real-estate-real-deal/id1723780538

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Have you ever found yourself laughing through tears, or smiling despite a wave of sadness? It's a complex emotional dance that Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, and I explore in our latest episode. Megan, a specialist in perinatal mental health, joins us to discuss the profound ability to experience multiple emotions at once and how acknowledging this can be especially vital during significant life transitions, like motherhood. Our conversation provides insightful guidance on processing each feeling as a signal that something within us needs care and attention, and we navigate the waters of emotional complexity that often go uncharted in our binary view of feelings.

Motherhood can feel like a rollercoaster, with high peaks of joy and deep valleys of guilt. Amidst the laughter and chaos, we confront the ubiquitous 'mom guilt' head-on, discussing strategies to ease the self-judgment that comes with parenting. We share personal stories and tackle reframing our internal narratives, underlining the importance of compassion when facing our perceived shortcomings. Megan's enlightening advice on fostering a more understanding self-view offers a path toward self-kindness that resonates with anyone juggling the emotional demands of raising children.

We wrap up the episode with what I like to call Megan's 'truth bombs,' nuggets of wisdom that reverberate long after our talk. Her insights are like beacons, illuminating the continuous journey of emotional and mental well-being. Whether you’re a new parent navigating the postpartum period or simply someone seeking to better understand the intricacies of your emotional life, this episode is an invitation to embrace the full spectrum of your feelings with empathy and grace. Thank you, Megan, for bringing your profound expertise to our heartfelt discussion.

Connect with Megan at https://www.meganmaccutcheon.com/

Don’t miss her Birth Bundle and Empowered Motherhood Courses!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

As I sat down with Jennifer Schlueter, a certified hypnotherapist who lives and breathes the power of spiritual hypnosis, we unraveled a transformative approach to pregnancy and childbirth. Jennifer offers a sanctuary for expectant mothers to not only prepare their bodies for the journey ahead but to also heal from past traumas. Our conversation invites you into the sacred space where moms-to-be can connect with their inner wisdom and create a nurturing environment for the new life they’re about to welcome. By tapping into the subconscious, Jennifer helps women release stored emotions, setting the stage for a serene and empowering birthing experience.

Her own transformation through hypnosis didn't just reshape her career; it deepened every relationship in her life, signaling a universal truth about the mind's incredible impact on our paths. Jennifer and I explore the indispensable practice of relaxation, meditation, and addressing emotional baggage that can subtly influence generations. We weave together a tapestry of self-care strategies for moms, spotlighting the necessity to prioritize one’s own needs to fully embrace the role of parenting. This heart-to-heart is a treasure trove of guidance for aspiring parents, punctuated by the profound ripple effects of emotional wellness on a family’s lineage.

Closing out this episode, Jennifer extends her hand, offering free access to her trove of resources for those navigating the complexities of pregnancy, including loss. For the healers among you, she opens her doors to share her knowledge of spiritual hypnosis. Whether you're seeking support or aiming to enrich your own practice, Jennifer’s insights into the soul-to-soul connections between parent and child are a beacon for anyone on the parenthood journey. Join us as we explore the depths of the subconscious, the resilience of the human spirit, and the bonds that transcend our physical existence.

Connect with Jennifer here:
https://mindyoursubconscious.com/about/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When life handed me the label "elderly primigravida," I didn't just recoil at the term—I redefined it. Embark on a profoundly candid chronicle where I lay bare the trials and triumphs of my journey into motherhood later in life. Coupling professional expertise as a labor and delivery nurse with my visceral personal experience, this episode is an intricate tapestry of the fears, the stigma, and the sheer joy that comes with pregnancy after 35. Recounts of battling persistent nausea and a petite frame's resistance to the rigors of childbirth paint a vivid picture of resilience.

Through the lens of my story, we traverse the peaks and valleys of natural childbirth preparation, the value of a trusted doula, and the stark reality of less-than-ideal hospital conditions. The narrative swells as I share the unexpected twists of labor, revealing how home strategies clashed with the hospital's austere environment, and how a traumatic delivery threatened to overshadow the birth of my child. This episode isn't just a playback of events; it's a rich exploration of emotional fortitude and the unanticipated paths labor can take.

The tapestry continues post-delivery as I navigate the postpartum world, with its potent mix of gratitude for nursing support and the struggle with breastfeeding challenges. I open up about the search for community and the advocacy for parents in the birth space following a move to a new city. This episode isn't just for expectant mothers; it's a testament to the collective wisdom and shared experiences that empower and guide all parents along their extraordinary journey into the transformative world of birth and parenting. Join me as we share, learn, and connect in the universal adventure that begins with the very first heartbeat.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Embark on a transformative journey through the landscape of childbirth with our esteemed guest, Gina Mundy, a childbirth attorney and author, whose insights promise to arm future parents with the tools for a safer and more empowered birthing experience. Imagine entering one of life's most significant events, not with fear, but with the confidence of a well-rehearsed plan, as Gina guides us through the essential steps of preparation and the importance of establishing open lines of communication with your healthcare team. Her experience in the courtroom and stories shared in "A Parents' Guide to a Safer Childbirth" serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards avoiding trauma and ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

Together with Gina, we navigate the often underappreciated intricacies of selecting a birth team that resonates with your personal birth philosophy, the indispensable emotional support provided by labor and delivery nurses, and the empowering role of doulas during labor. Our conversation uncovers the sheer importance of asking the right questions—be it about interventions like Pitocin or understanding all possible outcomes. Gina's book has become a touchstone for medical professionals, spreading within the community, advocating for practices that honor the natural labor process while safeguarding against potential complications.

Closing the loop, we celebrate the shared triumphs and challenges of parenting, from packed lunches to the profound joy of welcoming a new life into the world. We are reminded that the tools and knowledge we share are not just for the delivery room—they are the underpinnings of a healthy family life. Our listeners are left with an inspiring tapestry of stories, advice, and heartfelt reflections that transcend the podcast, influencing real-world decisions and outcomes, and contributing to a world where every childbirth is a story of informed choices, safety, and joy.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Dr. Michelle Gerbi recounts her transformative birth experiences, it's as if every emotion - from vulnerability to victory - paints a vivid picture for our listeners. Join us as she bridges her journey from unexpected hospital transfers to the very personal decision to fire a bullying doctor, unfolding the resilience and advocacy needed during childbirth. Dr. Gerbi, not just a mom but a seasoned chiropractor specializing in maternal health, offers a rare glimpse into the raw and empowering tales of her own deliveries. Her stories are a beacon for mothers navigating the unpredictable seas of childbirth, highlighting the importance of informed choices and the strength found in adaptability.

As our conversation unfolds, we're brought into the heart of postpartum recovery, where Dr. Gerbi sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles new mothers face. From the physical aftermath of difficult labors and C-sections to the emotional whirlpool of early motherhood, Dr. Gerbi emphasizes the dire need for a more nurturing and specialized support system for women. Breastfeeding, a natural yet sometimes fraught process, serves as a focal point for our in-depth discussion on the challenges and triumphs of feeding our little ones, reminding us all of the stalwart endurance and unwavering dedication that motherhood demands.

The episode culminates in a passionate call to action, as Dr. Gerbi advocates for a revolution in women's healthcare. We explore the systemic barriers within the medical field, the promise of cross-disciplinary collaborations, and the grassroots movements striving to fill the gaps in maternal support. Through Dr. Gerbi's eyes, we see the potential for change - a future where communities rally, education is accessible, and all mothers feel empowered to embrace their wellbeing with confidence. As our chat wraps up, the excitement for what lies ahead in women's health care is palpable, and the commitment to continue these vital conversations is unwavering.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Bianca Sprague, the trailblazing founder of Bebo MIA, shifted her career aspirations from OB-GYN to becoming a doula, the landscape of birth and parenthood began to change. In our heartfelt discussion, Bianca shares the pivotal moments that steered her towards doula work, including her mother's home birth and her own challenging entry into motherhood. Her story is a testament to the power of empathy and the profound need for supportive birthing practices that honor the individual experiences of parents. As we explore Bianca's journey, she illuminates the stark contrast between the impersonal hospital births she expected and the deeply nurturing doula-led experiences she now champions.

The complexities of parenting and the evolution of gender roles within it were another rich vein we mined during our conversation. Bianca's intimate reflections on blending professional pursuits with the demands of raising children shed light on the delicate act of balancing these worlds. She advocates for self-care and sleep as non-negotiable pillars of well-being, not indulgences, and shares how her own evolution as a doula trainer and mentor is informed by her commitment to continuous learning and adapting within healthcare.

Our episode takes an expansive look at childbirth, from respecting every parent's unique birth plan to the importance of patient-centered care in medical settings. Bianca's insights into the often overly clinical approach to labor in hospitals are especially enlightening, stressing the need for healthcare providers to step back and support rather than control the birthing process. Through her experiences and those of the families she supports, she encourages a reevaluation of the concept of pain in childbirth and the empowerment of birthing individuals to have more agency in their experiences. Join us as we unravel these topics with Bianca Sprague, whose wisdom and passion for improving birth experiences are truly transformative.

Read more about this episode and connect with Bianca at:

https://bebomia.com/bjp/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Kiona Nessenbaum, a dedicated doula and birth worker, shares her story, you can't help but feel the room change. As she recounts her own unexpected journey into motherhood at a young age and her evolution into a professional guiding others through the birthing process, it's a reminder of the resilience and transformative power of women. From humorous labor moments to the nitty-gritty of breastfeeding challenges, Kiona invites us into her world, offering unfiltered insights that highlight the emotional and practical aspects of childbirth.

Navigating the delicate balance between professional aspirations and parenting is no small feat, and Kiona's candid discussions on the subject shed light on a reality many mothers face. She articulates the complexities of birth decisions, the emotional landscape of motherhood, and the critical importance of creating culturally sensitive birthing environments. Her personal narratives underscore the varied experiences of childbirth and the necessity for healthcare providers to foster empathetic spaces, especially for people of color. Kiona's warmth and wisdom resonate, offering connection and inspiration whether you're a new parent, a birth worker, or someone with a curiosity about the world of childbirth.

Join us for an episode that explores the intersection of personal experience and professional dedication. Kiona not only shares her profound birth stories but also extends an open invitation to continue the conversation about birthing in our community. If you've ever wondered about the power of support during labor or the impact of informed care, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and perhaps even guide your own birthing choices. With Kiona's encouragement, we're reminded of the importance of sharing these stories, fostering inclusivity, and the beauty of finding kindred spirits in life's most transformative journeys.

Connect with Kiona:
kionanessenbaum.com

https://www.instagram.com/birthasweknowitpodcast

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Emmy Kissinger, a birth story listener and mental health professional, gracefully stepped into our studio, she brought with her an air of transformation that many mothers will find familiar. Her journey from the shock of an emergency C-section to the serenity of home births encapsulates the profound impact that childbirth can have on one's life. Emmy's mission is to guide others through the delicate process of birth story listening, offering a sanctuary for those who seek to make peace with their birth experiences.

Throughout our insightful discussion, Emmy touches on the liberation that comes with understanding and accepting labor pain, the significance of mental preparation for childbirth, and the emotional support needed to navigate this journey. We share stories that highlight the power of reframing birth narratives, while also discussing the critical role that healthcare professionals play in shaping these experiences. Emmy's approach brings to the fore the importance of communication and the necessity of a supportive community for transforming birth trauma into tales of strength and resilience.

As we wrap up this profound conversation, Emmy leaves us with the resonating thought of fostering trust within ourselves. She underscores the value of meditation and self-reflection in nurturing this trust, particularly as we approach life-altering events such as welcoming a new life. The ebb and flow of our dialogue serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of childbirth and the empowerment that arises from education, autonomy, and the unwavering belief in our own decisions. Join us on this enlightening journey that could very well reshape the way you view birth and support others in their own stories.

Connect with Emmy!

www.arrivalsstories.co

https://www.instagram.com/emmy_kissinger

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When the unexpected unfolds during childbirth, how do we navigate the twists and turns with grace and strength? Taylor Nosakhere, birth coach and doula, joins me to share her profound insight into the world of birth and motherhood. This episode peels back the layers of birthing plans gone awry, from aspirations of a serene birth center experience to the stark realities of a hospital transfer, and the sheer resilience it takes to reclaim one's birth journey.

Our conversation ventures into the heart of childbirth, where the best-laid plans often give way to the unforeseen. Taylor recounts her own labor stories, revealing the emotional rollercoaster of stalled contractions, the pivotal decisions like opting for an epidural, and the surprising effects of solitude on labor progression. With openness and vulnerability, we discuss the importance of a strong support system, self-advocacy, and the empowerment that comes from having a clear understanding of the myriad choices in birth care.

This exchange serves as an empowering beacon for mothers and mothers-to-be, emphasizing the significance of aligning with healthcare providers who respect your birthing preferences. We close our dialogue with reflections on the continuous learning journey of parenthood, balancing energies within expanding families, and the importance of confronting our deepest fears. Taylor's stories and wisdom encourage all listening to embrace their strengths and forge their unique paths through the transformative experience of childbirth.

Connect with Taylor:
My podcast ⬇️

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drivers-seat-moms-podcast/id1682791936

Facebook group⬇️

https://www.facebook.com/groups/869671804276666/

Birth prep starter bundle:
Includes my “start with how you want to feel” journal prompts , options list, and birth plan template ⬇️

https://view.flodesk.com/pages/63484dfa8c93e14e464b92c4

My signature coaching program ⬇️

https://withyouwellnesskc.com/the-crib

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Feel the warmth and wisdom as Amy Frost, the inspiring co-founder of Baby Cito and a peri-natal yoga teacher, unfolds the tapestry of her motherhood journey with us. With the intimate details of her first child's winter solstice birth, Amy captures the essence of labor's uncertainty and the profound joy found in an unmedicated delivery. Her candid narrative not only sheds light on the physical sensations of childbirth but also navigates through the induction process with a clarity that's as refreshing as it is educational. Amy's story is a testament to the unpredictable dance of entering motherhood.

Venture further into the delicate postpartum period where Amy bravely addresses the challenges that often remain whispered. Our conversation delves into the critical need for preparation and understanding to create a buffer against postpartum anxiety. Amy's personal recount of the support she received, from her partner's hands-on techniques during labor to acknowledging and treating perinatal mood disorders, is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability. Listeners are invited to absorb these invaluable lessons, recognizing the common yet often overlooked aspects of the postpartum experience.

As our dialogue evolves, we celebrate the redemptive power of community and foresight in Amy's subsequent childbirth experience. Learn how a proactive approach, encompassing postpartum doulas to lactation consultants, transformed Amy's second journey into one of empowerment. Baby Cito, her brainchild, emerges as a beacon of support for mothers seeking assistance, demonstrating its tremendous potential for growth. Amy's reflections on her tale's retelling are imbued with gratitude, inviting us to witness the impact of support systems that extend beyond one family and ripple throughout communities nationwide.

Connect with Amy at babycito.co

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Mary Adkins, accomplished author and writing coach, graced us with her presence on the podcast, we uncovered the tangled web of motherhood fused with professional life. Her journey, marked by the birth of her son Finn, is filled with the kind of transformative experiences only parenthood can bestow. From the financial complexities to the surprises of postpartum hospital policies, Mary's storytelling reveals the candid essence of a life reshaped by the arrival of a child. As we exchanged our own labor stories, laughter mingled with the raw emotion of shared experiences, emphasizing the boundless nature of this universal rite of passage.

Breastfeeding, a subject often glossed over with rosy expectations, was dissected in its messy reality. Mary and I delved into the challenges and societal pressures that accompany nursing, from tongue ties to the emotional weight of supplementing with formula. This segment of the conversation is a testament to the resilience required for new mothers to find balance, underscoring the importance of informed choices that prioritize both mother and baby's well-being.

The episode rounded out with an intimate look at Mary's process of penning a novel amidst the chaos of new parenthood, the trials of infertility, and the decision to embrace her family as it is. Through her experiences with miscarriages and IVF, listeners are offered a poignant reflection on resilience and acceptance. Mary's upcoming projects tease the promise of future discussions that will undoubtedly resonate with many. Join us for an episode that traverses the peaks and valleys of parenting, creativity, and the enduring human spirit.

To connect with Mary, go to maryadkinswriter.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

When Trishia Plett stepped into the world of motherhood, it wasn't just a birth story she was crafting—it was a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the intimate dance between autonomy and wellness. As a health and wellness ambassador, Tricia opens the doors to her deeply personal journey through the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy, especially under the shadow of PCOS and a health scare. Gripping from start to finish, her narrative is a vibrant tapestry of emotional revelations, the push for unmedicated childbirth, and the pursuit of balance in her newfound role as a parent.

Navigating the healthcare system is no small feat, and Trishia’s experience is a masterclass in standing your ground and voicing your birth preferences. She pulls back the curtain on the complexities of high-risk pregnancies and the significance of aligning her birth plan with her values. Through this episode, listeners will witness the evolution of a mother's determination, the importance of prenatal preparation, and the influence of family history on birthing expectations. Trishia’s story resonates with power and encouragement, underlining her commitment to maintaining autonomy during childbirth and the tender moments that define the transition into parenthood.

In the dynamic interplay of career and motherhood, Trishia’s return to her profession adds a new dimension to her story. We unpack the nuances of integrating work and family life, the influence of understanding one's body, and the unexpected joys of natural postpartum recovery. The conversation culminates in a heartwarming expression of gratitude and a candid reflection on societal pressures and family planning. Each chapter of this episode is a mosaic of support and insight, offering a guiding light to parents and parents-to-be on similar voyages. Join us as we celebrate personal victories and navigate the tides of family life with Trishia Plett, whose story is nothing short of inspiring.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever wondered how the stress you're feeling could actually pause the miraculous process of childbirth? I’m peeling back the layers to reveal the unseen effects of stress on labor. This episode takes you through the science of stress and its ability to disrupt the delicate dance of hormones necessary for labor to progress. It's a discussion that promises not just insights but transformational tools for an empowering entrance into parenthood.

Transitioning smoothly, we then spotlight the immense value of emotional preparedness as you step onto the threshold of birth. It’s not just about the physical readiness, but arming yourself with the emotional resilience to claim a birth experience that is as serene as it is powerful. Listen as I explore the intersection of mind, body, and the birthing journey.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Discover the intricate dance of midwifery care and the empowering role of patients in healthcare through the expert eyes of Jodilyn Owen, LM, CPM, and Arya Pretlow, MSN, CNM, IBCLC, C-IYAT. For those curious about the meticulous qualifications behind safe home or birth center deliveries and the scenarios that necessitate a hospital transfer, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. We cut through the common myths surrounding non-hospital births, celebrating the proactive, data-driven approaches that characterize midwifery, and the vital collaboration with obstetricians. Meanwhile, the conversation also turns to the dedication of labor and delivery nurses who, despite the challenges of being understaffed and the emotional toll of the job, tirelessly prioritize the wellbeing of mothers and babies.

Step into the world of maternity care, where patient autonomy is nurtured and the resilience of healthcare providers shines bright. We examine the pressures new nurses face and the wisdom of experienced professionals in creating a personalized birth experience. This episode underscores the importance of encouraging patients to voice their needs, further highlighting the role of healthcare professionals in facilitating a birth experience that honors the physiological processes of labor. It's a heartfelt homage to those who navigate the high-stakes environment of hospitals, striving to maintain patient-centered care amidst a myriad of challenges.

Wrapping up, we delve into the transformative impact of collaborative care models, which bridge the gap between midwives and healthcare systems. Whether you're a healthcare professional or a first-time parent seeking guidance, join us on this exploration of birth environments and the profound respect for life that midwives bring to every delivery. Our conversation aims to connect you to a community that values every aspect of the birthing process and inspire collective efforts to improve maternity care for all.

https://www.birthcenters.org

https://mana.org

https://narm.org

http://www.midwife.org

https://www.facebook.com/PIHBWA/videos/260102946370489

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever wonder how drastically different two births can be? Imagine one which is calm and another being a chaotic rush - that's the compelling narrative of our guest Lindsay Bermudez, co-founder of Babycito. Lindsay takes us on a journey through her two unique childbirth experiences, the support she received, and the subsequent inspiration to create a platform connecting new parents with resources in Northern Virginia (and one day beyond1!)

As we delve deeper, we unravel the unspoken physical and emotional challenges of natural childbirth, highlighting the significance of equipping oneself adequately. Sharing our personal struggles, we bring up the topic of breastfeeding, including challenges faced with milk protein intolerance and the quest to find the perfect formula. We explore the necessity of having a strong mindset and support system, whether it's through childbirth classes or a comprehensive platform for new parents.

To wrap up our conversation, we delve into Babycito and the critical role it plays in bridging the gap between families and crucial services like doulas and lactation consultants. One thing is clear - the need for support extends beyond childbirth and evolves as the child grows. Tune in to learn how Babycito aims to support families and connect them with the resources they need throughout this incredible journey called parenthood.

Connect with Lindsay at babycito.co

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

How does trauma from sexual abuse affect pregnancy and postpartum experiences? This pressing question forms the crux of our conversation with Jennifer Byrnes, LPC a seasoned therapist certified in perinatal mental health and EMDR. Unveiling some profound insights, Jennifer helps us dissect the complexities of consent, the way trauma imprints itself on our bodies, and how these elements can affect a woman's journey through pregnancy and beyond.

We journey further into the shadows of trauma, exploring its impacts on pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experiences. Jennifer guides us through the nuances of how trauma can manifest as dissociation and a sense of lost control during childbirth, and the essential role that trust and consent play in this process. Through a frank discussion, we tackle the realities of PTSD and postpartum depression, underscoring the need for a trusted support person, mindfulness techniques, and the importance of patient involvement in decision-making.

Finally, we turn our attention to the empowering process of delivery decision-making. Jennifer carves out a path for survivors, highlighting the importance of communication with providers and exploring various delivery options. We delve into the treatability of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, a condition affecting one in five individuals. Jennifer strongly encourages seeking help and finding a supportive provider, emphasizing that you are not alone. Let's navigate this challenging terrain together, learning, healing, and empowering each other.

To connect with Jennifer, go to: http://www.mytherapygoals.com/

Resources mentioned in this episode:

www.RAINN.org
www.emdria.org

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Prepare to challenge your preconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth as we tap into the expertise of our featured guest, Dr. Betel Aklilu, a chiropractor who passionately champions for chiropractic care during pregnancy. She spotlights how chiropractic adjustments can realign the pelvis and sacrum, creating a more conducive environment for the baby to descend during the birth process. Join us as we unveil the transformative potential of chiropractic care, debunking common myths, and serving as a valuable educational tool for expecting individuals.

We delve into the how chiropractic care leads to better outcomes in labor and delivery. We also explore the rising trend of midwives and OB/GYNs endorsing chiropractic care for malpositioned babies and stress the importance of embracing all forms of assistance during this pivotal journey. Sharing heartfelt testimonials and experiences, we aim to influence a paradigm shift, highlighting the positive impacts of chiropractic care during pregnancy.

As we wrap up this informative episode, we underscore the importance of thorough preparation and awareness around the entire birthing process. A standout story is shared of a mother diagnosed with preeclampsia who experienced a successful natural birth at the hospital, thanks to a thorough education and a supportive team including a doula and a chiropractor. We share the importance of  advocating for more awareness and available options for pregnant women. Dr. Aklilu's staunch belief in the advantages of staying active during pregnancy and the role of chiropractic care in facilitating this, shines through. We aim to spark a productive dialogue among providers, with the goal of allaying fear-based decisions, focusing solely on the ultimate prize: a healthy mom and a healthy baby.

To connect with Dr. Aklilu, please visit https://kelayi.org/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever asked yourself, how does one juggle the demands of raising four daughters within five years and still maintain sanity? Our special guest, Mary Willcox Smith, not only tackles this question but also uncovers her personal journey to becoming a successful parenting coach. With a childhood marked by trauma, Mary’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of transformation. Follow her intriguing journey from her first pregnancy and birth experience in Argentina, through her subsequent births, to her decision to contribute to the world of parenting through her book.

The conversation gets even more riveting as we explore the unique challenges Mary faced with infant health and the diverse experiences shaped by her different births. Hear about her experiences with the Argentine medical system as we delve into the contrasting level of care her first and second daughters received. As we navigate through the intricate aspects of motherhood, you'll discover the invaluable importance of adequate medical care during childbirth. 

Our discussion isn't just about birthing stories and experiences; it's also about breaking the cycle of negative communication and creating a more empathetic environment for children. Find out how Mary adjusted to the new normal with her virtual presentations during the pandemic and the lessons she's taken away from it. We also brainstorm on her upcoming presentations on resilience and delve into the microstep method. Whether you're a new parent, an experienced one, or someone preparing for the journey, prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and empowered.

Connect with Mary here:

https://www.marysmithparentcoach.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Are you prepared to challenge conventional wisdom about childbirth, armed with knowledge and the power to make informed decisions? Get ready to join us for a compelling conversation with Maja Miller, a first-time mom who waited until 45 to have her baby. As a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and metabolic health coach, Maja shares her personal journey of waiting two years to implant her embryos, ensuring her body was in peak health. She unpacks her birthing experience, candidly discussing her challenges, her eventual C-section, and how she drew upon her knowledge of functional medicine to navigate her choices.

Our discussion dives into Maja's advocacy for her newborn son when hospital norms didn't align with her beliefs. We explore the significance of informed decisions during childbirth and the role of interventions. Maja shares her experiences of challenging the hospital's protocol, like negotiating for donor breast milk instead of sugar water and formula, and refusing a vitamin K shot containing a preservative. She also discusses her desire to forgo an epidural amid her concerns for potential impacts it can have on breastfeeding, and how she ultimately found a way to mitigate those impacts when she opted for a c-section with spinal anesthesia.

Finally, Maja emphasizes the importance of understanding your body's needs and preparing for a healthy pregnancy. She shares her initial negative perception of birth, influenced by the medical system and stories from her friends and family. Maja provides valuable insights on the importance of balancing minerals and micronutrients, and why she believes the typical prenatal vitamin isn't enough. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of gut health, the importance of advocating for oneself during childbirth, and actionable insights to ensure a safer and healthier childbirth experience. Tune in for this in-depth exploration of pregnancy, birth and early motherhood from a functional medicine perspective.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ready to master the art of breastfeeding? Join us as we sit down with the brilliant Arya Pretlow, a certified nurse midwife, lactation consultant, and yoga therapist, whose wealth of experience guarantees a comprehensive guide to successful breastfeeding. The conversation takes off right from the hospital setting - preparing you to navigate through the complexities and challenges that new parents often face. Arya emphasizes the crucial role of prenatal breastfeeding classes, the potency of a strong support network, and the benefits of a lactation consultant and local La Leche League meetings.

Our discussion with Arya delves deeper as we explore the nuances of the first feed, the importance of patience, and how to best support your newborn during this time. Arya imparts vital tips on achieving a deep latch and highlights the must-know techniques and considerations surrounding breastfeeding. She also addresses the potential influences of spinal anesthesia and the epidural on breastfeeding, underlining the necessity of evaluating the larger picture of labor and delivery when identifying breastfeeding issues.

As we progress, Arya guides us through the fraught process of making informed decisions for infant feeding, particularly for preterm and early-term babies. She stresses the need for healthcare providers to offer more comprehensive education on potential outcomes. Furthermore, we take a closer look at lactation support for pumping and nipple shields and the significance of finding the perfect fit for you. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with invaluable insights and practical tips from Arya's vast expertise to ensure a rewarding breastfeeding journey. So, why wait? Tune in now!

Connect with Arya at apwellnesservices.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Dive into the enthralling world of motherhood with Marie Carle, labor and delivery nurse, as she pulls back the curtain on her personal journey through pregnancy, delivery, and raising children. Marie, a mom to three daughters, brings a unique perspective to the table as she harmoniously merges her professional insights with her personal experiences. From managing gestational diabetes to navigating morning sickness, Marie's story is a testament to the power of resilience, intuition, and the love of a mother.

Stepping onto the labor and delivery floor, we delve into the intricacies of labor support and pain management. Being the child of two anesthesiologists, she has a unique insight into the anesthesia world, which she brings into her practice as a labor and delivery nurse. We discuss the role of partners in managing labor pain, the techniques employed in France, and the critical importance of pain management, particularly for patients who choose not to have an epidural.

Our conversation takes a historical turn as Marie recounts riveting tales from her family history, her parents' Caribbean adventure (Marie made a surprise appearance), and the advent of epidural delivery. We also discuss the significance of rest when you’re dating for a newborn, trusting your intuition as a parent, and the impact of various interventions on the laboring down process. Our discourse concludes with reflections on parenting and the importance of teaching children humility and empathy by saying 'I'm sorry'. Join us for a conversation that seamlessly blends the professional and personal, bringing to you insights and experiences that are sure to resonate with you, whether as a parent, a caregiver, or a childbirth enthusiast.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Join us in this enlightening conversation on the world of pediatric chiropractic care with the remarkable Dr. Betel Aklilu. Promising a fresh perspective, Dr. Aklilu shares how chiropractic medicine can be a game-changer for your child's health, starting from birth. Starting with the physical trauma that newborns undergo during childbirth and how chiropractic care can alleviate the stress on their tiny muscles and joints, setting them on a path to optimal nerve and muscle function.

We journey further into the extensive benefits of pediatric chiropractic care. Get insights on how conditions such as torticollis, fluid-filled ears, and latching problems, can be addressed by a pediatric chiropractor. Dr. Aklilu illustrates the transformative Webster technique, a chiropractic method designed to help pregnant people. She also explains how a misaligned atlas can be the root cause of many of the common newborn troubles that many allopathic providers consider to be "normal".

Lastly, we elevate our discussion to encompass the holistic wellness that chiropractic care can bring to your child's life. As Dr. Aklilu underscores, chiropractic solutions are not just for immediate relief but for long-term health. She gives an account of how pediatric chiropractors work hand in hand with other healthcare professionals like pediatric dentists and ENTs to create a comprehensive care plan. In the end, you'll walk away with a newfound understanding of the role of movement in nourishing joints, why it's important not to tightly swaddle a baby's hips and legs, and the benefits of chiropractics for breech babies. This episode is not just an intriguing introduction to pediatric chiropractic care, but a call to embrace it for your child's health and wellbeing.

Connect with Dr. Aklilu at www.kelayi.org

Follow her on Instagram @kelayi__chirowellness

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever wondered about the untold, raw stories of childbirth and breastfeeding? Today, we walk hand in hand with Alex Wachelka, a certified International Board Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Her journey is filled with candid experiences of childbirth, the mystery of cluster feeding, the discomfort of 'brick dust' urine and the discovery of education and a career change that transformed her breastfeeding journey. Yes, the road was rocky, but Alex's determination and drive to persevere is a story that will inspire and resonate with many of us.

The second part of our conversation with Alex navigates through her preparation for the birth of her second child. Prepare to be amazed by the hypno birthing techniques that led to a fast, unmedicated birth. Alex shares her secret strategy of collecting her own colostrum before birth, an unconventional yet innovative technique that we delve deeper into. Alex's story, filled with wisdom and practical advice, will help mothers safeguard their milk supply and prepare for any breastfeeding challenges that may come their way.

Finally, we venture into Alex's path towards becoming an IBCLC. We uncover the hurdles of postpartum, the power of trusting one's instincts and the importance of support and information in successfully navigating motherhood. Alex's story is a testament to the strength that resides in all of us, ready to be unleashed. If you're seeking the expertise of an IBCLC like Alex, don’t worry, we've got you covered. Listen in as she shares her contact information for anyone in need. This conversation with Alex Wachelka is a must-listen for mothers and mothers-to-be worldwide. Come, join us on this journey of inspiration, knowledge, and practical strategies.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever found yourself face to face with unexpected health complications during pregnancy, wondering how to navigate the path ahead? I invite you to join me in this special episode, featuring Dr. Amy Tiffany, a board certified physician specializing in internal and lifestyle medicine, and a board certified health and life coach. Dr. Tiffany bravely peels back layers of her own birthing stories, fraught with challenges including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and heart failure. From weeks-long hospital stays away from her other children, breastfeeding hurdles, to forming that elusive bond with her newborns, Dr. Tiffany's journey is a harrowing tale of resilience in the face of adversity.

However, a silver lining emerged when she took the reins of her health—her struggle with gestational diabetes inspired her to become a fervent advocate for women’s health, educating them about the high risks of type II diabetes and heart disease that can occur post-pregnancy. This journey led her to become her own doctor, offering a unique perspective on self-advocacy and the importance of health education for all mothers-to-be.

Parenting is no stroll in the park, and Dr. Tiffany isn't one to shy away from the hard truths. As our story unfolds, she shares her take on raising children in an environment that encourages learning from failure and resilience. She stresses the importance of intentional parenting, and maintaining a positive mindset, even when times get tough. As we delve into her experiences, we find precious nuggets of wisdom that all parents, new and seasoned, can take away. Tune into our episode and join Dr. Tiffany on this emotional journey of life, learning, and self-discovery.

Connect with Dr. Tiffany at vitalitymwc.com 

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Ever found yourself questioning what correct positioning during breastfeeding looks like? How it impacts not only the baby's nourishment but also the mother's well-being? Come join the rich conversation we have with Christina Walsh, a physical therapist specializing in integrative manual therapy, as we unveil the answers to these queries and more. Christina brings to the table her wealth of wisdom on how to use pillows creatively for body support, tips on focusing on the baby's latch first, and the significance of posture while breastfeeding.

Navigating the intricacies of women's health, we discuss with Christina the benefits of integrative manual therapy for overcoming pelvic floor issues, abdominal separation, and back and hip tightness. With this holistic approach, traditional solutions are knocked out of the park, paving the way for each woman's unique healing journey. We bring to you compelling stories of women who have found remarkable healing through this method, reinforcing its validity and the hope it brings.

Get ready to explore the influence of Instagram on health and relationships, and delve into the importance of engaging in activities like yoga. Christina addresses common issues like rotator cuff injuries and provides advice on looking after your body during the breastfeeding period. She also highlights how her members program can make this protocol a part of your daily routine. This episode is replete with wisdom and practical tips, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being. Be part of this enlightening conversation and discover the path to a healthier you.

Tighten Your Tinkler®️ website: https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com
Use code KELLY50 for $50 off their Signature Program OR Healing From Home 
IG: @tighten.your.tinkler
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tightenyourtinkler
FREE at-home Decompression Position (to relax back, hips, and pelvic floor):  https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com/backandhiprelief
FREE 5-minute Root Cause Quiz: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6C9SJ36

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Have you ever wondered what giving birth in a foreign country might feel like? We plunge into an engaging conversation with Stefanie Fernandes, a certified parenting coach and hypnobirthing teacher, who courageously navigates us through her intriguing birthing experiences in Denmark. Despite encountering language barriers and differences in medical care, Stefanie casts a comforting light on her experiences, describing the warmth and control she felt throughout her journey. She even takes us through the unexpected moment when her labor started at home and she was instructed to wait before heading to the hospital.

As we move deeper into Stefanie's experiences, we discuss the emotional and psychological support available in Denmark, emphasizing the crucial role it played in her and her partner's journey. We learn about Stefanie's various checkups, the preparation by the midwives, and the power of personal affirmations during birth. Furthermore, we explore Stefanie's hypnobirthing experience and the steps her hospital took to promote a more natural birth experience.

Finally, we switch gears to discuss Denmark's child care system, the freedom in their education system, and the immediate need for pelvic floor specialists post-delivery. Stephanie shares her reflections on the unrealistic expectations she had about the postpartum period and how she learned to accept and honor her experiences. We conclude with a deep dive into how mothers can reclaim their birth stories and how healthcare providers can better support this process. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights into birthing, child care, and motherhood from a perspective that might be different from yours. Tune in to get a glimpse of Stefanie's remarkable journey!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Unlock the truth behind epidurals and labor anesthesia in our enlightening conversation with Dr. Bella Speight, a board certified anesthesiologist.  What are the actual risks? Dr. Speight debunks these myths and lays it all bare, offering a reassuring perspective on the minimal risks involved for healthy patients and the importance of correct positioning during the procedure. She also explores unmedicated delivery, shedding light on why some women may opt for this route.

Dive deeper as Dr. Speight reveals the intricate details about the medications used in epidurals and how they function in the body. Replacing an epidural, preparing for a C-section while an epidural is in place, and managing a one-sided epidural - she covers it all. And it doesn't stop there; she provides a comprehensive look at the symptoms of a spinal headache post-epidural and how to cope with it if you are one of the 1% of people who experiences this. With her expert guidance, you'll walk away with a solid understanding of epidurals, labor anesthesia, and what to expect. So, whether you're a budding parent or simply curious, this episode is a must-listen.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Welcome to an insightful conversation I had with Megan McCutchen, a therapist who dedicates her career to perinatal mental health. We navigate the murky waters of intrusive thoughts, a common yet unsettling phenomenon among women during pregnancy and after birth. These fleeting thoughts, ranging from harmless fears to catastrophic scenarios, often serve as indicators of postpartum OCD or perinatal anxiety. Megan and I explore how to perceive these thoughts as they are - just thoughts, not reality. We also share practical exercises to steer your mind away from these intrusive thoughts and manage them effectively.

Moving forward, we shed light on postpartum anxiety, a condition that can sometimes present with intrusive thoughts. For new mothers, this can be an overwhelming and bewildering experience. To help you navigate this, Megan offers strategies on how to confront these feelings of anxiety, instead of resisting or running away from them. In cases where these thoughts become too overpowering, we provide various coping mechanisms. We also delve into the role that medication can play when dealing with postpartum anxiety that feels all-consuming.

In the final segment of our conversation, we explore societal pressures and how they can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety. We dissect the societal push for 'toxic independence' and the influence of social media, and how they contribute to escalating stress levels. We also discuss the importance of letting go of the pursuit of perfection when it comes to parenthood. It's crucial to understand that everyone is working hard and deserves compassion and understanding. Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect parent - we're all just doing our best. So join us for this enlightening episode and equip yourself with strategies to better manage intrusive thoughts and anxiety during the perinatal period.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Unpack the mysteries of postpartum mental health with our special guest, therapist Jennifer Byrnes, LPC, PMH-C. Jennifer, an expert in perinatal mental health and trauma, offers clear-cut explanations on the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression – two conditions often misunderstood by many. She helps demystify these conditions, underlining their differences in timing, severity, and duration, and also elaborates on their respective symptoms. If you're a new mom, or part of a new mom's support system, this knowledge is invaluable.

Our conversation doesn't end there, we also touch upon how to maintain mental health wellness for new moms. Jennifer provides insights on the five tenets of balance and wellness: sleep, nutrition, exercise, and the importance of having a strong support system. She emphasizes preparing conversations with your partner and support system before the baby arrives, to facilitate asking for help post-delivery. As we wrap up, we discuss the treatment options available for postpartum depression, reassuring you that this condition is highly treatable. Let's navigate the postpartum journey together, with a clearer understanding and practical advice.

Connect with Jennifer Byrnes at mytherapygoals.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Today, we invite you to join an enlightening discourse with our esteemed guest, Dr. Stephanie Waggel. We discuss the groundbreaking science behind the new medications approved to treat postpartum depression, which are sparking new hope for postpartum depression patients. Dr. Waggel adeptly unravels the science behind these drugs, making complex medical terms digestible and fascinating.

In our dialogue, we also step into the realm of controversies and implications of these FDA-approved drugs. We question the potential effects on breastfeeding mothers and scrutinize the role of pharmaceutical companies in these developments. We hope to enrich your understanding of postpartum depression and its promising new treatments. Join us for this profound conversation; let's embark on this knowledge journey together.

To connect with Dr. Waggel, go to 
improvelifepllc.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Have you ever wondered about the riveting journey a woman embarks on when entering motherhood? What if you had the chance to hear honest, raw stories from a mother who's experienced it all? Join me as I sit down with Jenna Hodge, a mother to three precious miracles, to hear her tale, filled with unexpected twists and turns, about her childbirth journeys and postpartum experiences. 

From the intense pain of being induced to the unforeseen experiences of an epidural, Jenna does not hold back in sharing the realities of childbirth. Her candidness extends beyond the birthing experience, as she opens up about the physical and mental struggles she faced during her postpartum period, like dealing with her baby's reflux and the toll it took on her mental health. Jenna discusses the importance of having a robust support system and addresses the oft-ignored topic of postpartum depression and anxiety, providing invaluable insights for all mothers and mothers-to-be.

But Jenna's wealth of knowledge doesn't stop at her personal experiences. As a professional coach specializing in motherhood, she shares her perspectives on the potential dangers of self-medication for mental health issues. She underlines the importance of accepting the current season of motherhood and offers advice on navigating the tricky terrains of parenting. Jenna emphasizes cherishing the little moments, a reminder that, no matter how chaotic motherhood might seem, it's the tiny, unexpected moments of joy that make it all worthwhile. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation that promises to enlighten, comfort, and inspire.

Connect with Jenna at http://purposeintended.com/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Imagine facing your dream of becoming a mother, only to be met with fertility issues, an arduous 80-hour induction, and a subsequent C-section without adequate anesthesia—this was the reality for Mary Buffington, MSN, RN, my guest for this episode. As a nurse, presenter, advocate, and coach, Mary has used her personal experiences to promote change, specifically in the realm of trauma-informed care for postpartum mothers in a hospital setting.

Our conversation delves into the often unspoken struggle of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders postpartum. With Mary's candid insight into these issues, we hope to shed light on the critical importance of a compassionate and understanding healthcare team and the dire need for a more patient-focused approach within the healthcare system. We also touch on the business side of healthcare, discussing how improved services can both ensure patient comfort and help retain patients within a system.

In the latter part of our discussion, Mary shares her own journey of emotional healing after a traumatic birth, revealing the therapies and modalities that helped her cope. She also talks about her role as a coach, providing emotional and mental support to others during their hospital births. This episode is a testimony to Mary’s strength and advocacy for better healthcare and support for mothers, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the significant returns that even small improvements can bring to maternal healthcare. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of these critical topics.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.