Birth Story Podcast: Recent Episodes
Heidi Snyderburn
Hi! I'm Heidi, experienced Birth Doula and host of the Birth Story podcast brought to you by Birth Story Media™. I support moms through their fertility and pregnancy journeys and help have trauma free birth stories and labor stories. When moms embrace their pregnant bellies and their pregnancy and await the arrival of their baby or babies they are going to feel many emotions and have many visions about what will happen during child birth. "Is this normal?" "What does a contraction feel like?" "What does the day of labor look like?" "What is a Doula?" I want every mom's birth story to be peaceful, happy and a memory that they will love to share. Birth Story podcast is my way to provide childbirth education through story telling in the comfort of your home and to prepare a mom for motherhood with any birth story that unfolds for their pregnancy, labor and delivery. If a pregnant mom uses an OBGYN, a midwife, a doula, a birth doula, or has a home birth, water birth, natural birth, C-section, cesarean birth, hospital birth, medicated birth, epidural birth, pitocin birth, an induction or induced labor, are having multiple babies or a single baby, a birth plan or no birth plan; I started this podcast to help moms learn and prepare for their labor and delivery and birth though birth story telling.
BIRTH STORY PODCAST INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/birthstorypodcast BIRTH STORY PODCAST FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/birthstorypodcast LOOKING FOR A DOULA IN CHARLOTTE, NC? HIRE MyDoulaHeidi: https://www.mydoulaheidi.com BIRTH STORY PODCAST SHOWNOTES: https://www.birthstory.com
This is a replay of episode 210 to celebrate and promote the launch day of FLOORED, by Dr. Sara Reardon aka The Vagina Whisperer. Out today!
You can buy your copy HERE.
XOXO- Heidi
In this podcast episode, Julia Winn shares her unmedicated Pitocin birth story, detailing her journey from induction to delivery. Her induction plan for a cervical ripening process without an epidural, her unexpected exposure to listeria, and the decisions she faced as labor progressed. From the intense contractions brought on by Pitocin to the incredible support of her doula (Catherine 😀) who is part of Heidi's local doula company Birth Story Boutique and her amazing partner. Despite how difficult it was, the experience was empowering, and she reflects on the deep love and awe that come with bringing a new life into the world.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Induction
- Unmedicated Pitocin birth
- Doula
Julia's favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: Breastfriend, Moby Wraps, Halo Swaddles, Bumbo chair, playpen.
Who is Julia? In her words....My name is Julia, I am from a small town in New Hampshire, moved to Houston, TX when I was 22 and moved to Charlotte when I was 27. I used to be in the medical field for 6-8 years as a CNA. I am now a videographer and content creator.
Where to follow Julia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julia_winn/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/julia_winn/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@julia_winn
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@julia_winn/videos
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Sasha Niz Konrad is the founder and CEO of Sashamama Wellness, a brand dedicated to non-toxic, holistic wellness solutions for pregnant and postpartum women. With a background as a prenatal and postpartum yoga instructor and a deep passion and interest in holistic maternal and hormone health. Sasha has combined her expertise and personal journey to create thoughtfully curated, safe, and effective products safe for anyone but especially mamas! Based in Charlotte, NC, Sasha is an advocate for self-care and empowerment for moms during every stage of their motherhood journey.
We'll explore the inception of Sashamama Wellness, a brand dedicated to providing non-toxic, pampering wellness products for prenatal and postpartum mothers. I was inspired by the Andean fertility goddess Pachamama, symbolizing Mother Earth, and my personal journey through hormonal imbalances and pelvic floor issues + teaching prenatal/postpartum yoga classes. I had a light bulb moment, which led to my conscious effort to curate products that prioritize women's health. A focus on reducing the top 3 common complaints for new/expecting moms and overall self-care habits/rituals during motherhood.
- Clinical Importance of Non-Toxic Products and Detoxifying Safely:
- Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins, which can adversely affect both maternal and fetal health. Studies indicate that exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preterm birth and developmental issues. Utilizing non-toxic skincare products minimizes these risks, promoting a healthier pregnancy, higher chance of getting pregnant, breastfeeding safety/brain development . Talk about my personal experience with hormonal imbalances, walk through journey and story of hormone issues, pelvic floor muscle spasm, and years of listening to new symptoms that pregnant and postpartum women faced weekly as I saw them week after week. Talk about detoxifying from phthalates and endocrine disruptors, define what that means and the sperm count rates declining. Talk about EWG, dry brush, exercise, gua sha, as a form of toxin release.
Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode.
Website: sashamamawellness.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sashamama_wellness
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SashamamaWellness?ref=shop_sugg_market
TikTok: Tiktok.com/ Sashamama_wellness
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095452157752
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
How does Birth Order impact you and your parenting?
Dr. Robert V.V. Hurst was born in Hammond Indiana and has been practicing orthodontics in Covington Louisiana for over 35 years. During this time he has used his office and patients as his living laboratory to study his patient’s personality traits and birth orders. Out of this has come a unique and workable theory that accurately finds a person's real birth order and explains their behaviors.
Educated at Indiana University and Harvard, he has taught at both Tufts University and Louisiana State University. He has published numerous articles on birth order and patient behavior. He has also lectured on this same subject applying it to not only patient management but also to office dynamics and employee relationships.
In Life's Fingerprint, Dr. Robert V. V. Hurst offers an illustrative and funny look at how birth order is directly related to behavior, how people work, how people live, and how people love. A revealing questionnaire helps you navigate the variety of information Dr. Hurst offers to help you pinpoint your real birth order. Unique to this book is the discussion of double birth order and families within families. This concept is the Rosetta stone of understanding birth order theory, and it is why just your ordinal birth order, or number order of birth, is sometimes not your real birth order. Life's Fingerprint: How Birth Order Affects Your Path Throughout Life will help you understand yourself and show you how to better interact with your family, friends, and coworkers. Learn more at www.lifesfingerprint.com and buy the book at www.mybirthorder.com
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Point 1 Birth order influences all parts of your life
- Point 2 All children are different don’t treat them all the same
- Point 3 Finding your real birth order is the key ie. Double Birth Orders
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Drumroll....I am proud of myself for pumping out the ever popular Doula Diaries! I had a crazy week of births around the full Blood Moon of March 14, 2025.
I went to a homebirth, a birth center birth, and 2 hospital births in the same week. Let's see how they all played out. This week was reminding me that birth is unpredictable. It can be long, it can be short, it can be uncomplicated, it can be complicated.
Prepare for it....that's why I wrote Birth Story Academy. You can enroll in my online course and be ready for whatever labor throws at you. Enroll at BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
XOXO- Heidi
Today is World Downsyndrome Day! Celebrating all of our homies with an extra chromy. Thank you for being here and sharing this podcast episode with someone that you know that is parenting and/or pregnant and Down's Syndrome is part of their story.
Heidi sits down with Abby Rose Green of the HERself Podcast to chat about fertility, an unexpected anatomy scan, an amniocentesis, chromosomal uniqueness, Down's Syndrome, and birth.
Abby was originally planning an unmedicated homebirth. She shares how she changed plans and was still able to achieve the beautiful vaginal birth she so desired with her son Owen.
This episode brought Abby and Heidi to tears as they bonded over parenting children with a "diagnosis" they were not anticipating.
Follow along on Instagram:
Abby: Instagram.com/abbyrosegreen
Heidi: Instagram.com/birth.story.academy
We would love for you to write a review for both the Birth Story Podcast and the HERself podcast if you have time today.
XOXO
PS. There is always room for you in Birth Story Academy. Join Heidi for all of your childbirth education needs at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF the course and a FREE copy of the Birth Story Pregnancy guidebook and journal.
Thank you Michelle Smith for recording these beautiful birth affirmations to help get through birth and to practice before birth! If you have 8 minutes, come back to this episode every day!
XOXO Heidi
You can find Michelle's Birth Ease Method for Hypnobirthing at https://www.birtheaseservices.com/
What is pelvic floor therapy?
Dr. Sara Reardon had two unmedicated vaginal births with no perineal tearing. So, how?
Sara has her online pelvic floor fitness platform The V-Hive (everyone can try free for 7 days) and her book available for pre-order now and releasing June 10, 2025 Floored: A Woman’s Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Pelvic floor issues affects almost 50% of women and there is help to prevent and overcome
- My book Floored can help guide you through Pregnancy, birth and postpartum to manage common issues like urinary leakage, prolapse and painful sex
- Preparing for birth can help improve birth outcomes and birth experiences for women and moms
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Floored
- The Vagina Whisperer
- Pelvic floor therapy
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
My book Floored, a comfortable pair of pajamas with buttons in friend, Frida Mom postpartum recovery kit
Summary of guest experience – Who are you? What are your credentials?
Dr. Sara Reardon, board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist and known on social media as The Vagina Whisperer. I have an online pelvic floor fitness platform, The V-Hive, for pelvic floor workouts for pregnancy, childbirth preparation, postpartum, perimenopause and painful sex. I live in my hometown of New Orleans with my husband and two boys.
Website: www.thevagwhisperer.com - sign up for 7 days of free pelvic floor workouts
Book: https://thevagwhisperer.com/floored/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.vagina.whisperer/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thevagwhisperer
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thevaginawhisperer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-reardon-pt-dpt-wcs-4a6b1025/
Photography/Videography: Please email hello@birthstory.com subject YOUR NAME PODCAST PICS/VIDEOS any images I can share in my stories to promote your episode.
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Heidi talks through her birth statistics from 2024 with her fall interns Katie, Cat, and Mariza. Take a dive into cesarean section rates, how long labors lasted, and more fun data in this annual episode!
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Are you ready to hear the amazing birth story of Kenzie Petty with her partner Jackson by her side?
Let's do this!
And since Kenzie is a baddy and won survivor and crushed a primal unmedicated birth...she has a bunch of ways to connect and save you money on all of her favorite things.
Make sure to follow her if you aren't already! Here is what you need to know!
XOXO Heids
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
Chatbooks: CODE: “KENZIETHEHAPPYFAIRY” 20% off
https://chatbooks.com/products/ambassador?utm_source=Ambassador&utm_medium=IG&utm_campaign=kenziethehappyfairy
HOPE&plum carriers 10% off
https://www.hopeandplum.co/KPetty
BIRTH STORY ACADEMY childbirth education online classes
www.BirthStory.com
CODE: $50 OFF with code KPETTY
Kenzie, salon owner extraordinare and Survivor 46 winner
Website: https://linktr.ee/kenziepetty
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenziethehappyfairy
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenziethehappyfairy?_t=ZP-8u3eLHGbwHW&_r=1
________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $50 off with code KPETTY at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- craniosacral is very gentle and can be used on anyone, but especially babies very soon after birth, no matter if the birth was smooth, or traumatic
- it can help with feeding (no matter how you feed your baby), sleep issues, tongue ties, and meeting developmental milestones
- it’s never too late to start craniosacral treatments
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
a craniosacral treatment!! This is a great way to help the body prepare for birth, and heal from the experience afterward.
I’m Meaghan Beames, a Registered Massage Therapist, Craniosacral therapist. I’m trained in Rhythmic Movement, and Visceral Manipulation. I work with people of all ages, but specifically newborns and infants in Toronto, Canada. I teach health professionals around the world to do Infant Craniosacral Therapy through my school, Beames CST Training Centre.
Website: www.beamescst.com and www.mybabycst.com
Instagram: @beamescst @mybabycst
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/beamescst
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beamescst
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today Heidi interviewed Cora Howard, a mother of two and the owner of Write to Heal, a coaching program for birthing people that have experienced cesarean births. Here is a little more about Cora Howard and this episode.
In Cora's words: "In this episode, we’ll explore the emotional journey of recovering from a C-section and rediscovering your sense of self. I’ll share my personal birth stories, including the challenges and transformations I experienced after two C-sections, and how these led to the creation of my mindfulness-based coaching program, Write to Heal. We’ll also discuss tools for emotional resilience and how to empower yourself through writing, mindfulness, and community support."
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Why emotional healing after a C-section is just as important as physical recovery.
- How mindfulness and therapeutic writing can help moms reclaim their sense of identity.
- Practical tips for fostering emotional resilience and facing postpartum challenges with courage.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- C-section recovery
- Emotional resilience for moms
- Postpartum mindfulness practices
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: The Harbor Baby Monitor (https://harbor.co/products/harbor) is my favorite! It’s a smart, modern monitor designed to provide peace of mind for parents. What makes it even better is their trade-in program, so you can upgrade your current baby monitor for Harbor’s high-quality system.
I’m Cora H., a mindfulness practitioner and C-section Emotional Resilience Coach, based in Fairhope, AL, a beautiful small town off Mobile Bay in Southern Alabama. Through my Write to Heal approach, I empower moms to process their emotions, rebuild their courage, and embrace personal growth after a C-section.
Website: corah.coach
Instagram: csectioncoachcora
Threads: @csectioncoach
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/corahoward
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today Heidi interviewed Chelsea Skaggs, the founder of Postpartum Together, a coaching program for parents to continue to grow their relationship after having kids. Here is a little more about Chelsea Skaggs and this episode.
In Chelsea's words: "Having a baby creates a huge shift in your relationship. More than half of couples report decreased satisfaction in their marriage after having a baby, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s no sugar coating that it’s humbling and hard work to understand yourself and your partner in the midst of such a big change but there are ways to become better at communicating and connecting so that you’re more of a team moving through the changes together."
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Point 1: You need to understand where you keep looping in arguments and why that’s happening
- Point 2: Understand when you’re telling yourself a story and need to get accurate details from your partner
- Point 3: Sex probably isn’t going to look the same as it did before, and that’s cool
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Point 1: Relationship Coaching
- Point 2: Sex after baby
- Point 3: After kids
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
Larken Nursing/Pumping bra (I still wear it 6 mo PP because it’s so cozy!)
Chelsea is a certified life and relationship coach who helps expecting and new parents to get out of the resentment and disconnect and build a relationship they are proud of so that they can enjoy the life they’ve built. She is a mom of two and her family lives in Central Ohio.
Website: www.postpartumtogether.com
Instagram: instagram.com/chelseabrookeskaggs
Pinterest: pinterest.com/postpartumtogether
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@chelseaskaggs
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/better.relationships.after.baby
YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@ChelseaSkaggsCoach
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today's interview is with Marisa Rodriguez of Luxe Baby Custom Newborn Care. In Marisa's Words: "I want to share how my postpartum and birth experience changed my views from a caregiver to a mother and how it shaped my views and also led to the way I support other Moms in the postpartum period. I will be discussing my remote services and how they can support new parents."
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- The importance of listening to their intuition and to trust it
- Benefits of self care in the postpartum period
- The wide range of support that is available if needed
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Custom newborn care
- Postpartum support
- What’s right for you and your newborn
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: I am obsessed with the Shusher! It’s helped my diffuse many crying jags—I also love the portable sound machine by HUSHH
Who are you? What are your credentials? Where do you live? Please leave 1-3 sentences only. I am Marisa Rodriguez, founder of Luxe Baby Custom Newborn Care. I am a seasoned newborn care specialist, trained postpartum doula and new parent coach. I am based in Phoenix, AZ but serve families nationwide.
Website: www.luxebabycare.com
Instagram: @luxebabycare
XOXO -Heids
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today Heidi interviewed Kristen Stegall, CEO of Novice Studios, a podcast production company based in Charlotte, NC. Here is a little more about Kristen Stegall and this episode.
In Heidi's words: "In this episode, I interview my client Kristen Stegall about her pregnancy journeys, from navigating a missed miscarriage in 2020, to delivering her rainbow baby in 2022. We discuss her long prodromal labor, determining that a c-section was the safest way to deliver her baby, and processing a traumatic birth experience."
While I don't usually work at this hospital, it should be noted that Kristen says, " And it was fun to do the different positions and try the birth sling and to, you know, all the nurses, the staff there. I feel like very lucky that everybody there was so kind. And they were like, you guys do your thing. And they were like, we trust the doula and we trust you to tell us when you need something."
It feels good to be trusted by a hospital system as a doula. This was the last time I was at this hospital until October of 2024.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- A D&C is an abortion, and abortion is a healthcare tool that saves lives. Unfortunately the word “abortion” has been villainized, but ultimately it prevented an adverse outcome for Kristen’s missed miscarriage.
- An urgent c-section is different from an emergency c-section. In an emergency, you are completely put under general anesthesia and are asleep for the procedure. In Kristen’s urgent c-section, she was fully awake and numbed via epidural.
- If you had a c-section, you gave birth!! Don’t discount your experience or your role in bringing your baby into the world just because you didn’t give birth vaginally.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Missed miscarriage
- Abortion as healthcare
- Urgent C-section
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product:
- Keekaroo Peanut Changer
- Hatch Sound Machine
- Portable Sound Machine with Lights (great for on-the-go naps in the stroller!)
Kristen Stegall is the CEO of Novice Studios, a video podcast production company based in Charlotte, NC. She is a wife to Matt, and mom to a happy toddler and two fur babies.
Website: https://novicestudiosclt.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novicestudiosclt/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@novicestudiosclt
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today Heidi interviewed Mary Farrelly, also known as the NICU translator. Here is a little more about Mary Farrelly and this episode.
In Mary's words: "Hi, I am Mary Farrelly - a certified NICU nurse, nurse educator, doula and the founder of The NICU Translator where I help to bring more joy and less trauma to a NICU experience through empowered education and individualized support. In today’s episode we discuss all things NICU including the different levels of NICU care, ways to prepare prenatally for a known NICU admission, tips for empowered parenting in the NICU and ways to support friends and family who experience a NICU stay."
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- The different levels of NICUs and common NICU diagnoses
- Ways to prepare prenatally for a potential NICU stay
- How to support a family experiencing a NICU stay
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- NICU
- NICU baby or NICU mom
- Preemie
Here are the links to items I mentioned in the episode:
-
I am a NICU Mom: Coloring Through the NICU Journey
- A therapeutic coloring book designed for NICU moms by a fellow NICU mom and NICU nurse, offering a creative outlet and moments of calm during a stressful time.
-
The NICU Notebook
-
A practical tool for parents to organize medical information, track progress, and record memories during their baby’s NICU stay.
-
Hello, Little Love: A Letter from a Parent to Their Baby in the NICU
-
This picture book celebrates the milestones of a NICU baby, offering encouragement and love to both parents and children.
-
Cradles of Courage
-
A heartwarming story that honors the bravery of NICU babies and their families, reminding them of their strength and resilience.
- NICU Milestone Cards: a simple, easy way to remember the positives of the NICU experience and celebrate them through photos.
Mary Farrelly RN, BSN, RNC-NIC - I am a certified NICU nurse, nurse educator and trained doula who lives in Central Virginia.
Ways families can work with me:
Free Life After NICU Community: a private and safe space for NICU families to connect with each other while also having access to expert support and guidance.
1:1 Virtual Post-NICU Doula Support: book a free 30 minute call to learn more about ways we can work together to troubleshoot your concerns and build a unique plan to create a post-NICU environment where you and your baby can thrive together.
Navigating the NICU for Doulas Course: live virtual training will prepare doulas to be able to better support families through their NICU experience and transition home.
Free NICU Birth Plan template: completely customizable birth plan template addendum that will help families be able to navigate the unexpected feeling more confident and empowered in their choices.
Website: www.thenicutranslator.com
Instagram: @thenicutranslator
Facebook Group: The NICU Translator
___________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Sabia Wade (she/they), is a Black, queer, CEO, author, educator, full-spectrum doula, investor, and expander of Black luxury. Sabia is the founder of Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings, an accessible and inclusive training program for community care workers, and For the Village, a non-profit providing doulas at no or low-cost to low-income and marginalized communities in San Diego.
As a coach, board member, investor, educator, and programming development consultant for organizations throughout the Birth and Reproductive Health Industry, every part of Sabia’s work centers on liberation of all people through Reproductive Justice. Her book, Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free, is now available for purchase. Additionally, Sabia is a certified reiki practitioner, death doula, somatic practitioner, human design reader, wedding officiant, and is currently working toward becoming a Spiritual Director!
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- How being a dominatrix is not just about sexuality
- Doms and doula work
- The role of doms and subs in birth and parenting
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- advocacy
- doula support
- dominatrix
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: Kindred Bravely Nursing Bra
Website: https://www.sabiawade.com/
Book: https://rep.club/products/birthing-liberation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabiawade/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sabiawade
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/doulasabia
X: https://twitter.com/sabia_wade
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/thebirthneoterist
Substack: https://www.birthneoterist.com/
Found Free Mentorship: https://found-free.circle.so/
______________________________________________________________________________
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in parenting, pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today Heidi interviewed Amy Lloyd. Here is a little more about Amy and this episode.
In Amy's words: "I graduated nursing school in 2011 and started working in the NICU. I travel nursed and ended up in Denver, CO for 7 years. I mainly worked in the NICU but worked for Nurse Family Partnership for 4 years (an amazing nationwide program for 1st time moms that qualify based on income!) I got married and moved to Asheville, NC in 2021. We got pregnant on the first try! I did the NIPT and found out we were having a boy! At my first appointment they mentioned I had a bicornuate uterus. Since hearing I had a higher rate of a breech baby I was pretty convinced he would be breech and I would have a scheduled c-section. “Normal” pregnancy. I felt really good. Worked night shift in the NICU until 39 weeks. I got COVID at 26 weeks pregnant. The recommendation then was to have a growth ultrasound. I had one at 34 weeks where they discovered the left side of his heart and aorta were small. I was referred to MFM in Asheville and then onto MFM and cardiology in Charlotte. I was induced at 39.2 at Atrium. I had a good induction…foley bulb, pitocin, epidural, AROM, pushed for 45 minutes. My baby immediately went to the NICU. His echo showed he had coarctation of the aorta and he had surgery at 3 days old! We were in the hospital for 2 weeks before coming home to Asheville. We experienced lots of feeding difficulties. He came home with a NG tube, had reflux, and a weak suck. I was basically exclusively pumping from the start. I weaned off the pump at 9.5 months postpartum. At 3 weeks postpartum I had severe abdominal pain leading me to be readmitted for IV antibiotics. They believe I had endometritis. My baby just turned 1 8/29/22. He is doing great and will continue to be followed by cardiology for life but hopefully should not need any further interventions!"
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Flexibility
- Advocating for your family
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Congenital heart defect
- Epidural induction
- Exclusive pumping
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? Boppy for baby. I usually buy my friends a nice pair of pajamas as everyone is usually focused on stuff for the baby!
Summary of guest experience – Currently live in Asheville, NC. Graduated nursing school in 2011 and have worked in the NICU as a RN ever since. Also have my CLC.
Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode.
Instagram: Amy Lloyd
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Today's episode is all about understanding magnesium, where it comes from, why we need it, what the dosing is, and how critical this mineral is for pregnancy.
Magnesium Lotion Shop started with Tiffany having restless legs during pregnancy and postpartum, not knowing until much later it was because of a magnesium deficiency. Tiffany created a DIY version of lotion that worked, and shared it on her blog. Readers kept asking her to make them some. So she worked to develop a smooth, creamy, non-greasy formula. Today Magnesium Lotion Shop has two formulas - ORIGINAL (unscented) and SLEEP (lavender w/melatonin) - and both are plant-based, and non-toxic.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Magnesium is used by over 400 processes in the body, including healthy sleep cycles, blood circulation, muscle cramps, anxiety, regulating moods
- Over ⅔ of population is deficient in magnesium. Even more important in pregnancy and post-partum when baby gets first dibs on nutrients
- Topical magnesium avoids digestive distress/discomfort. Achieving healthy levels of magnesium requires consistent daily use
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Dosage (how much magnesium should we be aiming for?)
- Deficient (how do I know if I’m deficient?)
- Safe (is magnesium lotion safe during pregnancy and for kids?)
Magnesium Lotion Shop Founders are Michael and Tiffany Terczak, who live outside Greenville, SC
Tiffany is a grocery budgeting expert, sharing affordable family-favorite recipes, meal plans and shopping strategies at her blog Don’t Waste the Crumbs since 2012.
Michael is the CEO of Magnesium Lotion Shop with over 36,000 lotions sold and now available online and in seven different states across the country.
Website: https://magnesiumlotionshop.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magnesiumlotionshop/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/magnesiumlotionshop
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- Birth Story Boutique Website - looking for a doula in Charlotte, NC?
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Did you listen to the previous episode 197? Start there. I interviewed David Arrell, the author of Welcome to Fatherhood, in 2021. This is a part 2 follow up in 2024 to that initial discussion.
This episode is about hoow men can achive their highlest level of healthy mascunlinity and embrace fatherhood and partnership successfully.
Please share this episode with a father or soon to be father you know.
You can connect with David at www.welcometofatherhood.com and use code BIRTHSTORY for a special discount when you check out.
XOXO- Heidi
Looking for a doula in Charlotte, NC? Find my team and me at www.BirthStoryBoutique.com
To enroll in Birth Story Academy, head over to www.BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF for being a podcast listener.
David Arrell, the author of Welcome to Fatherhood, chats with Heidi about this powerful book to help male partners with new fatherhood transitions.
Please share this episode with a father or soon to be father in your life.
XOXO Heidi
PS. David mentions his favorite baby products in this episode which is include the Babytone Sensor and the Frida nose sucker.
Ashley Schein is a mother, a writer, and a writing workshop facilitator. She leads workshops, both in person and over zoom. In this episode she talks about the benefits of writing and sharing your birth story in a safe space, and gives some guidance on how to get started so that your story can unfold naturally and beautifully on the page. Ashley also shares about how writing helped her process her own birth experiences and gave her a new perspective. Listen until the end to hear her read the story of her daughter’s birth.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Writing is healing. It can help us process what we’ve been through. It’s possible to write about the same experience more than once in different ways, which can lead to new understanding.
- Writing your birth story is a beautiful way to honor yourself and your experience. It’s never too late to write your story.
- There’s no one more qualified to write your birth story than you. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “writer.”
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Writing your birth story
- Birth Story Workshop
- Writing to heal
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
One of those insanely long pieces of fabric that you wrap around your body so that you can wear your baby. It takes a bit of time on YouTube to figure it out, but once you have it down it’s miraculous for those early, early days when baby just wants to be on mama all. Of. The. Time.
Writing and storytelling have always been a part of Ashley’s life, both personally and professionally. Before becoming a mother, Ashley spent more than 15 years helping brands and organizations find their voices and tell their stories. Now, she helps people do the same by leading writing workshops. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their two young kids.
Website: www.wildwrites.co
Instagram: www.instagram.com/wildwrites
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
This is a follow up birth story with baby #4 with Jenna Slot of the oh so popular episode 41 where we discuss her surprise PFO diagnosis.
That episode was republished just before this one in Episode 194.
In Jenna's words: "We'll talk about my 4th birth story, which started with my water breaking in the elevator at work (work for me is as a labor and delivery nurse!). I also talk about becoming an exclusive pumper when he refused to nurse (or couldn't nurse) because that was a hard pill to swallow after having successfully nursed 3 babies. Also, my mom was at this birth and then shortly after was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, so I was also dealing with immense grief during my postpartum period. I think both grief and exclusive pumping are topics worth discussing when they are present in pregnancy and postpartum!!"
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Point 1 - sometimes a baby will not nurse even if you try absolutely everything. And it's ok to feel sad about that!
- Point 2 - late epidurals and....why not!?!
- Point 3 - All birth stories are different. How unique my 4th one was compared to the first 3.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Point 1 - regarding water breaking and confirmation - manicure, ferning
- Point 2 - exclusive pumping, lactation consulting, issues transferring milk
- Point 3 - late epidurals
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
I LOVED the solly wrap and the ergo carrier.
Summary of guest experience – Who are you?
I'm an L&D nurse in West Michigan. I'm also a recently graduated and credentialed Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. I live near Grand Rapids, MI.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/Jennaslot
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/Jennaslot
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
This is a replay of Episode 41!
Stick around because Jenna and I met up 4 years after this episode and recorded her most recent birth story! It is wild. So start here, and continue to episode 195 for the follow up story!
XOXO- Heidi
Jenna is an experienced Labor and Delivery nurse established in one of the busiest L&D hospitals in the country. Tune in as she recounts her sudden and surprising diagnosis with PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) while pregnant with Baby #3 and how this rare condition impacted the natural delivery of her dreams.
Here is the article we reference with the entire L&D unit pregnant! https://www.fox17online.com/2019/04/19/its-in-the-water-32-butterworth-employees-pregnant-within-a-year
To talk to Jenna directly about her Birth Story or about her favorite baby products you can contact her on Instagram.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Today I chat with Gina Mundy about having a safe childbirth in a hospital. Pitocin should have their feelings hurt right now. Trigger warning as we discuss the stuff no one wants to think about, but that we all need to think about. Maternal and Fetal demise mentioned. Birth injuries mentioned.
In her own words:
I am an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, bestselling author, mother of three and wife. For over two decades, I have analyzed the mistakes that are made during labor and delivery. Drawing on this knowledge, I have authored the book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby. Rather than merely getting involved after an unfortunate mistake was made, I have taken a proactive approach by getting involved before childbirth.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Point 1 Lessons learned from childbirth cases
- Point 2 Most common facts in a childbirth case
- Point 3 How to have a safe chilbirth in a hospital
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
My book “A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth”
Website: www.ginamundy.com
Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ
Instagram: @GinaMundy https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/
Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329
Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/
Twitter: @ginamundy_ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
We will cover Kathryn’s “Founder’s Story” about why she founded Anja Health - after a near-drowning accident, her brother was left with cerebral palsy and umbilical cord blood stem cells could’ve helped save his life. Since they’re mixed race, they were unable to find a match in public banks, which inspired Kathryn to create an affordable private stem cell safe. We will talk about what cord blood banking is, why is it important and we’ll mention a few case studies, that will showcase a few of the 85+ diseases for which cord blood stem cells are approved as a treatment for.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- If you’re pregnant you should definitely consider cord blood cord tissue and placenta banking. Placenta banking is an under utilized part of the birth plan
- Why Anja Health is different
- How cord blood, cord tissue, and placenta banking works and how much it costs.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Cord blood banking
- Stem cells
- Birth plan
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
- the Complete plan for Lifetime of storage by Anja Health
Kathryn Cross is the CEO and Founder of Anja Health. Currently she is based in LA.
Website: anjahealth.com
Instagram: @anja.health
TikTok: @kathrynanja & @anjahealth
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/anjahealth
YouTube Channel: @anjahealth
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
My name is Sarah Latane. I live in the Shenandoah Valley of VA. I am a board certified behavior analyst and a stay at home parent. Brief overview of pregnancy; surprise pregnancy, early symptoms, initial MD care (on accident), early scare, practice transfer to midwife care, later symptoms (including GBS + and hypothyroid). Day/night of birth; prodromal labor and early labor at home, then hospital, never met before midwife, trauma response to cervical exam, decels, epidural, continued decels, cord prolapse diagnosed and emergency c-section. Some birth trauma, definitely the baby blues, then slowly progressing PPD turned postpartum rage, but mostly better now.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Point 1: birth is extremely unpredictable; definitely have strong visions for your birth plan, but research other alternatives just in case (I NEVER considered that I would end up having a cesarean and had not researched or planned for this at all and I think it made coming to terms with it harder).
- Point 2 : maybe prepare for cervical exam if you have experienced sexual assault before and have a first exam pre-labor? I think this really would have helped me.
- Point 3 : if possible, try to envision and plan for what after your birth will look like, e.g., what are your boundaries? And who can you enlist to advocate for you? I think (now that I have hindsight) realized boundaries and a strong advocate could have helped me avoid PPD/rage
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Point 1: cord prolapse
- Point 2 : birth trauma?
- Point 3 : postpartum depression/rage
Instagram: @sblatane
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
This is Part 2 of my discussion with Kelli!
During the podcast interviews we are going through 3 different birth stories as well as two losses. Each story is very unique in its own way and just goes to show how every birth can be different. We talk about Kelli's first birth being an induction with various interventions, her experience with two pregnancy losses, as well as the anxiety/mental health struggles she had during pregnancy, to having rainbow babies and a more hands off informed and empowering birthing experiences.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Each birth is different
- Informed choices
- Finding a supportive OB or midwife is very important not just for birth but for pregnancy loss
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Natural Birth
- Hospital Birth
- Pregnancy after loss
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
- Favorite motherhood product: a pumping bra! It took me three kids to discover the magic of being hands free by using a pumping bra! I literally always held my breast pumps to me and when my last baby was in NICU it was such a game changer to be able to use my hands!
In Kelli's words: "I am a registered nurse in the Kansas area who has a passion for all things birth. As a die hard patient advocate, I want people to know that their birth doesn’t have to be at the hands of a 9-5 doctor and that people have every right to have a say in their care as well as be able to make informed decisions about their birth without being talked down to or coerced."
Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode.
Instagram: @kellithelabornurse
Facebook Page: Kellithelabornurse:
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
TRIGGER WARNING Miscarriages and miscarriage information. Walking through what it is like to miscarry at home and to have a DNC.
Part 2 are her rainbow baby birth stories if you prefer to skip ahead.
During the podcast interviews we are going through 3 different birth stories as well as two losses. Each story is very unique in its own way and just goes to show how every birth can be different. We talk about Kelli's first birth being an induction with various interventions, her experience with two pregnancy losses, as well as the anxiety/mental health struggles she had during pregnancy, to having rainbow babies and a more hands off informed and empowering birthing experiences.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Each birth is different
- Informed choices
- Finding a supportive OB or midwife is very important not just for birth but for pregnancy loss
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Natural Birth
- Hospital Birth
- Pregnancy after loss
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
- Favorite motherhood product: a pumping bra! It took me three kids to discover the magic of being hands free by using a pumping bra! I literally always held my breast pumps to me and when my last baby was in NICU it was such a game changer to be able to use my hands!
In Kelli's words: "I am a registered nurse in the Kansas area who has a passion for all things birth. As a die hard patient advocate, I want people to know that their birth doesn’t have to be at the hands of a 9-5 doctor and that people have every right to have a say in their care as well as be able to make informed decisions about their birth without being talked down to or coerced."
Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode.
Instagram: @kellithelabornurse
Facebook Page: Kellithelabornurse:
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
In Sarah Beauchamp's own words: "My name is Sarah Beauchamp and I have a Bachelor’s degree with a focus on education. I am a mom of three kids (Almost 6, 4, and 1), a birth doula, a birth photographer, and the creator of the book, Birth Happens. I live in Northern Vermont. I am a doula and birth photographer who will give an overview of my own birth stories and then talk about the book I created, Birth Happens: A Collection of Birth Stories. This book has 128 different birth stories from 8 different countries. There is a focus on positive birth stories, but there are also some that are not as happy. There are home births, birth center births, hospital births, and unassisted births. There are breech births and twin births. The stories are meant to provide inspiration and education to anyone who is pregnant or interested in learning more about birth.
I also talk about birth photography and how my goals with the book are my same goals with photography - sharing inspiration and education and helping people realize that birth is really beautiful."
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Birth Happens is available around the globe and is an affordable and accessible way to learn more about birth on your own time
- Birth is different for every person and every baby. It is mysterious and magical and reading lots of stories and listening to different birth story podcasts is a great way to prepare for birth.
- Birth doesn’t have to be scary and traumatic. It can be sometimes because it is always unpredictable, but it is also possible to have an empowering and beautiful birth.
3 keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Birth Photography
- Birth Stories
- Childbirth Education
Website: birthsmiles.com
Instagram: @birthsmiles
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083965312591
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Mae Yoshikawa is a mom, widow, author, model, yogi, and mindfullness guru in Tokyo, Japan. We spent 90 minutes together healing, chatting, and teaching YOU her recipe for peaceful birthing in Japan.
In this healing episode, you’ll hear about…
What keeps a woman from making not just informed but empowered decisions during pregnancy and at the time of birth.
Despite her youth, health, and extremely fit body, Mae learned that she had gotten in her own way. As she looks back at her first birthing experience, she reflects on how she didn’t know that safe, pain-free, natural birth was possible for her, and that she had unknowingly let the subliminal messages of her mother’s birthing advice paint the landscape of her mind negatively.
As a long-time yoga and meditation practitioner, Mae is adept at describing some of the energetic aspects of our minds and bodies; the yin and yang, masculine and feminine, as she discovered within herself.
Eight years after her first, Mae ultimately had a redemptive birthing experience with her second child. Even then, she almost missed her chance when she thought that being a “nice girl” was about listening to the nurse and going with the ways of culture. At this delicate moment, it was her husband who reminded her of her strengths, joy, and self-empowered choice.
Mae’s story of shifting from defeat to ecstasy in the experience of childbirth, as well as all of the learning lessons she has taken away from them, are sure to reach your heart too.
You’ll also hear about how she lost her beloved husband suddenly, only five months after this divine homebirth experience. Mae’s third book (her first in English) is a heart-wrenching and heart-arousing memoir titled Kizuki, which chronicles her experience of finding herself again through grief by metaphorically weaving through her experiences of childbirth and childrearing (coming soon).
Learn more about Mae and her upcoming book Kizuki at her Flagship Website: https://maey.live/Find Mae on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maeyoshikawa/
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
While Lauren was pitching Uber Health to their executive team, she felt a sharp, irregular pain in her stomach. With testing and a diagnostic surgery, she was diagnosed with an incredibly rare disease and was told she may not be able to have a biological child. As you can imagine, her first questions were: how do I navigate this disease? But also, how will I build a family some day? Because so little is known about this disease, it was unclear if she could pursue egg-freezing, so she started looking into donation and what stuck out to her was how antiquated and, for a lack of a better word, “icky” the traditional system felt.
While, ultimately, she was very fortunate to have her sister freeze her eggs and donate them to her to potentially use later, and was able to conceive her baby girl unassisted, she never stopped thinking about egg donation. I spent months thinking about the costly, and emotionally and physically taxing feats people go through to build a family, and couldn’t believe no one has been talking about this and yet, egg donation is at the crux of so many other pieces of the industry. It’s an essential part of LGBTQ+ family planning, it goes hand in hand with egg-freezing, and it’s part of the process for many couples who go through infertility.
That’s why in 2022, she founded Cofertility, to reshape fertility preservation and third-party reproduction so it’s more accessible, human and community-driven. The company offers a destigmatized, scalable approach to egg donation, which reshapes the cost structure of egg-freezing by matching women who want to freeze their eggs with families who could not otherwise conceive and by donating half, women can freeze their eggs for free. Since their launch last fall, tens of thousands of people have applied to be a part of their egg-freezing programs, and they have activated hundreds of donors. They’ve also taken a firm stance against the historical, predatory practices that involve cash compensation and failing to provide fertility education for the donor’s own reproductive future. In the egg-sharing model, which is what their Split program offers, there is a focus on shared outcomes rather than financial gain. All members get access to their online community, where people talk openly about their egg-freezing experience and support one another through it in real time and they welcome all intended parents — single or coupled, regardless of what brought them here — and support them with compassion and respect for whatever path is best for them.
Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- The way we build families is more dynamic than ever and looks different for everyone. Cofertility exists to honor that and offers a destigmatized, scalable approach for bringing egg donation and egg-freezing together. It’s our goal to fix the broken egg donation system.
- Matching with an Egg Donor should be a positive experience. If you're looking for an egg donor — either due to infertility, cancer, a genetic condition, or not having eggs — you may already feel like the odds are stacked against you. The last thing you need is to feel like you’re “shopping” for a human who plays a critical role in your family-building journey. And we’ll never make it feel that way. We agree with ASRM that egg donor compensation can open the door for exploitation. Plus, a 2021 Harvard study found that 62% of donor-conceived adults felt the exchange of money for donor gametes was wrong, and 41% were troubled by the fact that money was exchanged around their conception. By allowing our donors to freeze their eggs as part of the process, our unique model honors everyone involved.
- Lauren speaks to intended parents struggling with second infertility all the time at Cofertility, and it’s something her and her husband are going through right now on their journey to baby #2. It can be especially frustrating as it’s surprising and stressful, but it's estimated that nearly one-third of the women who experience infertility are impacted by it.
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
The Snoo and taking Cara Babies’ Sleep Schedule
Who is Lauren?
Lauren Makler is the Co-Founder and CEO of Cofertility, a human-first fertility ecosystem rewriting the egg freezing and egg donation experience. Previously Lauren was an early Uber employee and founded Uber Health, a product that enables healthcare organizations to leverage Uber’s massive driver network in improving healthcare outcomes through patient transportation and healthcare delivery. After a rare disease diagnosis, Lauren’s fertility journey led her to believe that everyone should have the opportunity to freeze their eggs–and that there should be better access to egg donors. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their miracle baby girl.
Website: https://www.cofertility.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cofertility/ + https://www.instagram.com/familybyco/ + https://www.instagram.com/freezebyco/ + https://www.instagram.com/laurenmakler/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/cofertility/
Other: https://twitter.com/cofertility + https://www.linkedin.com/company/cofertility/
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
In this episode we discuss, my experience as a young mother growing up in Boston. Recap of my feelings when I learned I was expecting at the age of 12, prenatal care, foster care, losing my mother exactly one month before having my son. How I worked through pregnancy. Labor and delivery. Why I wrote my story. Who do I hope to reach?
Love, Lisa Carter
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Teen Pregnancy
- Postpartum Depression
- Black Maternal Health
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Teen Pregnancy
- Teen Mom
- Foster Care
Summary of guest experience:
Lisa Carter, Author, Youth and Family Service provider, mother, wife, GiGi. UMass Boston graduate, Human Services/Community Planning, Originally from Boston, moved to Charlotte 15 years ago.
Website: LisaCarterSpeaks.com
Instagram: @lisacarterspeaks
YouTube Channel:Lisa Carter Speaks
Other: LisaCarterSpeaks@gmail.com
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
The birth of my first son was a deviation from my meticulously crafted plans, shrouding me in an unexpected sense of shame. The aftermath gave rise to a tempest of postpartum depression and anxiety, a labyrinthine struggle that eventually became a catalyst for self-discovery. As the years streamed by, the landscape shifted once more - our eagerly anticipated pregnancy dissolved into sorrow through a late miscarriage at 15 weeks, orchestrated by an incompetent cervix. Yet, from the ashes of despair emerged a phoenix of resilience. The subsequent pregnancy came adorned with its own challenges, demanding a cerclage stitch to fortify my cervix. Armed with newfound strength and the harmonious guidance of hypnobabies, I navigated the path to an empowering and joy-filled birthing experience. A journey from despair to triumphant repair and the reclamation of my empowered spirit.
XOXO-Theresa Kinter
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Pregnancy with a cerclage
- Birthing unmedicated with Hypnobabies
- Misscarriage and support building
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Cerclage
- Hypnobabies
- Miscarriage
Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?:
- A pregnancy seat belt buckle (this is a game changer for car comfort)
- A pair of pregnancy leggings
- Postpartum underwear
- Blackout curtains
- Cosleeper
Summary of guest experience:
I’m Theresa Kinter, a Digital Art Director at a sports marketing agency in Charlotte, NC. I have a BA in web design but I appreciate art in all forms. When I’m not cosplaying as a business woman, I’m navigating life as a mildly crunchy mom of 2 fun-loving and wild boys. I currently moonlight as an Etsy Shop owner where I create helpful comprehensive guides and cozy comforts like herbal eye pillows.
ebsite:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tkstitchyouneed
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TKStitchYouNeed
Etsy: https://tkstitchyouneed.etsy.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tkstitchyouneed
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Counting your baby’s movement starting at the 26th week for high-risk pregnancy and (twins, triplets) and at 28 weeks for all other pregnancies is important because it helps parents to bond with their baby and learn their baby’s specific movement patterns. Baby’s movement communicates their wellbeing. If their movement becomes less or weaker than normal, this can be your baby communicating that they may not be getting the nutrients or oxygen that they need and it is a sign to notify your provider for further evaluation. Monitoring your baby’s movement at the same time every day can help to determine what their normal is so that you can learn more about your baby and be able to be empowered to speak up to your provider if you notice a change in their normal movement patterns.
3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today:
- Count the Kicks is an organization that provides technology for parents to track their baby’s movements and the strength of their movements - you can track twins, it is in 16 languages, there is an app, web-based and printable tracker as well.
- A study Count the Kicks was a part of showed a decrease in stillbirth by 32% through the use of this app in Iowa alone and a survey of 809 moms who used Count the Kicks reported 77% of moms stated that counting their baby’s movements using the app decreased their anxiety about counting kicks and 84% felt more bonded to their baby.
- Common Myths about Kick Counting:
“My baby is always active, so I don’t need to count kicks.”
A baby’s movement is the way they communicate their wellbeing with their parents, so it is important to know the normal movement patterns of the baby so that if there is a change, the parents can quickly notice it. Plus, counting kicks is a way to learn about your baby and bond with them as you learn when they are most active during the day.
“Only those experiencing a high-risk pregnancy should pay attention to their baby’s movement.”
During pregnancy, we cannot physically see a baby to know they are doing well, so we must pay attention to their movement. Every baby is different from pregnancy to pregnancy. Babies communicate their wellbeing by their movement, so even if a person doesn’t have a high-risk pregnancy, it is still important to learn their baby’s movement so they can notify a provider if that movement pattern changes.
“My baby should get 10 kicks in two hours.”
Research has shown that knowing a baby’s normal movement pattern will be a better gage to notify the provider if there has been a change. If a baby normally takes two hours to make 10 movements, then that is the baby’s normal. However, if a baby usually takes less time than two hours to make ten movements and it is taking them much longer to make ten movements, this is a sign to notify the provider since we know baby’s move less and may have weaker movements when they are not feeling their best and need evaluation.
“I can just use a doppler device to monitor my baby’s wellbeing.”
Every doppler device is different, and a change in heart rate can be one of the last signs that a baby’s wellbeing needs evaluation. A change in movement is one of the earliest signs, so that is why it is important to count a baby’s movements and know what the baby’s normal movement pattern is.
“If my baby isn’t moving, I should drink something cold or eat something sugary to get my baby moving.”
A change in a baby’s movement is one of the first signs that the baby’s wellbeing needs evaluation. A baby’s movement pattern should be the same with or without something cold to drink or something sugary to eat. Therefore, it is best to have the baby evaluated if the parent needs to do something to get the baby moving.
“Baby’s kick less near the end of pregnancy.”
Baby’s move throughout the pregnancy, even throughout labor. The way the baby’s movement feels may change near the end of pregnancy as the baby has grown, but the time it takes for a baby to make 10 movements should be the same throughout the pregnancy, even towards the end.
3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode:
- Kick Counts
- Reduce stillbirth
- Pregnancy App
Summary of guest experience
Roxane McAllister. I have been a labor and delivery nurse for five years and currently I am a traveling nurse in California. I am an ambassador for Count the Kicks because I am passionate about maternal and infant health such as reducing stillbirth and promoting parental bonding with their babies before their babies are even born.
Website: www.countthekicks.org
Instagram: @countthekicksus
TikTok: @countthekicks
Facebook Group: @countthekicks
YouTube Channel: @countthekicks
Twitter: @countthekicksUS
Other: my email: nurse.ambassador@countthekicks.org
RESEARCH
BJOG (Research published showing 32% reduction in stillbirth in Iowa by using Cout the Kicks app)
https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1471-0528.17426
AJOG (Research published showing how tracking fetal movement by mothers helps improve outcomes medically and emotionally)
https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(21)01971-2/fulltext
Fetal Movement (Research about importance about fetal movement)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470566/
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Laura and Heidi open up about their unique cardiac conditions in their pregnancies. Laura continues on about taking Birth Story Academy and crushing a twin vaginal birth!
Follow Laura at: https://www.instagram.com/laurajkamps/
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
3 Key takeaways from the podcast
- Cardiac Conditions in Pregnancy
- Twins
- Point 3.
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
In her own words, " I am a previous L&D RN now working as a nurse practitioner, but still have a passion for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnancy #1 (39+6 week elective induction at hospital with epidural and 9lb4oz baby boy and
Jenny Stinny is here to win us over! She chats all about her births including birthing her twins vaginally in an induction at 39 weeks. She continues to inspire us on IG with her at home work outs through her pregnancies and postpartum periods. She is an avid weight lifter and an incredible mama. We read her children's boo, Monster's Don't Do Yoga, at least once at week at bed time! Make sure to follow Jenny at https://www.instagram.com/jenny_stinny/
And, you can buy her children's book HERE! Make sure to tag both of us on IG when you read it!
Jenny first became pregnant in college at JMU and had to decide what to do. We talk about her decision to go to Planned Parenthood and then to keep her baby even though it would be a hard journey. She talks about pregnancy, mental health, loss, unmedicated vs medicated, twins vs singletons and so much more! Have a great time listening!
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
3 Key takeaways from the podcast
- The impact of exercise on mental health
- Twins vs. Singletons
- Medicated vs. Unmedicated births
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Straight from hot and steamy Texas, I bring you Morgan Salus. Morgan shares her incredible story of loss, fertility, gestational hypertension, being induced, and her wonderful rainbow birth story. Thanks for being here as Morgan teaches us through her stories.
XOXO -Heids
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course!
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
3 Key takeaways from the podcast
- Miscarriage Tips with Cytotec
- Fertility Awareness
- Navigating an Induction with Gestational Hypertension
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery.
Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
This episode HAS IT ALL! Spinning Babies CHECK. Functional Midwifery CHECK. Prenatal Nutrition CHECK. Birth Stories CHECK. Have an amazing time listening to Rhea, one of my favorite Nurse Midwives and Spinning Babies instructors! This episode is jam packed. You may even want to take some notes!
XOXO-
Heids
You heard Kristen chat about her experience taking Birth Story Academy! I hope you will jump into my class soon too! It's 6 hours of self-paced content spread over 20 modules....everything you need for your best birth is included down to the birth plan templates and recorded birth affirmations! Head over to BIRTHSTORY.COM and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
Resources:
- Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
3 Key takeaways from the podcast
- What to do if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes
- How do know if you are in active labor
- What is Spinning Babies and how is it applied for vaginal births
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me!
- YouTube
- My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Stefanie Atunes is the Founder of Doula School in Canada. https://doulaschool.ca/
Stefanie has been a Lamaze® Educator and doula since 2002. After the birth of her second son, Stefanie saw just how valuable it is to be prepared for birth and to have good support around you.
Stefanie is a visionary in the childbirth field. She leads the Discover Birth organization providing a variety of services to expectant parents and training for those wishing to pursue work in the childbirth field. Stefanie is a former board member with the Association of Ontario Doulas and sits on many local boards and coalitions to improve our communities. She is a Doula Canada approved Birth Doula Trainer, and runs a Lamaze Lamaze-Accredited Childbirth Educator Program. She recently become the Director of Doula Canada, you can read more about their programs here.
Stefanie is a contributing author in the best selling Power of Women United and the book Bearing Witness: Childbirth Stories Told by Doulas. She is a regular contributing writer and blogger, and has done many interviews online and for TV/radio.
Her belief is that the world can be a better place if parents can have more positive childbirth experiences that allow them to bond properly with their babies. She works tirelessly to change the world in this aspect…one family at a time.
Stefanie was awarded ‘Business Woman of the Year for 2022’ by CanadianSME Business Magazine recognizing her contributions to the families of Canada in improving perinatal health outcomes through Discover Birth’s childbirth education, birth and postpartum doula offerings.
XOXO- Heidi
PS. We just hit 500 attendees to Birth Story Academy! I would love to have you join my online childbirth education course. It's a fun 20 modules of me teaching and entertaining you step by step. Birth plan templates, postpartum plans, hospital packing lists and so much more are all included for FREE including the Birth Story book. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
This is a 2 part episode. Make sure to listen to Part 1 first!
Still looking for a childbirth education course that you will LOVE? Join Birth Story Academy today and learn more from Heidi, a 20 year seasoned doula with a less than 7% cesarean section rate. 20 modules, 6 hours total, self paced and TONS of free downloads. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
About Hannah *(and I’m so glad you’re here)* As a Registered Massage Therapist governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) I’ve had the privilege of working in various environments including the High Risk Obstetrics Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital where my passion for working with pregnant folks fully emerged. After working at multiple different multidisciplinary clinics in Toronto, I’ve settled into a practice at my home clinic in the West End of Toronto.
In 2022, I began my training as a Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator with Doula Training Canada.
Over the past decade, I have worked with a wide variety of clients but have been continually drawn towards working with folks during pregnancy and postpartum. In 2020 I was given the privilege of welcoming my son into the world and went through the truly transformative journey of becoming a mother. This ignited a passion within me to fully enter the birth space and offer support for parents during the perinatal period.
My work inevitably weaves together my experiences as a mover, movement educator and body worker.
I lead with my values. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Indigenous Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, and that the body is deeply political. I acknowledge my privileges as a white, cis-hetero, able bodied woman and remain committed to listening, reflecting and embodying the work of antiracism.
I believe your body does not need to change in shape or size to become valuable.
I believe that movement has the capacity to heal and can be vital to wellness.
Above all else, I believe that each person knows their body best.
Now I’m on a mission to bring continuous care to the prenatal and postnatal wellness space for pregnant and birthing people (along with their partners and families) and to help you feel good and liberated in your body.
Enjoy her stories!
XOXO Heidi
This is a 2 part episode.
Still looking for a childbirth education course that you will LOVE? Join Birth Story Academy today and learn more from Heidi, a 20 year seasoned doula with a less than 7% cesarean section rate. 20 modules, 6 hours total, self paced and TONS of free downloads. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
About Hannah *(and I’m so glad you’re here)* As a Registered Massage Therapist governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) I’ve had the privilege of working in various environments including the High Risk Obstetrics Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital where my passion for working with pregnant folks fully emerged. After working at multiple different multidisciplinary clinics in Toronto, I’ve settled into a practice at my home clinic in the West End of Toronto.
In 2022, I began my training as a Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator with Doula Training Canada.
Over the past decade, I have worked with a wide variety of clients but have been continually drawn towards working with folks during pregnancy and postpartum. In 2020 I was given the privilege of welcoming my son into the world and went through the truly transformative journey of becoming a mother. This ignited a passion within me to fully enter the birth space and offer support for parents during the perinatal period.
My work inevitably weaves together my experiences as a mover, movement educator and body worker.
I lead with my values. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Indigenous Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, and that the body is deeply political. I acknowledge my privileges as a white, cis-hetero, able bodied woman and remain committed to listening, reflecting and embodying the work of antiracism.
I believe your body does not need to change in shape or size to become valuable.
I believe that movement has the capacity to heal and can be vital to wellness.
Above all else, I believe that each person knows their body best.
Now I’m on a mission to bring continuous care to the prenatal and postnatal wellness space for pregnant and birthing people (along with their partners and families) and to help you feel good and liberated in your body.
Enjoy her stories!
XOXO Heidi
In this episode we cover paving the way for VBAC's today with Sarah. Sarah is one of the pioneers of VBAC's in Charlotte, NC by advocating (and sneaking around) with the support of her midwife and OB teams. When the hospitals were still saying no, she found a team to say YES! This is such a cool story. Thank you Sarah for making VBAC's today possible by being one of the firsts!
XOXO-Heids
PS. I would love to have all my listeners join me in my online course, Birth Story Academy to plan and prepare for the birth they want. Let me help you navigate the stages of labor and all of those hospital nuances and policies. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off at BirthStory.com. You will get a free copy of the Birth Story book too and access into my private FB community! Let's do this!
Rachel Campbell is a mom, doula, and leader in her local community. In this episode, she shares her two medicated hospital birth stories with her daughter and son.
In this episode, we cover:
- Rachel's first birth, which was marked by a failed epidural, an extended pushing period, and a forceps-assisted delivery
- Her complicated postpartum period, which included an infection and difficult healing journey with a severe tear
- Rachel's second birth, which was remarkably similar to her first, but with a very different redemptive outcome
- Advocating for yourself with providers postpartum and taking care of your own medical needs, even when it seems like other people are not taking your concerns seriously
- A brief chat about the use of an SSRI medication to manage postpartum depression
- A doula chat with Heidi and Rachel about tips for staying hydrated during pregnancy, especially during hot weather
XOXO -Heidi
Resources:
-
Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the births of over a thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will often hear from many of the top experts in pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the sacred postpartum period. Connect with Me!
-
Instagram
-
YouTube
-
My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Dr. Jess Michaels is an osteopath, doula, and founder of The Birth Sling, a powerful tool for movement and support during labor. In this episode, she shares her own birth story of transferring from a home birth plan to a hospital birth, including laboring on the beach, listening to her body, and creating the Birth Sling for other birthing persons after DIY-ing her own for her daughter’s birth.
In this episode, we cover:
- Jess’ experience in osteopathic medicine and as a birth doula
- Jess’ favorite birth tools for home births
- Her birth story of transferring from a home birth plan to a hospital birth
- Listening to your body and asking for more support
- How various movements help us progress labor and manage pain
- Sterile water injections for back pain relief
- Giving birth in a birthing pool in a hospital with your own midwife
- Processing and coping with changes in your birth plan
- What a birth sling is and how to use it during labor and birth
Get 20% off your purchase with code “BIRTHSTORY” at https://www.thebirthsling.com/
XOXO -Heidi
Connect with Jess!
- The Birth Sling Instagram
- Dr. Jess Michaels’ Instagram
- Dr. Jess Michaels Website
- The Birth Sling Website
Resources:
-
Birth Story Academy Online Course
- Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off
- Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides
I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the births of over a thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will often hear from many of the top experts in pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the sacred postpartum period. Connect with Me!
-
Instagram
-
YouTube
-
My Doula Heidi Website
- Birth Story Media™ Website
Heidi and Jen sit down and chat about all things birthy with love and affirmation for those of us in bigger bodies. This is an episode not to miss especially if things like scales in hallways, small blood pressure cuffs, and monitoring have you stressesd TF out! Let us pour some positivity into your day today!
Follow Jen at plussizebirth.com and on IG at instagram.com/plussizebirth
XOXO-Heids (IG @Birth.Story.Academy)
PS. I would love for you to let me teach you all things pregnancy and birth in Birth Story Academy. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
The second I saw Meg Thompson's Reel on IG about unmedicated birth, I was hooked. I devoured all of her content. She is funny, and open, and raw! She is an Urban Homesteader, and crunchy mom advocate! I shared one of my favorite reels on her page and it got over 1 million views! So, naturally, I had to have her on the show. Enjoy!
You can follow meg here: https://www.instagram.com/flourishingmotherhood/
We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at BirthStory.com
XOXO-Heidi
Thanks to Kristen and Adam at Novice Studios CLT for producing this episode. As always, Thanks Tiffany for getting these episodes onto the website! It takes a village.
O.M.G. This is my absolute favorite episode that I have published to date on the Birth Story Podcast. Britta Bushnell and her book, Transformed by Birth, are a gift to the birth world and I am beyond excited to share her and this book with each of you.
Grab a latte and get ready to learn all about Apollo and Artemis as she takes you on an incredible metaphor journey. Get ready for Greek mythology, transformation, surrendering and duality.
Need a copy of Britta's book, you can snag one HERE on AMAZON
Want to connect with Britta? Follow her on INSTAGRAM HERE
or at her website: Brittabushnell.com
This episode is gold! Please share it with a friend who is pregnant!
XOXO- Heids
If you would like a spot in Birth Story Academy, you can enroll today at BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
This episode is packed full of 2 birth stories. First, Julie walks us through being a party girl after a massive trauma in her life. She was pregnant after only a few dates with her now husband. We chatted and laughed about dating while pregnant. The conversation turns into the murder of her dad and needing a trauma informed birth team. She shares about changing plans from unmedicated birthing to an epidural and then what postpartum depression and anxiety looked like for her. Julie came on the Birth Story Podcast to help other mothers understand the delicate symptoms of PPD and PPA and when medications like Zoloft can help. 6 years later she becomes pregnant again with her second after marrying her husband. She was taking an antidepressant and wanted an unmedicated birth at a birth center. So how did it go....you will have to listen!
XOXO Heids
If you are looking for an awesome online childbirth course on a budget to prepare you for birth from a doula's perspective, then please join me in Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF and to let me know you found my childbirth education class from the pod!
Heidi chats wtih Rachael from Hey Sleepy Baby! about her thriving IG business supporting parents wtih healthy sleep habits....and her incredible birth stories! So how did her third delivery go? Hopefully Rachael will return to tell all!
You are invite into Birth Story Academy with a friends and family code of BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF for listening to this podcast episode to plan and prepare for your hospital birth! BirthStory
Woah. This episode took a turn I was not expecting.
Bri shares about her fertility journey with 2 egg retrievals and multiple losses with unexplained infertility-seriously the most annoying infertility diagnosis there is.
Her doula, Sabrina, joins us to share about laboring with her at home, transferring her to the hospital, hugging her good-bye on a stretcher. You see it was the beginning of COVID and the hospital would not allow doulas to come inside.
And then.....they banged her around in the elevator and then the elevator shut down and she was stuck.....pushing.
What happened next...you will have to listen!
XOXO- Heids
Please joing me for all of your childbirth education needs in Birth Story Academy. I would love to be your virtual doula and teach you all about birth, the stages of labor, birth plans, newborn care plans, and how to be prepared for spontaneous labor, inductions, and cesareans. I cover it all for you and all of my best tips for a beautiful hospital birth and how my clients have a less than 7% cesarean rate and you can too! Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Heidi chats with Jess all about a surprise diagnosis of Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in her 20's and what that meant for Jess' fertility and family planning. Jess shares the RAW story behind how Mamas in Training came to be!
Mamas in Training Podcast Suggest Episodes: https://www.mamasintraining.com/episodes/
106
112
92
Jess' favorite baby products!
Get 25 % Boom Boom Body Suits at https://boomboombabyco.com/collections/all-clothing-1 with code MAMASPOD25
Bjorn Bouncer https://www.babybjorn.com/products/baby-bouncers
Thank you for being here and sharing this podcast episode with someone that you know that is parenting and/ pregnant and Down's Syndrome is part of their story.
Heidi sits down with Abby Rose Green of the HERself Podcast to chat about fertility, an unexpected anatomy scan, an amniocentesis, chromosomal uniqueness, Down's Syndrome, and birth.
Abby was originally planning an unmedicated homebirth. She shares how she changed plans and was still able to achieve the beautiful vaginal birth she so desired with her son Owen.
This episode brought Abby and Heidi to tears as they bonded over parenting children with a "diagnosis" they were not anticipating.
Follow along on Instagram:
Abby: Instagram.com/abbyrosegreen
Heidi: Instagram.com/birth.story.academy
We would love for you to write a review for both the Birth Story Podcast and the HERself podcast if you have time today. Abby is giving away her Self Care course to one lucky listener who writes those reviews!
XOXO
PS. There is always room for you in Birth Story Academy. Join Heidi for all of your childbirth education needs at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF the course and a FREE copy of the Birth Story Pregnancy guidebook and journal.
In this Doula Diaries episode, Heidi chats for a quick 10 minutes on being fat, fit, healthy, beautiful, capable and worthy. This episode is for encouragment and how to navigate pregnancy weight gain conversations with your medical provider especially if you have a history of disordered eating prior to pregnancy!
Thanks for being here. If this episode resonates with you then please leave a review and share it with a friend who may need this positivity today!
XOXO
Heidi would love for you to join her in Birth Story Academy for all of your online childbirth education to prepare you for your hospital birth! Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
The light after loss.
In this episode, Jenna continues her journey with us by sharing about her Rainbow baby and pregnany after loss. Jenna has an unplanned cesarean and she walks us through what that looks like ending in an OR when you planned a vaginal birth.
If you are open to hearing Jenna's loss stories including a stillbirth, scroll back to episode 155 that was released on Tuesday.
XOXO- Heidi
PS. I would love for you to choose Birth Story Academy for your online childbirth education with me. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF!
TRIGGER WARNING
This episode discusses miscarriage, a blighted ovum, and stillbirth.
This episode is to honor and support all of the loss parents out there needing comfort and community. If this content will not serve you, please end it and tune in to Episode 156 on Thursday when Jenna continues this story with her rainbow baby's birth story.
We know that many of you may not have a rainbow baby like Jenna and Sabrina so Episode 156 may not honor your story and journey. I sent my love and hugs to you always.
This is a 2 part series.
XOXO Heidi
PS. I would love for you to join me in Birth Story Academy for your online childbirth education. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
If you are planning a home birth then this episode is a MUST listen. Even though a hospital transfer has a low likelihood of occuring, I want to lift you up with a postive story just in case.
This week, Heidi chats with Morgan McKittrick all things homebirth and homebirth transfer. Morgan was able to stick to her plan of unmedicated birthing and having a non-traumatic positive birth experience even when her homebirth midwife said she needed to shift plans mid labor!
This episode is packed full of empowering ideas, plans, motivations, and lessons to help you on your journey.
XOXO
If you are planning a hospital birth and are looking for amazing childbirth education to prepare you, please join Birth Story Academy today at BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at checkout. See you in class! (although rock on because its virtual and self paced!)
Today Heidi and Collin share about their week where they had 2 clients receive the exact same vaginal exam of 5/80/-2 and how both labors played out extraordinarily differently.
They take a very deep look into why vaginal exams predict nothing at all, but can be used to help make decisions when used infrequently and appropriately.
Loving Birth Story Podcast and want to learn more from Heids. Choose Birth Story Academy for your online childbirth education to prepare for your hospital birth and receive a copy of Heidi's Birth Story pregnancy guidebook FREE. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Tune in to this conversation between Heidi and her doula partner Collin as they re has their most exciting birth to date. It will make your heart race!
Thanks to Mackenzie for letting us share!
Join Birth Story Academy today with $20 OFF at BirthStory using code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND
What a gorgeous episode with Amy of Expecting and Empowered and the Herself podcast.
She sits down and shares all about her birth stories and the creation of Expecting and Empowered with her sister Crystal and the Herself Podcast with her co-host Abby.
This episode is jam packed full of pregnancy, birth, fitness, parenting and postpartum advice.
And, its our biggest giveaway of the year. Win a FREE year subscription of the Expecting and Empowered app, FREE entrance into Birth Story Academy and a FREE copy of the Birth Story Book. Here is how:
- Write a review for the Birth Story Podcast & the Herself Podcast
on whatever app you are currently listening on
-
Like Birth Story and Expecting and Empowered on IG
-
Tag people that you love to play along on our posts!
XOXO
Heidi
You can join Birth Story Academy TODAY for $20 OFF with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at BirthStory.com
PS. Here is our promise on the types of placenta retainment we discussed
Heidi interviews Ashley Roberts from CarolinasNewbornCare.com on how to manage your sleep with a new baby's sleep cycles and patterns. This is a holistic approach. The Birth Story Podcast does not endorse the cry it out method and this episode is a whole lot of help without any techniques that are emotionally harmful to newborns like the cry it out method.
The Birth Story Academy Facebook group is growing daily with no participants. Join Birth Story Academy today for your online childbirth education (self-paced) by using code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
XOXO
Did you listen to Part 1? Trigger warning: Sexual assault conversations
In Part 2 of this conversation with Juanita Chase, Heidi and Juanita explore tangible advice for creating a trauma informed birth team and preparing for birth post-trauma in order to have an empowering birth.
This episode is all about how to take back your power and conquer your fears during childbirth.
Thank you for listening and sharing this episode with a friend that you know who is a survivor of sexual assault and is pregnant.
You can reach out to Juanita directly with the handle @pauseanywhere on all social media platforms and the website Pause Anywhere.
XOXO-Heidi
Join Birth Story Academy today with $20 OFF using code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at www.BirthStory.com
Trigger Warning: Sexual assault and childhood sexual assault
Heidi sits down with Juanita Chase and discusses her history of sexual assault and how that shaped her life and pregnancies.
In this episode Juanita shares about her first 2 birth stories and how her past trauma surfaced in labor.
In part 2 (the next episode) Juanita shares her 3rd birth story when she took her power back and created a trauma informed birth team.
If you know someone who would benefit from this episode, thank you for sharing it with them.
To enroll in Birth Story Academy, visit BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF
This week Heidi shares a story of one of her doula clients who had an unmedicated, homebirth like story, birth at a hospital. Heidi outlines how you can have a story like this too (if that is something you want!).
Listen this week to hear about having the right midwifery team, being educated, having an involved partner, the right doulas, and flipping an OP baby to the perfect OA position.
Jump in to Birth Story Academy today for all of your childbirth education needs for birthing in a hospital!
XOXO-Heidi
Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Heidi brings her doula partner Collin on the show today to chat with sexuality educator Erica Smith. The conversation was intended for rapid fire, but it organically unfolded to be about sex, sexuality, sex in pregnancy and postpartum, initating after babies, and how to talk to your kids about sex. We even talk about the importance of naming body parts appropriately when you talk to your baby, toddler, child, and adolescent! Find out what is normal and how to keep the pleasure going through hormonal changes and busy parenting days!
If you are seeking online childbirth education for your hospital birth, join Heidi in Birth Story Academy. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Sarah Martin brings all the WOW in this episode. Trigger Warning: Infant loss at 18 weeks.
Sarah talks about being a young mom in her 20s and 30s and just doing whatever the doctors told her to do which led to epidurals and losing her power.
At 40, in a new marriage and healing from loss, she explores having a doula, and orgasmic birth, and gets into her power and into all the woooooo.
This is by far one of my favorite episodes that I have ever recorded....and I was her doula!
Enjoy.
If you are looking for phenom childbirth education that is self-paced and online for you and your partner (if appicable) then let me be your childbirth educator in Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF
XOXO- Heidi
Heidi chats about her trip to Colorado and camping with a Mama Moose and her new baby Moose and Heidi's reflections on nature, being mammals and how the world treats us in the postpartum period. She takes a deep dive into the postpartum guide and breastfeeding guide available through Birth Story Academy.
It's not too late to join Birth Story Academy....even if you are due next week! Join today for $20 OFF using code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at BirthStory.com
Heidi sits down with Gina Conley from MamasteFit on her current pregnancy, her miscarriages, her births, and her IG platform.
On her first, she was delivering at a military hospital and her sister, Roxanne, was a labor and delivery nurse who was planning to help her. She talks about how that birth went sideways and how it informed and shaped the rest of pregnancies and births and how she decided to create content to serve others!
She also really digs into switching to midwifery care and homebirth in the middle of COVID and how different that was from birthing in a military hospital.
Gina shares about how MamasteFit came to be on Instagram, her online courses, community and building a business.
"At MamasteFit, we exclusively train athletes throughout their pregnancies, postpartum, and beyond! We have spent the past 4+ years training and developing programming for in-person clients. We have clients that start training with us at various points throughout their motherhood journey, some starting several years postpartum but wanting to feel strong again!"
I love following this sister duo on Instagram at instagram.com/mamastefit
XOXO-
Heidi
Hey parents! Here are some affirmations from Michelle Smith of the Birth Ease Podcast that will help you stay relaxed and calm. Lay down, put in your air pods and enjoy some self care for 20 minutes during nap time.
XOXO Heidi
If you would like to join me in Birth Story Academy! Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Heidi is LIVE on Fireside (aka no editing) with Jenna to discuss her 4 very different birth stories.
Check out Jenna's blog at parenthoodandpushups.com and her IG at instagram.com/parenthoodandpushups
If you are still searching for the best online childbirth education to take to prepare you for a hospital birth, use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF of Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com
Jenna is one of Heidi's doula clients and a mom of 4. She is also a popular blogger with Parenthood and Pushups where she puts out clean content on fitness and parenthood in a funny way. Jenna sits down with Heidi and they share about what to register for and what not to register for as well as some awesome parenting gold tips! Enjoy. And if you are looking for really good childbirth education that balances the hospital policies and your own choices, please jump into Birth Story Academy. It is only $178 when you use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF!
Queer Visibility Series Story 3.
In Part 2, AK and Steph talk about their shared birth story experiences from both birthing person and partner perspectives. Steph talks about SNS feeding after AK had some struggles. This story packs in a ton of advice on having doulas, surrendering to high blood pressure, enduring a 4 day long induction, and power of midwifery care in avoiding a C-section. Their baby also had a velamentous cord insertion and AK suffered a post partum hemorrhage when her placenta was being stubborn and took awhile to come out.
Make sure to check out Part 1 of their fertility journey first.
Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF Birth Story Academy if you are seeking amazing online and self paced childbirth education straight from Heidi, an 18 year seasoned doula!
Queer visibility series. This is the third couple in the Birth Story visibility series. Amy Kate and Steph share about their fertility journey in this episode. All of the details on meeting with a social worker, the laws, insurance, and all the steps involved in an IUI to IVF journey with 2 egg retrievals as a same sex assigned at birth couple. Stick around for their Birth Story in Part 2 and how Steph did SNS feeding.
Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF Birth Story Academy if you are looking for online, self paced childbirth education from a seasoned doula!
Heidi talks about Station, Position, Effacement, and Dilation and why you need to ask for 5 markers in this 4 letter acronym every single time you consent to a vaginal exam. To join Birth Story Academy for your childbirth education, use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
XOXO- Heidi
Hope to see you in our private Facebook group when you join BSA!
In this episode, Heidi vulnerably shares with her audience the side of many abortions that a doula sees that the rest of the world may not know about.
www.BirthStory.com
Amy and Emily share their fertility journey in episode 134 so start there! This episode is part 2 where we continue on conversation through their birth stories after transvaginal insemination and IVF.
If you are interested in reaching out to Amy she can be reached at orbitfit@gmail.com
Please enjoy $20 OFF Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com where you can get AWESOME childbirth education self paced and online with Heidi as your virtual doula.
In the second story of this queer visibility series, Heidi interviews Emily and Amy about their love story, fertility journey and uterine rights. They discuss deciding on transvaginal insemination, directed donor vs. cryo bank, IUI, IVF, fertility profiles and who would carry with the appropriate amount of hilarity and seriousness. This is part 1, and their birth stories are told in part 2. So, try to listen in order! From a special text message at the summit of a mountain, to finding direct donors at the grocery store, hot yoga, and in PA school, this episode has it all!
XOXO- Heidi
I would love to have you in class at Birth Story Academy. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Don't forget to grab your FREE guide to the enneagram and what your type says about the kind of labor support that you need from your birth team at BirthStory.com. Be sure to share this episode with your birth partner too!
Heidi teamed up with Liz Orr, an enneagram practictioner from instagram.com/rudeassenneagram to bring you today's episode and 9 amazing memes for each enneagram type. If you are listening to this episode, Heidi would really appreciate it if you would share these memes to your IG and Facebook stories!
There is still room in Birth Story Academy. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF this online and on-demand course to prepare for your hospital birth!
This is the sequel to the Jess and Katie story -their birth story! Please listen to Part 1, episode 130 for their fertility journey and to learn more about the laws for fertility and same sex couples with having to adopt their own child! This is the first couple of 3 that I am showcasing for a visibility series on fertility and same sex assigned at birth couples regardless of gender.
I would love to have you in Birth Story Academy. Join today at BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF
Listen to the foreword to the Birth Story Pregnancy guidebook + journal on what in the world a doula is and why Heidi is a doula! And, HOW Heidi became a doula and finally listened to her calling. Join Birth Story Academy today with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF using code BirthStory.com
Use code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST for $5 OFF the book!
Jess and Katie kick off a 6 episode series on visbility of same sex assigned at birth couples. In this episode, we share their love story, fertility journey, IUI procedure, buying sperm and all things legal BS about being a Queer parenting couple. This is Part 1, stick around for Part 2 where Jess and Katie share their birth story of their daughter Lillie.
I would love to have you in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 OFF with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at BirthStory.com
In this weeks Doula Diaires, Heidi publishes the foreword to her Audiobook (available on Audible) Birth Story Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal- A 42-week Discovery Into Your Pregnancy. Use code BIRTSTORYPODCAST for $5 off at BirthStory.com if you are in the continental US. This story is about a redemptive VBAC on Amy's 3rd birth. Her pregnant belly is on the cover of the Birth Story book, and this episode answers the question, "Who is that girl?" Join Birth Story Academy today for all of your childbirth education taught by a doula to prepare for your hospital birth! Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
This week I tell the story around the famous IG post of the abandoned car outside of the hospital. Enroll in Birth Story Academy today by using code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off at BirthStory.com XOXO-
Heidi
In this episode, Heidi discusses the pros and cons of scheduling cesareans vs VBACs, how to write a killer Birth Plan for a Cesarean Section and she shares her C-Section Recovery Guide that all of her past doula clients, over 17 years, helped her write who had cesareans! Please share this episode with someone you know that may be scheduling a cesarean (C-section).
You can download Heidi's FREE cesarean recovery guide and cesarean birth plan template here: https://www.birthstory.com/the-workbook
Enroll in Birth Story Academy today. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
Andrea Owen is the popular author and podcast host of Make Some Noise. You can find her podcast HERE.
It's 2-22-22 my Abuela passed away this morning. Minutes later, 2 of my clients went into labor. This episode is about the circle of life and how locking eyes with my Abuela in her final moments reminded me that I had seen that same look 1000 times before in childbirth. This episode is processing how transition labor mirrors the death transition.
Please join me for my premier online childbirth education to prepare you for your hospital birth. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off at BirthStory.com
HeHe of the Birth Lounge is back! Heidi rapid fires HeHe (Instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe) with real life "What if" scenarios on how to handle things you may hear from your doctor, midwife, or nurse during your pregnancy and/or labor and delivery. HeHe pretends to be the birthing person and shares with everyone how she would tackle hearing things like, "We don't let you eat in labor." This episode is hilarious and informative. Heidi and HeHe give you the words you need to feel empowered and chat back to your provider if you aren't being heard! Join Birth Story Academy today for premier online childbirth education from your virtual doula Heidi. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
This week Heidi chats about all the different types of prolapses birthing persons can have after childbirth. Cystocele (bladder) Rectocele (rectum) Enterocele (small bowel) Urethrocele (Urethra) Descensus (uterine) and the importance of exploring your body before during and after pregnancy and childbirth. And, what is the answer to prevention? Pelvic floor therapy. Listen this week to learn about what is normal and not so normal post-birth.
Join Birth Story Academy today for online childbirth education to prepare for your hospital birth-no matter what you are planning- with Heidi. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com
In this episode, Heidi chats with Aleca live on Fireside (unedited) about her labor and delivery and her husband not making it. With 3 doulas in play including, Heidi, Aleca was covered. Sh,e is fierce. This episode is the hallmark of nothing goes according to plan EVER, you can do anything, our bodies are amazing, and parenthood is about surrendering and letting what will be, just be. It is what it is, and we made lemondae out of lemons. XOXO Heidi
I would love to have you take my online course to prep you for your birth. Sign up for Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com today. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF!
In this episode, Heidi digs into expectant management (aka doing nothing) and induction when you experience PROM (premature rupture of the membranes). Heidi shares her doula advice partnered with the Hanah et al TERM PROM trial and the data. So, want to know what Heidi would tell you do if she was your doula and you experienced PROM? Take a listen. There are also some scripts you could use if this happens to you and how to navigate pressure at the hospital for an induction before 24 hours post-rupture. Heidi would love to be your virtual doula at Birth Story Academy. Join for comprehensive childbirth education about hospital birthing and navigating the hospital policies and procedures. Self paced. Easy, fun, and entertaining modules. BirthStory.com and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF.
Heidi chats with Emilee LIVE on Fireside! No editing in this episode! This episode is about falling in love with a person with Cystic Fibrosis and what that means for fertility. We discuss male factor infertility, IVF, and delivering at a birth center. Enjoy! Birth Story Academy is Open. Join today at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST for $5 OFF.
In this episode I share about my week, why it is so hard to take care of ourselves as parents, and the 5 things that I wish I had done before I gave birth. The lack of these 5 things, I believe, trainwrecked my first birth experience and left me with a traumatic birth.
In this episode, Heidi is live on Fireside with Kelly (no editing) and talking all about fertility, IUI, unexpected twins, and her birth plan. She teaches us step by step how she planned and prepared and advocated for an unmedicated twin vaginal delivery. And then....they came 3.5 hours apart from each other. She moved her body and labored each one down perfectly avoiding a cesarean section!
Join Birth Story Academy today if you are looking for a comprehensive childbirth education course with Heidi at BirthStory.com
This week I am chatting about a planned wait and see attitude birth with a birthing person who opted for an epidural at 8 cm dilated and a planned unmedicated birth who experienced PROM and needed a little push to get her labor going naturally. Both were beautiful, non-traumatic, low-stress, low intervention births. And, that is my forte! I hope these short stories help you plan and prepare for the birth you want.
Join Birth Story Academy today and let me be your virtual doula for all of your online childbirth education! BirthStory.com
This episode is sponsored by AnjaHealth.com. Use code BIRTHSTORY for $100 off.
If you didn't catch episode 94 with Jenna- start there! In this episode, Jenna catches us up on life and her 2nd birth story.....but did the midwife make it is the real question?
Don't forget to join Birth Story Academy TODAY and let Heidi be your virtual doula through your premier online, self-paced, childbirth education. BirthStory.com
In this episode, Heidi shares about her rough week of advocacy as a doula and where the breakdown all began....when clients choose the wrong provider. Heidi walks through how to know if you are birthing with the right provider, what questions to ask to make sure, and what to do if you feel like your provider might be tolerant of but not supportive of what type of birth you want for your body and baby.
Don't forget to enroll in Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com and let Heidi get you fully prepped for your upcoming birth!
Here is the article I referenced on eating during labor: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-eating-drinking-labor/
Meet Caity- a mum from Australia and you can follow her on Instagram @living.the.abundant.way
In this episode she shares about a surprising double cleft palates and left cleft lip diagnoses with her son. When she felt like her whole world was crashing, she pulled herself into a very positive place and tells us how in this birth story. Caity pumped for 12 months and was never able to breastfeed. She shares about breastfeeding grief and the high highs and the low lows of navigating the NICU and newborn surgeries.
Don't forget to join Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com
I can't wait to see you in class for the best online childbirth education to prepare you for birthing in a hospital-YOUR WAY!
XOXO Heidi
Hey! I just got back from Disney and I wrote a special episode on how I navigated two parks and never waited in a single line! These are my best tips for 1. Safety 2. Eating on the go 3. Staying Comfortable 4. Staying Hydrating 5. Staying Cool 6. Limiting Exhaustion 7. Making memories to last a lifetime!
XOXO Heidi
PS Don't forget to enroll in Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com so that I can be your virtual doula and help you plan and prepare for the birth that you want- no matter what that looks like!
In this episode, I chat with Tiffany from Santa Rose California about her unexpected pregnancy, her passion and love for all things birth, her work at a birth center and prepping for an unmedicated birth at a birth center as a single person. Her story also takes a twist when she gets appendicitis at 16 weeks.
Looking for a unique and fun online childbirth course with Heidi as your virtual doula? Join Birth Story Academy TODAY at BirthStory.com
To download the free guides to packing a hospital bag visit BirthStory.com and click on "the workbook" to find all of Heidi's free guides for pregnancy, labor, delivery, and newborn care.
As you prepare for your birth, Heidi recommends considering cord blood and tissue banking with ANJAHEALTH.COM
Heidi shares about her experiences with Herpes personally and professionally as a doula and what everyone needs to know about Herpes during their pregnancy and how to not spread it to your infant during childbirth.
Cordblood and tissue banking with Anjahealth.com
Join Birth Story Academy at BirthStory.com
In this episode Heidi chats with Katie and Collin about her upcoming tubal ligation and the many questions that it elicited....like where does the sperm go if you have a hysterectomy? Where do your eggs go if you have a tubal ligation and disconnect your ovary from the uterus? Are the ovaries anchored to anything if the tubes are removed? What does a penis or toy hit if the cervix is gone? Then, they bring on Dr. Alexandria Montgomery...aka an Expert to answer the questions and help all of you understand the stuff you should know.
If you fully trust Heidi after this episode, don't forget to enroll in Birth Story Academy before 2/1/21 for 50% off using code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST at BirthStory.com
This episode comes to you RAW and unedited. I am 3 days post op from a mommy makeover plastic surgery breast reduction (episode coming) and had to get this story out to you!
I talk about my client NB and going to 42 weeks, what prodromal labor was like and how she managed unmedicated through 11 days of it on and off.
I reference the midwives brew. Please consult your provider before drinking any of my food based recipes or herbs.
2 oz castor oil, 2 tablespoons of almond or nut butter, 1 cup apricot nectar or a similar juice, 1 cup of champagne or sprite.
Blue Cohosh-as directed by your healthcare provider.
This episode comes to you RAW and unedited. I am 3 days post op from a mommy makeover plastic surgery breast reduction (episode coming) and had to get this story out to you!
I talk about my client NB and going to 42 weeks, what prodromal labor was like and how she managed unmedicated through 11 days of it on and off.
I reference the midwives brew. Please consult your provider before drinking any of my food based recipes or herbs.
2 oz castor oil, 2 tablespoons of almond or nut butter, 1 cup apricot nectar or a similar juice, 1 cup of champagne or sprite.
Blue Cohosh-as directed by your healthcare provider.
Heidi borrows this incredible episode from The Birth Ease Podcast https://www.birtheaseservices.com/podcast all about hypnobirthing.
Michelle Smith is a leading expert in the field of hypnobirthing. She is the primary hypnobirthing consultant for Heidi's private doula practice. This episode tells you everything you ever wanted to know about the practice of hypnobirthing and why she created her own method after being schooled in all the existing programs.
Michelle is based out of Orlando, FL while healing and teaching hypnobirthing and childbirth education around the world.
In this episode I talk about how 80% of pregnant persons report wanting to have an unmedicated birth in the US, yet 60-90% get an epidural (state dependent stats). So, even if an epidural isn't on your birth plan, you need to know about epidurals just in case you have a change of plans. If you are planning on one anyway, this is a quick guide. You can get more information on epidurals in my full epidural guide at BirthStory.com.
One thing I forgot to mention in this episode, is that you will need several vials of blood drawn for a full CBC and platelet count before getting an epidural. That usually takes at least an hour for results to return.
Presales for Birth Story Academy are happening now. Enjoy 50% off between 12/1 and 2/1 by ordering the course in advance for $99 using code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST.
please consider cord blood and tissue banking with AnjaHealth.com and use code BirthStory for $100 off
This episode is all the things....juicy gossip, trauma survival, redemption, survival, growth, and making it when the world around you collapses.
This is my story.
XOXO
Heidi
www.birthstory.com
This episode is all the things....juicy gossip, trauma survival, redemption, survival, growth, and making it when the world around you collapses.
This is my story.
XOXO
Heidi
www.birthstory.com
Heidi chats about when walking works, when it doesn't work and what to do in early labor vs. active labor.
XOXO
Birth Story Academy launches on 2/1/22 with presales starting on 12/1/21 for 50% off with code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST. Head over to BirthStory.com to enroll.
Heidi chats about when walking works, when it doesn't work and what to do in early labor vs. active labor.
XOXO
Birth Story Academy launches on 2/1/22 with presales starting on 12/1/21 for 50% off with code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST. Head over to BirthStory.com to enroll.
I decided for the Thanksgiving holiday and the anxiety that surrounds travel, family, overeating, and well everything really, to bring you calming Birth Affirmations from Michelle Smith of Birth Ease (www.birtheaseservices.com) .
Please listen to them over and over whenever you need 8 minutes to float away.
XOXO-
Heidi
In this episode I reflect on how we often make birth more complicated than it actually is....and the 3 times in my career the babies came so quickly that I had to help out. I talk about the rare precipitous labor (less than 4 hours) compared to normal long labors around 24 hours for a first time birthing person and 8-14 for a multip. Enjoy! XOXO Heidi
PS. Pre Sales begin for my online course Birth Story Academy on 12/1 at BirthStory.com. Use code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST for 50% off the course between 12/1 and the launch on 2/1. Prices go up on 2/1!
Heidi chats with Kjirsten all about cholestasis and the warning signs of normal vs. not normal itching, miscarriage, getting pregnant after a miscarriage and good epidurals! Kjirsten is the CEO of Teeny Talkers and focuses on helping get your littles talking. You can find her online course at www.teenytalkers.com and follow her on IG at instagram.com/teeny_talkers
Pre-Sales begin for Birth Story Academy on 12/1/21. Use code BIRTHSTORYPODCAST for 50% off.
Episode 100!!!!! Whoop! In this short episode, I talk about vaginal discharge at the end of pregnancy and how to tell the difference between amniotic fluid, vaginal discharge, and urine and why everyone calls me at 2 am and thinks their water has broken.
Then, I share all about pooping, how its a warning sign for impending labor and how one of my clients pooped on my face once.
XOXO-Heidi ( www.BirthStory.com )
Heidi ran into this amazing book "The Big Fat Activity Book for Pregnant People" in White Fish, Montana at a small gift shop www.meriwether.love and hunted down the author Jordan Reid of RamShackleGlam.com.
Jordan shares her birth stories and talks about the realities of the entertainment industry, divorce, and the thick of parenting.
Hear Jordan's story about Always Sunny in Philadelphia on her blog here: http://www.ramshackleglam.com/2016/07/28/the-real-story-behind-how-its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia-was-created-with-jordan-reid-and-sweet-dee/
This is the very first Tuesday episode of the Birth Story Podcast-Doula Diaries. In this episode, Heidi teaches all about the fetal ejection reflex and shares learnings from her most recent birth with Brooke....who labored at Heidi's house to avoid a car baby.
As promised, the midwives brew:
2 tablespoons castor oil, 2 tablespoons almond butter, 1 cup apricot nectar, 1 cup champagne.
***This is not medical advice. This is a recipe. Please do not ever drink castor oil if you are a VBAC, before 41 weeks, AND without your healthcare provider's consent.
Doula Andrea Hausheer of Barcelona, shares all about partner tips so this is one episode not to miss listening to with your partner. She was pregnant across 4 continents, is a doula, and gave birth at a birth center in Switzerland.
You can find her at https://www.birthprepcourse.com/
This episode is all about inductions! This episode is all about how to plan and prepare for an amazing induction!
more show notes coming
Courtney Wise shares about her experience with DMER and her breast feed journeys and her journey to diagnosis.
more show notes coming soon.
more show notes coming
Jenna walks Heidi through her passion of healthy living with her brand Raised on Plants. She describes training for her birth by first prepping for fertility and pregnancy with her nutrition. At 42 weeks she was booted from the birth center and sent to the hospital for an induction. But, she was able to labor on her own, unmedicated and finish the job without interventions which is exactly what she had desired.
instagram.com/raisedonplants
This is part 2 in my safe breech birth series. Start with episode 85 Breech without Borders.
Allyson shares about shifting her mindset from a planned epidural to an unmedicated breech delivery.
This is part 2 in my safe breech birth series. Start with episode 85 Breech without Borders. Allyson shares about shifting her mindset from a planned epidural to an unmedicated breech delivery.
more show notes coming when I get back from vacation!
Regina shares about having gall bladder attacks that led to gall bladder removal surgery while pregnant....and her amazing homebirth with a doula.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Connect with Regina at https://www.instagram.com/reginarennea/
In this episode Heidi interviews Ariel Taylor, a Canadian woman who gave the gift of children to 3 different families by being a Gestational Surrogate. Ariel tells Heidi about the highs and lows of surrogacy and speaks plainly and openly about the grief and heartache of child loss within this role. Listen in to learn more about this fascinating and important field and all about Ariel’s personal birth stories, too.
This episode is sponsored by Melissa Uhlir of Melissa Uhlir Coaching www.melissauhlir.com or www.instagram.com/melissauhlircoaching
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In this episode, Heidi interviews Savannah Stonebrook, mother and birth trauma recovery advocate, about the extreme differences between her two birthing experiences. Savannah discusses how she utilized HypnoBabies, massage, and teletherapy along with support from a loving doula and midwife to release and begin to heal from the loss of birthing autonomy she experienced delivering her first child, Eli. This strong mother’s favorite baby products are the podcast favorite Haaka breast pump, Tula Carrier, and Kinesiology tape.
This episode is sponsored by Melissa Uhlir from Melissa Uhlir coaching www.melissauhlir.com or www.instagram.com/melissauhlircoaching
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram at www.insagram.com/birthstorypodcast
Melissa Uhlir is my executive coach. The way in which we found each other was simply designed by God. I had transitioned away from corporate america to be a stay at home mom for my son with cerebral palsy. Then, just as I was getting the hang of taking care of my two littles as my full time job-my marriage ended traumatically. My husband died in a way....and my new story began. Melissa was right there to help me RISE, build, grow my dream business. In under 2 years, I went from ZERO $$$ to a thriving 6 figure + business with her help.
Today, she shares about her two cesarean sections after a breech presentation and the fun of having your water rupture prior to your planned c-section. This episode is full of tips and tricks on how to live your best life, how to make big changes, and how to plan and prepare for a great C-section and recovery! Enjoy!
www.melissauhlir.com
or
www.instagram.com/birthstorypodcast
Melissa is offering a FREE 1-1 coaching session with anyone who books a package with her and uses code BIRTHSTORY. This is a $200 value! Ready to look into your heart, dreams, passions and make a change? Hire Melissa today! You won't regret it!
Suzi Brantley, 4th generation Charlottean, goes in-depth with her experiences with IVF/IUI and why single motherhood was a good option for her. Listen in to learn all the Who/What/Why involved in fertility testing as well as some of the highs and lows she endured throughout her process into parenthood. Suzi’s favorite baby product is the Owlet Smart Sock.
Suzi's other doula is Collin from www.douladifferently.com
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Suzi Brantley goes in-depth with her experiences with IVF/IUI and why single motherhood was a good option for her. Listen in to learn all the Who/What/Why involved in fertility testing as well as some of the highs and lows she endured throughout her process into parenthood. Suzi’s favorite baby product is the Owlet Smart Sock.
Suzi's other doula is Collin from www.douladifferently.com
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode features Kelly Bryant, successful personal trainer based in Stuart, Florida, who focuses on helping moms reconnect to their core and regain their strength postnatally. Kelly also details her own birth story with her daughter and how she reached her most primal state during delivery.
Kelly’s favorite baby product is the Boba Baby Wrap, a cozy and comfortable carrier and nursing aid.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Katie Carrick, mother of two and trained cytogeneticist, regales Heidi with stories of her own births as well as provides an introduction into the fascinating field of prenatal cytogenetics. Both of Katie’s children were born in hospital, vaginally, and unmedicated! This Rockstar mom talks in depth about her hospital birthing experience and about the prenatal genetic screening she underwent.
Looking for a Virtual Doula or Birth Planning Services to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Cyndal: 3+ cm dilated for a month leading up to her 41 week delivery, false labor, having a doula, and launching Stork Exchange.
Cyndal was moving from the North and decided on a doula after chatting her with her sister and law and many friends. She hired Collin Parsons of Doula Differently and started on a journey of pregnancy empowerment. Collin was there every step of the way.
Cyndal learned first hand why vaginal exams during pregnancy offer zero information and just lead to discomfort. She was 3+ cm dilated for a month before her 41 week spontaneous labor. The cervical exams misled her into believing she would have her baby earlier than her guess date.
Cyndal and her husband Ben also launched Stork Exchange-an online marketplace for used baby items focusing on carriers and wraps. We did deep on her mompreneur story and her birth story in today's episode.
You can follow Stork Exchange at www.instagram.com/stork_exchange or on their website at www.storkexchange.co
Mention BIRTH STORY for 20% off your orders!
XOXO
Heidi
Don't forget to follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/birthstory
You can also find all of your free guides to pregnancy and purchase the Birth Story Pregnancy guidebook + journal at www.birthstory.com
Jasmine Katatikarn is a self-described strategist, coach, artist, and fertility warrior. She walks Heidi through her long—and often heart wrenching—journey to motherhood utilizing IUI and IVF and what it meant for her to discover and navigate unexplainable infertility. Now a mother of two, Jasmine created a framework so that anyone else with her shared experience could have a little guidance on their journey. She calls this the Freedom Method and it’s core values are: Reframe, Execute, Plan, and Take Action. Get a copy of Jasmine's free training here: https://jazzkatat.com/freetraining/ and make sure to follow her on instagram at www.instagram.com/jazzkatat
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Heidi and Stacy sit down and talk unmedicated birthing shop and bond over their mutual love of the state of Montana in this wild episode of Birth Story Podcast. Stacy, mother of 3, goes over the differences and similarities between each of her births and how her most recent birth resulted in her laboring AND delivering in the car on her way to the hospital!
Stacy wants you to know about her favorite baby product, the Solly Baby Wrap.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Brittany Bergman is the author of Expecting Wonder- a wonderful book about the emotional transition to motherhood throughout pregnancy.
In episode 73 she share about her two planned inductions and how different they were. Her second she prepared for with a doula and knew exactly what she wanted. We speak about the power of planning and trusting your body and your birth team.
In episode 72, we hear from HeHe of The Birth Lounge and Tranquility by HeHe all about pushing....what to do and what not to do and what your body was made to do!
XOXO- Heidi
This is a replay of episode 8. This is the Top 5 all time episode of the Birth Story Podcast!
Rachel and I were the only two moms in our Bradley Birth class to have medicated births. This is a re release of the Top 5 most popular episode of the podcast-originally aired as episode 7.
This is a re release of Episode 22: How to Naturally Induce Labor when you are past your "due date." This was the #3 most listened to podcast of all time on the BSP.
This episode originally aired as Episode 30 and is the 2nd most listened to podcast episode of all time.
In this episode, Heidi and her sister Abi recap the 2020 year with Heidi's doula statistics, the results of the COVID breastmilk experiment and a written guide to all of the parent's favorite baby products mentioned on the podcast in 2020 for parents to be in 2021 to consider. For your full downloadable Favorite Baby Products Guide-go to www.birthstory.com/the-workbook and type in your email address to unlock Heidi's entire secret sauce library!
Meet Afton Vechery. She is the CEO of Modern Fertility and she is taking on women’s health globally at 31 years old. Afton lives in San Francisco with her fiancé Zach and her new puppy. She loves biking throughout the city and her favorite restaurant is Salumeria. Afton was featured in 30 under 30 and 40 under 40 after raising 22 million in private equity to build this company. Afton studied neuroscience at Wake Forest University in North Carolina before heading off to work in NYC for a private equity healthcare fund in their women’s health division. From their she gained momentum in an autism start up and then at 23&Me. While at 23&Me she became curious about her own fertility. That is when her doctor said, “No, I am not going to order these fertility tests for you.” You see she wasn’t trying to get pregnant so her provider dismissed her proactive curiosity. So she did what all rational women do….she did it anyway. And, she was ultra surprised when she got a bill for $1500. Afton then set out to build a company where women would proactively learn about their fertility and it would be affordable. Today, your personal fertility test with Modern Fertility costs just $159 and you can use your FSA or HSA to pay for it. That is 10% of the out of pocket cost if your provider writes a prescription for you and sends you to a lab. A quick finger prick from the comfort of your own home begins your awareness and planning journey with Modern Fertility. Tune in to hear the full story of how Modern Fertility was birthed, what they are doing for the LGBTQIA+ community and what in the world AMH is and what it means for your fertility and egg quality.
To learn more about your own fertility start here: https://modernfertility.com/timeline/
Afton’s favorite baby gift to give is “A Cub Come True” by her friend Eduardo Hariton.
Modern Fertility’s message synchronizes perfectly with Nichelle Sublett’s #startasking movement. If you haven’t yet listened to Mrs. North Carolina’s episode on fertility you can tune in HERE.
In this incredibly special 2-part series, Heidi interviews Bobby and Lesley, the couple who have fully embraced the Gender Creative Parenting movement in raising their child Sojourner Wildfire. In part two, Lesley and Bobby share stories about their childbirth experience, the difficulty of finding a vegan-friendly baby formula, and how utilizing a doula was part of their ideal birth story.
Trigger warning for the episode: discussion of suicide and suicide rates specifically relating to transgender individuals.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In this incredibly special 2-part series, Heidi interviews Bobby and Lesley, the couple who have fully embraced the Gender Creative Parenting movement in raising their child Sojourner Wildfire. In part two, Lesley and Bobby share stories about their childbirth experience, the difficulty of finding a vegan-friendly baby formula, and how utilizing a doula was part of their ideal birth story.
Heidi's cohost is Collin from www.douladifferently.com
Trigger warning for the episode: discussion of suicide and suicide rates specifically relating to transgender individuals.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In this incredibly special 2-part series, Heidi interviews Bobby and Lesley, the couple who have fully embraced the Gender Creative Parenting movement in raising their child Sojourner Wildfire. Part one discusses in-depth exactly what Gender Creative Parenting (also known as Gender Open Parenting) is and why Bobby and Lesley felt it so important to utilize it.
Heidi's cohost today is Collin from www.douladifferently.com
Trigger warning for the episode: discussion of suicide and suicide rates specifically relating to transgender individuals.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Amy Baumgarten of Home Body Movement shares with Heidi the ins-and-outs of claiming your space, connecting with your soul’s true self, and developing a new pattern for your life through prenatal and postpartum yoga. Amy coaches the listener through celebrating their postpartum body and developing a connection to their endocrine system.
To get more in-depth and personal with Amy, connect with her on Instagram.
To gain special access to the entire library of Home Body Movement’s “Returning to Center” series of guided videos for a year use the code BIRTHSTORY10 at checkout.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In the finale of this 2-part special, Kristy is back to talk to Heidi about the events that led to switching up her birth plan from utilizing a birth center to focusing on having a home birth while still using the midwifery model of care.
Kristy's featured pregnancy product is the TUSHY bidet.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In part 1 of this 2 part interview special, Heidi interviews Kristy Gauransky, stay-at-home warrior mom of the two boys she battled to bring into the world. After experiencing heartwrenching child loss and fighting infertility, Kristy was able to achieve her goal of motherhood and found so much healing in recounting her first of two birth stories. Kristy's favorite baby product is the Haaka breast pump.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Wrapping up this two-part special, Heidi and Jodi discuss the differences between domestic and international healthcare as it pertains to pregnancy and childbirth. After a successful and happy birthing experience and life in Colombia, Jodi and her husband decide to move their family back to America to be closer to their families. They decided that the best option for the birth of their second child would be to utilize a midwife and have as natural of a homebirth as possible.
Jodi’s favorite baby products were milk catchers and cozy nursing nightgowns.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
It is time for another international birth story!
This episode is part 1 of 2.
This week, Heidi interviews Jodi about her experience as an American birthing in Colombia, South America. After meeting her now-husband in university, the couple ventured to Bulgaria with the Peace Corps for a time before being married in Costa Rica. At this time, they decided to start their family abroad. After much travel, Jodi discovered she was pregnant while in Colombia. Listen in to this episode of Birth Story to hear Jodi’s amazing tales of jet-setting and motherhood.
Jodi’s favorite baby product was the Philips Avent Milk Catcher.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In late 2019 when Brook found out she was pregnant, she had to decide where to birth since her trusted birthing center had closed. Little did she know that the coronavirus was about to impact this decision. Brook chose a hospital birth with her favorite midwives and hired a doula. As the pandemic spread, Brook made the secret decision with her husband to switch to a home birth. She received parallel care throughout her pregnancy with both the hospital and homebirth midwives.
About a week before the birth, Brook experienced classic prodromal labor that would start every night and last until about 2 am before she would be able to go back to sleep. On the day of labor, she knew it was different when she couldn’t go back to sleep and she had a bowel movement at 3 am.
Brook had a long labor for a second baby laboring all through the night and the next day. After she put her older son to bed that evening surges increased to 4-5 minutes apart. Her midwife described her tension ring when she got to 5-6 cm dilated and she was holding on to her previous birth experience. Brook had to let go.
Brook labored in and out of the tub and her water was still intact just before pushing. She pushed for almost 4 hours before her son was born at 1:23 am. Her midwife and doula gave her permission to let go and get primal and roar her baby out. And that is exactly what she did. Brook achieved a beautiful homebirth despite the pandemic in the comfort of her own home surrounded by her family and support team.
Her favorite baby product is the Hatch Light which is a sound machine and a phase to wake clock.
Brooke is one of my doula clients and she was featured in last week's episode (episode 55) when we visitied True Rest Float Spa to try out float therapy while pregnant. This episode was the very beginning of COVID. I was able to attend Brooke's birth in person, but then the world shut down. We opted for a Zoom postnatal and on a whim I hit record when she was retelling her birth story.
She walks us through going into labor unexpectedly at 38 weeks, being in denial, and finally moving to acceptance. She was in triage asking for the epidural when her husband Jason called me to come. I said, "If you can wait until I get there without the epidural, I will get you through til the end."
I raced to the hospital and found her in the tub and went to work.
Brooke continued on, broke her own water, and pushed like a birth warrior goddess.
After she birthed, she and her husband and baby all contracted the Coronavirus. Brooke is currently in a study out of the UofCali to study the antibodies in her breast milk. All are recovered and hanging at home.
If you are interested in birth doula or virtual doula services you can contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
Follow Heidi on IG www.instagram.com/birthstorypodcast
Follow Heidi on Facebook www.facebook.com/birthstorypodcast
Follow Heidi on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/birthstory
Follow Heidi on YouTube www.youtube.com/birthstorypodcast
TO PURCHASE THE BIRTH STORY PREGNANCY GUIDEBOOK WRITTEN BY HEIDI & DR. JOHN THROP, OBGYN VISIT
WWW.BIRTHSTORY.COM
I sit down with Dr. Alex Montgomery, CNM and Brook Craft, NP and the owner of True Rest Float Spa in Charlotte, NC Doug Centola.
We talk about the safety of floating (in our professional opinions) and the research behind this amazing relaxation venue.
Pregnant and interested in being weightless? Of course you are! All 3 of us were a unanimous DO IT after experiencing it ourselves.
While we represent a midwife, a nurse practitioner and a doula, we are not YOUR care providers. If you have questions or concerns about float therapy, please consult your own provider.
If you are a POC or unable to wash your hair immediately after floating, please consult with the float spa in advance as to the best way to protect your hair from getting salty! We recommend TWO coverings.
To read Dr. Alex Montgomery’s book, click on the following link “NOBODY TOLD ME ABOUT THAT, the first six weeks.”
Have you purchased Heidi's Guide to Pregnancy?
Purchase Birth Story Pregnancy today!
Looking for a doula? Hire Heidi as your virtual doula or for in-person support by visiting MyDoulaHeidi
Imagine your ideal birth. Where are you? Who is with you? In what position are you laboring? Listen in to hear Katelyn’s most recent birth story. Her experience was “magical,” as she was surrounded with exactly the right people in exactly the right time– it was a peaceful, undisturbed birth. Katelyn set up her birthing space very intentionally and set her mind to the exact kind of labor she wanted to experience.
She and Thomas share their labor story, as well as a hilarious postpartum experience that occurred.
Katelyn’s labor march:
Katelyn’s birth video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2DSJQYpxCc8MHVyeWxfa0xhb3FiVVhkT3ctenZpQmhiWm8w/view?usp=sharing
Sponsorship:
Deepest Thank You to Our Sponsor! Hatched at Home-Midwife Carrie LaChapelle: www.hatchedathome.comhttps://www.facebook.com/MidwifeCarrieLachapelleLMCPM/ 864-907-6363
Happy Homebirth hit 10,000 downloads! It’s time to celebrate. What do you want to see? A Facebook group? Merchandise? Send an e-mail to katelyn@myhappyhomebirth.com with your suggestions.
Help out the show:
Leave a review on iTunes for a chance to be the reviewer of the week– you’ll be sent a Happy Homebirth sticker if selected!
Take a screenshot listening to this episode and add it to your Instagram stories tagging @happyhomebirthpodcast. We’ll add you to ours and give you a shout out!
https://www.myhappyhomebirth.com/episode30/. (link to original show notes)
https://www.myhappyhomebirth.com/3pillars
https://www.facebook.com/groups/happyhomebirth
https://www.instagram.com/happyhomebirthpodcast
This story is about birthing in Brooklyn and all New Yorkers who relate to having to take an Uber ride at the end of labor to the hospital.
Saxonny made the bold decision to preserve her fertility. But awhile later found herself pregnant naturally with her partner. She took preparing for labor as seriously as preparing for a major athletic event.
We learn all of her best tips and tricks for a healthy pregnancy, labor and delivery.
Heidi & HeHe sit down for an hour and chat all about the role of the doula and why HeHe started The Birth Lounge. What you can learn from this episode: How to seek out the best doula to fit your needs.
This episode is what happens when two birth geeks sit down and chat about birth stories. Meet Sam from the Carolina Doula Collective as she shares about her amazing births.
Heidi catches up with Sam from The Carolina Doula Collective about the state of birthing during COVID-19. Everything from last minute switches from hospital to home births to virtual doula services and everything in between. These two power doulas share all of their best tips for a safe and successful birth despite the restrictions being brought by the corona virus pandemic.
Today's episode is an episode SWAP from the amazing DIAH Podcast with hosts Matthew and Sarah Bivens
In today’s episode we chat with Melissa Rae Irish-Miller. I’m not even really sure with where to begin with this episode or what to tell you as far as the highlights...because there are too many!
Melissa is a mother of 5. And all 5 of her children were born at home. And over the course of 20 years. Her oldest is 21 years old, and her youngest is 7 months old.
We go through each birth with Melissa, and she shares the main themes, lessons, moments from all of them. She has such vivid memory and detail of each one, and they’re all so beautifully different and unique in their own right.
It’s crazy how we talk about how each birth is so different, but it’s even true with the same woman - no one birth story is the same.
There’s incredible wisdom that comes with the experience of motherhood. And Melissa is such a great example of that, having entered it in a new way 5 different times.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one. Enjoy!
Notes:
- Melissa's personal Instagram account
- Melissa's Instagram account on healthy living
Wow! This power couple Matthew and Sarah Bivens are the hosts behind the Doing it at Home (DIAH) Podcast. I am so excited that they came on the Birth Story Podcast to share their journey from leaving the traditional OBGYN setting and adventuring into the world of home birth. They decided to document this big decision and revolutionize the way that parents plan and prepare for home births. This is an episode you don’t want to miss! And don’t forget to subscribe to their podcast too!
In honor of the death of George Floyd and every other black man, transgender person, and every individual that has lost their lives brutality at the hands of those who have hate, fear, racism, and white supremacy power pulsing through their knuckles, I replay this episode.
Because just as black men are dying at the hands of the police that should be protecting them, black women are dying at the hands of their healthcare providers that are supposed to be helping birth their children. Are you ready to hear this?
Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die than white women in childbirth in the US. Fact.
Listen in as I use my platform to elevate the voice of Cindy who lost her child because she was not HEARD. She was not HEARD because she is black.
We protest and march peacefully, and we flood the airways with TRUTH.
Thank you for learning with me.
The journey from pageantry to parenthood was long and winding for Mrs. North Carolina, Nichelle Sublett, who created the #startasking movement on her Instagram in order to help promote early fertility assessment awareness to women. Nichelle’s favorite baby product is the Haakaa, a useful little device that helps catch any spilled milk from the breast you are not nursing from if you are prone to leaking.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This special episode tells Heidi’s personal birth story of her oldest son Maximus Danger and how his journey to Earth was long, hard, and required flexibility of her mind, body, and heart. Heidi recounts her experience with prodromal labor, utilizing an epidural, and what it meant for her to have to let go of her own planned birth in order to bring Max into this world in the way that he needed, even if it wasn’t exactly in the way she had wanted.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Jenna is an experienced Labor and Delivery nurse established in one of the busiest L&D hospitals in the country. Tune in as she recounts her sudden and surprising diagnosis with PFO (Patent Foramen Ovale) while pregnant with Baby #3 and how this rare condition impacted the natural delivery of her dreams.
To talk to Jenna directly about her Birth Story or about her favorite baby products you can contact her on Instagram.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Welcome to the final installment of Birth Story Podcast’s “Daddy Bootcamp 2.0”! The dads (Justin, Cas, and Chris) tell all in this raw and honest look into partnered parenthood through multiple day inductions, c-sections, and the different ways to lovingly support your partner through the unexpected ebbs and flows of childbirth.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
From planning the ideal birth to the reality of delivery these dads discuss parental instincts, the inherent strength of motherhood, and how they learned when to speak up or when to sit back and let the chips fall. Justin, Cas, and Chris dive deep into birth education for dads and share their experiences in birth, loss, and faith.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Uncover the ancient health practice of vaginal steaming with resident expert Kelli Garza, the woman behind national super brand Steamy Chick. In this episode, Heidi and Kelli discuss what GBS (Group B Streptococcus) is and just how it can impact moms, how vaginal steaming can be a positive experience for postpartum pains, and so much more. Kelli's favorite product is more for Mom than baby, but, she suggests eating nice and hearty chicken noodle soup and drinking plenty of nettle tea.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
These days, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, are scary for many reasons. Pregnant women especially are experiencing a lot of confusion from having to say goodbye to their birth partners at the front doors of their hospitals to having to entirely rethink their original birth plans for the sake of safety for them and their babies. Join Heidi on this highly educational and topical episode and download her free guide to have many of your questions answered about what birthing during Coronavirus looks like.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In this episode Heidi interviews Sarah Leahy, the founder of The Autonomous Birth Movement, about her two vastly different birthing experiences, in the hospital and at home, and how she is campaigning for the mother’s right to informed consent. Learn about spinning babies, what free-birthing is, the controversy behind it, and why it may or may not be a viable option for your personal birth plan. Sarah’s favorite baby product is the Bum Genius cloth diaper brand and to talk with her personally about The Autonomous Birth Movement contact her via Instagram.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Katie Krimitsos, CEO of Women’s Meditation Network, and hear from her as she shares her personal and dual experiences laboring at home and at a birth center. Join Heidi in learning how Katie built her incredible business, her experience with podcasting, and about her favorite baby product Little Z Sleep Training.
For more information subscribe to Katie’s podcast, contact her on Instagram, or visit www.womensmeditationnetwork.com.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode of Birth Story Podcast features a remarkable woman whose tale covers difficult topics such as child loss and chronic illness. Tune in to hear stories of strength, wisdom, growth, and hope in the form of a miraculous rainbow baby from Erin Vicente, marathon runner and rad resident university professor in Boston, Massachusetts. Erin’s favorite baby product is the BEABA Steamer, which is available here.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Shaine O. Laine is an up and coming comedian savant in Charlotte, NC. He is kind, funny, intelligent, justice-minded, and just so happens to have two birthdays. This week, Heidi shakes things up by interviewing a man not about his child, but, about his own story of rebirth.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Dr. Kendra Segura, world-renowned OB/GYN, shares her personal trials, tribulations, and soaring joys about her fertility and birthing journey in this episode of Birth Story Podcast. She is passionate about women’s health education and Heidi is excited to share Dr. Segura’s story with you.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Maternal health is as important to Heidi as breathing! This episode features Sarah Clark, an infertility conqueror, author of Fabulously Fertile, and fellow podcast host of the show Get Pregnant Naturally, who breaks down with Heidi all you need to know about the subject.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Michelle Smith of The Birth Ease podcast drops by Birth Story Podcast to talk with your favorite host Heidi about the ins-and-outs of Hypnobirthing, Hypnobabies, and guided relaxation. Michelle addresses the misconceptions surrounding these practices as well as provides guidance on preparing for the birth plan of your dreams, no matter what it looks like.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Emily Graham is not only an experienced South Carolinian midwife, she is also the producer of the award-winning documentary These Are My Hours. For this episode, Heidi recommends grabbing a large box of tissues because she and midwife partners Carey and Emily dive deep into what it was like for Emily to find her own power and to allow birth to unfold undisturbed and unaided—all under the microscope of a large film crew! Interested in learning more about Emily and Carey’s birth work? Visit www.rootedbirth.org.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
For this episode, Heidi features and interviews Lianne, a remarkable woman who achieved an all-natural and intervention-free labor and delivery at a birth center in Canada. Lianne walks Heidi through her experiences with socialized medicine and the center’s midwifery model. Her favorite baby product is the Young Living Natural Oils Lavender Lotion, which she used to help with her daughter Olivia's eczema.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Pregnancy nutrition expert Lily Nichols sits down with Heidi to discuss her books Real Food for Pregnancy and Real Food For Gestational Diabetes, which are honest and entertaining step-by-step educational resources for all of mom’s nutrition-related questions. Lily addresses caffeine intake, how to add more protein to your diet when your morning sickness lasts the whole day, to exactly what your prenatal vitamins do for you. Lily's favorite baby product is the Vitamix blender.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Some of you may already be familiar with Jennifer Farnham as the CEO of Art of Natural Wellness, host of the popular YouTube channel Willow Wisteria and author of the children's book Dear One, Be Kind. For those of you who haven’t yet been introduced to this amazing woman, Heidi sits down with Jennifer to talk about pregnancy, miscarriage, divorce, female entrepreneurship, and finding her soul’s true match in this episode of Birth Story Podcast. Jennifer's favorite baby products are the Ergo and Tula wraps.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
The final installment of Birth Story Podcast’s Meet Jasmine series has finally arrived. In this episode Jasmine walks Heidi through her third pregnancy and what it meant for her to be a surrogate for a family in need as well as her journey to discovering she had been living with Leukemia and what that meant for her uncertain future to suddenly be brightened due to finding her perfect donor through Be The Match. Grab your tissue box because this episode is a rollercoaster of emotion! Jasmine's favorite baby product is the book The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Welcome to part one of a two-part audio adventure detailing Jasmine’s, a remarkable doula based in Eugene, OR, journey to her own motherhood. From going into early pre-term labor during her first pregnancy to becoming her own advocate and hiring a doula for herself Jasmine tells all to Heidi. Jasmine's favorite baby product is the book The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Heidi comes to you recorded live from the She Podcasts convention in Atlanta, GA! In this special episode, Heidi tells the birth story of one of her doula clients who was an absolute Rockstar at natural birthing. Tune in for explanations on dilation, effacement, and station and how they are the top predictors of the length for the rest of labor.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Welcome to the Natural Induction Methods episode! This installment of Birth Story Podcast highlights some of Heidi’s most tested, tried, and true methods of inducing labor naturally. Don’t forget to download your free accompanying natural induction guide at www.birthstory.com! Heidi also wants you to know about: Mama Natural, Surge of the Sea, the Miles Circuit, and Evidence Based Birth
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode hits close to home for Birth Story Podcast host Heidi as it regales the adoption story of one of her closest friends, Rachelle, for whom she was the adoption doula. This story will give you goosebumps so settle in for a wild ride spanning more than 3 years, $90,000, and learn how the adoption of a single child expanded into the fight to bring home two.
For more information on Kidron Valley Orphanage or donating to their non-profit JoPri please follow @jopriuganda or visit: www.jopri.org
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode is brought to you by Little Nest Portraits. Enter code Birth Story at check out to enjoy $50 off your booking.
On this episode of Birth Story Podcast Heidi discusses PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome), what it is, and how it can impact your life and fertility. Heidi interviews Erin, a strong woman who overcame her diagnosis of PCOS to deliver a healthy and equally strong baby girl at 42 weeks. Erin's favorite baby product is the Haaka Milk Catcher.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode is brought to you by Little Nest Portraits. Enter code Birth Story at checkout to enjoy $50 off of your first booking.
Have you, dear Birth Story Podcast listener, ever heard of a maternity concierge? Education on this incredible service is what your favorite doula-and-host Heidi is delivering this week through an informative and fun interview with charismatic Best Upon Request maternity concierge partners Jessamyn and Jessica. They explain exactly what this service is and why you should reach out to your HR representative and request it be added. Jessica and Jessamyn's favorite baby products are the Moby Wrap, the Baby Brezza, and the Lille Baby Wrap.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Gail, a mother who is finally ready to share her harrowing birth story 10 years after the fact. Heidi sits down with Gail to learn about Hashimoto Thyroiditis Disease and discuss Gail’s frustrating fertility journey that ended with two beautiful fraternal twins being born prematurely at 26 weeks. Gail's favorite baby products are the Little Giraffe Blanket and the Baby Briefcase.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
In this episode of Birth Story Podcast, we learn that sometimes we can do all of the “right” things throughout our pregnancy but still have to make alterations to our birth plans. Carrie never went into labor after 42 weeks and 3 days of gestation and ended up having an unplanned C-section. The hits kept coming when she learned that because her breast tissue never fully developed in puberty she was not a candidate for breastfeeding. Carrie wants you to know about:
-
The Double Hip Squeeze
-
The Peanut Ball
-
This Hands Free Pumping Bra
-
The Medela Symphony Pump for Exclusive Pumping
-
The Nose Frieda
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Sarah and Rachel are the hilarious mother-daughter duo you did not know you were missing out on. With every detail recounted from their eerily similar and rapid birth stories you will be in stitches. You might need tissues for this episode but only to wipe away your tears from laughter. Sarah and Rachel's favorite baby products are the Squatty Potty, The Birthing Ball, ChickPea Sherpa Swaddle, Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, and The Happiest Baby on the Block.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This episode of Birth Story Podcast is coming to you from Heidi’s beautiful home of Charlotte, NC, and highlights 3 of the Queen City’s best and brightest doulas. Dive deep behind the scenes of being a doula with Heidi, Helen, and Sarah, and hear straight from these highly experienced women about the continuity of care for the pregnant mom.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Katie opens up to honestly discuss her long, arduous fertility journey trying meds, surgeries, IUI, and how it felt to have a successful pregnancy with twins result in 6-weeks of hospital bedrest with preeclampsia. Two and a half years later Katie finds out she was naturally pregnant with identical twins again! She also speaks about how Zoloft helped change her life and what her experience was with antepartum and postpartum anxiety. Katie's favorite pregnancy product is the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
This is one of the most important episodes of Birth Story Podcast you can listen to. In this segment Heidi travels to Asheville, NC during Black Maternal Health Awareness Week to sit down and talk with Maggie and Cindy, two representatives of MAHEC (Mountain Area Health Education Center), Mothering Asheville, and the SistasCaring4Sistas Doula program, about the disparity of maternal and infant mortality rates between black and white women.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Heidi sits down with Sarah and Derek, a family she was the doula for, to talk about their first unplanned pregnancy and what that meant for their new and rocky marriage at the time. These two discuss how growing their family helped to heal their marriage and mom Sarah explains her experience utilizing an epidural for pain management due to cervical scarring. The couple's favorite baby product is The Topponcino.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Kristen is back to talk about her birth story with baby Georgie. After suffering a miscarriage, a subchorionic hemorrhage, and a 30+ hour first labor she decided she was ready for another baby. She talks to Heidi about suffering from SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction) and her ever-present churning nausea with Baby #2 and what did and didn’t work for curbing it. Kristen's favorite baby product is the Quick Zip Crib Sheet.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Amy, a mother of 3 whose birth stories grow wilder with each child, who walks Heidi through each thrilling tale and ending with how she ended up delivering a VBAC baby, in the car, at Costco. Amy also talks about her love of acupuncture and Moxi. Amy's favorite baby products are the Ring Sling and the Tula Wrap.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Welcome to the first Birth Story Podcast Daddy Bootcamp episode featuring Derek, Garin, and Wells, 3 dads with stories to tell and secrets to share. Heidi sits down with the boys to talk parenting shop and hear their versions of the birth of their children. The dads all agree that their favorite baby product is a velcro swaddle.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet the wisest and most experienced midwife in Charlotte, NC, Sage Brook. She immersed herself with midwifery for 34 years before retiring in 2018. Join Sage as she recounts her own birth stories and some notable births from her long and rewarding career.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Rachel Coley, a pediatric occupational therapist and the CEO of www.CanDoKiddo.com, shares with Heidi and Birth Story Podcast listeners the evolution of her birthing journey from a Bradley method user to having 3 epidural births in 3 and a half years. She speaks frankly about how the unexpected twists and turns of labor challenged her in ways she had never anticipated. Rachel's favorite baby product is the LovEvery play gym.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Johnathon and Blair share with Heidi their beautiful love story that spans over 17 years and two different adoption processes. These two dads begin their tale walking Heidi through the private adoption process, the deep connection they fostered on the spot with their first son’s birth mother, and the process of adopting out of the foster care system. If private adoption is something you have been considering this episode is a must-listen for you. The dads' favorite baby products are Dr. Browns Bottles, clip-on high chairs, and the book The Happiest Baby on the Block.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
On this installment of Birth Story Podcast Heidi interviews her longtime friend, the creator of the popular Instagram page The Art of Letter Writing, and one of the most beloved professors at Queen’s University in Charlotte, NC, Shawn, about her surprise identical twin pregnancy and the differences between maternal healthcare in the United States versus Costa Rica, where she elected to have her first vaginal ultrasound after discovering she was pregnant. Shawn's favorite baby product was the Little Lamb cradle swing.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Kristen, a mother who inspires all who hear her story of battling a rare condition called a subchorionic hemorrhage. Get ready for tears, laughs, and for your heart to absolutely swell as she recounts moving at 7 months pregnant, switching healthcare providers, and her very long labor. Kristen's favorite baby products are Quick Zip sheets. Enter BIRTHSTORYPODCAST at checkout for 15% off of your first order.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Tory Jones is a remarkable woman. Not only is she the CEO of Ixchel Triangle, a bag company she developed while working in Guatemala, she is also an incredible advocate for the normalization of breastfeeding and home birthing. Tory's favorite baby products are the baby hammock and the ring sling.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Sam, Heidi’s big sister, who loves on and teases Heidi in equal measure in this heartwarming episode of Birth Story Podcast. Listen in to hear about how stress can impact your fertility as well as a slew of natural induction techniques you may or may not have heard of. Sam's favorite birthing product was the birthing chair.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.
Meet Heidi, the intrepid host of Birth Story Podcast and highly experienced Charlotte, NC based doula of 15 years (and counting!). She bears her heart to you and shares her special personal birth story of her son Jagger Kai in this inaugural episode as well as goes over some harrowing birth data, explains exactly what a doula is and why every mom needs one and talks about her book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal.
Looking for a Virtual Doula to create a custom birthing experience and guide you through your journey to parenthood in the United States? Contact Heidi at www.mydoulaheidi.com
For additional free birth education resources and to purchase Heidi’s book, Birth Story: Pregnancy Guidebook + Journal, visit www.birthstory.com.
Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Leave a review and send a message directly to Heidi on Instagram.