Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Madison Desjarlais - “Midwifery Abandonment”

Episode Overview:

Join your host Sophia as she interviews Madison Desjarlais, a Traditional Birth Attendant based in the lower mainland of B.C., Canada, about her transformative journey into Authentic Midwifery. In this insightful episode, they discuss:

• Obstetrical violence and its impact on birthing women

• The history of Twilight Sleep

• The differences between registered midwifery and free birth

• The BRAIN acronym as a tool for making informed decisions during labor

• Birth as a sacred ceremony

Madison shares how her work empowers women to birth in full sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming birth as a natural, powerful process.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Obstetrical Violence and Midwifery Abandonment

• Madison’s perspective on the systemic challenges within the medical model of birth and how it leads to disempowered experiences for women.

2. Twilight Sleep and Birth History

• A historical look at Twilight Sleep and its lasting effects on birthing culture.

3. Registered Midwifery vs. Free Birth

• Comparing the constraints of regulated midwifery with the freedom and sovereignty of free birth.

4. The BRAIN Acronym

• A simple tool to help families make informed decisions during labor:

• Benefits

• Risks

• Alternatives

• Intuition

• No/Next Steps

5. Birth as a Ceremony

• Embracing birth as a sacred, ceremonial process rooted in trust and empowerment.

6. Dream Birth Workbook and Online Offerings

• Madison’s popular Dream Birth Workbook and the global impact of her guided meditations and courses.

About Madison Desjarlais:

Madison Desjarlais is a Traditional Birth Attendant and the creator of Ode To Birth, a community devoted to supporting women in reclaiming their power during birth. Her Dream Birth Workbook, online courses, and free resources have inspired women worldwide to approach birth with intention and sovereignty. Madison is passionate about helping women reconnect with their intuition and trust in their bodies.

Connect with Madison Desjarlais:

• Instagram: @odetobirth

• Website: www.odetobirth.com

• Find FREE guided meditations and course information here.

Listen to the Episode:

• Podcast Link: Spotify

• Instagram: @sophiabirth, @bayareahomebirth, @ninabasker, @familyfocusdoulacare, @bornwildmidwifery

• Facebook: Podcast Link

Final Thoughts:

Madison’s perspective on authentic midwifery and birth as a ceremony is a powerful reminder of the sovereignty and intuition all birthing women possess. Her dedication to empowering women globally through her community and resources inspires us all to rethink how we approach birth and honor its sacred nature.

Stay Wild 🌳