Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

By Kelly Hof, BSN, RN: Labor Nurse & Prenatal CoachAlternative HealthHealth & FitnessMental HealthParentingKids & Family
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Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals episodes

  • Jennifer Schlueter: Hypnotherapy in Pregnancy and Childbirth

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

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

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

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

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    46 min
  • My First Birth Story

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

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

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

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    58 min
  • Childbirth Attorney Gina Mundy's Guide to a Safer Childbirth

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

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

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

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 8 min
  • Dr. Michelle Gerbi: A Chiropractor's Tale of Birth, Advocacy, and Postpartum Triumphs

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

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

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

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 13 min
  • Bianca Sprague: Guardian of the Birth Experience

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

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

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

    Read more about this episode and connect with Bianca at:

    https://bebomia.com/bjp/





    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 31 min
  • Kiona Nessenbaum: Embracing the Duality of Birth Work and Motherhood with Heart and Wisdom

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

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

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

    Connect with Kiona:
    kionanessenbaum.com

    https://www.instagram.com/birthasweknowitpodcast

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 18 min
  • Emmy Kissinger: Embracing Birth Story Listening to Transform Trauma into Triumph

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

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

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

    Connect with Emmy!

    www.arrivalsstories.co

    https://www.instagram.com/emmy_kissinger

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    44 min
  • Taylor Nosakhere: Finding Your Voice in the Labor Room

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

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

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

    Connect with Taylor:
    My podcast ⬇️

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

    Facebook group⬇️

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

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

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

    My signature coaching program ⬇️

    https://withyouwellnesskc.com/the-crib

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 21 min
  • Amy Frost's Journey Through Motherhood: Unmedicated Birth, Postpartum Realities, and the Growth of Babycito

    Send us Fan Mail

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

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

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

    Connect with Amy at babycito.co

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    30 min
  • Mary Adkins: Weaving the Tapestry of Motherhood with Writing and Resilience

    Send us Fan Mail

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

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

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

    To connect with Mary, go to maryadkinswriter.com

    Support the show


    Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

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

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

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

    Medical Disclaimer

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

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

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

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

    ...
    1 hr 1 min

About Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

From the publisher's feed

Are you looking for a podcast to help you feel confident in your birth experience?

Then The Birth Journeys Podcast® is for you! We share powerful and transformative birth stories that…