In this week's episode we welcome Savannah Brigman, known as the Cherokee midwife. Savannah shares her unique journey into midwifery, deeply rooted in her Cherokee heritage. She recounts her diverse birthing experiences, including hospital, birth center, and free births. 

She elaborates on traditional Cherokee practices, the influence of her ancestral lineage, and her growth as a traditional midwife. The discussion also touches on the challenges of shoulder dystocia, the importance of community support, and the commitment to preserving indigenous birthing traditions. Savannah offers insights for new mothers and birth workers seeking to navigate the sovereign birth movement.

00:00 Introduction to Savannah, the Cherokee Midwife

00:33 Savannah's Ancestral Roots and Personal Journey

01:24 Experiences with Different Birth Settings

04:33 Cherokee Birth Traditions and Practices

12:32 Reflections on Hospital Birth

20:01 Transition to Free Birth

26:45 The Impact of COVID-19 on Birth Choices

27:50 Savannah's Free Birth Experience

34:32 Reflecting on the Birth Experience

34:53 The Sacred Birth of the Placenta

36:59 Navigating GBS and Birth Choices

38:10 Husband's Journey from Medicalized to Free Birth

39:41 Postpartum Reflections and Community Support

41:44 The Arrival of Baby Number Four

43:15 Balancing Midwifery and Personal Birth

49:53 Pregnancy and Midwifery Challenges

53:04 Traditional Midwifery Education and Practices

56:12 Handling Birth Complications

01:06:08 Encouragement for the Sovereign Birth Movement

EPISODE LINKS SAVANNAH.

CONNECT WITH SARAH.

CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.

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DISCLAIMER.

The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.