Welcome to this powerful episode of Her Herd, where we’re joined by the brilliant, witty, and incredibly passionate Kate Brow. Kate’s the kind of rural mum who manages to juggle a high-profile job with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade while running a sheep and cattle farm in rural New South Wales. And she does it all with a sharp sense of humor and the kind of grace that can only come from someone who's walked through the fire—literally and figuratively.

Kate’s story is one of resilience, raw beauty, and incredible strength. In the summer of 2019, while bushfires ravaged her region, she gave birth prematurely to her second daughter at just 35 weeks. If that wasn’t enough, Kate found herself navigating the chaos of postpartum life during the COVID-19 pandemic. She opens up about the trauma of losing her second pregnancy, the intense challenges of a premature birth, and the mental health hurdles that followed. But her story isn’t just about survival—it’s about healing, too. Her third pregnancy was what Kate calls her "healing pregnancy," and it empowered her to rebuild her confidence and reconnect with her own expertise as a mother.

Kate’s journey is one that speaks to the power of leaning into your support network, trusting yourself, and knowing that you are the expert on your own experience. This conversation is full of raw, confronting imagery—from living through the fires and smoke of 2019 to navigating postpartum in the midst of a global pandemic. But it’s also filled with hope, healing, and the kind of insight that only someone as grounded and real as Kate can offer.

Kate, thank you so much for sharing your story with us today. Your bravery and vulnerability are a gift, and we are honored to have you as part of the Her Herd community.

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Welcome back to Part 2 of my interview with Kirsty Bryant.

If you listened to Part 1, you know just how powerful Kirsty's story is. From being the first woman to receive a uterus transplant to navigating her IVF journey, Kirsty has faced challenges most people can’t even imagine. But her story is about so much more than just medical procedures—it’s about love, resilience, and what it truly means to keep fighting for your dreams.

In this episode, we dive deeper into the journey to baby Henry. What happens when you wake up and don’t have a uterus? How do you process the emotions when it seems like everyone around you is getting their period back, while you’re still facing infertility? Kirsty shares the raw, real experiences of secondary infertility and the decision to move forward with a uterus transplant, as well as the IVF process that ultimately led to the birth of Henry.

I also ask her some tough questions—like whether it’s easier to have a hysterectomy when it's a choice, and what the healing process really looks like after such a life-changing decision.

This is the conclusion to an incredible journey. Kirsty, Nick, and their kids Henry and Violet have been through so much, and I’m so grateful they’ve chosen to share their story.

If you missed part 1 go back now and listen!

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Let me introduce you to a very special friend of mine—Kirsty Bryant. You may have heard her name before because, well, she's kind of a big deal. Kirsty made history as the first woman to receive a uterus transplant, but her story goes so much deeper than that. Her journey with her husband Nick and their two beautiful kids is one full of love, strength, and resilience. It’s a story you truly can’t sum up in just a few sentences.

The last time I was in Coffs Harbour, I made sure to spend some quality time with Kirsty, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of incredible. Kirsty was one of the standout speakers at Podcast to Plate, and since that event, I’ve been flooded with questions about her journey. So I decided to do something a little different—a “you can’t ask that” style interview, where I asked all the questions you might be thinking but never quite say out loud.

We laughed, we cried, and we dug into the tough stuff—the things that helped, the things that didn’t, and the things she’d do differently. I spent four hours at Kirsty’s house, and what we covered was so real and raw, I couldn’t wait to share it with you.

This is part 1 of one of my all-time favorite episodes. It was originally slated for episode 4, but I just couldn’t wait any longer to bring it to you. If you've heard Kirsty speak before and found yourself with more questions, this is the episode you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned.

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In today’s episode, we are joined by Matt, who shares his deeply personal journey through pregnancy after loss, the challenges, and the emotional complexities of navigating grief, hope, and the desire to grow their family. Matt's story is one of resilience, vulnerability, and the deep bond he and his wife share as they rebuild after the loss of their daughter, Wren.

Pregnancy after loss is a beast. It’s not just the emotional toll of grieving a lost child while trying to conceive again—it’s about juggling those emotions with the needs of a toddler, the uncertainty of what others will say, and the fear of going through the heartbreak once more. Matt and his wife knew their path wouldn’t be easy, but they also understood the importance of being on the same page, supporting one another, and prioritizing their mental health as they moved forward.

Matt talks openly about the complexities of trying to conceive while grieving, managing anxiety, and the mental strain of the "what ifs" that constantly loom. He shares how important it was to seek professional support, including therapy and online support groups for fathers, to help him navigate this emotional terrain. Staying active, communicating openly with his wife, and finding solace in simple things like running and meditation were key in helping him cope.

As their pregnancy progressed, Matt’s emotions were a mix of joy and sadness—happy to be pregnant again but heartbroken that Wren wouldn't be here to experience it. The journey was filled with the tension of missing out on milestones with Wren while eagerly awaiting their new baby. He also describes how they navigated the emotional complexities with their 3-year-old daughter, Edie, who asked the difficult question: “Is this baby going to die like Wren?”Their response was to be as honest as possible, without burdening her with their own fears.

Through it all, Matt and his wife were determined to create a plan that would support them both physically and emotionally. They worked with their medical team to ensure their wishes for the birth were met and sought continuous support to help manage their anxiety. The birth of their son, Noah, was a moment of both relief and joy, but it also amplified the grief of losing Wren.

Matt's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond between partners in the face of unimaginable loss. He offers valuable insights into how to navigate pregnancy after loss, emphasizing the importance of communication, self-care, and seeking the support you need.

As Matt reflects, "Nothing is easy about pregnancy after loss, and it definitely affects both mums and dads, even if us dads don't always find the courage to speak of it." His story of perseverance, love, and loss is one that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a child, and it reminds us that healing is not linear, but with support and open communication, it is possible to move forward and grow your family.

Matt’s advice on navigating pregnancy after loss:

• Prioritize mental health through counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Stay physically active—whether through exercise, running, or something that helps you reset.
• Communicate openly with your partner and medical team to ensure your needs are met.
• Take time off work to be present at consultations and scans—never feel like you should miss a moment.
• Embrace self-care strategies, like meditation or relaxation techniques, to manage anxiety.

Matt’s story is one of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is room for new life, love, and joy. His commitment to honoring Wren’s memory while celebrating Noah’s arrival is a beautiful testament to the power of love and resilience in the face of loss.

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Welcome to a very special episode of The Herd podcast! Today’s episode is unlike anything you’ve heard before, as I sit down with my brother, Tim. Tim and his wife, Sammy, have always faced life's challenges with their trademark "get on with it" attitude, and this conversation is no different. While we’ve always been open with one another, this episode offers a level of candidness and insight that only a sibling bond can provide.

In this episode, we dive into Tim's journey with cystic fibrosis (CF) and how it has shaped his life. From early health challenges to the surprising discovery of male factor infertility, Tim and Sammy have tackled each hurdle with determination and resilience. Tim’s approach is one of practicality and grit—there’s no self-pity, just a commitment to pressing forward. He shares openly about his health, what it means to live with CF, and how it has impacted his fertility, all while maintaining a sense of humor and a refusal to let anything hold him back.

Tim’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that can come from confronting life’s toughest challenges head-on. His approach to his health is refreshingly blunt—no drama, just the facts and a steady resolve to move forward. For Tim and Sammy, it’s not about the cards they’ve been dealt, but how they play them.

A Personal Note: As Tim’s sister, this conversation was incredibly eye-opening for me. Even though I’ve known him my whole life, I found myself learning things about him—his journey, his attitude, and his resilience—that I hadn’t fully understood before. Tim’s generosity in sharing such candid details of his experience is truly appreciated. I’m grateful to him for his openness, which gave me a deeper insight into his world and allowed me to see things from a perspective I hadn’t considered.

Thank you, Tim, for being so generous with your story. Your honesty is not only inspiring but also a gift to those who may be navigating similar challenges. I’m proud to be your sister and to have shared this conversation with you.

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Ryan’s story is one of deep vulnerability and honesty, and his unique perspective as a husband and father adds a layer to the conversation that we don't often hear from men. He shares the highs and lows of their IVF journey, the emotional toll of multiple miscarriages, and the weight of grief that can often go unspoken in male experiences of infertility.

From the moment Ryan and Ellin learned of Ellin’s PCOS diagnosis, they knew the road ahead might not be easy, but nothing could fully prepare them for the heartache they’d face. After multiple rounds of ovulation induction and IVF, they were blessed with their son, Vance—but their journey didn’t stop there. The rollercoaster ride continued, with painful losses and unexpected turns that tested their strength as a couple.

In this episode, Ryan also shares a powerful moment that stands out for him: the small but meaningful details like naming their embryos "Glow", "Bloom", "Aura", and "Spark"—a tribute to the potential lives that briefly flickered on the ultrasound screen.

What makes Ryan’s story even more special is the unburdened honesty with which he speaks about grief, loss, and the balancing act between accepting the family they have while still yearning for more. It’s a raw, unfiltered conversation about hope, healing, and the emotional complexities of building a family through IVF.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s been touched by infertility, loss, or just wants a deeper understanding of the emotional journey that many men experience but often don’t talk about. Ryan's openness is a reminder that there’s no one right way to process grief, and that sharing our stories can help others feel less alone. 

A huge thank you to Ryan for his vulnerability and for allowing us to share his and Ellin’s journey with all of you.

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Meet Katie Francis: a community champion, advocate, and all-around superstar! 

Since founding Bloss Riverina in 2018, Katie has been instrumental in expanding support for families navigating grief after pregnancy loss. Growing up in Downside, a charming regional town near Wagga Wagga, she embraced a lively childhood filled with farm life and mischief. Now, she shares her life in Coolamon, NSW, with her partner Damien and their kids, Thomas and Piper.

Katie’s path took a heartbreaking turn in 2016 with the stillbirth of their daughter, Lara. This profound loss ignited a fire within her to support others facing similar struggles. Feeling isolated during their grief, Katie and Damien connected with a group of brave individuals who understood their pain. Together, they founded Bloss Riverina, dedicated to helping families cope with the emotional turmoil of pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and neonatal loss.

Katie is also a fierce advocate for women in business, actively participating in Business Network International (BNI) and the NSW Rural Women’s Network. She continuously seeks to enhance support services for families in regional areas, shining a light on the challenges they face during tragic times.

Through her work with Bloss, Katie has become a beacon of hope for families in grief, tirelessly advocating for meaningful change and support. Her journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, compassion, and the profound impact one person can have on their community. 

You can join Katie, and the Bloss Riverina team on Sunday the 13th of October for their remembrance walk. Check out their website: https://blossriverina.com/

Katie is also one of our incredible speakers at podcast to plate. You can still grab a ticket here for our Wagga event

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Tori is often described as a ray of sunshine, and that couldn’t be more spot-on. Her infectious smile and the genuine joy she radiates when she greets you are just the surface of her true magic. What really sets Tori apart is the way she makes everyone around her feel—it's her superpower.

Today, we’re diving into a side of Tori that you might not know as well. She’s not only an exceptional teacher and intuition coach but also a devoted mum. The story we’re about to explore is one you might not have heard before. It’s a glimpse into the trials and triumphs that come with building a family. Tori is opening up about the behind-the-scenes moments—the ones that shape us as women, as families, and as communities. She’ll be talking not just about pregnancy and birth, but also about the often-overlooked postpartum experience.

If you think you’ve heard it all, think again. Get ready to be truly inspired by Tori’s incredible journey. We’re deeply grateful for her willingness to share her story with us, and we’re so thankful for her openness and courage. Welcome to the herd, Tori. We’re excited to have you here.

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Kimmie is the @ruraldietician - but that’s just one of many hats she wears on any given day. 

Kimmie is a mum of four, three of which she has living in her home.

Kimmie takes us through her journey of how her beautiful family has come to be. Kimmie is warm and kind. She is vulnerable with her story but has summoned a strength, “her Pippa power” to bring this story to life. Honestly I can’t do this women justice in words so I’m just going to simply say; 

On the eve of pippa’s birthday we give you Kimmie and her beautiful families story. 

Kimmie thank you, I can’t put into words how much this story moved me. Sometimes we are privy to conversations that make us a better human, a kinder person, a better friend and this is one of those. Thank you for entrusting me tell this to our community.

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When I first looked at the unedited version of this episode, I was sure it was two episodes, but as I listened, I just could not find a point in which I could cut it in half. As you listen, you you will begin to understand, that what happened in Acacia first two births, really sets you up to understand what happened with her beautiful baby girl Sadie.

Acacia is a mum, wife, and schoolteacher. Married to Todd and mum of Henry, Paddy, and now Sadie, Acacia was no stranger to pre-term labour. In fact, she had, had pre-term labour with both Henry and Paddy. So, when beautiful Sadie decided she was ready at 32-week, Acacia, and Todd thought “we’ve got this”. Acacia notes that she spent so much time in that last week of pregnancy (once she knew Sadie arrival was immanent) reading miracle babies, she thought “32-week babies do really well”.  What laid ahead was two trips to Canberra, a NETS retrieval, many weeks in the NICU, hard conversations, resuscitation, ventilations, and a special care stay.  Just when Acacia and Todd finally settled at home, with their baby Sadie and were reunited with their boys, Acacia herself became unwell, and then so did Sadie.

You will hold your breath has Acacia recounts this remarkable rural story. 

Acacia tells this incredible story with such candid honesty, she is warm, and funny. She had me in tears throughout our time together but also in stitches of laughter. Acacia talks about find a strength she didn’t know she had, and how her and Todd as a team were each other’s strength when the other needed to crumble. 

Acacia thank you so much for sharing this incredible story with our community, we are forever grateful.

Acacia talks about the remarkable people that saved Sadie and supported her family during their time of need. If you work in the Canberra NICU, Wagga Special care, support families at Ronald McDonald house, are midwife in the Riverina, or fly those incredible retrieval flights with the NETS team – this one is for you!

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