Midwife Crisis : The Podcast

In this episode of *Midwife Crisis*, we explore the often unrecognised and unspoken "invisible trauma" that midwives experience in their work.  

Kelli shares personal stories, including a particularly challenging case that had a lasting impact on her, and discusses how the accumulation of smaller but significant experiences can lead to emotional exhaustion, compassion fatigue, anxiety, and more.  

We also highlight the importance of acknowledging these feelings, seeking support, and advocating for a cultural shift in midwifery—one that prioritises addressing trauma and mental well-being.

(01:16) Understanding Invisible Trauma

(04:15) Personal Story of Trauma

(06:53) Coping Strategies and Support

(08:12) Call to Action and Conclusion

Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:

https://www.collectivebeing.org/

https://blueknot.org.au/

https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/

https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explained

https://www.nmsupport.org.au

https://www.anmf.org.au/

https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-process

https://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-trauma

https://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/

Griefline 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Australia

Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14

Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife 

Instagram - @jess.themidwife

To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.au

Follow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak

In this first episode of Midwife Crisis, host Kelli Zakharoff, a midwife, mother, and author, introduces the podcast that delves into the often unseen emotional burdens midwives and nurses carry. Kelli shares her motivation for starting the podcast, which is an extension of her book 'Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma.' She discusses the concept of invisible trauma, recounts a vivid and harrowing birth story from her book, and emphasises the importance of community and conversation in healing.

(00:00) Introduction to Midwife Crisis Podcast

(01:20) The Purpose Behind the Podcast

(02:55) Understanding Invisible Trauma

(04:12) Ellie's Story: A Glimpse into Midwifery Challenges

(08:33) Reflections and Emotional Impact

(09:20) Looking Ahead: Healing and Community

Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:

https://www.collectivebeing.org/

https://blueknot.org.au/

https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/

https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explained

https://www.nmsupport.org.au

https://www.anmf.org.au/

https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-process

https://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-trauma

https://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/

Griefline 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Australia

Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14

Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife 

Instagram - @jess.themidwife

To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.au

Follow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak

Welcome to Midwife Crisis: The Podcast, a space where we explore the hidden struggles and triumphs of midwives, continuing the conversation started in Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma through real, raw, and hopeful stories from midwives, nurses, and experts.

Series one starting in March 2025

Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:

https://www.collectivebeing.org/

https://blueknot.org.au/

https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/

https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explained

https://www.nmsupport.org.au

https://www.anmf.org.au/

https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-process

https://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-trauma

https://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/

Griefline 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Australia

Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14

Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife 

Instagram - @jess.themidwife

To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.au

Follow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak