raw MOMversations

Can you really heal from birth trauma? Billie Harrigan, traditional birth companion, educator, and founder of Birth Trauma Ontario, says yes—when we name what really happened and reclaim our stories. With over 40 years of experience, Billie has supported countless women through birth, postpartum, and the long road of healing after difficult or traumatic experiences.

In this raw and deeply validating episode, we dive into the nuances of birth trauma, the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways obstetric violence shows up, and why so many mothers are left feeling silenced or dismissed after birth. Billie brings clarity, compassion, and fierce truth-telling to a topic that desperately needs to be spoken about.

If you’ve ever walked away from your birth feeling confused, hurt, or like something just wasn’t right—this conversation is for you. You are not broken. Your feelings are valid. And healing is possible.

This powerful in-person gathering brings together voices from around the world who are reclaiming birth, sovereignty, and truth. A space for parents, birth workers, and changemakers, this conference is about unlearning, remembering, and rising.

Ontario – Sept 19 & 20, 2025

Montreal – Oct 25, 2025

• Instagram: @billieharrigan

• Instagram: @rawmomversations

• Email: [email protected]

The Raw MOMversations podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of Raw MOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!

Melania is just weeks away from welcoming her second baby—and in this intimate, emotional, and often hilarious episode, we sit down for a real, raw conversation about everything she’s doing differently this time around. From preparing Markus for big brotherhood to confronting her fears from her first birth, Melania opens up about how choosing a holistic path has transformed her mindset and confidence.

Together, we unpack what it really means to prepare for a physiological birth, why education is power (especially for second-time moms!), and how postpartum healing begins with honoring your instincts. Whether you’re pregnant with your first or your fourth, this episode will remind you of the strength you already carry—and why your birth experience matters just as much as your baby’s arrival.

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Are all inductions necessary—or even helpful? HeHe Stewart, doula, childbirth educator, and the powerhouse behind The Birth Lounge. Known for her unapologetic advocacy and evidence-based insights, HeHe unpacks the truth about medical inductions and empowers moms to make informed, confident choices about their births.

Together, we explore the myths and realities around due dates, elective vs. medical induction, and why many women feel pressured or coerced into choices they later regret. From understanding the flawed ARRIVE trial to navigating Pitocin protocols, this episode is a deep dive into what every mom should know before walking into a hospital birth.

If you’ve ever been told “a healthy baby is all that matters,” this conversation will open your eyes to why you matter just as much—and how advocating for yourself starts with being informed!

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Connect with HeHe Stewart:

Connect with Melania & Ally:

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Can Spinning Babies truly transform your birth experience? Join us in this eye-opening episode featuring Cris, The Passionate Doula and the only certified Spinning Babies parent educator in Canada. Cris shares her journey and expert insights into how simple movements, mindful positioning, and the revolutionary Spinning Babies techniques can prepare your body for a shorter, less painful labor. Discover the power of techniques like the "flashlight game," forward leaning inversion, and the three balances that work together to optimize your baby’s positioning in the uterus.

In this candid conversation, hosts Ally and Melania explore how understanding fetal positioning can empower you and your birth partner to take control of the birthing process. Cris explains why having your baby in the right position of your uterus isn’t just a lucky coincidence but a crucial factor for smoother labor, and how these techniques can change the entire course of your birth—from preventing prolonged labor to ensuring a more comfortable postpartum recovery.

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Connect with Cris The Passionate Doula:

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Resources:

www.spinningbabies.com

Home Birth VS Hospital Birth Episode

Watch This Episode on YouTube

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RawMOMversations is BACK, and we’re kicking off 2025 with a BIG surprise! 🎉 One of us has a baby on board… but who?! In this episode, we’re catching up after the holiday season and sharing some major life updates.

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Parenting can sometimes feel like Politics- On this episode, we introduce you to our four unique and imaginary parenting parties: the Attachment Party, Free Range Alliance, Structured Society, and Evidence-Based Parenting Coalition. Which one are you?!

We reveal how our parenting styles often blend elements from these parties and discuss how differing parenting philosophies can sometimes be as polarizing as political opinions. Listen in as we unpack how parenting choices are introduced through birth stories and how they can lead to judgment rather than curiosity and support.

Key Highlights:

• 4 Parenting “Parties”

Connect with Melania & Ally:

•   Instagram: @rawmomversations

 Podcast Disclaimer:

The raw MOMversation podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of rawMOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!

We chat about her 3 different birth experiences- We dive into the little things that can make a big difference, like cervical checks, the environment, moving around during labor, using birthing balls, and finding the best pushing positions for YOU! 

Stephanie also opens up about what it was like giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with all the stress of hospital protocols, and why that led her to switch to a birthing center for her later birth. We talk about the power of feeling in control during childbirth and how birthing centers and hospitals offer such different environments. 

We get real about overdue pregnancies, the pressure society puts on us, and those precious first moments of bonding with baby. It’s an episode full of real, raw, and loving stories that any mom can relate to!

Key Highlights:

•   The decision to have a Natural Birth 

Connect with Melania & Ally:

•   Instagram: @rawmomversations

For partnership and collaboration inquiries:

•   Email: [email protected] 

 Podcast Disclaimer:

The raw MOMversation podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of rawMOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!

Ever wondered why your friends with kids seem to operate on a different wavelength?  Melania and Ally break down the top 5 things that parents wish their child-free friends understood. From the reality of time constraints and the constant worry to the never-ending kid-centered conversations, we share how these factors shape our daily lives and relationships. These insights are not just for parents but for anyone looking to understand the complex world of parenting better!

We discuss the anxiety and logistical planning required for outings with young children, the necessity of flexibility, and how parenting responsibilities can impact social interactions. The conversation highlights the constant worry parents experience, especially in the first year, and how child-centered conversations become the norm. We also touch on the support from family members and the importance of understanding and sympathy from friends without children!

Connect with Melania & Ally:

• Instagram: @rawmomversations

For partnership and collaboration inquiries:

• Email: [email protected] 

 Podcast Disclaimer:

The raw MOMversation podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of rawMOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!

Haley, co-founder of My Superhero Foods and My Superhero Sleep, opens up about her inspiring transition from a flourishing career at Pfizer to embracing a Holistic approach to health and wellness. Haley shares how yoga and nutritional changes revolutionized her health, sparking a passion for empowering families to make healthier life choices. Discover how Haley's journey from pharmaceutical sales to wellness advocacy is reshaping lives through informed food and sleep choices.

Get valuable insights into the alarming rise of childhood behavioral and learning disorders such as autism and ADHD, and the potential links to ultra-processed foods and additives. Haley discusses the critical role of nutrient-rich, whole foods in child development and critiques systemic issues tied to big food companies.

We tackle modern parenting challenges, including the impact of screen time on children's creativity and development. With practical advice on avoiding ultra-processed foods and fostering healthy eating habits from a young age, this episode is a must-listen for parents committed to their children's well-being!

Key Highlights:

• Transforming Health Through Nutrition and Wellness

Connect with:

• Instagram: @mysuperherofoods

Resources: 

Connect with Melania & Ally:

• Instagram: @rawmomversations

For partnership and collaboration inquiries:

• Email: [email protected] 

 Podcast Disclaimer:

The raw MOMversation podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of rawMOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!

​​Can Homeopathy truly transform your health and well-being? Join us in this thought-provoking episode of Raw MOMversations featuring Jennie, a Certified Classical Homeopath, as she shares her personal journey from dissatisfaction with conventional medicine to discovering the holistic power of homeopathy. Learn how remedies made from natral substances, like onion for hay fever, can stimulate the body's healing response without suppressing symptoms. Learn the differences between acute and constitutional homeopathy and how they can be used to treat both short-term illnesses and chronic conditions.

We'll tackle the hot issue of Pharmaceutical Science versus Homeopathy, showcasing how the modern medical model is often influenced by profit-driven pharmaceutical companies. Jennie sheds light on the historical marginalization of homeopathy and offers compelling arguments on how embracing this 200-year-old system could significantly decrease our need for pharmaceuticals and surgeries.

Jennie shares the remarkable healing power of remedies- discover how homeopathy can shift your perspective from panic to empowerment, offering a holistic and personalized path to health and personal growth. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges conventional medical norms and provides new avenues for healing and wellness!

Key Highlights:

•   Understanding Homeopathy

Connect with Jennie:

•   Instagram: @the.enlightened.homeopath

Resources: 

•  Jennie Hoglund Homeopathy

• Why Homeopathy Should be at the Top of Your Self-Care List | by Jennie Hoglund, CCH | Medium

Connect with Melania & Ally:

•   Instagram: @rawmomversations

For partnership and collaboration inquiries:

•   Email: [email protected] 

 Podcast Disclaimer:

The raw MOMversation podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of rawMOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!