This episode is the recording that inspired this entire series: your birth story, as told with love by the humans who attended your birth — Nonas, TeeTee, Zia, Auntie C, Auntie Lauren, Auntie Jen, and Ness. This original recording happened on May 5, 2022, when Shayan was exactly one month old (so yes, enjoy the free oxytocin of baby sounds in the background!) and took quite a bit of time to edit as there were lots of fun tech challenges. So, of course, this is raw, real, and perfectly imperfect — as all good things (and births) are. Each birth story is necessary and valid to be shared in the mosaic of this world, and this one... this funny, supported, celebratory one is yours, Shayan.

This episode is a vulnerable one; the shadow side of (your) (and my) becoming — all of the complexities that added up to allow me to choose becoming a mother FULLY. There were many moments of my pregnancy journey that I faced doubt & fear, but this is a love letter to you, Shayan, so that you will always know that even in the moments of uncertainty: you were so surrounded in love. This is also a reflection in the many emotions & hormones that can be present in the first trimester, and a reminder that there is no need to judge a mama who is feeling all the feels, as it is always a part of her journey towards being ready to become a parent (solo or otherwise!)

This is a super special conversation with my super special doula, Ness Young. If you’re curious about who/what a doula is and what they might offer in a birth setting, if you’re finding your way with intuitive and conscious pregnancy and parenting, or if you want/need to hear about how birth can be empowering no matter the setting and situation — this is the episode for you! Not only did they hold me so lovingly in my own birthing process, but they have committed their life to bringing healing to the world through intuitive, inclusive, and conscious parenting, space holding, and birth work. Find them at @doulamamaness on IG & http://www.doulamamaness.com to find out more about how they can support your birthing experience.

Today’s conversation is a deep dive with Sarah, better known these days as TeeTee. She brings the maiden energy in this duo, and has been an incredible support system for Elyza as she became a mother. Get ready for the inside scoop: featuring lots of laughter, a few tears, and a unique relationship that just might help you feel the possibility of finding support from unexpected places in your life.

This episode is short, but sweet. It shares the inspiration behind Shayan Raye’s name, and a very emotional prayer, all recorded on a whim by Elyza on April 11, 2022 — exactly one year before this episode release, and 7 days postpartum at the time.

Join your “host”, Elyza Dolby, as she connects with members of her soul family, Rupi and Sarah — and they share what it was like to be along for the ride of finding out that she was pregnant while vacationing in paradise!