Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village! A podcast filled with education and positive stories about pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

I am your host Ellen, and in today’s episode, I am honored to sit down with Tempest, a mother of three, who shares her extraordinary twin birth story with us. Tempest's journey is nothing short of remarkable, filled with twists and turns that ultimately led her to an awe-inspiring physiological birth experience in the hospital.

As Tempest recounts her pregnancy journey, we learn of her initial decision not to undergo ultrasounds, only to have her plans altered by the intuitive knowing of her 4-year-old daughter and her own maternal instincts, leading to the joyful discovery of expecting twins. She candidly shares the decision-making process regarding her care, originally planning for a home birth but ultimately opting for a hospital setting.

With unwavering faith in the natural ability of women to birth, Tempest walks us through her birth story and beautifully articulates the intricacies of her experience. Amidst the intensity of labour, she remains grounded in her belief that women are inherently meant to birth.

What I love about Tempest’s twin birth story is that it so beautifully demonstrates that twins are just another variation of normal. Tempest’s story challenges the conventional medical model that would otherwise push for unnecessary interventions. Tempest’s intervention free birth meant that her babies were born healthy and thriving and Tempest was left in awe at her body and her babies ability to birth.

Join us as we explore Tempest's journey, celebrating the diversity of childbirth experiences and affirming that twin mamas can absolutely achieve the birth of their dreams. This episode is a testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering belief in the innate power of women to birth.

Don’t forget that if you like the show, please subscribe and leave a

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, or you have education in the pregnancy, birth, postpartum or motherhood space to share, please send me a DM or email [email protected]

Instagram - @the.mamavillage

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Dr Stuart James Fischbein - @birthinginstincts

Blyss Young - @birthingblyss

Books by Ina May Gaskin – Ina May’s Guide to

Birth with Confidence by Rhea Dempsey

Beyond the Birth Plan by Rhea Dempsey

For a discussion around the accuracy of ultrasounds and big babies versus small babies, I recommend you listen to episodes 29 and 30 of The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast. Please remember that this is general information only and not medical advice. Please speak with your professional healthcare provider for any specific medical advice.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum. 

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village, where you will hear powerful and positive birth stories and education. I am your host Ellen and today I am thrilled to bring you today’s episode featuring Kira, a remarkable mother of five who shares her incredible birth stories and gives insight into her parenthood journey.

Drawing strength from a village of strong women, including her own mother, aunties, and family, Kira emphasises the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals throughout the birthing and postpartum journey.

In this candid conversation, Kira opens up about her epic freebirth, where she welcomed her youngest child into the world in the comfort of her own home. With honesty and vulnerability, Kira shares her experience of meeting her doula for the first time at 36 weeks, highlighting the importance of finding the right support team even in the late stages of pregnancy. Together, we explore the process of working through fear in preparation for a freebirth, and the profound moment when Kira's last baby entered the world exactly as he was meant to, surrounded by love and the unwavering support of her husband and mother.

Kira also bravely shares the highs and lows of her breastfeeding journey, particularly with her last baby, revealing the heartbreak and resilience that comes with overcoming challenges.

Join us as we dive deep into Kira's journey of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of birth. This is a story you won't want to miss.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, or you have education in the pregnancy, birth, postpartum or motherhood space to share, please send me a DM or email [email protected]

If you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform. I cannot stress enough the importance of leaving a rating and review so that I can continue to bring these positive birth stories and education to all women. To all my listeners, thank you for your continuing support!

Instagram - @the.mamavillage

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Hyonobirthing the Mongan Method by Marie Mongan

Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin

Home birth on your own terms by Heather Baker

Miles Circuit - https://www.milescircuit.com/

Spinning babies - https://www.spinningbabies.com/

Neonatal resuscitation course by Karen Strange - https://karenstrange.com/

Tips on identifying tearing and how to heal without stitches

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village, where you will hear powerful and positive birth stories and education. I am your host Ellen and today, I have the privilege of sitting down with two incredible private midwives, Tarlia and Jacinta, from Avenir Life Midwifery.

Tarlia and Jacinta delve into the importance of promoting birth physiology and biological functioning. They shed light on the transformative power of giving birth at home, where mothers feel held and nurtured and are powerful as they are the absolute decision-makers in their bodies, babies, and birth.

Where 1 in 3 women experience birth trauma in Australia, Tarlia and Jacinta explain how home birth promotes a positive birth experience, allowing mothers to envision and plan the birth of their dreams. We also discuss how birthing at home frees mothers from the hospital timelines and highlight the extensive support provided to mothers and families postpartum, emphasising the importance of ongoing care beyond the traditional hospital model.

Through their personalised approach, Tarlia and Jacinta normalise the childbirth experience, instilling a deep sense of trust in one’s instincts and anatomy. They also emphasise the importance of holding space for the mother as they embark on this sacred journey of pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

I am incredibly proud of this episode and can’t wait for you to listen. So, settle in and prepare to be inspired as we explore the powerful world of home birth with Tarlia and Jacinta from Avenir Life Midwifery.

@avenir_life_midwifery

Website: www.avenirlifemidwifery.com.au

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, or you have pregnancy, birth, postpartum or motherhood education to share, then please send me an email at [email protected]

If you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform.

Instagram - @the.mamavillage

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Books:

Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage by Rachel Reed

The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou

The Postnatal Depletion Cure by Dr Oscar Serrallach

Others:

Village for Mama

Birth Time Documentary

The Great Birth Rebellion podcast

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Hello everyone and welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village. I am your host, Ellen.

Today, we have the privilege of hearing Joelene’s remarkable story of natural and

Through her experience, Joelene invites us to challenge societal perceptions surrounding childbirth and embrace the inherent wisdom of our bodies. She

So join me, as Joelene shares her empowering birth story, reminding us all of the

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and

If you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast

Instagram @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103

Disclaimer: In this episode, I reference Group B Strep statistics as an example to demonstrate the fear tactics and language often used my medical providers to ensure compliance by women with their recommendations. This was an example only of the language that can be used to create fear. For accurate evidence-based information regarding Group B Strep, I highly encourage you to listen to this episode on The Great Birth Rebellion podcast - https://www.melaniethemidwife.com/podcasts/the-great-birth-rebellion/episodes/2147792078

Postpartum support services:

https://panda.org.au/

https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/support/other-support-services

Another great option to consider is a postpartum doula to hold and support you as you transition into motherhood.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village!

I am your host Ellen and today, I am joined by the beautiful Josi, a mother of four and doula who shares her journey of achieving a positive vaginal birth after two caesareans, commonly known as a VBAC.

Josi’s path to this moment was paved with twists and turns, starting with her first baby being breech and thinking she had no option but to have a caesarean following an unsuccessful External Cephalic (pronounced Cefalic) Version (ECV) which means a procedure to flip a breech baby into the head down position.

Whilst not what she had envisioned, she still reflects on this birth as a positive experience. She then fell pregnant with surprise twins in which we planned to have another cesarean but which eventuated into an unplanned cesarean due to a preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome diagnosis.  

Despite facing these challenges, Josi grew determined. With her third pregnancy, she delved into the world of birth, immersing herself with research and knowledge, with a steadfast plan of achieving a vaginal birth. However, at 39 weeks, her baby surprised

In this episode, Josi shares her empowering journey of trusting her instincts and birthing her baby exactly as she envisioned. It’s a story filled with courage, resilience and the unwavering belief that every birth is an opportunity for transformation and empowerment.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, please send an email to [email protected]

If you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Instagram @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

Josi's website: www.nurturedbyjosi.com.au 

Josi's Instagram: www.instagram.com/nurtured_by_josi

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-da

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village!

I am your host, Ellen and our guest today is Allie, a first-time mom who, like many, began her pregnancy journey with fears and uncertainties about childbirth. She initially sought the comfort of private obstetric care, looking for a path that felt safe and familiar. Little did she know that a chance encounter with a friend's home

We delve into the mindset shift that led Allie to embrace the idea of a home water birth with a private midwife, discovering the strength and power that comes with making such a choice. But Allie's journey doesn't stop there. Despite being diagnosed with scoliosis at a young age and being told that carrying a baby might be challenging, she describes her pregnancy as nothing short of a dream. We explore the resilience and joy she found in each moment, defying the expectations that came with her

However, Allie's post-birth journey took an unexpected turn. Following her dream birth, she began to experience pain, and her midwife discovered a large hematoma. This led to a calm hospital transfer—no urgency, no stress—just a collaborative discussion of what they could see and the recommended course of action. Allie,

Get ready to be captivated by Allie's unique story of resilience, self-discovery, and the awe-inspiring moment when she welcomed her little one into the world surrounded by the comforts of her own home. Whether you're a soon-to-be parent, a birth enthusiast, or simply curious about the various paths to childbirth, Allie's journey is bound to leave you inspired and in awe of the incredible capabilities of the human body.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, please send an email to [email protected]

If you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform. Please also let me know what you would like to hear from the podcast by leaving a comment on your podcast platform.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Email: [email protected]

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village!

I am your host, Ellen and today I sit down with the incredible Kirstie, a mother to a beautiful 2 year old son and soon to be mama of two, with another little one soon joining the family.

In this episode, Kirstie shares her profound homebirth experience with a private midwife. This is a story of complete trust, surrender and love. Throughout Kirstie’s labour, her baby turned and made his grand entrance into the world in a breech position, adding an extra layer of intensity to her already remarkable story.

As Kirstie takes us through her spiritual journey into the rebirth of herself as a mother, we explore the importance of breath work for her labour and to bring back to the present moment. This episode is a beacon of inspiration for all mothers emphasising the strength found within the vulnerability and the deep connection between mind, body and spirit during childbirth.

Kirstie also bravely shares her raw and honest reality of her postpartum struggles, providing a glimpse into the challenges many mothers face but often go unspoken. Her journey extends into a vision for the future, she shares her aspirations to support and guide other women through their postpartum experiences, fostering community where self-love and understanding prevail.

Don’t forget that if you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform as this helps get these positive stories and education out there to women throughout Australia and the world.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, or if you are an expert in the field, please send an email to [email protected]

Instagram: @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should notreplace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Resources:

Scarf, V. L., Rossiter, C., Vedam, S., Dahlen, H. G.,

Reitsma, A., Simioni, J., Brunton, G., Kaufman, K., &

Olsen, O., & Clausen, J. (2023, March 8). Planned

Welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village!

I am your host, Ellen and today I have a special guest joining me, Antoneth, who is a registered midwife and founder of an early parenting education program, The Newborn Nest.

Today we dive into her two positive birth stories, one involving an induction and the other, an unmedicated physiological birth in a hospital setting. With high induction rates and many women birthing in hospitals across Australia, I think it is important to share

Antoneth also shares her insights on the importance of skin-to-skin contact, the hormonal shifts that occur during the postpartum period, and information about her upcoming early parenting education course launching in March.

So join me, as we dive into Antoneth’s journey and discuss many things early parenting.

Don’t forget that if you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform as this helps get these positive stories and education out there to women throughout Australia and the world.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and motherhood story, or if you are an expert in the field, please send an email to

@the.newbornnest

Instagram: @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Hello everyone and welcome back to another episode of The Mama Village. Today’s episode is deep dive into hypnobirthing with a special guest and passionate hypnobirthing teacher all the way from the UK, Jennifer Cook.

Jen shares her own unique birth story whilst unraveling the incredible connection between mind and body during the birthing process. It was Jennifer’s birth experience that ignited a profound passion for hypnobirthing and in this episode, we will explore the personal moments which inspired her to become a hypnobirthing teacher.

Join us as we deep dive into some of the science behind birth, from the role that hormones play during labour and birth to understanding the uterus as a muscle contracting to bring our baby into the world. In a world where home births were once considered risky for mothers and their babies, Jennifer also talks about breaking down the barriers by opening up the conversation. We will discuss the challenges and triumphs of making home births a more widely accepted and understood choice.

We will also explore the importance of breathing techniques and relaxation methods from the core of hypnobirthing practices. Jennifer will guide us through the transformative power of these tools, helping both mothers and partners navigate the beautiful power of childbirth.  

So, sit back, relax and join me for a captivating episode filled with insights, laughter and the wisdom of a remarkable hypnobirthing teacher. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a rating or review as this helps get these positive stories and education out there to all mothers around the world.

Jen's Instagram where you can access 'A First Timers Intro to the Birth Basics': @jen­­_thepositivebirthcoach

Jen's website: www.thepositivebirthcoach.co.uk

The Mama Village: @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

For music:

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Welcome to Episode 4 of The Mama Village!

Today I have special guest Danielle who is here to share her two positive birth stories. One, a hospital water birth and the other, an intimate birth in her own home. Danielle bravely shares her journey through hyperemesis (HG), offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating this condition during pregnancy. Danielle also takes us through the importance of nourishing both body and mind, preparing for postpartum and the importance of immersing yourself in positive birth stories in a society often saturated with fear and uncertainty. She also goes into intimate detail into choosing a home birth, advocating for yourself and instilling yourself with strength and confidence.

I truly love this interview with Danielle and I hope you find it informative, empowering and inspiring.

 Don’t forget that if you like the show, please subscribe and leave a review on your podcast platform as this helps get these positive stories and education out there to women throughout Australia and the world.

If you would like to share your positive pregnancy, birth, postpartum and

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, and this is not medical advice. Any information discussed in this podcast should not replace the advice of your professional healthcare provider. This podcast is designed for general information only and is not specific to individual needs. Please seek advice from your professional health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your pregnancy, birth or postpartum.

Instagram @the.mamavillage

Email: [email protected]

For Music: https://soundcloud.com/emotionetoile/kevin-macleod-easy-day-no-copyright-music-103