The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast

In light of the recent NMC and Doula UK video, I decided to record this special episode as I felt it relates this this season's theme: The Reality of Birth.

The video tried to define the role of a doula but missed the mark — suggesting we simply reinforce what midwives advise. That’s not the truth.

You can watch it here - https://youtu.be/bXqIBMTZHDs

Many care providers still remain confused about the role of a doula — despite us providing care for 25 years or more in some cases. But that confusion isn’t what matters. What matters is that you and your partner are crystal clear on why you’ve chosen your doula, and how their continuous support aligns with your birth vision.

In this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I explore:
✨ Why the recent video missed the mark about doula support.
✨ What families need to know when choosing a doula or birthkeeper.
✨ Why the woman herself is the true guardian and gatekeeper of her birth.
✨ How midwives can embrace this truth if they are to practise woman-centred care.

I also share how a group of local doulas in my area have been working collaboratively with the hospital to build stronger relationships with midwives — and why this kind of real-world connection is far more valuable than any video.

💡 Key Takeaway: A doula is neither a guardian nor a gatekeeper. The woman is both. Everyone else — doulas, partners, midwives, and doctors — are there in service to her.

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I’m joined by Poppy Child from Pop That Mumma, who shares parts of her second birth story that she has never spoken about publicly before.

Poppy went into her pregnancy journey believing that a pain-free birth was achievable, but the reality unfolded in ways she hadn’t expected. In this conversation, she opens up about the untold elements of her experience, offering an honest reflection on how expectations can differ from reality in birth.

We explore:

• The vision of a pain-free birth and how it contrasted with reality
• The unplanned circumstances that shaped Poppy’s second birth
• The emotional impact of unmet expectations
• Why speaking about the less-shared parts of birth matters so deeply

Poppy’s openness is a true gift, and I’m so grateful for her courage in sharing the sides of her story that have remained unspoken. Her reflections will reassure and support anyone who has felt the gap between what they imagined birth would be and the reality they experienced.

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Poppy on instagram: @Popthatmumma
• Follow me on Instagram: @ultimatebirthpartner
• Explore more episodes: The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

Season Six - The Reality of Birth Today

Welcome to a brand-new series of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast

In this first episode, I am exploring the romanticised idea of birth that we can sometimes hold.

I share

• Where the romantic image of birth comes from
• Why relying only on a partner can be overwhelming
• How the 'bubble' can burst in labour and postpartum
• Practical preparation tips for birth partners
• A listener’s question on intimacy vs. support
• Reflection prompts to help you prepare realistically

Whether you’re planning a freebirth, a homebirth, a midwife-led birth, or a hospital birth, this series will guide you through the truth of birth today — so you can prepare with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

Resources & Links:

• Follow Sallyann on Instagram: @theultimatebirthpartner
• Learn more about Sallyann’s courses and resources: https://sallyannberesford.co.uk
• Submit your questions for future episodes: [email protected]

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

It's the season finale, and I’m delighted to wrap up with a powerful and thought-provoking conversation featuring the incredible Dr Rachel Reed - midwife, educator, author, and advocate for physiological birth.

In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid something that often triggers alarm bells during labour. But should it? Rachel helps us unpack the physiology, the myths, and the medical responses surrounding meconium in the waters.

This conversation is essential listening for anyone preparing for birth, especially those wanting to feel informed and empowered in situations where the language of risk is used to justify intervention.

We explore:

• What meconium actually is - and when it’s considered 'normal'
• Why the presence of meconium doesn’t always mean distress
• The difference between thin and thick meconium - and why that matters
• How maternity systems often respond to meconium stained amniotic fluid
• How to approach decision-making with confidence and context

About Dr Rachel Reed:
Rachel is renowned for her evidence-based approach and her ability to reframe complex birth topics with clarity and wisdom. She’s the author of Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage, and Why Induction Matters. Her MidwifeThinking blog became a go-to resource for birth professionals and parents alike.

Resources mentioned:

• Rachel’s website: www.rachelreed.website
• Rachel's Blog https://www.rachelreed.website/blog
• Instagram: @dr.rachel.reed

Thank you for joining me this season.
Whether you’ve listened to one episode or every single one, I’m so grateful for your time and energy. This show is for you - for every birth partner, mother, and supporter who wants to walk into birth feeling prepared, powerful, and protected. I’ll be back in September with more conversations that challenge, inform, and inspire.

If this episode spoke to you, please leave a review or share it with someone preparing for birth. Your support helps this podcast reach those who need it most.

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by Amelia, who shares her powerful birth stories - welcoming both of her daughters in a Midwife Led Unit, despite being labelled ‘high risk’ due to a high BMI and insulin-controlled gestational diabetes.

Amelia’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when a woman is supported to trust her instincts, advocate for herself, and remain at the centre of her care.

In our conversation, Amelia reflects on:

• The challenges and judgements she faced due to her BMI
• How she stayed informed and confident in her choices
• Building a relationship of trust with her midwives
• Navigating the medicalised narrative around gestational diabetes
• The difference respectful, individualised care made in her outcomes

This episode offers hope to anyone who’s been told their body isn’t capable of physiological birth - and a reminder that evidence-based care and personal autonomy can and should go hand-in-hand.

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by former NHS midwife Rosemary, who bravely opens up about her time working within the UK’s maternity system - and why she ultimately made the difficult decision to walk away.

With her knowledge and experience of women-centred care, Rosemary speaks candidly about the challenges she faced as a midwife, from rising pressures to the emotional toll of witnessing care that didn’t align with her values.

Rosemary shares what it means to support physiological birth within institutional constraints, and why leaving was the only way to stay true to herself - and what she’s doing now

Whether you’re pregnant, a birth worker, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of the maternity system, Rosemary’s story will stay with you.

You can find Rosemary here 

Or on her website here - https://houseofrosemary.com

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In this essential episode, I open up a conversation with Hayley Schoenberg and Dr Margo, where they explain, that far too many women are suffering from postpartum prolapse - in silence. 

Despite how common it is, prolapse is rarely discussed during pregnancy, and even less so after birth. Yet it can have a profound physical and emotional impact on a woman's life. It's time to break the silence.

In this episode, we explore:

• What postpartum prolapse actually is
• The symptoms that are too often dismissed or normalised
• Why so many women feel shocked, ashamed, or let down when they discover they have a prolapse
• How the language we use around birth and recovery plays a role in this silence
• Why informed preparation before birth is key to preventing or reducing risk
• What real support looks like - and how we can do better

Whether you're a birth partner, a birth professional, or someone navigating your own postpartum recovery, this episode is for you.

Let’s shine a light on this hidden struggle and advocate for real change in postpartum care.

Get support: Reach out to pelvic health specialists or women's health physiotherapists in your area.

Contact Hayley on Instagram - @thebadassbirthcompany 

Contact Margo on Instagram - @pospartum_pop_pt 

Margo's Website https://www.p4moms.com for her membership community and resources. 

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Let’s change the narrative - one birth at a time.

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In today’s episode, I explore one of the most profound truths about birth - the fact that you are the creator of life. I dive into how modern maternity services undermine women's instincts, why doubt is a normal part of labour, and how the subconscious work of pregnancy is what truly saves women in the birth room.

I explore why achieving a physiological birth in 2025 is about more than just having a birth plan. While a plan is a great starting point, it’s not enough to guarantee a hands-off, natural birth experience in today’s birth landscape.

If you are preparing for birth and ready to reconnect with your instincts, I strongly recommend you join Discover Your North Star - my unique birth preparation course designed to help you do the inner work that will carry you through birth and beyond.

It's aim is to empower you by transforming your mindset, and delve deep into your subconscious to reframe limiting beliefs and unlock your true potential. Unlike traditional antenatal programs that primarily focus on the physical aspects of childbirth, this course offers a holistic approach, addressing the mental and emotional facets of the journey into motherhood. 

You will engage in self-reflective exercises and mindset-shifting techniques, equipping you with the tools to navigate motherhood with confidence, clarity, and a profound sense of purpose.

In addition, you will create a Birth Manifesto® - a personalised declaration that articulates your values, desires, and intentions for your birth experience. This powerful tool empowers you to:

• Clarify Your Vision: Define what a positive birth means to you, setting clear expectations.
• Enhance Communication: Effectively convey your preferences to your birth team, ensuring they understand and respect your wishes.
• Boost Confidence: Feel more in control and prepared, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of empowerment.

By crafting your Birth Manifesto®, you take an active role in shaping your birth journey, aligning it with your personal beliefs and aspirations. 

Learn more about the course here 

Read the blog

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In today’s episode, I am sharing the incredible biological design of birth and how your body naturally prepares your baby for life outside the womb. Modern maternity care often disrupts this process, but when we understand how nature intended birth to unfold, we can make informed choices to protect it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How your microbiome shifts in pregnancy to prepare the birth canal for your baby
• Why your baby’s first exposure to bacteria is essential for lifelong immunity
• The truth about delayed cord clamping and why your baby needs their full blood volume
• How the length of the umbilical cord ensures immediate skin-to-skin contact
• The incredible hormonal dance that unfolds after birth - and why separation can disrupt it
• Simple ways to protect this perfect design from unnecessary interventions

Many modern birth practices - like routine early cord clamping, unnecessary C-sections, and immediate baby separation - are based on outdated protocols that don’t support physiological birth. In this episode, I’ll help you understand what your body already knows how to do and how you can advocate for your baby’s best start in life.

Resources & Links:

Discover Your North Star – My course on mental, emotional, and spiritual birth preparation. Click here to learn more!

Read the BLOG post that accompanies this episode 

 📲 Follow me on Instagram for more birth wisdom: @theultimatebirthpartner

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend and leave a review - it helps more women learn to trust the wisdom of their bodies. ❤️

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...

In this powerful episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, we dive into a topic that may challenge how you think about birth support: the role of a doula or birthkeeper. While many believe our job is to shield you from the medical system, the truth is more complex.

My role isn’t to control external factors or guarantee a specific birth outcome. Instead, it’s to help you overcome self-doubt, navigate fears, and trust your body. Together, we’ll work to build the resilience, mindset, and advocacy skills you need to stay grounded in your values - no matter what comes your way.

Listen in as I share real-life insights, why birth preparation requires more than a plan, and how your inner work can be the foundation for a truly empowered birth experience.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• The true role of a birthkeeper or doula
• Why self-trust is the ultimate protection
• Navigating the system vs. navigating yourself
• How to stay aligned with your birth values

🎧 Ready to take control of your birth experience? Tune in now to learn how inner strength and preparation can make all the difference.

✨ Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Every share helps more women feel empowered for their birth journey.

Here is the BLOG post that accompanies this episode 

And another Blog post about Doulas 

Send me a message

If you want to access any of my free resources click here:-https://stan.store/sallyannberesford

If you want to learn more about my Discover Your North Star Course then read more here:- https://stan.store/sallyannberesford/p/discover-your-north-star-

If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesford

If you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-

Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner  - click here:-https://bit.ly/Labouroflove

The Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9df

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmO

Pregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'
- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPF

You can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk

Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpar...