HEAR ME ROAR. | a free birth podcast

Step into to the wild, untamed heart of childbirth. HEAR ME ROAR is more than a podcast—it’s part of a movement toward birthing in freedom, sovereignty, and unshakable trust in our bodies. Co-hosted by Sarah Hawley and Brittany Costello, this space celebrates the reclamation of the fierce, intuitive power within every woman. Through raw, unfiltered conversations, we’ll explore the lasting impact of medicalized births on women’s lives and the transformative journeys that lead them to free birth. Our guests share deeply personal experiences—of disillusionment with medical births, the very real and traumatic consequences they’ve experienced, and the healing, empowerment, and liberation they discovered through birthing in sovereignty. By weaving ancient wisdom with bold conversations, HEAR ME ROAR challenges conventional narratives and honors birth as sacred, raw, and ours to define. Whether you’re preparing for your own journey or seeking solidarity, this is your space to listen, learn, and roar in your truth.

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Episodes

21 hours ago

In this weeks episode, we're joined by special guest Danielle Taylor, a mother of nine who shares her remarkable journey through diverse birth experiences. Danielle discusses her transition from a system-controlled birthing approach to empowering free births, her challenges with a cesarean, and healing natural births, culminating in a peaceful water birth at age 44. Emphasizing the importance of intuitive connection, emotional support, and health, Danielle advocates for trusting Gods design and embracing a sacred birthing space. Her vast experiences also underline the dynamic interplay between divine guidance and natural processes in fostering a trauma-free, empowering birthing journey.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:42 Danielle's Early Life and Parenting Philosophy
02:07 First Pregnancy and Birth Experience
03:37 Navigating Systemic Challenges
11:02 Second Birth and Medical Interventions
16:54 Transition to Home Births
26:47 Third Birth and Embracing Natural Childbirth
34:33 Reflections on Medical Interventions
36:55 Hospital vs. Home Birth: A Personal Journey
37:31 Embracing Pain-Free Birth Through Faith
38:12 The Role of Faith in Childbirth
39:09 Experiencing a Transformative Fourth Birth
40:44 Transition to Free Birth
42:29 Navigating Free Birth with Confidence
46:39 The Importance of Support During Free Birth
49:03 Challenges and Insights from Later Births
51:13 The Impact of Diet on Pregnancy and Birth
54:25 Overcoming Medical Challenges with Faith
56:28 Navigating the Medical System During Emergencies
01:05:00 Reflections on a Geriatric Pregnancy
01:09:18 Confronting Fear and Hospital Births
01:10:04 Navigating Prenatal Appointments and COVID-19
01:11:09 A Quiet Life During Lockdown
01:12:28 The Journey to a Peaceful Birth
01:13:43 A Child's Prayer for a Sister
01:16:10 Embracing a Water Birth
01:24:07 The Sacred Space of Birth
01:35:12 Overcoming Infertility and Nutritional Deficiencies
01:41:59 Danielle's Offerings and Community Support
EPISODE LINKS DANIELLE.
Instagram
Website
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday May 25, 2025

In this week's episode, we talk with Renae Golden, a mother of two, about her transformative birth experiences. Renae opens up about her first pregnancy that started as a planned birth center birth but ended in a hospital transfer, filled with frustrations. She contrasts this with her second birth—an empowering and peaceful sovereign birth.Renae shares her evolutionary journey, the importance of trusting oneself, and her newfound passion for birth work, helping other women navigate their own paths to motherhood. The episode dives deep into the emotional highs and lows, from coping with unnecessary interventions to reclaiming one's power in the birthing process. Join us for this raw and inspiring conversation.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:05 Meet Our Guest: Renee Golden
01:09 Renee's First Birth Experience
03:35 Choosing a Birth Center
07:22 Facing Pregnancy Challenges
16:00 Labor and Birth Center Experience
28:07 Hospital Transfer and Birth
41:46 Reflecting on the First Birth Experience
42:52 Postpartum Challenges and Realizations
43:59 Discovering Sovereign Birth
47:13 Journey to Free Birth
51:49 The Second Pregnancy
58:31 The Birth Story
01:15:11 Postpartum Reflections and New BeginningsEPISODE LINKS RENAE.
Instagram
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday May 18, 2025

In this episode of Hear Me Roar, the hosts are joined by Kristine Lauria, a seasoned midwife with 37 years of experience, to discuss her unique journey as a birth worker. Kristine shares her personal unassisted birth story, detailing how her extensive midwifery background and deep connection with her baby guided her through the process. She also provides insights into birth practices outside of the medical system, discussing the nuances of birth, the importance of trusting the birthing process, and the impact of postpartum care. Kristine highlights the significance of being a supportive, non-interventionist presence at births and the critical role of traditional midwifery practices. Additionally, she talks about her experiences working with Doctors Without Borders (MSF) in low-resource settings, where she often handles complex birth situations. This episode is rich with wisdom and offers a profound look into the empowerment and challenges within the world of midwifery and unassisted births.
00:00 Introduction to Kristine Lauria
00:31 Kristine's Early Midwifery Journey
01:53 Challenges and Changes in Midwifery
03:35 Working with Doctors Without Borders
06:10 Global Perspectives on Birth
08:35 Stories from the Field
20:37 Unassisted Birth Insights
40:33 The Role of Non-Medical Birth Attendants
41:37 Understanding the Role of Birth Attendants
42:36 Evaluating Skills and Qualifications
43:31 The Importance of Clear Communication
44:40 Interventions and Their Implications
47:01 Supporting Free Birth Families
49:39 Advice for Birth Workers
01:11:18 Challenges in Midwifery
01:24:31 The Unassisted Birth Experience
01:27:34 Navigating Birth Alone: The Challenges and Realizations
01:30:53 Preparing for an Unassisted Birth: Physical and Mental Readiness
01:34:05 The Birth Story: From Contractions to Delivery
01:49:18 Postpartum Reflections: The Need for Support and Care
01:58:51 The Emotional Impact of Birth: Personal and Professional Growth
02:07:17 Final Thoughts and Resources for Expecting Mothers
EPISODE LINKS KRISTINE.
Instagram
Website
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday May 11, 2025

In this episode of Hear Me Roar, we welcome Liv, a friend of Sarah's from the Austin Mama's Village Chat group. Liv shares her profound and spiritual journey of her first free birth. She details the stages of her pregnancy, the transformative experience of labor, and the intense emotional and physical sensations she encountered. Alongside, she describes the mystical connection she felt with her daughter’s soul and how the experience propelled her into the realm of birth work. This deeply personal story highlights the importance of personal authority, trust, and the wide spectrum of emotions involved in free birthing. Liv's candid narrative offers insight and inspiration for anyone interested in natural birth and the holistic approach to labor and motherhood.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:03 Guest's Background and Passion for Birth Work
03:01 Spiritual Experience and Pregnancy Journey
06:29 Preparing for a Free Birth
10:56 Labor Begins and Emotional Challenges
17:57 Active Labor and Birth
31:33 A Hilarious Moment
31:59 The Birth Begins
32:42 The Arrival of the Baby
33:47 Post-Birth Rituals
36:24 Reflecting on the Birth Experience
42:23 The Role of Personal Authority in Birth
47:28 Transitioning to Birth Work
50:49 Exploring Yoni Healing
59:33 Final Thoughts and Future PlansEPISODE LINKS LIV.
Instagram
Website
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday May 04, 2025

In this episode of Hear Me Roar, Alisha shares her journey as a first-time mother who chose free birth and her extensive background as a traditional birth attendant. Alisha starts by describing her life prior to entering birth work at age 14, including her exposure to home birth through her mother's experiences. She details her apprenticeship with a licensed midwife in California, discussing the challenges and criticism she faced as a young birth worker. Alisha also explains her transition from a cookie-cutter midwifery approach to a more traditional, individualized one, influenced by various independent birth education programs. She recounts her 48-hour labor with her daughter, emphasizing the importance of supportive care and informed decision-making. Finally, Alisha talks about her current work supporting women through private mentorship and birth services. 
00:00 Introduction to Alicia's Birth Story
00:12 Alicia's Early Life and Introduction to Birth Work
03:01 Experiences and Challenges in Birth Work
04:36 Navigating Apprenticeships and Community Reactions
08:06 Transition to Independent Midwifery
11:21 Educational Path and Knowledge Gaps
25:34 Pregnancy Journey and Nutritional Focus
29:00 Navigating Pregnancy with Partner's Military Commitment
35:19 Deciding on a Free Birth
36:49 Minimal Prenatal Care and Early Pregnancy Experiences
39:44 Challenges with Dehydration and Gallbladder Attacks
49:07 Labor and Birth Story
01:05:51 Postpartum Recovery and Support
01:10:45 Transition to Birth Work and Mentorship
01:12:04 Reflections on Personal Birth Experience
01:14:10 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect
EPISODE LINKS ALISHA.
Instagram
Website
Podcast
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday Apr 27, 2025

In this episode of Hear Me Roar, Piper Muncy, a birth photographer and doula, shares her transformative experiences with birth. Piper delves into her journey of attending births since August 2024 and details her own free birth of her first son in May 2023. She candidly speaks about her upbringing in West Virginia, her holistic journey with her family, and how witnessing her mother endure a traumatic hospital birth influenced her decision to pursue home birthing methods. Piper provides an intimate recount of her lengthy labor, her challenges with delivering the placenta, and the unwavering faith in God that guided her through. The conversation also touches on the power of community among women and the significant role her supportive family has played in her birth experiences. Piper’s story is one of resilience, faith, and generational healing, offering profound insights for anyone interested in the realm of birth and motherhood.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:38 Piper's Journey into Birth Photography
03:09 The Influence of Free Birth
03:50 Piper's Personal Birth Story
11:53 Life Before Motherhood
19:29 Wild Pregnancy Experience
36:00 The Role of Midwives in Free Births
36:25 Personal Experiences with Free Birth
38:28 Trusting Intuition and Divine Guidance
43:21 The Importance of Parental Influence
44:13 Malachi's Birth Story
51:01 Navigating Labor and Delivery Challenges
53:51 The Role of Positioning in Childbirth
57:00 The Birth of Malachi
01:09:51 Post-Birth Complications and Reflections
01:12:16 Emergency Placenta Delivery
01:12:49 Postpartum Challenges and Recovery
01:14:49 Breastfeeding Journey
01:15:06 Placenta and Blood Loss Discussion
01:18:26 The Importance of Knowledge in Birth
01:23:23 Traumatic Birth Experience of My Brother
01:30:30 Reflections on the Medical System
01:38:26 Building a Supportive Birth Community
01:40:26 Contact Information and Final ThoughtsEPISODE LINKS PIPER.
Instagram
Facebook
Website
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday Apr 20, 2025

In this important episode, we welcome Christina Mearns from France, who shares her powerful and moving birth stories. Christina details her journey from her first pregnancy, fraught with unexpected, yet genuine medical complications, to the triumphant free birth of her second child. She candidly discusses the stress and fear of her first son's diagnosis, her subsequent choice to navigate the French medical system, and the joyous, unassisted birth of her second son. Christina also explores the cultural perceptions and legal intricacies of home birth in France, highlighting the importance of informed choices and trusting one's intuition. This episode examines the spectrum of birth experiences and underscores the significance of supporting women's informed choices in all birthing scenarios. A powerful, potent and necessary conversation in the nuanced world of sovereign birth.

Sunday Apr 13, 2025

In this episode of 'Hear Me Roar,' the hosts welcome Cheyenne to share her transformative journey through motherhood. Cheyenne, a mother of four, discusses her experiences with different birth approaches, starting from her first pregnancy at 16. She contrasts her initial hospital births with her journey into natural and free birth practices. Cheyenne details the emotional and physical challenges she faced, including the impact of family dynamics and medical interventions on her birthing experiences. Ultimately, she recounts her empowered free birth of her fourth child highlighting the importance of preparation, community support, and taking charge of one's birth journey. The episode underscores the significance of holding space for postpartum needs and celebrates the beauty of sovereign birth.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:21 Meet Cheyenne: A Journey of Four Births
02:07 Cheyenne's First Pregnancy at 16
10:37 Navigating Early Motherhood and Loss
13:57 Transition to Natural Birth Choices
21:48 Challenges of a Free Birth Attempt
31:17 Hospital Intervention and Reflections
36:55 Anxiety and the Birth Experience
37:43 Hospital Challenges and Decisions
40:04 Postpartum Reflections and Support
40:29 Learning from Past Births
41:30 Preparing for a New Birth
44:52 The Birth of Solomon
56:05 Post-Birth Reflections and Breastfeeding Challenges
01:02:30 The Importance of Postpartum Support
01:07:56 Final Thoughts and Community Support
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

EP2. A Redo

Sunday Apr 06, 2025

Sunday Apr 06, 2025

Navigating the Complexities of Birth Stories and Growth
In this week's episode of 'Hear Me Roar,' Brittany reflects on her decision to take down a previous episode where she shared her home birth story. She discusses the nuances and complexities of her birthing experience, acknowledging moments that may have come off as disrespectful. Along with her co-host Sarah, they explore the concept of processing birth experiences, the lifelong journey of learning as a birth worker, and the importance of holding oneself to a higher standard. The episode emphasizes the need for a respectful space to share diverse birth stories while maintaining authenticity. They also touch upon the challenges and growth that come with being a part of the birth work community.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Update
00:14 Reflecting on the Home Birth Story
01:17 Understanding the Model of Care
03:02 Navigating Birth Choices and Experiences
03:52 Addressing Group Removal and Misunderstandings
05:31 Shifting Paradigms in Birth Practices
06:59 Personal Reflections and Growth
07:49 Advocating for Birth Choices
08:46 Spiritual and Personal Journey
14:51 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude
15:21 Embracing Our Spiritual Mission
16:11 Navigating Birth Work Challenges
17:34 Processing Birth Experiences
18:46 The Reality of Grief and Healing
21:43 Reflecting on Personal Growth
23:19 The Importance of Laughter in Healing
30:58 Final Thoughts and GratitudeCONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

Sunday Mar 30, 2025

In this episode of 'Hear Me Roar,' the host welcomes Theda to share her journey of transitioning from Midwifery abandonment that lead to a c-section - to free birth. Theda opens up about her personal experiences, including the challenges she faced during her first birth at a hospital where a medical error occurred, and the peace she found in her second birth at home. The discussion touches on the significance of the support systems, postpartum challenges, and the spiritual and social implications of choosing a free birth. Along the way, Theda also shares insights about her work with 'The Freedom People' and offers a special promotion for listeners interested in exploring a more sovereign lifestyle.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:01 Theda's Background and Early Life
01:42 First Pregnancy Journey
06:27 Labor and Delivery Challenges
13:40 NICU Experience and Hospital Struggles
23:00 Postpartum and Recovery
25:49 Second Pregnancy and Birth
35:19 Struggles with Placenta Delivery
38:50 Postpartum Reflections and Support
42:21 Diet Changes and Mental Health
51:28 Breastfeeding Challenges and Family Dynamics
52:22 Philosophical Reflections on Birth and Death
01:02:08 Community and Sovereignty
EPISODE LINKS. THEDA
http://freedompillars.com/ Coupon Code hmrfree 
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
Instagram
Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Leave a Review!
Share With a Friend
DISCLAIMER.
The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.

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