HEAR ME ROAR. | a free birth podcast

EP20. Unveiling the Journey of a Free Birth: Liv's Story

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.
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CONNECT WITH SARAH.
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Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
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Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
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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.

EP19. 1st Time Mom & Traditional Birth Attendant Free Births: Alisha’s Story!

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.
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Podcast
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
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Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
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Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
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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.

EP18. A Freebirth Journey & Generational Healing with Piper Muncy

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.
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CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
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Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
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Ebook: Questions to ask your Birth Attendant
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
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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.

EP17. Navigating Birth Across Paradigms: Christina's story of genuine medical challenges and a redemptive free birth

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.

EP16. Cheyenne's Journey: From Birthing at 16 in the System - to Empowered Freebirth!

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

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.

EP15. Living In Sovereignty: From C-section to Free Birth with Theda

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.
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Resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.
Website
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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.

EP14. Fear Mongering: How We Shut It Down As Birthkeepers

Navigating the Challenges of Radical Birth Keeping
In this episode of Hear Me Roar, hosts Brit and Sarah discuss their experiences and insights as radical birth keepers. They share stories about the complexities and conflicts involved in supporting women who choose non-medicalized births. The conversation touches on themes like the medical community's skepticism, the importance of informed choice, and the risks involved in both medical and non-medical birth settings. They highlight the significance of community support and provide information about joining their online spaces for women interested in free birthing. The episode concludes with details about their new support container for women looking for guidance and companionship in their free birth journey.
00:00 Welcome to Hear Me Raw Today
01:20 Brit's Client Story: Navigating Prenatal Care
04:28 Medical System Critique: Trust and Authority
08:47 The Role of Radical Birth Keepers
12:18 Personal Experiences and Reflections
32:28 Support and Community for Free Birthing WomenEPISODE LINKS.
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
http://HEAR ME ROAR. Telegram Community
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website
Instagram
Resources
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.

EP13. Lauren's Journey: Midwifery Abandonment & A Traumatic Hospital Birth - to Freebirth

In this episode, Sarah & Britt speak with Lauren, a mother of two from Austin, who shares her transformative journey from a medicalized first birth to a redemptive free birth. Lauren recounts her first pregnancy in New York City under the care of a home birth midwife who dropped her at the end of pregnancy and sent her to the hospital which led to her traumatic hospital induction experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Feeling abandoned and disillusioned by the medical system, Lauren decides to pursue a wild pregnancy and free birth for her second child. As Lauren delves into free birth communities and uncovers the power of physiological birth, she prepares for and ultimately experiences a peaceful, sovereign birth at home. This profound journey reshapes her perspective on motherhood, birthing, and personal empowerment.
00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Podcast
01:27 Meet Lauren: A Homeschooling, Home Birthing Mom
02:29 Lauren's First Pregnancy Journey in New York
04:21 Challenges and Decisions During Pregnancy
13:17 Hospital Induction and Birth Experience
23:04 Postpartum Reflections and Hospital Stay
40:41 Navigating Hospital Discharge
42:21 First Moments at Home
44:01 Postpartum Reflections
45:23 Discovering Free Birth
46:38 Unraveling the Preeclampsia Story
48:07 Journey to Free Birth
51:52 Embracing a Wild Pregnancy
57:22 The Birth Experience
01:09:43 Postpartum Support and Healing
01:13:52 Reflections on Free Birth and Trauma
01:23:37 Final Thoughts and IntegrationCONNECT 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.

EP12. From Hospital to Home: Esmeralda's Stories of Sovereign Birth and Confronting Hemorrhage

In this episode our guest, Esmeralda, shares her personal experiences of transitioning from a doula to a birth keeper. She discusses her shift from attending hospital births to solely home births due to mental anxiety and the disconnect she noticed between midwives and their clients. She narrates her journey through three pregnancies and births—each unique in its own way. Her first birth, a traumatic hospital experience, led her to pursue home births for her subsequent pregnancies. She details the preparations, challenges, and ultimate empowerment she felt during her second and third births, which were attended by a supportive doula in a more sovereign manner. Additionally, she speaks about her mission to support other women in reclaiming their birth experiences through mindset preparation and taking radical responsibility. She also introduces her online mentorship programs and her shop for birth and birth worker merchandise. The episode highlights the importance of personal empowerment, mindset, and the transformative journey of birth work.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey into Birth Work
01:35 Challenges with Traditional Midwifery
02:51 The Disconnect in Medicalized Births
07:06 First Medicalized Birth Experience
26:58 Postpartum Reflections and Breastfeeding Challenges
33:08 Discovering Home Birth and Free Birth
48:02 Early Labor Signs and Timing
48:32 Labor Progression and Pain Management
51:44 Birthing the Placenta
56:02 Postpartum Recovery and Nutrition
01:05:00 Tandem Nursing and Breastfeeding Challenges
01:09:57 Unexpected Third Pregnancy
01:14:26 Fast Labor and Water Birth
01:33:08 Empowered Birth Practices and SupportEPISODE LINKS - ESMERALDA.
Website
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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.