HEAR ME ROAR. | a free birth podcast

EP34. Is Birth Autonomy an Illusion? Paving a Way Forward with Rowan & Sarita

In todays episode we brought on Rowan and Sarita from Foundational Concepts for Midwives to discuss the genuine essence of traditional midwifery, physiological birth and the challenges of practicing outside the medical system. The conversation delves deeply into the obstacles attendants and birthing families face, including legal persecution, the critical importance of building trust and relationships, and ensuring autonomy in birth. With personal anecdotes, frank discussions about the state of obstetrics, and valuable insights on creating supportive birth communities - Rowan and Sarita provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone passionate about birth work. The episode concludes with details on the comprehensive training programs offered by Foundational Concepts for Midwives!
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:40 Mission Statement and Initial Discussion
01:52 Understanding Physiological Birth
05:00 Personal Stories and Experiences
08:16 Challenges in Midwifery and Birth Practices
16:17 Free Birth Movement: Then and Now
31:18 Critical Thinking and Preparation in Birth
51:43 Transparency and Trust in Midwifery
55:37 The Obstetric Myth: Fear and Control in Childbirth
56:35 The Reality of Infant and Maternal Mortality Rates
58:34 The Emotional Impact of Birth Choices
59:29 Facing the Possibility of Loss
01:03:19 The Role of Midwives in Birth and Death
01:08:05 Legal Challenges and Midwifery
01:14:16 The Fight for Birth Autonomy
01:38:19 Legal Charges and Arrest
01:39:23 Medical Board and Cease and Desist
01:40:06 House Raid and Conference Interception
01:40:33 Jail Time and Legal Strategy
01:41:46 Pathology and Gag Orders
01:43:04 Midwifery Decriminalization Bill
01:43:43 Refusing Plea Deals
01:45:33 Jail Experiences and Support
01:52:59 Betrayal and Community Support
02:02:17 Foundational Concepts for Midwives
02:10:59 Enrollment and Application Process
02:14:51 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEPISODE LINKS ROWAN & SARITA.
Website
Instagram
Facebook
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Submit your Story
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.

EP33. Beyond Fluoride & Fillings: Holistic Dental Wisdom for Moms with Danielle Taylor

In this episode we bring back Danielle Taylor to discuss holistic approaches to dental health, especially for mothers and children. Danielle shares insights on how genetics, diet, and energy influence dental health. She emphasizes the role of epigenetics, the importance of nutrition-rich diets, and the potential harms of conventional dental practices and antibiotics. The conversation spans various techniques and supplements, including essential oils, cod liver oil, grass-fed butter, and more. Furthermore, Danielle delves into the spiritual and energetic aspects of health and how speaking positively over our bodies can impact healing. Practical advice and protocols for maintaining and repairing teeth naturally are also shared, along with the importance of building a strong health foundation for future generations. 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction
00:30 Dental Health During Motherhood
01:28 Genetics and Epigenetics in Dental Health
02:48 Holistic Dental Care Insights
04:54 Challenges with Conventional Dental Practices
08:19 Holistic Approaches to Pediatric Dental Issues
11:24 Nutritional and Energetic Healing
19:35 The Role of Essential Oils and Biofeedback
27:32 Historical and Genetic Perspectives on Health
40:15 Early Marriage and Dietary Changes
40:38 Switching to Raw and Local Dairy
41:44 Vaccination and Health Issues
44:37 Antibiotics and Gut Health
47:42 Nutritional Density and Healing
52:15 The Power of Affirmations
59:44 Deprogramming and Natural Healing
01:02:33 Toothpaste and Consumerism
01:06:29 Final Thoughts and ResourcesEPISODE LINKS DANIELLE.
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Email - get_healthy360@yahoo.com 
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Submit your Story
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.

EP32. Coming Full Circle with Rebecca Cohen - 5 Birth Stories & Midwifery!

In this episode we interview Rebecca Cohen, a seasoned birth worker with over 30 years of experience. Rebecca shares her journey from becoming a direct entry midwife to attending medical school and specializing in family medicine and obstetrics and coming back full circle to sovereign Midwifery. She also recounts her personal experiences with five births, including hospital transfers and postpartum struggles. Through her story, Rebecca emphasizes the importance of postpartum care, building a supportive community, and the incredible resilience of women's bodies. The episode delves into the complexities of birth, including the controversies around water births and the significant role of emotional, spiritual, and energetic healing in the birthing process.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:08 Rebecca's Journey into Birth Work
02:14 Midwifery Training and Challenges
04:21 Medical School and Career Decisions
06:25 Reflections on Medical Training
07:11 The Shift to Physiologic Birth
13:58 The Rise of Free Birth and Medicalization
20:05 Licensure and Its Implications
28:07 Rebecca's First Pregnancy and Birth Experience
43:00 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
44:02 Balancing Residency and Motherhood
45:30 Breastfeeding Struggles and Seeking Support
47:51 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Early Motherhood
49:11 Returning to Work and Juggling Responsibilities
52:34 Reflecting on Birth Experiences and Choices
53:35 Unassisted and Home Birth Stories
01:02:31 The Role of Support and Midwifery
01:11:17 Water Birth Controversy and Personal Insights
01:17:00 Postpartum Reflections and Comparisons
01:17:43 Ignoring Postpartum Care: A Personal Journey
01:19:47 Physical Consequences of Neglecting Postpartum Health
01:21:45 Emotional and Relational Impact
01:24:38 Energetic and Spiritual Healing
01:29:36 Fifth Birth Story: A High-Risk Experience
01:45:29 Postpartum Recovery and Blood Loss
01:49:52 Final Thoughts and Advice for MothersEPISODE LINKS REBECCA.
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
SUPPORT THE PODCAST.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
Submit your Story
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.

EP31. Wild & Free Coaching Container : A New Paradigm for Birth

In this week's episode, we discuss the upcoming relaunch of our 'Wild & Free' coaching container! This program, which can be joined at any stage of pregnancy, focuses on supporting women through various stages of motherhood, from preconception to postpartum. We dive into the structure of the program, which comprises seven monthly modules focusing on themes like the hormonal blueprint of birth, unpacking past birth experiences, managing beliefs and fears, and planning for postpartum bliss. We emphasize the importance of self-care, personal sovereignty, and preparing for a physiological birth. We also highlight the benefits of joining a supportive community to share and learn from each other's experiences.
00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction
00:36 Relaunching our Wild & Free Coaching Container
02:47 Who is This Coaching Container For?
04:05 The Importance of Sovereign Birth
06:38 Monthly Coaching Sessions Overview
09:37 Module 1: Birth as It Should Be
11:04 Module 2: Past Birth Experiences
14:31 Module 3: Beliefs and Fears
16:46 Module 4: Your Own Birth
22:41 Module 5: Prenatal Self-Care
25:02 Module 6: Preparing For Birth 
30:10 Module 7: Postpartum Bliss
31:16 The Importance of Community and Support
39:50 Relaunching the Program: Join Us
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.

EP30. Navigating Co-Care in Sovereign Birth

In this week's solo episode, Brit discusses the integration and challenges of co-care in sovereign birthing practices. She emphasizes the importance of the Telegram group for like-minded women and highlights the special pre-launch offer for the Wild and Free coaching container. The main topic centers around co-care, explaining how women can balance standard prenatal care with a desire for a sovereign birth. The host outlines the difficulties of juggling both worlds, the risks associated, and provides personal insights on working with clients who seek co-care. This episode aims to help listeners critically evaluate their need for medicalized pregnancy aspects while striving for a non-medicalized birth experience.
00:00 Introduction and Announcements
00:14 Joining the Telegram Group
00:57 Special Offer for Telegram Members
01:36 Understanding Co-Care
02:26 Navigating the Medical System
03:26 Balancing Medical and Sovereign Care
04:38 Challenges of Co-Care
07:51 Making Informed Choices
08:24 Personal Experiences 
13:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCONNECT 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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.

EP29. Overcoming Dystocia In A Freebirth - Ashley's Stories!

In this episode we welcome Ashley Brimm, a mother of five, who shares her profound birth experiences ranging from hospital to home births, including a free birth. Ashley discusses her encounters with shoulder dystocia, postpartum care, and her transformative journey towards choosing home births after a traumatic first hospital birth. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief, planning, and staying true to one's values throughout the birth and postpartum process. The conversation also touches on issues such as racial discrimination in medical settings and the critical role of intuitive self-care and family support in empowering home birth experiences.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:27 Ashley's First Birth Experience
06:09 Transition to Home Births
08:06 Challenges with Licensed Midwives
10:34 Discrimination in Birth Settings
14:34 Reflecting on Home Births
26:35 The Best Home Birth Experience
28:43 A Difficult Fourth Birth
43:10 Reflecting on the Fourth Birth Experience
44:23 Deciding on a Free Birth for the Fifth Baby
45:39 Challenges and Preparations for the Fifth Birth
47:44 The Intense Labor and Delivery
53:09 Post-Birth Reflections and Husband's Role
01:01:34 Addressing Backlash and Misconceptions
01:17:56 Postpartum Experiences and Final ThoughtsEPISODE LINKS ASHLEY.
Instagram
Facebook
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.

EP28. Assisted Homebirth to Freebirth - Katelyn's Story!

In this episode Katelyn joins us to share her transformative birth stories. After experiencing her first home birth with the assistance of midwives, she chose a free birth for her second child. Katelyn candidly discusses her first birth experience, the considerations that led her to free birth, and the contrasting nature of her two labors. Despite some initial challenges, including prodromal labor and navigating family dynamics, her journey highlights the importance of trusting one's body, the power of informed choices, and the profound implications of feeling truly supported and free during birth. This episode is an insightful resource for anyone exploring sovereign birth options, emphasizing the interplay of faith, intuition, and empowerment in childbirth.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:47 Katelyn's Background and First Pregnancy
01:33 Journey to Home Birth
03:34 Discovering Free Birth
05:35 First Birth Experience
09:02 Labor and Delivery Challenges
17:26 Post-Birth Reflections
35:58 Debriefing and Moving Forward
40:00 Planning for a Free Birth
42:15 Excitement and Relaxation in Early Pregnancy
43:06 First Trimester Challenges and Adjustments
43:56 Second Trimester: Growth and Expectations
45:42 Family Reactions and Support
46:07 Preparing for Birth: Education and Planning
52:28 Approaching the Due Date: Anxiety and Preparations
54:33 Labor Begins: Overcoming Obstacles
59:31 Birth Experience: Intensity and Joy
01:15:08 Postpartum Reflections and Healing
01:20:27 Final Thoughts and AdviceCONNECT 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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
 
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.

EP27. The Rise and Legacy of Traditional Birth Companions with Billie Harrigan

In this week's episode we welcome Billie Harrigan, a seasoned traditional birth companion, to discuss the history, philosophy, and significance of midwifery and traditional birth companions. Billie shares her extensive experience working with birthing families and her role in training new birth companions, emphasizing the importance of common birth knowledge and holistic practices. The conversation delves into the medicalization of childbirth, the impact of obstetric violence, and the grassroots movement to reclaim natural birthing practices. Billie also shares personal insights and anecdotes from her own childbirth experiences, highlighting the strength and resilience of women and advocating for a return to empowered, community-supported births.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:43 Billie's Background and Midwifery in Canada
01:57 The Medicalization of Midwifery
02:21 Training Traditional Birth Companions
03:16 Birth Trauma Ontario and Obstetric Violence
04:38 Historical Perspectives on Childbirth
08:46 Personal Experiences and Birth Stories
29:59 The Importance of Nutrition and Common Birth Knowledge
34:14 Neonatal Resuscitation and Final Thoughts
36:43 Gentle Breathing Support for Newborns
37:56 Sister Morningstar's Insights on Newborn Breathing
39:35 Premature Births and Home Birth Experiences
43:50 The Debate on Water Birth Safety
45:04 Induction Myths and Realities
50:17 The Medicalization of Birth and Its Consequences
01:02:18 Empowering Women Through Knowledge and Community
01:05:34 Resources and Final ThoughtsEPISODE LINKS BILLIE.
Website
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.

EP26. Embracing Holistic Motherhood - Ash's Transformative Freebirth Journey’s

In this episode, Ash shares her inspiring journey through three drastically different births, transitioning from a conventional hospital delivery with a midwife to experiencing wild pregnancies and free births at home. She discusses her evolution from a rule-following engineer to embracing a holistic, self-directed approach to motherhood. Ash also highlights the significant role of her family's support, her realization of the power and fulfillment of natural birthing, and the importance of creating an empowered birth experience. Her story is a testament to the profound personal and spiritual transformations that can occur through informed and intentional birthing choices.
00:00 Welcome to HEARMEROAR.
00:30 Ash's Introduction and Birth Background
02:33 First Birth Experience: Hospital with Midwife
07:13 Challenges and Reflections Post-First Birth
12:01 Transition to Holistic Motherhood
21:08 Planning for a Different Birth Experience
30:31 Second Pregnancy Journey
37:40 Preparing for a Home Birth
48:48 The Door Incident
50:40 Labor Begins
52:27 The Birth of My Son
01:01:59 Postpartum Reflections
01:07:08 Pregnancy and Birth of Third Child
01:13:06 Unexpected Early Labor
01:29:18 Birth Work and Coaching
01:31:03 Final Thoughts and GratitudeEPISODE LINKS ASH.
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.

EP25. Preparing The Body For Pregnancy Using Nutrition with Anisa Woodall

In this episode we welcome Anisa Woodall, a fertility and prenatal nutritionist, to discuss intentional conception and preparing the body nutritionally for pregnancy and childbirth. Anisa shares her personal fertility journey and how she supports women in optimizing their health preconception and during pregnancy. The discussion covers the importance of tracking menstrual cycles, balancing blood sugar, sourcing quality food within financial means, and the impact of proper nutrition on both mother and baby. The episode underscores the significance of being proactive about health and nutrition to ensure a smoother journey from conception through postpartum. Additional resources and programs offered by Anisa for fertility and pregnancy health are also highlighted.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
02:09 Anisa's Personal Journey to Fertility
06:28 The Importance of Understanding Your Cycle
12:18 Optimizing Fertility Through Nutrition
19:50 Navigating Organic vs. Conventional Foods
29:58 Connecting with Your Body and Cravings
32:34 Understanding Cravings and Nutrient Needs
33:26 Balancing Blood Sugar During Pregnancy
35:12 Listening to Your Body's Signals
40:01 The Importance of Blood Sugar Stability
44:34 Proactive Health Measures for Pregnancy
55:54 Postpartum Health and Nutritional Reserves
01:01:24 Resources and Support for Women
EPISODE LINKS ANISA.
Website
Instagram
FREE Week of [High protein] Fertility Fueling Breakfasts
Resilient Motherhood Waitlist
Fertility Boost in 10 Days: 100g Protein Challenge
Fertile Seasons Meal Plans for Your Fertile Era
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
Birth Story Debrief: Book
Breastfeeding Debrief: Book
Work Together: Prenatal Connection Sessions
Work Together: Homebirth Doula Support
Work Together: Sacred Postpartum Support
Work Together: Birth / Golden Hour Photography
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.