HEAR ME ROAR. | a free birth podcast

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

In this weeks episode we welcome 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
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!
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

In this episode we discuss our experiences and insights as sovereign birth advocates. We 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. We highlight the significance of community support and provide information about joining our online spaces for women interested in free birthing. The episode concludes with details about our 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
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.

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

In this episode, we 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
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.

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
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.

EP11. Lydia's Journey: Choosing Sovereign Birth The 1st Time & Navigating A Tear

In this episode, we welcome Lydia, a member of the Hear Me Roar Telegram community, to share her insightful journey toward a sovereign birth. Lydia recounts how her early life experiences, particularly her own birth story, led her to explore non-medical birthing options. She chose a wild pregnancy and sovereign birth, supported by a radical birth keeper and a nurturing women's circle. Lydia details the emotional and physical challenges she faced during her pregnancy, labor, and postpartum period, including dealing with a significant labial tear. Despite these hurdles, her story exemplifies the power of intuition, community support, and personal resolve in embracing a non-medical birth plan and self healing journey. Tune in to hear Lydia's profound reflections on becoming a mother and her ongoing commitment to self-directed care and empowerment.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:59 Lydia's Journey to Sovereign Birth
05:59 Pregnancy Reflections and Preparations
16:50 Community Support and Personal Growth
21:25 Entering the Birth Portal
31:01 Labor and Birth Experience
42:18 Intense Final Contractions
43:57 Birth on the Toilet
44:40 First Moments with Baby
47:41 Challenges with the Placenta
58:40 Breastfeeding Struggles
01:05:03 Healing from a Tear
01:15:32 Reflecting on the Journey
01:19:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
EPISODE LINKS LYDIA.
Instagram - @content.to.walk.alittleslower
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.

EP10. Sarah's Instagram AMA solo-cast.

In this solo-cast episode, Sarah answers questions from a recent Instagram 'Ask Me Anything' post focused on free birth. She explores the historical context of free birthing, emphasizing that it was the norm up until the introduction of hospital births around 150 years ago. Sarah insists that sharing stories and providing education are crucial for women to reclaim this natural birthing method.
 
She recommends resources such as 'Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering' by Dr. Sarah Buckley and the 'Complete Guide to Free Birth' course by the Free Birth Society. Additionally, she addresses overcoming fears related to free birth by researching and understanding potential complications such as nuchal cords and hemorrhaging. The episode concludes with insights into the host’s personal experiences and her passion for supporting women on their pregnancy and free birthing journeys.
 
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.
 

EP9. 1st Time Mama & RBK Freebirths: Savannahs 3x Nuchal Cord Experience!

In this week's episode, first-time mother and radical birth keeper, Savannah Johnson, from Corbett, Oregon, shares her transformative journey into radical birth keeping and her experience with a sovereign pregnancy and birth. Savannah discusses her childhood influences, her skepticism towards traditional medical systems, and the profound changes in her perspective after diving into the world of free birth. We get a detailed recount of her pregnancy, labor, and the birth of her son, Milo, highlighting the significance of having supportive and understanding community. Savannah also talks about her future plans to continue serving women as a birth keeper, focusing on prenatal and postpartum support, and offers insights into how this experience has empowered and changed her.
00:00 Introduction to Savannah's Journey
01:28 Savannah's Medical Background and Skepticism
04:17 Transition to Holistic Health and Birth Keeping
06:04 Savannah's Radical Birth Keeping Training
08:49 Personal Experiences with Birth Control
17:51 Choosing Free Birth Over Sovereign Birth
24:52 Navigating a Wild Pregnancy
47:48 Thanksgiving Frustrations and Rest
52:55 Signs of Labor Begin
54:24 Early Labor at Home
57:19 Intense Waves and Focus
01:11:54 Transition and Water Breaking
01:16:58 Pushing and Birth
01:23:46 Feeling the Stretch: The Baby's Position
01:26:01 The Head Emerges: A Sweet Moment
01:28:10 The Cord Around the Neck: No Fear, Just Instinct
01:29:18 First Moments: Recording and Realizing
01:30:32 Post-Birth Reflections: Powerful and Beautiful
01:32:01 Immediate Postpartum: Care and Support
01:38:44 Settling In: The First Night and Beyond
01:42:48 The Power of Postpartum Support
01:45:50 Transforming as a Birth Worker
01:48:31 Offering Support: Prenatal and Postpartum Services
01:59:14 Contact Information and Final ThoughtsCONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website: mysacredbirthrite.com
Instagram: @sarahhawley__
Resources: https://www.mysacredbirthrite.com/resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book Session
 
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
CONNECT WITH SAVANNAH.
Instagram: @savannahvjohnson 
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.

EP8. Exploring Wild Pregnancy: A Journey of Intuition and Independence

In this episode we dive into the topic of wild pregnancy, an approach to childbirth that operates entirely outside the medical system. Sarah, who has experienced a wild pregnancy, shares her insights and experiences.
 
Key points discussed include the definition of wild pregnancy, the unconventional methods of prenatal care, and the personal decisions and challenges faced during this journey. Questions on legality, birth certificates, and dealing with external opinions are also addressed.
 
Throughout, the hosts emphasize the importance of intuition, self-care, and informed decision-making in navigating a pregnancy that is both natural and autonomous.
 
00:00 Introduction to Wild Pregnancy
00:45 Defining Wild Pregnancy
01:54 Sarah's Prenatal Care Journey
06:05 Deciding on a Wild Pregnancy
17:38 Legal and Social Considerations
21:26 Dealing with Opinions and Community
28:37 Birth Certificates and Documentation
32:46 Challenges and Rewards of Wild Pregnancy
41:41 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
 
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website: mysacredbirthrite.com
Instagram: @sarahhawley__
Resources: https://www.mysacredbirthrite.com/resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book Session
 
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.

EP7. From Military to Free Birth: Lilly's Transformative Journey

In this episode, Lilly, a veteran and military spouse, shares her transformative birthing experiences. After two traditional hospital births, Lilly transitioned to a free birth, guided by a holistic and non-toxic lifestyle. She describes the emotional detachment and trauma she felt during her hospital deliveries, exacerbated by painful procedures and lack of autonomy. Her free birth at home was a primal experience, characterized by a deep connection and immediate bond with her baby. The story highlights the importance of bodily autonomy and trusting one's own instincts in childbirth.
00:00 Introduction to Lily and Her Birth Stories
00:25 Lily's First Hospital Birth Experience
02:11 The Foley Balloon and Induction Challenges
07:03 Breaking Water and Epidural Complications
14:33 Postpartum Reflections and Second Pregnancy
19:40 Second Hospital Birth and Induction
33:16 Transition to Free Birth
39:24 Preparing for Free Birth
45:49 Overcoming Overthinking During Pregnancy
47:13 Embracing the Unknown
48:54 The Start of Labor
51:13 The Birth Story
53:25 Post-Birth Reflections
59:27 Immediate Postpartum Experience
01:13:34 Breastfeeding Journey
01:21:52 Reflections on Motherhood
01:26:36 Future Plans and Closing ThoughtsCONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website: mysacredbirthrite.com
Instagram: @sarahhawley__
Resources: https://www.mysacredbirthrite.com/resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book Session
 
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
CONNECT WITH LILLY.
Instagram: @lilly.keenan_
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.

EP6. Christina's 4 Powerful Birth Stories, ending with her Free Birth!

In this week's episode we're joined by Christina Xenides. Christina shares an in-depth and emotional recount of her journey through four different birth experiences, starting from traditional hospital births to her final empowering free birth.She discusses the impact of each birth on her mental and emotional well-being and how her perception and understanding of childbirth transformed over time. With powerful anecdotes and insights, this episode highlights the profound differences between medically managed births and more natural, intuitive birthing experiences. Listeners are invited to explore the importance of community support, intuition, and the sacredness of birth through Christina's candid storytelling.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:45 Christina's Journey to Free Birth
02:58 First Birth Experience in New York
10:19 Second Birth and Hospital Challenges
27:39 Postpartum Reflections and Emotional Impact
31:05 Third Birth and Home Birth Experience
43:52 Postpartum Reflections and Breastfeeding Journey
44:27 Pregnancy with the Fourth Child
45:51 Midwife Issues and Gestational Diabetes
54:37 Decision to Free Birth
58:26 The Birth Experience
01:13:00 Post-Birth Reflections and Breastfeeding
01:21:12 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
 
CONNECT WITH SARAH.
Website: mysacredbirthrite.com
Instagram: @sarahhawley__
Resources: https://www.mysacredbirthrite.com/resources
Work Together: Wild & Free Coaching Container
Birth Trauma Integration Session: Book Session
 
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.