Claim OwnershipBirth Trauma Stories
(formerly The Twinky Chronicles)
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© Catherine Garrett
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Holding space and finding light after perinatal trauma
149 Episodes
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Join Megan Secrest, Liana Albers, Atara Parkinson, and I as we share the heart behind our upcoming virtual retreat.In this episode, we walk through each session, the intention behind them, and the stories that led us into this work.While each of our journeys looks different, one powerful theme kept rising to the surface…tune into hear more!Sign up for the RetreatCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
This week I'm joined by Megan Seacrest. Megan is a wife, a mom to five children, one on Earth and four in heaven. She's also a licensed clinical social worker and EMDR certified therapist. She has been with her husband for 10 years and her personal experiences with ADHD and pregnancy loss deeply inform her work.Megan specializes in walking alongside grieving parents and women navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional sensitivity, or late discovered neurodivergence. Known for her warmth, honesty, and dry humor. She brings both skill and heart to the therapy room. In her counseling practice, Gift of Grit counseling, Megan helps clients find strength in their hardest seasons and gently supports them in creating meaning from even the deepest pain.Megan's WebsiteMegan's InstagramMegan's FacebookCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today's episode I'm joined by Brittany Baker, mama of four work from home Mama, dear friend and the doula who supported me during the birth of my second daughter. What makes this conversation especially sacred and heavy is that Brittany was in the room when we experienced our amniotic fluid embolism. That alone carries layers of shared trauma and deep connection. In this episode, we talk about what it's like to have babies after witnessing an AFE, and how fear, faith and healing coexist; especially when her daughter Libby's birth was semi off-grid. Brittany also shares her own life-threatening story. Two years before having her daughter, Libby, she experienced an aneurysm on the main blood vessel to her spleen. Doctors later told her that if she had become pregnant before it was discovered, it could have cost both of their lives. This is a conversation about survival, God's protection, and the miracles.Brittany's InstagramBrittany's FacebookThe 1st Part of Brittany's First EpisodeThe 2nd Part of Brittany's First EpisodeCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today's episode is one I truly believe is God ordained. I'm joined by my dear AFE and stroke sister Liana Albers. Our friendship began with a simple post in the Facebook, AFE support group. I was searching for someone who understood life post-stroke, and God led Liana to respond. In this episode, she shares her testimony of survival, healing, and fighting back from the brink of death, including her journey through a post AFE pregnancy, and how God met her in the midst of fear and faith. Tune in to hear more!Liana's First Episode#CoffeewithCathy Guest Starring with LianaSign up for Trauma TribeCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today’s guest has spent her career helping women improve their health and fertility outcomes. Kirsten Karchmer is the founder and CEO of Conceivable, a company using AI to personalize women’s health, fertility, and wellness care. We’ll talk about how she’s turning decades of clinical experience into an AI-powered “care team,” why tracking data alone isn’t enough, and how her team is using technology to create real, measurable improvements in women’s health.Conceivable's FacebookConceivable's InstagramConceivable's YouTubeCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Andrea Hickson from NICU alumni. Andrea is the parent of two fierce NICU graduates. After bringing her little ones home, she recognized the sense of isolation and uncertainty that often accompanies this significant transition. This understanding is what fuels her mission to support families ensuring they no longer feel overwhelmed, but instead feel confident and hopeful as they navigate life after the NICU.Andrea's First EpisodeConnect NICU Alumni on InstagramConnect NICU Alumni on FacebookNICU Alumni's WebsiteCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Ashley Hernandez’s birth story is one of resilience and survival. After conceiving through IVF, she developed gestational hypertension that progressed to preeclampsia with severe features, putting both her and her baby at risk. She was also high-risk for preterm labor. Ultimately, she required a C-section, during which placenta accreta was discovered, leading to a partial hysterectomy. Her baby spent time in the NICU, adding another layer of challenge to her postpartum recovery.(I am not sure how, but this episode was released early. This may be a repeat episode for you.)Ashley's InstagramCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Sharon Dey-Layne is a Clinical Nurse Specialist with over 30 years of experience in labor and delivery, newborn care, midwifery, and nursing education, she has excelled in both clinical and academic roles. Holding advanced degrees including a DNP, she demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning with additional certifications in obstetric care. Active in ANA and AWHONN, she contributes to research and education, serving as an instructor and participating in CMQCC toolkit development. She has 2 sons, 1 a teenager and 1 a young adult. She enjoys traveling and hiking.Sharon's Linked InTrauma TribeCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTubeCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Wendy Melrose. . Wendy is a writer in self-publishing facilitator Steward the Business Resilient Press. She helps women write and publish their trauma/tragedy to victory stories. She is also a wife and mother of two spectacular children and a doggy mom to two amazing doggies. Her birth experience with her first motivated her to become a birth advocate and a doula. She served for a couple years until becoming a mommy of two created too much to balance her own family and serve others. Her second born was a redemptive birth at home-a peaceful, amazing experience every woman dreams of. It took years for Wendy to heal from the trauma of being bullied during the first birth. She never wants anyone to have that experience. So when she gets the opportunity to share her testimony, she does. Wendy's WebsiteCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
In this week's episode, I'm joined by Ashley Haywood. Ashley is a dedicated mother, advocate, and community leader who paused her career in clinical research to become a full-time caregiver to her daughter Sadie. Sadie was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome, a rare terminal disease. For nearly a decade, Ashley has passionately raised awareness and funding for Sanfilippo research, both locally and internationally through events, public speaking, and media interviews. . She serves on the onboarding committee for the Cure Sanfilippo Foundation and is widely recognized as a fierce advocate, not only for Sadie, but all individuals with special needs. Ashley's advocacy is fueled by love, purpose, and an unshakeable belief in making a difference. In addition to her advocacy work, Ashley is deeply rooted in her community. She's the secretary for Women on Mission at her church, treasurer for her daughter's school PTO. and a leader with Embrace Grace, a ministry supporting moms who have courageously chosen life for their children every role. Through every role, Ashley brings compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication. Connect with Ashley on InstagramConnect with Ashley on FacebookCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Courtney is an amniotic fluid embolism survivor from Missouri Baptist Medical Center, February of 2020, right after the birth of her second child. Courtney's experience with birth trauma propelled her to become passionate and advocating. For the Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation, and she shares her story to raise awareness about the need for blood donations, maternal mental health, and the need for research to end a FE. She now serves as the Missouri State Liaison for the a FE Foundation. Is a member of the Missouri PQC. And has been successful in having Missouri Governor Michael l Parson from 2023 and 2024 and Governor Mike Keho from 2025 proclaim March 27th as a FE Awareness Day. Courtney is passionate in advocating for maternal health training and education all throughout the state of Missouri.Listen to Courtney's First EpisodeConnect with Courtney on InstagramConnect with Courtney on FacebookConnect with Courtney on LinkedInCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Michelle Rossi. Michelle is married and a mom of three with one on the way and one in heaven. She is currently a pediatric hemoc oncology nurse and in school for her pediatric nurse practitioner degree.She worked in postpartum and pediatric home care prior. She currently lives in Georgia, met her husband in North Carolina and moved to his hometown once he got out of the army in northeast Ohio.She does social media on the side and loves to be relatable when it comes to parenting. Hoping to help anyone else who experienced a loss and make people laughed.Connect with Michelle on InstagramConnect with Michelle on FacebookCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Stephanie Jacques. Stephanie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over a decade of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to helping individuals heal, grow, and thrive no matter where they are in their journey.Her therapeutic approach is an integrative and client-centered drawing from SFBT, Existential Therapy and CBT evidence-based strategies. Currently she serves in a critical care unit where she provides emotional and psychological support to patients and families during complex medical crises.In this role, she offers trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and grief counseling, walking alongside individuals during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Beyond her clinical work, Stephanie is passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of mental health professionals. As an educator. She strives to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling students to develop confidence, competence, and compassion in their clinical work. Cathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
In this week's episode, were back with Atara Parkinson again for part three of her story. Atara is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been practicing in the field of mental health for 14 years.Her current passions include holistic healing, supporting postpartum mamas, brain spotting, and educating on the role of minerals for brain health and nervous system regulation. . She is a three time NICU mama and a mother of four. Tune into hear part three of her story!Sign up for Spring 2026 RetreatAtara's WebsiteConnect with Atara on InstagramConnect with Atara on FacebookCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
In this week's episode, I'm were back with Atara Parkinson. Atara is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been practicing in the field of mental health for 14 years.Her current passions include holistic healing, supporting postpartum mamas, brain spotting, and educating on the role of minerals for brain health and nervous system regulation. . She is a three time NICU mama and a mother of four. Tune into hear part two of her story!Atara's WebsiteConnect with Atara on InstagramConnect with Atara on FacebookCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
In this week's episode, I'm joined by my dear friend, Atara Parkinson. Atara is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been practicing in the field of mental health for 14 years.Her current passions include holistic healing, supporting postpartum mamas, brain spotting, and educating on the role of minerals for brain health and nervous system regulation. . She is a three time NICU mama and a mother of four. Tune into hear part one of her story!Atara's WebsiteConnect with Atara on InstagramConnect with Atara on FacebookTrauma TribeCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Ashley Daley. Ashley Ashley. Today I'm joined by Ashley Daily. Ashley is a registered nurse, IBCLC, and an infant sleep expert based in South Florida. With over five years of NICU experience, she now works in her community and online to support families navigating feeding challenges, sleep struggles, and the emotional weight of new parenthood. Ashley's work is rooted in empathy and evidence-based care, offering personalized support that helps parents feel seen, supported, and confident, especially after a difficult birth or early complications. Whether she's helping a family rebuild trust in their feeding journey or finding gentle ways to get more rest, Ashley's mission is to hold space for healing and empowerment in the postpartum season. Ashli's WebsiteFollow Ashli on FacebookFollow Ashli on InstagramCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today, I'm here with Kali Dayton. Kali Dayton, DNP, AGACNP, is a critical care nurse practitioner, Host of the Walking Home From The ICU and Walking You Through The ICU podcasts, and critical care outcomes consultant. She is dedicated to creating Awake and Walking ICUs by ensuring ICU sedation and mobility practices are aligned with current research. She works with ICU teams internationally to transform patient outcomes through early mobility and management of delirium in the ICU.Kali's WebsiteConnect with Kali on InstagramCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Being in the midst of suffering, heartbreak, and tragedy can be painstakingly lonely and the most desperate time of your life. You can be left questioning God, confused as to why He isn’t answering your prayers, and even downright angry with Him. Beth Mull, from our Raleigh, North Carolina community, experienced all of these emotions as she walked through the unraveling of her marriage and the terminal diagnosis of her baby daughter. But, as Beth recalls through her story, it was in those feelings of helplessness that she can clearly see the Father’s persistent pursuit of her heart through His unconditional love and redemptive power as He led her to His unique purpose for her life. Connect with BethLove LifeCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
Today I'm joined by Ashley Byram. Ashley currently lives in Homewood, Alabama, and this past August, she and her husband celebrated 20 years of marriage. They have three children, two biological boys, and one little girl who they adopted through foster care. Her faith is a foundation of her life and she's very involved with her church and her children love sports, and her husband is a builder while she is a realtor. So he builds it. She sells it.**Extra Trigger Warning for today's episode. Topics of kidnapping, murder, and suicide come up in mine and Ashley's conversation today.**Connect with Ashley on InstagramCathy's Printify ShopCathy's WebsiteFollow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram Follow Birth Trauma Stories on FacebookFollow Birth Trauma Stories on YouTube
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