Birthing Instincts

Blyss and Stu are joined by guest Barbara Harper, founder of Waterbirth International, an internationally recognized expert on water birth and gentle birth. Join us for a roller coaster of an episode where we dig into the history of water birth, tell stories about how society lost its way in the world of birth, and dive into the physiology of birthing in water. Truly an episode you won’t forget.About Barbara:Barbara Harper is an internationally recognized expert on waterbirth and gentle birth who has dedicated her life to revolutionizing the way we welcome babies into the world.She founded Waterbirth International in 1988 with one goal in mind—to ensure that water birth is an “available option” for all women. During the past five decades, Barbara has worked as an obstetric and pediatric nurse, midwife, midwifery instructor, childbirth educator, hypnosis and doula trainer. Her unique seminars, and Waterbirth Certification Courses have been conducted within hospitals, nursing schools, midwifery and medical schools, and community groups worldwide. Barbara has taught over 30,000 doctors and midwives in 81 countries to date.She has been interviewed by hundreds of TV and radio shows, newspapers, and podcasts. Her bestselling 2005 book and DVD, ‘Gentle Birth Choices,’ has been translated into 9 languages, including a 2016 Mandarin Chinese edition. She is working on a new book due out in early 2026, The Comprehensive Guide to Waterbirth.”She is the mother of three adult children, two of whom were born at home in water. She lives in Boca Raton, Florida.Instagram: @waterbirthint @thebarbaraharperWebsite: waterbirth.org and barbaraharper.orgBook: Gentle Birth ChoicesReferences:Healthy as a Mother Podcast: How Breech Birth Exposes Hospital Dysfunction Deconstructing Conventional Podcast: Hospital vs Home Birth Truth with Dr. Fischbein & Blyss YoungBorn Free Twins-Breech Gathering Seven Secrets of Successful Waterbirth - MIDIRSMaternal and neonatal outcomes among spontaneous vaginal births occurring in or out of water following intrapartum water immersion: The POOL cohort studyWater birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis of maternal and neonatal outcomesAJOG Journal Pre-proof: Hospital Waterbirth for Low-Risk Birthing People: Findings of a Randomized Controlled TrialDiscussed in This EpisodeWater Birth Through History: Indigenous Traditions, Early Textbooks & Medical TakeoverModern Controversies: Why Water Birth Fell Out of Trust + Debunking Common ClaimsHow Babies Breathe in WaterUnderwater Birth: Why “Dive Reflex” Isn’t the ExplanationThe 3 Protective Mechanisms That Prevent a First Breath in WaterWhat Actually Initiates BreathingBreech & Water Birth Transitions + The “Aquatic APGAR” AssessmentLower APGARS in Water Birth Explained Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Blyss Stu challenge one of the most ignored questions in modern obstetrics: what does birth actually do to a human being? Joined by midwife and pre- and perinatal psychology educator Mary Jackson, they explore how experiences from conception through early childhood leave lasting imprints on the nervous system, emotional development, and lifelong behavior.Mary unpacks how routine medical interventions, often dismissed as benign or “necessary”, can carry psychological and physiological consequences for both babies and mothers, consequences that are rarely acknowledged or integrated. The conversation pushes back against a system that prioritizes efficiency and control over awareness, connection, and respect for the baby’s lived experience. This episode is an invitation to slow down, question what has been normalized in birth culture, and reconsider what it truly means to protect, honor, and support the innate intelligence of birth.About Mary:Mary Jackson started her journey to become a home birth midwife in 1975. She has had the honor to catch her second generation of babies. She supports families to integrate their early experiences of preconception throughout their life span.She incorporates Castellino somatic pre and perinatal psychology, Somatic Experience, Circle of Security, BCST, her training as an RN and Licensed Midwife. She is an international teacher/speaker and has brought her work to 12 countries. She currently teaches the Castellino foundation Training.Website: birthinconnection.com / castellinotraining.com Email: mjmidwife@gmail.comReferences:WSJ Article: ‘My Family Thought I Was Crazy’: More Women Are Choosing to Give Birth at HomeSubstack: There’s Now a Medical Code for Vaccine Counseling Without Giving a VaccineDr. Joe Tate, Peachtree Corners, GATheHighwire.comThe Association for Prenatal & Perinatal Psychology & HealthDiscussed in This EpisodePre and Perinatal Psychologist, Mary JacksonRecognizing Birth Interventions in Adult LifeUnderstanding Birth Sequences and Their ImpactThe Phases of Labor and BirthEffects of Interventions During Labor on Baby and MotherThe Baby's Experience and Long-Term EffectsRepairing Birth Imprints in Children and AdultsSupporting Babies and Parents Post-BirthThe Importance of Birth Stories Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this episode, Blyss and Stu are joined by Nathan Riley and Carol Gautschi to discuss the profound importance of in-person gatherings within the birth work community. The conversation covers the unique value of face-to-face interactions, the differences between organic and inorganic communication, and the challenges and rewards of organizing birth-related events. They reflect on the impact of being physically present with others, the human connection in birth work, and ways to support and sustain these vital gatherings for a more connected and informed community.About Carol:Carol Gautschi CPM LM has actively attended homebirths since 1978 and has worked as a Classical Holistic Midwife on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula since 1979. She has been married since 1974 to Paul (backtoedenfilm.com), and has 7 children and eight grandchildren.For her first 25 years Carol served as an unlicensed midwife. This opportunity gave her lots of observational skills, creative ingenuity and a immense responsible trust in the power of physiological birth. Her teaching style is unique because, in addition to teaching the clinical nuts and bolts of her subjects, she emphasizes the unseen (or intuitive) realm of birth. She fosters the importance of the midwife relationship not just with the mama but the baby. Carol has been teaching the art of Classical Midwifery since the early 1990s, both in the US and across many countries. In September, she hosted her first international Classical Midwifery conference on the island of Crete in Greece. Many describe her passion as inspiring, rooted in her belief that when women are responsibly awakened to their creative selves, birth unfolds with the grace and power it was designed to carry, laying a miraculous foundation within her and the family. Witnessing this beauty over the years has become a passion. Carol believes that God is the primordial Midwife and she serves under that mantle with honor and humility.Instagram: @_midwyf_Website: classicalmidwifery.com & gentlebirths.netAbout Nathan:Dr. Nathan Riley is a board-certified OB/GYN and hospice & palliative care physician, and the co-creator of the Born Free Method. Through his private practice, Beloved Holistics, he supports midwives in 23 states, offering truly collaborative, physiologic, and relationship-centered care.Nathan is a trusted voice in the birth world, frequently invited onto leading podcasts and to speak at conferences about autonomy in maternity care, the art of true informed consent, and the importance of honoring the physiology of birth. Nathan is the vision behind the Born Free Twins–Breech gatherings, which have expanded into a midwife-led team directed by Sara Rosser. What began as a training for birthworkers on the nuances of physiologic vaginal breech and twin births has grown into something much more.....a place for ceremony, community, healing, and collective strength.Beyond his clinical work, Nathan is a devoted stay-at-home father of two and proudly married to his high-school sweetheart, Stephanie. His personal and professional lives are woven together by a commitment to presence, compassion, and helping families and providers return to a more intuitive, holistic model of care.Instagram: @NathanrileyobgynWebsite: Bornfreemethod.comReferences:Born Free Twins-Breech Gathering bornfreemethod.com/conferencebirthinginstincts.com/workwithstupatreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastbridgemidwives.com/communitycirclesDiscussed in This EpisodeThe Value of In-Person ConnectionsThe Power of Human Connection in Professional SettingsThe Impact of Social Media on Personal InteractionsBalancing Traditional Wisdom with Modern TechnologyChallenges and Rewards of Organizing EventsCreating Inclusive and Economical ConferencesThe Sacredness of Birth and Professional PassionSupporting Each Other in the Birth Community Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week on the podcast, Blyss and Stu take a hard look at what’s happening to the world of doula support as insurance and institutions move in. They’re joined by two seasoned doulas, Ivy Joeva and Shellie Poulter, who bring decades of experience advocating for women in birth. Together, they unpack how policy, regulation, and insurance reimbursement can quietly shift doula care away from individualized, relationship-based support and toward institutional control. They talk honestly about what’s gained, what’s lost, and why protecting the integrity of doula work matters if we truly want better birth outcomes.About Ivy:Ivy Joeva is a doula, coach, and educator serving women and couples seeking a conscious path to parenthood. She provides support throughout the childbearing year, including fertility coaching, holistic preparation for birth, postpartum recovery care, and counseling for all forms of pregnancy loss. Rooted in a trauma-informed, mind-body approach, Ivy sees these transitions as opportunities for transformation and healing. A graduate of UC Berkeley and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Ivy became a doula in 2009 and serves clients across the United States and abroad.Instagram: @IvyJoevaWebsite: ivyjoeva.comAbout Shellie:Shellie trained in Osteopathic and Naturopathic medicine in 2005 and has been working as a doula/birth keeper and cranio-sacral therapist, mentor and lecturer for over 20 years. She teaches birthing biomechanics and trauma and birth rights informed, non-violent communication courses as well as co-hosting The Birth Untethered Podcast with former midwife and Birthkeeper Kemi Johnson. Shellie lives on a narrowboat with her family, exploring the English countryside whilst campaigning for human rights in birth.Instagram: @theserenitydoulaWebsite: theserenitydoula.co.ukReferences:Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark: The Phenomenon Of Parents Opting Out Of Birth Certificates For Their Kids | Midwife Lindsey MeehleisDr. Pompa Podcast: What You're Not Told About Birth in the Hospital System with Dr. Stuart FischbeinThe Way Forward with Alec Zeck: Ep 213: The Corrupted World of Medicalized Birth with Dr. Stu FischbeinThe Way Forward with Alec Zeck: Ep 214: Exposing the Most Dangerous Childbirth Myths & Procedures with Dr. Nathan RileyDiscussed in This EpisodeRole of Doulas in Individualized CareChallenges Faced by DoulasInsurance and Doula ServicesImpact of Doula Support on Maternal OutcomesRegulations and Restrictions on Midwives and DoulasNavigating Hospital Policies as a DoulaFinancial and Operational Challenges for DoulasAdvocacy and Support Strategies for Doulas Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu explore the history, benefits, and controversies surrounding fluoride in drinking water, highlighting different perspectives and potential health implications. References:The Way Forward Podcast: Ep 213: The Corrupted World of Medicalized Birth with Dr. Stu FischbeinThe Highwire: EPA LOSES HISTORIC FLUORIDE CASEThe Tennessean: Fluoride has been a public health game changer. Florida is set to ban it anywayDr. Stu Blog: Gotta love Dr. FogelsonJama Network: Maternal Urinary Fluoride and Child Neurobehavior at Age 36 MonthsBook: The Fluoride DeceptionDiscussed in This EpisodeFluoride: History and ControversiesSkepticism Around Fluoride Public Sentiment and Legislative Views on FluorideHealth Risks and Benefits of FluorideConcerns About Fluoride in Vulnerable PopulationsFiltering Fluoride and Its Impact on Brain Health Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss welcome special guest Dr. Poppy Daniels, a holistic OB-GYN with over 22 years of private practice experience. They discuss the severe side effects of Depo-Provera, revealing alarming risks like bone loss, weight gain, immune suppression, and even brain tumors. She advocates for a more informed and individualized approach to female health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive hormone testing and functional medicine. About Poppy Daniels:Dr Poppy Daniels is a holistic OBGYN with 22 years in private practice. She has an interest in Functional Fertility, Integrative Women's Health & a root-cause oriented approach to wellness.Website: Drpoppyandco.comFacebook: Dr. PoppyInstagram: @drpoppybhrtX: @drpoppybhrtReferences:Book: THE DANGERS OF DEPODiscussed in This EpisodeDr. Poppy's Journey to Holistic OBGYNThe Dangers of Depo-ProveraThe Dark History of Depo-ProveraDepo-Provera's Side Effects and RisksThe FDA Petition and Political ComplicationsNew Study on Depo-Provera and Brain TumorsThe Importance of Informed ConsentDetoxifying from Depo-ProveraThe Role of Progesterone in Pregnancy Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode Stu is finally back and excited to engage in a candid discussion with Blyss about the overlooked risks of using tampons, highlighting a 2024 study that found harmful metals and chemicals in these products. They explore the hidden dangers of tampons. Stu emphasizes the lack of long-term safety testing and regulatory oversight for menstrual products, and Blyss discusses alternative menstrual products.References:Substack Article: Delivered Directly: Tampons, Toxins, and the Diseases Medicine Cannot ExplainDiscussed in This EpisodeFlu Vaccine DiscussionTampons, Toxins, and Health RisksHPV and Unexplained Reproductive IssuesToxic Shock Syndrome and Tampon SafetyMetal Contaminants in TamponsChemical Exposures in Menstrual ProductsThe Research Void and Regulatory FailuresAlternative Menstrual ProductsPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode Blyss interviews Adele Rose, an elder and mentor in the midwifery community, about her long-standing career and insights on the evolution of midwifery. Adele shares her personal journey from listening to her mom’s birth stories at the age of five to practicing as both a lay and licensed midwife for decades. They discuss the significant changes in community practices, the impact of licensure, and the current struggles faced by midwives and birthing women. Adele reflects on her renewed passion for birth work after experiencing setbacks, including the revocation of her license, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spiritual and meditative approach to midwifery. The conversation also touches on the influence of patriarchal systems in Western medicine, the rise of unassisted births, and the need for midwives to create supportive, non-hierarchical communities.About Adele:Adele’s interest in birth is literally life long. As the 8th of 9 children she began asking about her moms birth stories when she was about 5. This interest is still with her at 68 yrs. Home birth came into her consciousness at 14 yrs of age when she learned of the Santa Cruz birth collective, Raven Lang & her birth work through her writings. She began studying birth in earnest at 19 & attending births that same year. She practiced as a lay midwife 23-38, attended Birthingway Midwifery School in Portland OR which allowed her to obtain a license in WA & OR, practiced as a licensed midwife for 16 yrs, and now mostly retired & helping other midwives as they establish their practices.Discussed in This EpisodeLicensure and Its Impact on MidwiferyManaging Fear in MidwiferyThe Importance of Spiritual Mindfulness in MidwiferyChallenges with Modern Birth PracticesCreating a Sacred Space for BirthReflections on Unassisted BirthsCritique of Radical Birth Keeper CourseThe Role of Midwives in Modern SocietyPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off your monthly subscription.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode you get a special sneak peak into The Birthing Instincts Patreon Community. With Dr. Stu still healing from knee surgery we decided to share an exclusive Bonus Content episode with you on baby aspirin. Together, Blyss and Stu explore the medical community's perspective on aspirin, discussing its potential benefits in preventing preeclampsia, growth restriction, and other complications. Using ChatGPT for detailed insights, they highlight the quality of evidence, potential risks, and the differing approaches between mainstream medical practices and personalized care. Discussed in This EpisodeWhen Baby Aspirin is RecommendedBaby Aspirin and PreeclampsiaAlternatives to Treating PreeclampsiaBaby Aspirin and Twin PregnanciesRisks and Benefits of Baby AspirinPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Dr. Stu hosts a special edition podcast featuring Sarah Stead, a registered massage therapist specializing in C-section recovery. Together they dive into various topics surrounding Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). They discuss the importance of informed consent, the flaws in using VBAC calculators, and societal and systemic issues affecting VBAC rates.About Sarah SteadSarah Stead is a registered massage therapist based in Ontario, Canada, with over 12 years of experience and a five-year specialization in C-section recovery. After experiencing burnout in full-time practice, she transitioned her work to focus on microcurrent scar therapy, where she discovered a deep passion for supporting C-section healing.Her interest in this work began while supporting her sister through C-section recovery and later witnessing her sister’s VBAC, which sparked a broader fascination with birth, healing, and informed choice. Though she doesn’t have children herself, she proudly calls herself a “birth nerd,” attending every Reclaiming Birth Conference to date and recently presenting her work there.She is passionate about education, empowering clients with tools and information often missing from mainstream conversations, and supporting more informed, holistic birth and recovery experiences.Website: thescarconnection.comE-book: C-Section Recovery GuideInstagram: @gingey91Mentioned in this EpisodeDolphin Neurostim Provider LocatorBillie Harrigan Episode 405: "Call The Neighbour" Birthing Wisdom From Traditional Birth Companion, Billie HarriganDiscussed in This EpisodeDiscovering Microcurrent Point StimulationUnderstanding the Impact of Scar TissueThe History and Evolution of Cesarean SectionsThe Importance of Informed ConsentEvaluating Risks and Benefits of VBAC vs. Repeat C-SectionShort-Term and Long-Term Consequences of C-SectionsThe Importance of Provider Competence and ConfidenceHospital Policies and VBAC SupportThe Role of Partners in VBAC SuccessVBAC Calculator and Its LimitationsPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss interview Rowan Bailey and Sarita Bennett, two midwives who have faced significant legal and professional challenges. They discuss Rowan's experience of being jailed for practicing traditional midwifery and Sarita's struggles with administrative hearings. The conversation dives into the importance of traditional, individualized midwifery care and critiques the current medical and midwifery systems for their lack of emotional and community support. Rowan and Sarita share their innovative approach to restorative peer review, aiming to create a compassionate, accountable midwifery community. About Rowan BaileyMy heart for midwifery is rooted deeply in my conviction for sovereignty in the childbearing year.  The more I studied and became involved in birth work, the more stories I heard that began with ‘they wouldn’t let me ____’ or ‘I was high risk because ____’ and that solidified the midwife I was to become. The infantilization of women within obstetrics and modern day midwifery is systemic, damaging, and down right patriarchal. I didn’t take my call to be the one to say yes to those that the system failed lightly. I knew that they were smart, capable women who just wanted someone to walk with them. I figured if I was going to answer this call, I was going to do it with integrity.My mission is to be a mirror and a reminder that when we break out of captivity and become our most powerful selves we can make the movement move. I want us all to find our feet and our breath and be fully who we are meant to be: wild, raw, messy, and beautifully ungovernable. About Sarita BennettI learned midwifery in the traditional model - by attending those families who were choosing home birth early in the modern home birth movement. Most of the forty-plus years I have served as a midwife and osteopathic family physician have been in a rural, mountainous region that is far from any hospital with OB providers or surgical capability, leading to the development of a detailed understanding of reproductive physiology and the inter-relatedness of all parts of the reproductive process.  The added experience of teaching - from home school with my children to medical students - has given me the ability to explain complicated concepts in understandable terms.  Fueled by my passion for supporting healthy humans, I am excited to share my embodied knowledge with those who are on the same journey towards building thriving communities.Website: Foundationalconcepts4mws.comInstagram: @foundational.concepts4mwsMentioned in this EpisodeCompromised to Alchemized PodcastDiscussed in This EpisodeChallenges in Midwifery PracticeCritical Thinking in MidwiferyPersonal Work and Midwifery SkillsThe Importance of Knowing WhyHumanizing ObstetricsDefensibility & Autonomy in Birth ChoicesThe Obstetric Myth and Women's PowerRestorative Peer Review in MidwiferyPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this episode, Blyss and Stu address a recent Guardian article discussing free birth and the Free Birth Society. They welcome guests Joni Edelman and Ivy Joeva to explore the complexities of unassisted births, the importance of informed consent, and sovereignty in childbirth. The conversation highlights both the potential risks and benefits of free birth, as well as the influence of social media and the challenges within the medical system.About Joni EdelmanJoni Edelman is a mother of six, grandmother, and traditional birth attendant who has walked beside more than 1,000 families through birth. Once an L&D and hospice nurse within the system, she stepped away in 2009 to honor a more sacred calling—guiding families with intuition, physiology, and sovereignty toward the births that feel safest and most aligned.Website: 13moonsbirthwork.comInstagram: @13moonsbirthAbout Ivy JoevaIvy Joeva is a doula, coach, and educator serving women and couples seeking a conscious path to parenthood. She provides support throughout the childbearing year, including fertility coaching, holistic preparation for birth, postpartum recovery care, and counseling for all forms of pregnancy loss. Rooted in a trauma-informed, mind-body approach, Ivy sees these transitions as opportunities for transformation and healing. A graduate of UC Berkeley and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Ivy became a doula in 2009 and serves clients across the United States and abroad.Website: ivyjoeva.comInstagram: @IvyJoevaMentioned in this EpisodeIntentional Birth Pro https://community.intentionalbirth.co/a/2148190529/HUkqrEuo, code IBP2026 for 10% offUnintended Consequences of Invoking the “Natural” in Breastfeeding PromotionGuardian Articles:Influencers made millions pushing ‘wild’ births – now the Free Birth Society is linked to baby deaths around the worldFive key findings from our investigation into the Free Birth Society‘Ignorant and life-threatening’: experts condemn Free Birth Society misinformationDiscussed in This EpisodeIn-depth Discussion on Free Birth SocietyThe Complexity of Blame in Birth OutcomesInformed ConsentThe Influence of Social Media on Birth ChoicesNavigating Risks and Medical PerspectivesThe Role of Trust and Trauma in Birth DecisionsMedicalized Safety vs. Holistic BirthIntegrity and Honesty in Birth PracticesThe Reality of Birth ComplicationsThe Spiritual and Ethical Dimensions of BirthThe Importance of Listening to WomenPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu introduce Paul Golden, a maternal and neonatal medical and legal specialist, midwife, and international advocate. Together they discuss the intricacies and challenges of midwifery practice around the world. Paul highlights his experiences working in various countries, combating legal threats to midwives, and advocating for birthing rights, while emphasizing the need for legal awareness, protective documentation, and proactive measures to support midwives and promote safer childbirth practices globally.About Paul GoldenPaul Golden, is a maternal–neonatal medical and legal specialist whose career spans clinical care, worldwide childbirth, and advocacy. Paul is a midwife and international legal advocate, a skilled tongue-tie release practitioner, and a dedicated naturopath. He also brings expertise as a mediator, lecturer, and author, weaving together science, tradition, and legal insight to protect and elevate the practice of midwifery worldwide.Website: LinkedIn.com/in/goldenpaulInstagram: @Active.birthDiscussed in This EpisodePaul Golden: Midwifery and AdvocacyLegal Aspects and Advocacy in MidwiferyChallenges in Maternal Healthcare SystemsThe Abuse of Peer Review SystemsGunny Sacking: Silencing WhistleblowersLisa Barra's Legal StrugglesRicardo Jones: A Targeted MidwifeThe Double Standards in Home BirthsLegal and Spiritual Advice for MidwivesMentioned in this EpisodeHuman Rights and Birth Choices In the BalkansBook: Keeping Midwives Safe: Practical Legal Advice and support for Midwives (Helpful Legal Advice Actions & Templates)Book: Protect Your Practice: And Keep Your Clients SafeBooks on Gumroad: https://midwifemediator.gumroad.com/Article: Criminalizing Natural Birth: An Interview with Ricardo JonesPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage:birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week’s episode discusses the profound impacts of birth trauma on the nervous system and the transformative potential of pediatric chiropractic care. Blyss and Stu invite Tony Ebel, a wellness chiropractor, to explore the benefits of chiropractic interventions. They also discuss the importance of holistic, less interventionist approaches in childbirth and medical care, emphasizing simplicity, nervous system regulation, and overall well-being for healthier outcomes in children and families.About Tony EbelDr. Tony Ebel is the lead writer and educational guide for PX Docs. He is a Certified Pediatric + Wellness Chiropractor with 15 years of clinical experience.In addition, Dr. Tony has been teaching and training other Pediatric + Family Chiropractors for the past 10+ years, primarily teaching the clinical protocols he created for pediatric neurodevelopmental challenges such as Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, Epilepsy, Anxiety, and more.This clinical program is now taught in collaboration with the Life University Postgraduate Department and has over 700 graduates. Dr. Tony’s passion is educating, empowering, and informing parents about the nervous system’s role in natural, drug-free healing for all pediatric conditions and cases.Website: www.pxdocs.comInstagram: @pxdocsDiscussed in This EpisodeDr. Tony Abel's Chiropractic JourneyThe Impact of Medical Interventions on BirthUnderstanding Brainstem TraumaThe Role of the Nervous System in HealingBirth Interventions and Neurological DysfunctionThe Importance of Craniosacral TherapyChallenges in Pediatric HealthcareThe Simplicity of HealingThe Role of Chiropractors in Pediatric CareMentioned in this EpisodeThe Birth Lounge with HeHe, Episode 396:Twins Untangled: The Data Behind Safe Twin Birth with Dr. Stu Perspektiv Podcast with Madeleine Mofjärd, Episode 201: Reclaim the power of childbirth: how the system fails women in labour - Dr. Stuart FischbeinRadiant Birth Podcast with Britt Andres, Episode 19: The Truth About Hospital Birth: Dr. Stu Fischbein on Fear, Control & Reclaiming Physiological BirthFuture Generations Podcast with Dr. Stanton Hom, Episode 272: Challenging Medical Orthodoxy: One Doctor's Revolutionary Path with Dr. Stu FischbeinThe All Ears Podcast with Jodi Thom, Episode 18 Are We Being Scammed by the Medical Industry? The Truth About Childbirth Ft. Dr. Stuart FischbeinReteach Breech Workshops: birthinginstincts.com/eventsAll Ears PodcastPX Docs Directory: https://pxdocs.com/px-docs/The Experience Miracles PodcastBook: The Biology of Belief 10th Anniversary Edition: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter & MiraclesPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use  code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss discuss healthcare challenges and solutions with Andy Schoonover, CEO of Crowdhealth. Schoonover shares his personal journey that led him to start Crowdhealth, an innovative alternative to traditional health insurance that leverages community crowdfunding to cover medical expenses. The conversation examines the inefficiencies and complexities of the current health insurance system, comparing Crowdhealth's approach to other options such as Christian Sharing ministries and Liberty Health Share. Schoonover emphasizes the importance of maintaining the patient-doctor relationship, explains the regulatory landscape, and shares touching stories of improved customer experiences.About Andy SchoonoverCrowdHealth is a revolutionary alternative to traditional health insurance. Instead of paying premiums into a bloated system, members contribute directly to one another’s medical needs—saving money, fostering transparency, and creating a healthcare experience rooted in trust. Since its founding, CrowdHealth has helped members save millions on medical expenses while empowering them with tools to navigate care confidently and affordably.At the helm is Andy Schoonover, CrowdHealth’s founder and CEO. A passionate advocate for medical freedom, Andy is dedicated to breaking down the inefficiencies of the insurance industry and building a member-first model that prioritizes people over profits. His mission is simple yet bold: to put control back in the hands of individuals and create a community where healthcare is funded by people, not corporations.Website: https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/Instagram: @joincrowdhealthDiscussed in This EpisodeDeep Dive into Crowdhealth and Healthcare IssuesCrowdhealth MechanicsHow Crowdhealth Makes MoneyCommunity Component and Member ExperiencesComparing Crowdhealth to Traditional Health SharesHandling Health Disagreements and TransparencyScalability and Growth of CrowdhealthCrowdhealth's Approach to Maternity CareChallenges with Traditional Health InsuranceMentioned in this EpisodeHealthy as a Mother Podcast, Episode 136Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu enjoy another hodgepodge discussion where they dig into the intricacies of dealing with unexpected medical issues such as heavy postpartum bleeding linked to a fibroid, iron deficiency, and the unconventional use of Jay breathing during labor. The episode features strong themes of patient advocacy, the importance of seeking multiple opinions, and the personal journeys of managing one's health amidst a complex medical system.Discussed in This Episode Postpartum Bleeding and Fibroid ConcernsExploring Treatment Options for FibroidsFibroid Surgical Procedures and RisksAlternative Treatments for Fibroids and EmbolizationHysterectomy vs. MyomectomyIron Infusion and Postpartum RecoveryTongue and Lip Ties in NewbornsMentioned in this EpisodeBirthing Instincts Episode 327: Interesting Stuff About FibroidsBirthing Instincts Episode 436: What Is Vs. What Could Be. Models Of Care In FluxSMFM Statement on Acetaminophen Use DuringPregnancy and AutismCOVID-19 Vaccine Misinformation Tool KitPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offerWholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu invited Vita and Ronit, the founders of WeNatal, for a conversation about the significance of 'Trimester Zero,' the period leading up to conception, and its impact on egg and sperm quality. The founders share their personal journeys through pregnancy loss and how it led to the creation of WeNatal. They emphasize the importance of holistic health, including diet, supplementation, and stress management, in improving fertility outcomes. About Ronit and Vida:Bio for your reference: Ronit Menashe and Vida Delrahim are the founders of WeNatal, a prenatal supplement company that is transforming the fertility space with the first prenatal supplement optimized for her AND him. WeNatal’s mission to change the narrative surrounding fertility and reproductive health is personal; after suffering miscarriages a week apart Ronit and Vida were given little direction on what to do differently. More importantly, the health of Ronit & Vida’s partners (including the health of their sperm) was completely missing from their fertility dialogue with their doctors… something had to change. WeNatal shifts the fertility journey from "me" to "we” and is revolutionizing the prenatal space with a formulation team composed of industry leading Functional Medicine doctors, nutritionists, and fertility experts, including Dr. Mark Hyman and Kelly LeVeque. With 24 key clean, bioavailable nutrients, WeNatal steps up where other supplements fall short for all things preconception to postpartum for both parents and baby.Website: wenatal.comInstagram: @we_natalDiscussed in This EpisodeWeNatal: The Journey and MissionExploring the Impact of Diet on FertilityOvercoming IVF Challenges and Natural ConceptionControlling What You Can for a Healthier LifestyleWellness Doesn't Have to Be Complicated or ExpensiveThe Concept of Trimester ZeroOptimizing Sperm and Egg QualityChoosing High-Quality SupplementsMentioned in this EpisodeBirthing Instincts Patreon Bonus Episode: Baby Aspirin For Allhttps://wenatal.com/birthinginstincts for a free mag with subscription https://wenatal.com/masterclass for Free masterclass https://wenatal.com/blog for the blogPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu do a deep dive into the methodology, history, and current practices surrounding the non-stress test (NST) used in prenatal care. They answer all your questions: What is a non-stress test? Where did it come from? How did it become so accepted? Does it actually tell you what it's supposed to tell you? And, is there evidence that a previous stillbirth is an indication for for NST testing?Discussed in This EpisodeUnderstanding Non-Stress Test (NST) and Its LimitationsHistory and Evolution of NSTNST vs. Biophysical ProfilesPredictive Value of NSTACOG Guidelines on NSTFetal Kick Counting vs. NSTMentioned in this EpisodeAn Inconvenient Study: aninconvenientstudy.comACOG Practice Bulletin: Antepartum Fetal SurveillanceBirthing Instincts Episode #386 with David HayesPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Blyss is back and Stu has a hodgepodge of topics to cover with her. Blyss shares her enriching experience at an international midwifery conference in Greece, while Dr. Stu sheds light on the impersonal nature of modern medical practices and the hope brought by the Alice Walton School of Medicine. The episode enriches listeners with firsthand stories of birth, the dynamics between midwives and healthcare systems, and the promising future of holistic medical education.Discussed in This EpisodeBlyss' Greece Trip and Midwifery ConferenceCOVID-19 Vaccine UpdatesChanges in Vaccine RecommendationsDocumentary on Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated KidsMidwives' Perspectives and ChallengesNew Medical School InitiativeMentioned in this EpisodePatreon Events patreon.com/birthinginstinctsCDC Rewrite of Vaccine Guidelines Is a BIG Win for Medical FreedomAn Inconvenient Study Doctor’s Art: EP. 151: TO CREATE A MEDICAL SCHOOLArticle: The World’s Richest Woman Has Opened a Medical SchoolHerbal Pregnancy Blend, By Carol GautschiPodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offGirls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this week’s episode of The Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu is joined by Ashley Mariani, also known as 'The Rogue Therapist' from Instagram, to discuss the complexities of fatherhood and relationships. While Blyss is traveling, Ashley and Dr. Stu get deep and personal in conversation about how men can navigate fatherhood, improve their relationships, and break generational trauma. A valuable episode for anyone looking to strengthen their relationships and foster healthy family environments.About Ashley Mariani:Ashley Mariani is a couples therapist, Reverend, and founder of Mind Online Therapy. She specializes in intimacy, polarity, and the nervous system, with a focus on supporting couples through the impact of birth trauma and the challenges it creates in relationships. With over a decade of experience, Ashley blends neuroscience, trauma-informed practices, and her own frameworks to help couples repair trust, rebuild connection, and rediscover desire.In addition to her clinical work, Ashley is a public speaker and educator whose voice has been featured on podcasts and at conferences across North America. She is the creator of programs and workshops that teach couples practical tools for navigating conflict, intimacy, and long-term partnership. Through her work, Ashley brings a direct yet compassionate approach to some of the most personal aspects of human connection, helping couples move from survival to genuine thriving. She is also a wife and mom of three, including boy–girl twins who keep life lively both inside and outside the therapy room." Website: www.mindonline.caInstagram: @therogue.therapist / @mindonline.ca / @heartandhearthministryDiscussed in This EpisodeAshley Mariani on Fatherhood and RelationshipsJohn and Jill: A Case StudyThe Rite of Passage in FatherhoodMen's Learning and Wilderness SurvivalFatherhood and NeuroscienceThe Role of Fathers in Child DevelopmentChoosing and Supporting Your PartnerThe Work of a Good ManCommunication and Responsibilities in RelationshipsMentioned in this Episode@findingpolariswcBirthing Instincts Episode 368: Boys to Men: The Importance of MasculinityResourcesProtecting your family from obstetric violence course, understanding tetany, and other helpful links can be found at Linktr.ee/mindonlinePodcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care This show is supported byWeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offConnect with Dr. Stu and BlyssJoin our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands