Birth Education Center Podcast

This is a special bonus episode wrapping up the season! I just wanted to express my immense gratitude for all your emails, heartfelt responses, and questions. Your journey toward better education, finding the best providers, and increased awareness in the realm of parenthood means the world to me and Ashley. This is a summary of what I have been going through this past year. Grief. So if you've wondered where I've been, here is the tea. I'm excited to share our upcoming mentor legacy series and amazing birth stories in the next season. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I'm grateful for your support and love. We'll see you in about a month! Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

Welcome back to part two with more education prep on things to think about for Postpartum. Today with Dr. Morgan, we're diving deep into a few things people miss when planning for postpartum life. We're covering the reality of hormone shifts, breastfeeding challenges, and mental health issues like baby blues and postpartum anxiety. She does not miss the importance of proper nutrition and rest and also shares how her husband handles his role during postpartum after each baby. The partner conversations and prep are not to be missed! Dr. Morgan shares personal experiences and practical advice on how to navigate this intense period, adding in the support systems and resources that can make a world of difference.  Whether you're expecting or recently had a baby, this episode is packed with candid, real-talk advice aimed at preparing and empowering you for the postpartum journey. We want you to go in with what will be the best advice tailored just for your family. Hopefully this show will open up great conversations for you and your support team.  You can reach Dr. Morgan MacDermott at MilkMedicine.com. Her podcast with co host Dr. Leah is Healthy As A Mother, and can be found wherever you get your podcasts! @morganmacdermott Here's the episode Morgan mentioned where she interviewed her husband!  #63: Role Changes and Expectations within Fatherhood with Wes MacDermott https://open.spotify.com/episode/2U6BRfxgtIP5bJjQWKD4KZ?si=9c5e07ddec634fab RESOURCES: LAB LIST: CBC, CMP, ferritin, total iron, TIBC, iron saturation, TSH, free T3, free T4, total T3, total T4, TPO and TG antibodies, vitamin D3 Supplements mentioned: https://thisisneeded.com/?irpid=1111115&pwc=true https://www.themilkmoon.com/products/restorativetonic Postpartum Herbs: https://www.wishgardenherbs.com/collections/postpartum?tw_source=google   Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization

In this episode, I am having Dr. Morgan back to really share as much info as possible to get your research inspired and moving for all things Breastfeeding! I think what I have been seeing more and more over the years is a false sense of preparedness when it comes to breastfeeding preparedness. Parents are so focused on labor and delivery education that they skip breastfeeding due to time constraints or simply feeling like the education is not important. After all - haven't we been breastfeeding for thousands of years? How hard could it be? Dr. Morgan Macdermott, is a naturopathic medical doctor specializing in perinatal women's health. There is so much to talk about when it comes to the importance of EARLY breastfeeding education and support. We cover common pitfalls new parents face, the significance of having a lactation consultant, and practical tips for breastfeeding success.  This is the first part of our two-part series, with the second part focusing on postpartum recovery and ongoing motherhood support. Dr. Morgan shares invaluable insights and real-life experiences to help get some terminology into your head and hopefully you will share this information with newly pregnant friends so they can be ahead of the game! You can reach Dr. Morgan MacDermott at MilkMedicine.com. Her podcast with co host Dr. Leah is Healthy As A Mother, and can be found wherever you get your podcasts! @morganmacdermott https://milkmedicine.com/pregnancycall/ https://www.karingforpostpartum.com/breastfeeding-course Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

Today on the podcast, we get to hear Kaitlyn's birth story. Kaitlyn, a doula and new mom, shares her emotional and practical experience of labor and delivery with us. Kaitlyn and her husband came through my Hypnobirthing series and proved that taking a class earlier than you think you should may be your intuition prompting you! She is also a masterful writer so this episode is a mixture of story and conversation!  She opens up about her initial denial as labor began and how that shadowed her experience. Kaitlyn's husband, Alex, played a crucial role in advocating for her and their baby, showing the importance of support and teamwork. We also talk about the importance of community support and postpartum preparation. Kaitlyn's raw recount of her journey allows room for the significance of letting go, trusting the process, and embracing the unexpected. Everyone's birth is different and even if we all prepare the same way - we learn and experience what we need, and it's usually unexpected. Here's the link to the Protein Ball recipe Kaitlyn mentioned! https://share.google/5wq8YsSD6mFV0RRQe ⁣@yourdoulakaitlyn    @move.nurture.grow Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization

In this last episode of doula education, you get to meet Jessica, a new doula, as she reflects on what she learned from these parents while attending our hypnobirthing class series. Jessica and I discuss each of the five classes. I have loved seeing what each doula has noticed per class because it shows just how much our own lived experiences influence what we are most needing in birth education.  The main topics Jessica pulled from the series was the importance of childbirth education, pushing techniques, the role of partners, and all the ways to stay calm and grounded during labor. We also covered personal experiences, including Jessica's own birth stories when she had NO childbirth education and how they shaped her approach as a doula. Perfect for both new and seasoned doulas as well as expecting parents looking for practical birthing advice. If you are needing more support as a doula with your mindset and daily practice – you can download my Doula Mindset and Business Meditations to build your self-confidence and help you with looking towards yourself for the answers you seek. Being solo in the birth room doesn't have to be daunting. You have all you need inside. (19.99)  Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

In this episode, we welcome Jamilah back for Part 4 of our Surrogacy series. This show is specifically for doulas but Jamilah also adds in some information for those of you who are considering becoming a surrogate!  Supporting a surrogate and the family they are working with has some nuances for sure. Jamilah wants you to feel very prepared from the first interview through the postpartum time. We cover common surrogacy terms, the emotional and physical challenges surrogates face, the necessity of trauma-informed care, and the often overlooked postpartum support. I was also surprised by so much of the information including that most surrogates DON'T hire a doula! It's way more common to hire a postpartum doula for recovery. My mouth is still on the floor from that one! Whether you're a doula, surrogate, or intended parent, this conversation sheds light on the intricate journey of surrogacy and the indispensable role of doulas in fostering a supportive birthing environment. Follow the whole series: Ep 75: The Road to Surrogacy, Part 1                                                                                                Ep 76: The Road to Surrogacy, Part 2 Ep 77: The Road to Surrogacy, Part 3 @jamilahallencreative   @familymattersurrogacy Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

We are back with another Doula education episode - although parents will also learn a lot with these perspectives! In this show, I get to chat with Shannon, a new doula who's bringing her unique perspective as a childless doula.  Shannon and I talk about each of the five classes, discussing everything from reframing fears to the beauty of comfort measures and the importance of following your intuition in birth work. Shannon shares her personal journey, bits and pieces from our classes, and how these experiences have empowered her in her doula journey.  We also talk about the power of intention with your birth preparation, the significance of understanding your own birth story, and how to be fully present for the families you serve. It's so nice for me as an educator to learn from all of this feedback. I hope you enjoy our conversation and the insights that come with it! If you are needing more support as a doula with your mindset and daily practice – you can download my Doula Mindset Ebook and Business Meditations to build your self-confidence and help you with looking towards yourself for the answers you seek. Being solo in the birth room doesn't have to be daunting. You have all you need inside. (19.99) Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

Brandi is here for today's show with her Doula Heather Taylor to share her transformative birth experience. Brandi took Hypnobirthing and all the other birth related classes to feel as prepared as possible. She and her husband asked a ton of questions and were on the same page about their plans for a smooth birth experience. They worked HARD to organize their education information and create backup plans for everything. One of her nly fears was having to give birth on her back and she didn't want to feel stuck. She chose a great hospital, midwives as providers and checked all of her boxes off. Then it was up to her to practice, face any fears and do the inner work to let go and trust her experience. Brandi also shares postpartum tips for care and support. The great part about recording a birth episode with their doula included is Heather is able to share professional insights on the things going on in the background of Brandi's experience. Heather also shares her perspective on this couple's incredible teamwork and openness to go with the flow of the birth.  @Doula.Heather.Taylor    @Bee_hoppyy Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/OMG-Im-Pregnant-Course/ Induction 101: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Induction-101-Course/ Mental Health: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/pregnancy-and-postpartum-mental-health/ Newborn Procedures: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Newborn-Procedures-Course/ Epidurals Explained: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/epidurals-explained/ Meditations/Journal: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/   For Doulas Only: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/bundles/ebook-bundle/

Hey everyone! We actually have three of these special episodes in our show's lineup! Education is so key for parents but equally as needed for new doulas. As doulas take childbirth education from different instructors, learning different methods - they're ability to meet more needs with the families they serve is undeniable. Every family has such different perspectives and there's not one perfect course for everyone. Understanding what is available in a doula's own location as well as what is available online, is critical for being able to recommend education matches for parents. This show is great for new parents to hear as well as new doulas.  In this episode, we welcome Gurleen, a newer doula who recently completed our five-week Hypnobirthing series. Gurleen shares her takeaways from each class, like demystifying birth myths, the importance of connection and touch, and embracing natural body instincts during labor. We also explored fears around childbirth and highlighted the benefits of practices like chiropractic care, pelvic floor therapy, and acupuncture. Gurleen's journey through these classes has been eye-opening for me as an educator, and it's been great to hear her reflections. Don't miss this chat if you're looking to deepen your childbirth education and support toolkit. Enjoy! If you are needing more support as a doula with your mindset and daily practice – you can download my Doula Mindset Ebook and Business Meditations to build your self-confidence and help you with looking towards yourself for the answers you seek. Being solo in the birth room doesn't have to be daunting. You have all you need inside. (19.99)  Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

In this episode, Care welcomes back Kyle and introduces Becca as they recount their unique and emotional birth story. Becca called me for classes when she was only two months along and we started her birth prep with that phone call. Her friend Kaitlyn is a doula and prompted her to call early so we could get a handle on her initial anxieties in early pregnancy. Coming from a small town in Nevada this couple had to organize a home birth differently. We talk about the decision to have a home birth at their midwife's home, the intensity of labor, and the unexpected turns that showcase the importance of having a supportive and skilled birth team.  Throughout their story, they emphasize the significance of good communication, the value of a supportive community, and being able to adapt to the ever-changing turns of pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. Their experience highlights the unpredictability of birth and the importance of preparation, flexibility, and support systems. We can only plan for so much and that's when the trust and preparation kick in! If you missed Kyle's episode last week - here is the link!   https://youtu.be/EEcYlUmNMWM Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

It's a dad show! Kyle wanted his own chance to talk about his journey into fatherhood and next week Becca comes in to share their birth story!  In this episode, I get to introduce you to Kyle, a new father and military veteran. When Kyle came into Hypnobirthing, he was initially hesitant and skeptical and it was evident from his face lol! But something switched as classes went on and Kyle shares how understanding his role in the birthing process and demystifying the act of childbirth changed his fear into curiosity and anticipation.  Kyle credits the birth education for both he and his wife as the profound change their relationship experienced and his newfound respect for the birthing process. The show highlights the importance of communication, understanding, and mutual support in preparing for parenthood. It's a powerful testament to the impact of thorough birth education, partnership, and emotional intelligence in navigating the journey to parenthood. Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

This bonus episode concludes our three-part series as we share the full written version of Angel and Joe's home birth story, as originally published on Substack. In Angel's own words, you'll experience the emotional, physical, and spiritual journey of pregnancy, birth, and the early days of parenthood. This piece beautifully filled in the bits of their video version in episode 079. I so appreciate honest storytelling, and love that this record will be passed down to their daughter someday. Thank you for joining us for this heartfelt and vulnerable journey. Links Read Angel's full Substack series: https://angelh.substack.com/ Listen to Part 1: Angel and Joe's Home Birth Story https://youtu.be/q0NYiJCftfo Listen to Part 2: Reflections on Pregnancy, Identity, and Ancestry https://youtu.be/K3ZEIDhdV0o Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

In this special episode, we continue our three-part series on birth and parenthood. Today, I read from Angel's deeply personal Substack article, which explores the emotional and spiritual journey through pregnancy, identity, and the transition into parenthood. This piece offers a raw and honest look at grief, transformation, and the ancestral threads woven into new life. I am very honored they let me share this with you. If you missed last week's episode, be sure to listen to Angel and Joe's home birth story for the full context of their journey. Links Read Angel's full Substack https://angelh.substack.com/ Listen to Part 1: Angel and Joe's Home Birth Story https://youtu.be/q0NYiJCftfo Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

In today's episode, I welcome Angel and Joe, first time parents who are sharing their homebirth story. They took all the notes from Hypnobirthing and adapted those tools for their birth. For those of you who haven't considered a homebirth, notice how this process was all about supporting the couple - whatever they needed, their team was on it. The preparation for a homebirth is just as important as it is for a hospital birth but has a personal birth team who is just as invested that it stays low risk and healthy. Natural birth takes planning and extra backup plans so safety and feeling safe is always there. We discuss their initial fears, the various therapies and wellness practices they used before birth, and the detailed events of their labor and birth process. There is a special bit of vulnerability in this show as Angel narrates the emotional and physical journey they experienced during pregnancy. Angel also wrote a Substack series that I will share following this episode that explores a deeper side to this "life journey." Joe describes his side by side role and the miraculous moment of witnessing their child's birth. They also touch on the struggles and eventual triumph in breastfeeding, appreciating the importance of community support and professional guidance. This heartfelt conversation provides a deep dive into the real and raw emotions of parenthood and the significance of preparing for both birth and postpartum life. Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/OMG-Im-Pregnant-Course/ Induction 101: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Induction-101-Course/ Mental Health: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/pregnancy-and-postpartum-mental-health/ Newborn Procedures: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Newborn-Procedures-Course/ Epidurals Explained: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/epidurals-explained/ Meditations/Journal: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/   For Doulas Only: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/bundles/ebook-bundle/    

Today we have one of my Hypnobirthing students, Dr. Mac Toohey, sharing her birth story and so much more! Dr. Mac is a naturopath, an integrative functional medicine provider, and a preconception expert. Her birth story started over a year before she became pregnant. It even includes, what I will always consider a huge miracle and a nutrient rich placenta as a major character in her birth story. Our conversation has so much rich information you are going to want to take notes!  Dr. Toohey opens up about her unique approach to preparing for conception and birth, blending medical expertise with holistic practices and a lot of humor. From confronting a surprising tarot card reading to navigating fertility challenges, detox protocols, and the realities of modern healthcare, Mac's story is packed with practical advice and her deep journey into motherhood. Wait until you hear about the importance of preconception health for both parents, the impact of environmental toxins, and why personalized care matters. We also talk about the emotional side of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum—noting the value of support systems, self-advocacy, and trusting your intuition. Dr. Mac's birth story is a testament to preparation, resilience, and the little miracles that can happen when you listen to your body and surround yourself with the right team. This is definitely an episode you will want to share with anyone thinking about getting pregnant WAY before they want the baby to come out! You can find Dr. Mac Toohey at https://www.drmactoohey.com/ or @DrToohey on Tiktok! Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

We're back with Jamilah for the final chapter of her surrogacy journey! In this episode, Jamilah shares the emotional and physical experience of delivering her surrogate baby. From the anticipation and pressure of reaching 40 weeks for herself and the Intended Parents, to advocating for herself in the hospital, to the powerful moment of birth.  And there's an unexpected plot twist here that wasn't planned but pulled things in full circle. She also shares about the unique postpartum experience of going home without a baby—Jamilah's story is full of insight for anyone curious about surrogacy, birth, and the bonds formed along the way. Thank you for joining us for this moving conclusion to Jamilah's story. If you missed Parts 1 and 2, be sure to check them out for the full journey! @jamilahallencreative   @familymattersurrogacy 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀! Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

Hey everyone! Welcome back to the second episode of our chat with Jamilah. Last week, we heard both of her birth stories and now we're moving into her incredible journey towards surrogacy. Her own births led Jamilah birth photography, putting her want for being a doula on the backburner for a whole other profession. It was at a networking event that the surrogacy opportunity presented itself and the pieces began to line up. Jamilah's story gives a lot of information for people wondering about the surrogacy process in helping people become parents. Her journey to this baby had its ups and downs as well as amazing, heartwarming moments that has led to a close relationship with the mom. Jamilah just delivered the baby a few days ago so that episode is on its way! @jamilahallencreative   @familymattersurrogacy Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

We are excited to introduce you to Jamilah in today's show. Ashley and I just had our headshots taken by Jamilah and her story is just too good not to share! Jamilah is almost due with her surrogate baby and we are discussing the backstory as to why she moved towards surrogacy. In this show, Jamilah shares the inspiring stories of her two birth experiences and how her mindset of fearlessness, instilled by her mother, helped her embrace labor without fear. She shares the birth of her daughter Hazel, navigating through labor with a strong sense of determination and trust in her body. Some amazing parts to that hospital story! Jamilah then talks about the birth of her son Max. Both births were unmedicated with full labor denial. Labor denial is a gift Ashley and I wish we could give every family on a silver platter! Jamilah describes her second birth as a transformational experience marked by the unparalleled care and support she received from San Diego Community Birth Center. Emphasizing the importance of mindset and body autonomy, Jamilah's birth stories are a testament to the beauty and power of birthing with intention and support. @sandiegocommunitybirthcenter @jamilahallencreative  Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization    

The video for YouTube and Spotify will be up shortly! For now, please enjoy our audio version. In this episode, we have a birth story featuring Zach and Kasondra, a couple who recently welcomed their newborn into the world. In Hypnobirthing class we learned about their love of surfing and always being in the water. Kasondra is also an opera singer so she came into class with expectations on how her breathing techniques would go during labor – and they worked with an added surprise. Throughout the podcast, Kasondra discusses her decisions along the way to support the natural birth she wanted. Zach, talks about what he learned in childbirth classes that helped him create a solid role as a support system during Kasondra's labor. The couple emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, maintaining a calm and positive attitude, and trusting the process, while highlighting the significance of active communication and teamwork throughout pregnancy and childbirth. They kept things light and fun throughout the unexpected turns of their labor, celebrating joyful moments despite the inherent unpredictability. We end the episode with insights on postpartum recovery and advice for expectant parents, coming back to the power of knowledge, preparation, and a supportive partnership during this transformative life experience. Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization  

In this episode, Ashley and I are talking about the sacred aspects of being a doula and how the ultimate role is to 'hold space' for birthing families.What IS holding space? Since it's different for everyone - we want you to define it for yourself and how it works for each family you serve. We have found over the years that it's incredibly hard to hold space if we find ourselves needing or wanting to control birth outcomes, come into birth work with a savior complex, or if we can't embrace the discomfort that comes with witnessing labor and birth. We share personal experiences and emphasize the importance of sustaining a career in doula work by finding balance and setting aside personal biases. It's about meeting families where they are, supporting them through their journey, and understanding that OUR PRESENCE ALONE is the cornerstone of effective doula support. Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? BirthEducationPodcast@gmail.com   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant Induction 101 Mental Health  Newborn Procedures Epidurals Explained Meditations/Journal   For Doulas Only - Ebook and Visualization