The Golden Hour Birth Podcast

In this powerful episode of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast, hosts Liz and Natalie delve into the crucial topic of emotional healing techniques, drawing from the transformative content of Module 5 in their upcoming course, "Reclaiming Your Birth Story: Finding Peace and Healing." They share valuable insights and strategies for navigating the complex emotions and triggers that often arise in the aftermath of a challenging or traumatic birth experience.Throughout the episode, Liz and Natalie explore effective coping strategies, such as recognizing triggers, practicing self-care, creating a supportive network, and setting healthy boundaries. They discuss the significance of developing self-awareness and prioritizing emotional well-being in the face of difficult experiences.Listeners will also discover the power of healing exercises and mindfulness practices, including journaling, meditation, visualization, and breathwork. Liz and Natalie share how these techniques can promote self-reflection, emotional release, and inner peace, providing practical tips for incorporating them into daily life.The hosts emphasize the importance of seeking professional help and resources when needed, breaking down the stigma surrounding therapy and support groups. They share their personal experiences and insights on the transformative potential of working with therapists, counselors, or birth trauma specialists.Whether you're currently processing your own birth story or supporting a loved one through their healing journey, this episode offers a compassionate and empowering perspective on prioritizing emotional well-being and resilience. Liz and Natalie's expertise and guidance will leave you feeling equipped with valuable tools and techniques for reclaiming your birth story and finding peace in the face of challenging experiences.Join the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community and embrace the power of emotional healing as you navigate the path towards growth, self-discovery, and transformation.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

In this informative episode of The Golden Hour Birth Podcast, hosts Liz and Natalie interview Dr. Brooke Kalisiak, a seasoned pelvic floor physical therapist and owner of Legacy Physical Therapy in St. Louis, Missouri. Brooke dives deep into the world of pelvic health, explaining how pelvic floor therapy can be a game-changer for pregnant and postpartum women.From pregnancy-related pain and discomfort to preventing tearing during childbirth, Brooke shares her expertise on how pelvic floor therapy can help optimize the body for a smoother, safer delivery. She also addresses common postpartum concerns such as diastasis recti (abdominal separation), painful sex, and incontinence, offering valuable insights on how pelvic floor therapy can aid in recovery and healing.Brooke emphasizes the importance of seeking help early and breaks down the typical pelvic floor therapy assessment and treatment process. She also shares practical tips and exercises listeners can incorporate into their daily lives to improve their pelvic health and overall well-being.Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, or simply curious about pelvic health, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of your body and discover how pelvic floor therapy can support you during this transformative journey.Connect with Brooke on Instagram here and her website here. To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Every struggle carries the potential to birth a triumph, a mantra that resonates deeply with Danielle, the founder of Making a Miracle. Her story is not just one of personal victory over infertility's relentless challenges, but a testament to the transformative power of empathy and support. As we navigate Danielle's journey from her diagnosis of endometriosis through the tumultuous waves of IVF, miscarriages, and the complex emotions that pave the road to motherhood, we're reminded of the resilience required to hold onto hope amidst life's harshest storms.Amidst the scientific precision of fertility treatments and the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany each cycle, there lies an intimate narrative that often goes unheard. For Danielle, these experiences were steeped in both pain and determination, leading to the joyous yet nerve-wracking arrival of her daughter and the subsequent battles with postpartum depression and recovery from a life-saving emergency C-section. This episode peels back the layers of motherhood and infertility, revealing the raw, unspoken trials that shape the sacred bond between a mother and her child.Yet, it's not solely the struggle that defines Danielle's story—it's the incredible surge of kindness and community that buoys the spirit during the hardest times. From the cherished support of partners to the solidarity found in shared experiences, this narrative is a poignant reminder of the profound impact that compassion can have. As Danielle discusses the evolution of Making a Miracle, from publishing a coloring book to organizing community events, we celebrate the strength and connectivity that can emerge from life's most challenging chapters.To connect with Danielle and Making a Miracle, check our her Instagram here.For upcoming events including the Resource Fair on April 28th, click here.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

In this powerful episode of The Golden Hour Birth Podcast, we welcome Shayla, a brave mother who shares her transformative journey of facing preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) during her pregnancy. Shayla's story takes us through the unexpected challenges of delivering her daughter at 30 weeks, navigating a 48-day NICU stay, and advocating for her premature baby.Throughout the episode, Shayla openly discusses the importance of self-care, finding support, and trusting your instincts when faced with the overwhelming experience of having a preemie in the NICU. She shares valuable insights on dealing with the emotional ups and downs, the joy of seeing her daughter grow stronger each day, and the power of sharing her story to help other NICU parents.Shayla's journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of mothers who encounter unexpected complications during pregnancy and birth. Her story offers hope, guidance, and a reminder that even in the most challenging situations, it is possible to have a healthy, thriving child.Join us as we dive into Shayla's inspiring story and learn how to navigate the NICU journey with courage and grace. This episode is a must-listen for any parent who has experienced preterm labor, PPROM, or has a baby in the NICU, as well as anyone seeking to support a loved one through a similar experience.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Have you ever felt the profound release that comes from sharing a story that's been weighing on your heart? In this special episode of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast, Liz and Natalie delve into the transformative power of communicating and sharing your birth story. Drawing from their upcoming course, "Reclaim Your Birth Story: Finding Peace and Healing," they focus on the crucial role of Module 4 in the healing process.Liz and Natalie explore the benefits of opening up about your birth experience, providing strategies for effective communication with loved ones and emphasizing the importance of finding validation and support within a community of individuals who have gone through similar experiences. They discuss the significance of releasing pent-up emotions, gaining new perspectives, and finding a safe space where you can be heard and understood.Throughout the episode, Liz and Natalie offer practical advice on how to approach conversations with loved ones, express your feelings and needs assertively, and actively listen to others. They also highlight the value of connecting with support groups, online communities, and counseling services that align with your specific needs and values.To illustrate the power of sharing and processing your birth story, Liz and Natalie share an interview with an anonymous guest who bravely recounts her challenging birth and postpartum experience. The guest's story serves as a testament to the healing that can come from talking through your experiences, letting go of guilt, and finding empowerment in your journey.Join Liz and Natalie as they guide you through the process of reclaiming your birth story and discovering the strength within you to heal and thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment.Thank you for being a part of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community. Your support means the world to us. Stay golden!And for those eager to continue the path of personal growth, we reveal how to access our anxiety breakthrough journal, 'Reclaim your Calm,' at no cost. Download your copy here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

In this honest and raw episode, Krista shares her challenging journey through pregnancy and birth, navigating a large fibroid, a rare incarcerated uterus, and an emergency C-section after a prolonged labor. She opens up about the lack of answers and support she received from providers, the toll of severe postpartum complications, and the importance of advocating for yourself when things don't feel right. Krista also discusses the difficult emotions that come with a birth experience that deviates far from your plans and the power of sharing your story to help others feel less alone. Through it all, she offers valuable advice on seeking specific support and finding healing after a traumatic birth.Join us for a candid conversation about facing unexpected complications with courage and grace, trusting your instincts, and finding strength in community. Krista's story is a poignant reminder that birth is unpredictable, and that self-advocacy and leaning on others is crucial during trying times.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Have you ever felt like your birth story was more of a trauma than a triumph? That's where "Reclaiming Your Birth Story," our upcoming course, comes in, and on this episode of Golden Hour Birth Podcast, we offer you a glimpse of Module 3. We tackle how reframing your birth narrative can reveal not just the ordeals but the extraordinary strength and growth that are part of your journey. Together with Natalie, we'll guide you through an empowering exercise, using my own story as the canvas to pinpoint those transformative moments of fortitude and learning. It's an intimate session of narrative reconstruction and gratitude practices, designed to shift your perspective and turn your story into one of empowerment.And for those eager to continue the path of personal growth, we reveal how to access our anxiety breakthrough journal, 'Reclaim your Calm,' at no cost. Download your copy here!Introducing the "Reclaiming Your Birth Story: Your Path to Healing and Empowerment" course, led by us, Liz and Natalie – passionate birth advocates and postpartum doulas. As professionals in the field, we bring not only our expertise but also the invaluable gift of firsthand understanding. Join us on a path to healing, recovery, and empowerment as you reclaim your birth story and emerge stronger than ever.Thank you for being a part of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community. Your support means the world to us. Stay golden!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

As a mother, Samantha has traversed the peaks and valleys of childbirth with a resilience that inspires. Her vivid birth stories take us from the brink of mortality to moments of pure, miraculous joy. Samantha's voice carries the weight of her experiences, from battling a postpartum hemorrhage and a life-threatening blood clot to an ectopic pregnancy and the premature arrival of her baby at just 26 weeks. Her story is a testament to the strength inherent in motherhood, and in our latest episode, she generously opens her heart, sharing the crucial lessons learned about self-advocacy, the indispensability of support systems, and the arduous yet rewarding path toward healing after traumatic birth experiences.Navigating the labyrinth of medical challenges that can accompany childbirth is no small feat, as Samantha's journey reminds us. She recounts the emergency procedures, the fear of misdiagnosis, and how family dynamics can stretch to their limits under the pressure of a crisis. Her experiences peel back the curtain on the emotional and physical aftermath mothers may endure and the fortitude required to face the realities of mental health struggles, which are too often shrouded in silence. Samantha's journey doesn't just illuminate the unexpected in childbirth; it underscores the importance of responsive medical care and unwavering emotional support.Wrapping up this powerful episode, we celebrate the triumphs and acknowledge the trials of the moms out there like Samantha, who have faced down extraordinary circumstances. We're reminded that every voice matters and every story shared is a beacon for someone else walking a similar path. We invite you to join the conversation, to find solace and strength within our Golden Hour Birth Circle, and to share your own stories. Together, we're not just listeners and storytellers; we're a community united by the shared experience of motherhood's raw and beautiful journey.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

As birth advocates and doulas in training, we've encountered the profound impact self-compassion can have on healing post-birth. In the emotional landscape that follows childbirth, many find themselves grappling with guilt and self-judgment, a narrative all too familiar to ourselves. It's a journey that we're excited to guide you through in the latest module of our course, sharing not just stories but actionable steps toward self-kindness and emotional resilience. We delve into the importance of self-compassion's role in recovery and the transformative power it holds in reclaiming your birth story.This episode unravels the complex threads of self-blame and guilt that often entangle new parents, and we offer a beacon of hope for anyone feeling lost in the aftermath of birth. Our personal struggles with postpartum challenges imbues our conversation with authenticity and understanding, as we provide insights into overcoming intense self-judgment. We share how our course will guide you through mindfulness techniques and exercises designed to foster a nurturing inner dialogue. Our shared mission is not only to create a safe space for processing and growth but also to arm you with the tools for a journey of empowerment and healing. And for those eager to continue the path of personal growth, we reveal how to access our anxiety breakthrough journal, 'Reclaim your Calm,' at no cost. Download your copy here!Introducing the "Reclaiming Your Birth Story: Your Path to Healing and Empowerment" course, led by us, Liz and Natalie – passionate birth advocates and postpartum doulas. As professionals in the field, we bring not only our expertise but also the invaluable gift of firsthand understanding. Join us on a path to healing, recovery, and empowerment as you reclaim your birth story and emerge stronger than ever.Thank you for being a part of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community. Your support means the world to us. Stay golden!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.xoxo-Liz & Natalie

Have you ever felt like a passenger in your own life's journey, especially during something as monumental as childbirth? Beth, a seasoned nurse turned doula, opens up about her transformation from feeling disempowered in her first birth experience to taking the reins in her second. Her story isn't just about the arrival of a new life but a mother's reclaiming of her voice and strength within the healthcare system.Wrapping things up, we celebrate the incredible transformation from labor nurse to midwife to doula, an intimate look at the evolution of self-advocacy and empowerment in childbirth. Birth stories come alive with tales of empowerment and the pivotal support that shapes them. Connect with Beth on Instagram here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Discover the transformative journey of childbirth as we unveil the first module of our deeply resonant course, 'Processing Your Birth Story.' With Natalie sun-kissed in San Diego, I, Liz, am here to gently guide you through the complex emotional landscape that accompanies the arrival of new life. As new doulas and mothers, we understand the intricate weave of emotions that birth stories hold. This episode is an invitation to embrace and process every shade of those emotions, empowering you to step into your story with courage and clarity.Embark on an exploration with us into the emotional impact of childbirth and its enduring resonance in our lives. We'll navigate through the joy, the challenges, and the myriad feelings in between, holding space for your personal narrative. Whether you're deep in postpartum or preparing for future births, this episode is a heartfelt offering to connect, support, and celebrate your unique experience. We're not just sharing stories; we're fostering a community of healing and empowerment. Join us as we lay the groundwork for peace, understanding, and a reclaiming of the birth story that is wholly yours.Introducing the "Reclaiming Your Birth Story: Your Path to Healing and Empowerment" course, led by us, Liz and Natalie – passionate birth advocates and postpartum doulas. As professionals in the field, we bring not only our expertise but also the invaluable gift of firsthand understanding. Join us on a path to healing, recovery, and empowerment as you reclaim your birth story and emerge stronger than ever.Thank you for being a part of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community. Your support means the world to us.Stay golden!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.xoxo-Liz & Natalie

Have you ever felt a deep, unexplainable connection guiding you through life's most pivotal moments? Imagine if that very instinct could be the beacon during your journey to motherhood. Today, we sit with Kelli Moore, a mother whose experiences with IVF, birth, and postpartum challenges, illuminate the incredible intuition that comes with motherhood and the indomitable spirit required to advocate for one's health. Through Kelli's eyes, we witness the intensity of labor, the complications from past medical procedures, and her undying trust in her own body's messages—lessons that resonate with every listener.The path to bringing new life into this world is often shrouded in silence, especially when it comes to the struggles of infertility and extended labor. Kelli sheds light on these seldom-discussed topics, sharing the raw emotional toll it took on her personal relationships and the support that pulled her through. As she speaks on the importance of therapies, holistic health practices, and the power of honest dialogue, her insights underscore the need for empathy and comprehensive care. Postpartum isn't just about recovery; it's about transformation. Kelli's story doesn't shy away from the emotional and physical aftermath of a taxing birth, the questioning of increasing C-section rates, and the necessary advocacy for informed childbirth choices. In our heart-to-heart, we also recognize the significance of showing up for one another, especially in those vulnerable moments after bringing life into the world. From the vital need for maternity leave to strategies for maintaining mental health, we celebrate the resilience and personal growth that motherhood fosters, while underscoring the beauty of community and shared experiences. Join us for a powerful reminder of the strength we possess and the unwavering support we owe to each other.Connect with Kelli on Instagram here!We want to give a big shoutout to our sponsor Baby Tula for making this episode possible. Baby Tula crafts beautiful and incredibly comfy baby carriers, blankets, and accessories using quality materials. Their ergonomic and stylish baby carriers keep your little one snuggled close while giving you hands-free mobility. We're truly grateful for the support of sponsors like Baby Tula that allow us to create this podcast. Be sure to visit their site for all your babywearing needs! Babytula.comTo sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

When Ali held her newborn son Leo for the first time, she never imagined the rollercoaster of emotions that would unfold from his rare diagnosis. Our latest podcast episode takes you through Allie's poignant tale, where her maternal instincts kick into overdrive and her mental health is put to the test. Her story of navigating the challenging waters of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is a powerful testament to the resilience inherent in motherhood and the silent battles parents often face behind closed doors.Labor and delivery can be a daunting dance of anticipation and swift, unexpected turns, as Ali's experiences with each of her three children demonstrate. From the calm, spiritual ambiance she created during Leo's birth to the innovative 'towel trick' that aided her through the strenuous final moments of labor, Ali shares her journey with unflinching honesty. Her reflections include the trials of childbirth, the profound joy of the golden hour, and how even amidst the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic, the arrival of her youngest, Kennedy, shines as a beacon of light.As we wrap this episode, we're reminded of the connections that bind us all in the shared experience of parenthood. Ali's vulnerability in sharing her journey is a step toward breaking the silence that often surrounds parental challenges and rare diagnoses. We thank her for the courage to speak out and invite you, our listeners, to continue this conversation in our Golden Hour Birth Circle on Facebook. Whether you're trekking through the early days of motherhood or reminiscing on the memories of births past, we're here to support you every step of the way.Connect with Ali on Instagram here!We extend our deepest gratitude to this episode's sponsor, Ergobaby. Their dedication to enhancing the parenting experience through ergonomic, thoughtful designs makes them the ultimate companion. Thank you, Ergobaby, for supporting us and making this empowering episode possible. Visit their website to explore their innovative baby carriers, strollers, swaddlers and more that blend style, comfort and functionality. Ergobaby's sponsorship allows us to continue creating meaningful content for parents. Discover the perfect products to bring joy to your parenting journey today on their website here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

In this empowering episode, Rachel shares her journey to a redemptive VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) after two previous C-sections. Despite discouragement from providers, Rachel persevered to find a doctor and hospital supportive of her goal. She details the research she did to advocate for herself, including evaluating VBAC success rates and interviewing doctors. After achieving her desired birth, Rachel went on to doula training, inspired to help other women in their birth journeys. Rachel provides insight into navigating unsupportive providers, honoring your birthing decisions amidst judgment, and the euphoria of achieving the birth you desire. Her story will inspire you to stand up for your autonomy and follow your intuition when it comes to birth plans. Tune in for an uplifting perspective on overcoming obstacles to the birthing experience you envision.Connect with Rachel on Instagram here!We extend our deepest gratitude to this episode's sponsor, Ergobaby. Their dedication to enhancing the parenting experience through ergonomic, thoughtful designs makes them the ultimate companion. Thank you, Ergobaby, for supporting us and making this empowering episode possible. Visit their website to explore their innovative baby carriers, strollers, swaddlers and more that blend style, comfort and functionality. Ergobaby's sponsorship allows us to continue creating meaningful content for parents. Discover the perfect products to bring joy to your parenting journey today on their website here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

When faced with a rare and life-threatening pregnancy condition, the strength and resilience of a mother are put to the ultimate test. Andrea, a mother of four from Michigan, bravely shares the emotional odyssey of her bout with placenta accreta in our latest episode. Her narrative unravels the layers of maternal advocacy, specialized care, and the seldom-discussed nuances of postpartum healing, providing a beacon of hope and support for mothers walking a similar path.Join us as Andrea recounts the tumultuous journey, from the initial diagnosis to the complexities of managing a high-risk pregnancy with three children in tow. Her candid reflection on the emotional and logistical battles she faced underscores the necessity of a strong support system and the importance of empowering women to be proactive in their healthcare decisions.In bearing her soul about the aftermath of her traumatic childbirth, Andrea's experience takes center stage. The discussion traverses the physical aftermath, including her recovery from a fistula and multiple surgeries, and the mental fortitude required to navigate the psychological impacts of such an ordeal. Her candidness about the struggle to bond with her newborn, the importance of therapy, and the gradual reclamation of joy and gratitude in her life as a mother offers solace and guidance to anyone grappling with the emotional fallout of a traumatic birth. This episode is more than a story; it's an intimate gathering around the shared experiences that unite us in the face of adversity.Connect with Andrea on Instagram here.We extend our deepest gratitude to Ergobaby, the sponsor of this episode. Their commitment to enhancing the parenting experience through thoughtful and ergonomic designs is truly commendable. Explore Ergobaby's range of products, designed to bring comfort and joy to every moment of your parenting journey. Thank you, Ergobaby, for supporting us and making this episode possible. Visit Ergobaby's website to discover the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality for you and your little one.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Bearing the weight of postpartum anxiety and rage isn't a chapter in the parenting books many of us read, yet it's a story we know all too well. This episode peels back the curtain on the transformative journey of healing from difficult births, pregnancies and postpartum experiences, a path that many mothers silently tread. We open up about personal battles with these emotional challenges and stress the salve that therapy and community support can offer. It's a raw look at how the weight of birth remains with us, often manifesting in anxiety and a need for control, and the profound importance of confronting these feelings to reclaim our experiences. We're also excited to unveil our new course, a beacon for those seeking to navigate their own birth stories with self-forgiveness and compassion.If you resonate with today's episode and are seeking healing and empowerment after a challenging birth experience., this course is for you.Introducing the "Reclaiming Your Birth Story: Your Path to Healing and Empowerment" course, led by us, Liz and Natalie – passionate birth advocates and postpartum doulas. As professionals in the field, we bring not only our expertise but also the invaluable gift of firsthand understanding. Join us on a path to healing, recovery, and empowerment as you reclaim your birth story and emerge stronger than ever.Now, here's where your valuable input comes in.We're excited to offer you an exclusive chance to enroll at a 50% discount – only $13.50! Your input is invaluable to us. By joining this presale, you'll not only secure the lowest rate ever for this course but also play a direct role in shaping its content. We're here to guide you through healing, recovery, and empowerment as you reclaim your birth story.Here's a quick overview of what you'll get:Exclusive presale price of $13.50 (50% off the regular rate)Lifetime access to the course, including any future updatesA chance to influence the course content by sharing your insights How it works: In exchange for just 5 mins weekly over the next 6 weeks, you’ll help shape the course content. Set to go live on March 18th, I’ll craft it with insights from participants like YOU.Each Wednesday, I’ll send a short email with 2-3 questions. Your task? Vote for your favorite idea. By joining, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the course. On March 18th, you’ll receive the finalized course and any launch bonuses.We genuinely believe in the positive impact this course can have on your life, and we'd love to have you on board. Your support as a member of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community means everything to us, and we can't wait to see the incredible journey we'll shape together.The exclusive code is PRESELL!Click here to enroll and be part of this unique experience.Thank you for being a part of the Golden Hour Birth Podcast community. Your support means the world to us.Stay golden!xoxo-Liz & NatalieClick here to grab one of the 6 remaining spots now. Early enrollment ends on Monday, January 15th.

As a mother, the journey to meet your child is etched in your memory with all its twists and harrowing turns. Kami, a pediatric speech language pathologist, bravely steps into our space, inviting us into the most vulnerable moments of her life as she recounts the birth of her two children. Her story, a tapestry woven with the threads of anxiety, resilience, and profound growth, underscores the unpredictable nature of childbirth and the indomitable spirit of motherhood. Our conversation with Kami dives into the heart of her experiences, from the strenuous 48-hour induction of her firstborn to the complex emotions surrounding her second child's planned C-section. She opens up about the postpartum period, a time of healing and introspection, where journaling and therapy, specifically EMDR, played critical roles in her recovery. Kami's narrative, punctuated with candid discussions about mental health and the power of support systems, offers a compelling and deeply personal look at the realities of parenting newborns.As we conclude this episode, we extend our deepest gratitude to you, our listeners, for joining us on this intimate journey. As we part ways, remember, each story of birth is a testament to the diversity and resilience that lies within all birthing parents. Until next time, hold onto the strength of these stories, and may they guide you through your own chapters of parenthood.Connect with Kami on Instagram here and Threads here.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Imagine standing at the precipice of life's greatest joy and its most fearful uncertainty, all within the span of a single, heart-stopping hour. This episode is a profound voyage into the soul-stirring story of Nicolette, a seasoned labor and delivery nurse, who faces the ultimate test of her professional knowledge and personal resilience during the birth of her son. As she weaves through the complexities of an unexpected pregnancy and an emotional maelstrom of health scares, her narrative is a striking testament to the power of advocacy, intuition, and the unwavering support of loved ones.As a listener, you'll journey with Nicolette from the whimsical surprise of pregnancy amid the chaos of a Puerto Rican vacation to the tense moments of managing pregnancy anxieties while bearing the mantle of a nurse. You'll be enfolded in the intimacy of her story, from the laughter-filled revelation to her daughter about the new baby to the nerve-wracking days leading up to delivery. Her experience serves as a beacon for anyone navigating the unpredictable waters of pregnancy, labor, and the unforeseen challenges that can arise—even for those who know the birth room best.This episode isn't just about the recounting of a birth; it's an exploration of the raw edges of human experience and the indomitable spirit that emerges when life hangs in the balance. We hold space for Nicolette's voice and the voices of many others who have shared their journeys, creating a community rich with wisdom and courage. As you listen, prepare for an emotional tapestry that celebrates life, acknowledges the shadows, and honors the connections that bind us through the most profound moments of our lives.Part 2 & 3 of Nicolette's story can be found in earlier episodes.Connect with Nicolette on Instagram here.To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

Today's episode is a rebroadcast of one of our favorite episodes from 2022. Jenny's tale is one of hope and resilience, a story that reminds us of the strength found in shared experiences. As a nurse and clinical educator at a fertility clinic, she's familiar with the technicalities of conception, but it's her own struggle with PCOS and the surprise of a twin pregnancy that brings an authentic depth to this episode. Her candidness in recounting the unpredictability of fertility treatments, the dawning realization of her condition, and the subsequent rollercoaster of emotions draws us into a world where personal meets professional, offering a unique perspective that's both educational and deeply human.Our conversation extends beyond the initial joy of discovering twins—it explores the complexities of carrying them. The suspense of genetic testing, the humor in pregnancy announcement reactions, and the solidarity found amongst family and co-workers during trying times paint a vivid landscape of Jenny's journey. Yet, it's the turn of events, the early delivery, and the NICU stay, that test her resolve and highlight the courage often required in the face of unexpected challenges. Her story doesn't shy away from the reality of anxiety and fear but also celebrates the moments of humor and the unyielding support that see her through.Connect with Jennilyn here.Join our Facebook group community here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.

What does it really mean to navigate the winding road of motherhood? What if you had to encounter detours like infertility, unexpected pregnancies, and decisions that test your emotional strength? That's the reality for many mothers, including our guest for today's Golden Hour Birth podcast. Katherine Hunter, a brave soul who shares her journey through motherhood's peaks and valleys, will discuss her experience with infertility treatments, a natural subsequent pregnancy, and the process of making tough decisions about her remaining embryos.Motherhood doesn't stop at giving birth; it's a journey that continues to evolve. We'll take you through the contrasting experiences of our first and second births, the use of induction and epidurals, and the sheer importance of trusting your instincts when making decisions about childbirth. The impact of COVID-19 on giving birth is a topic we touch upon, revealing how the pandemic has reshaped our experiences in ways we never imagined.As we journey through the realm of motherhood, we share our birth stories and experiences of raising children amidst the new normal. Katherine discusses her initiative to create an anthology about infertility and pregnancy loss, emphasizing the power of shared stories and their ability to resonate with others. Tune in for an honest and relatable perspective on motherhood's complexities, and let's navigate this journey, one episode at a time.Connect with Katherine on Instagram here.Join our Facebook group community here!To sign up for our newsletter visit our website and blog: www.goldenhourbirthpodcast.comFollow Liz on Instagram here and Natalie hereFollow us on Facebook here.