In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond Podcast I interview Victoria White, founder of Neurodivergent Birth, about the challenges and needs faced by neurodivergent people navigating pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Victoria shares her personal journey, the motivation behind creating a social enterprise to support neurodivergent families, and the development of training and resources for both professionals and expectant parents. We dive into topics like the lack of tailored support in maternity care, the importance of intersectionality, the four pillars of neurodivergent birth (sensory processing, communication, executive functioning, and mental health), and the need for accessible, evidence-based information. Our conversation also highlights the significance of partner support, the impact of privilege and systemic issues, and the value of individualised care plans and resources.
Episode 54: Kayleigh’s Birth Story
In this conversation, Kayleigh recounts her two contrasting birth experiences: the first, during the Covid pandemic, was marked by medical pressure to induce labor due to a prolonged pregnancy, leading to interventions she felt were unnecessary and disempowering; the second, after extensive research and support, allowed her to trust her body, decline interventions, and have a positive, empowering home birth. She discusses the impact of coercive language from healthcare professionals, the role of her supportive partner, the significance of being informed, and the importance of listening to one’s body. The discussion also touches on the societal lack of postpartum support, the challenges of parenting multiple children, and the value of open communication and emotional intelligence in family life.
Episode 50: Delaney’s Birth Story
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I welcome Delaney, who shares her personal birth story, focusing on her experience of delivering at 43 weeks and five days. Delaney discusses the societal and medical pressures she faced to induce labor, her decision to wait for natural labour, and the emotional and physical challenges she encountered. The conversation highlights the importance of informed decision-making, autonomy, and the support of resources like Facebook groups and literature to empower expectant parents. Delaney’s story underscores the need for compassionate care and the right to choose one’s birth experience.
Episode 47: Tongue Tie Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Episode 45: Anna’s Birth Story
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast I speak with Anna as she recounts her journey from an uneventful pregnancy to a challenging labour that culminated in an unplanned C-section. Despite initial reluctance towards having children and concerns about endometriosis, Anna’s pregnancy progressed smoothly. Her labour, however, was prolonged and complicated by the baby’s position and a full bladder, leading to a hospital transfer, other complications and eventual C-section. Anna emphasises the importance of postpartum bonding, sharing how skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding helped forge a strong connection with her daughter. She reflects on the unexpected nature of birth experiences and the value of postpartum support, offering insights into navigating unforeseen challenges.
Episode 41: Birth Prep: 3 Mistakes You’re Making (and Don’t Know It)
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I address three common mistakes in birth preparation: relying solely on a birth plan, fearing pain management, and not proactively learning about caesarean sections. I emphasise the need for a solid understanding of birth processes, the role of hormones in pain management, and the importance of being informed about medical interventions. I also highlight the significance of creating a supportive birth environment and encourage listeners to take an active role in their birth journey. Additionally, I invite listeners to a free workshop on water birth essentials to further empower them in making informed decisions about their birthing experience.
Episode 39: Part 2 with Courtney: Preparing for birth & postpartum at 38 weeks
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I welcome back Courtney, who shares her journey from 27 to nearly 39 weeks of pregnancy. The conversation covers the emotional and practical preparations for childbirth and early parenting, including the importance of open communication with her partner, managing household responsibilities, and preparing for the baby’s arrival. Courtney discusses the challenges and strategies of colostrum harvesting, the significance of maintaining a support network, and the emotional aspects of becoming a parent, especially with family far away. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning, flexibility, and communication to navigate the transition to parenthood.
Episode 38: No Amount Of Hoping Will Set You Up For A Positive Birth
In the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I provide a supportive and inclusive space for expectant and new parents to feel empowered and informed about their pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. The podcast emphasises the importance of learning about the natural birth process to feel confident and in control, as opposed to relying on potentially misleading or dramatised cultural narratives. I invite listeners to a free water birth webinar, which delves into the benefits and considerations of water birth, regardless of whether listeners are certain about their birth preferences. The podcast encourages proactive preparation and understanding to foster trust in one’s body and the birth process.
How I Chose My Birth Squad
I remember those early months of pregnancy with my first baby. It was overwhelming, full of horrific all day long nausea, and lots of unknowns. I didn’t know anything about birth, not much about pregnancy or looking after a newborn or what to expect generally. I was excited but f**king terrified! We were one of […]
Episode 29: Part 2 Behind the scenes chat with Amy
In the latest episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I continue this discussion with my co-host Amy. We talk about many subjected related to health, personal growth, and self-care. I shares my experiences with managing Hashimoto’s, the importance of prioritizing health, and the role of yoga in managing anxiety and ADHD. The conversation also touches on the significance of making time for self-care amidst a busy life, the benefits of small changes, and the impact of movement on mental health. We also explore the idea of vision boards and personal goals, highlighting the importance of balance and gratitude in life.
Episode 28: Amy & Candy talk behind the scenes to get all the goss
In the latest episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I chat with my co-host Amy about my personal life, including my experiences as a parent of three, my journey of personal growth, and lifestyle changes over the years. We explore topics such as the dynamics of parenting multiple children, personal interests, and how life has evolved with age and family responsibilities. The discussion also touches on my love for nature, mindfulness practices, and my aspirations for the future.
Episode 27: What you need to know about birth pools
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Episode 23: Why is breastfeeding not always easy?
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I explore the complexities of breastfeeding, emphasizing that it can be a challenging experience for many due to a lack of exposure and knowledge. I compare the learning process to an alien trying to drive a car, highlighting the importance of understanding human lactation beyond just nutrition. I also provide really practical advice on seeking support, such as consulting lactation consultants and utilizing resources like La Leche League. I address the impact of birth experiences on feeding and stress the importance of early support to prevent issues like nipple damage and low milk supply. The episode encourages you to prepare for your feeding journey by gathering resources and support networks in advance.
Episode 26: Too posh to push? I’m furious!
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Episode 24: Catch Up with Amy
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Episode 21: Help for an unsettled baby and frazzled parents
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, I provide support and advice for parents of unsettled babies. I talk about the importance of self-care to maintain a regulated nervous system, suggesting that parents find small moments for relaxation and seek help from friends or family. I also recommend exploring craniosacral osteopathy to address potential physical tension in infants and consulting specialists for oral dysfunction issues like tongue ties. The episode aims to offer empathy, practical tips, and reassurance that the challenging phase of parenting an unsettled baby will eventually pass.
Episode 20: Second trimester preparing for parenting life with Courtney
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, host I talk with Courtney, a pregnant yoga client, about the importance of communication and support in preparing for parenthood. We discuss creating a wellbeing plan, sharing household responsibilities, and managing sleep deprivation. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding each other’s needs and maintaining open communication to ensure a supportive environment for both partners as they transition into parenthood.
Episode 15: Amy’s Birth Story
In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, host I talk with Amy about her journey to home birth. Amy shares her initial fears about childbirth and how she overcame them through hypnobirthing and preparation. She discusses the importance of feeling empowered and supported, highlighting the significant role her doula played in her experience. Despite challenges with her midwife, Amy’s preparation and support system helped her achieve a positive home birth. The episode also touches on the broader themes of birth preparation, the influence of societal norms, and the value of investing in a supportive birth experience.
Episode 4: Why would I invest in my birth?
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Exploring Water Birth With High BMI
Water birth can be a viable and empowering option for individuals with a high BMI, seeking a natural childbirth experience. By addressing potential challenges and leveraging the benefits of water birth, women /folks with high BMI can explore this gentle birthing tool with confidence and informed decision-making.
Episode 2: Why learn about birth?
Subscribe and Review Thank you so much for listening to this week’s episode! If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment on this post. If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love for you to share it with another parent who you think might benefit from it. Also, I’d love for you to […]