Shows
The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 119 - Q and A with Sallyann - Birth Tools, Red Flags, Doulas, Homebirth, Breastfeeding, Postpartum and Much MoreSend us a textIn this weeks episode, I answer many of the questions that were sent to me.These are:- What do you think is the most important thing to bring with you on your pregnancy journey?What is your top care provider red flag. My doula was not what I hoped they would be and I am pregnant again. Should I hire a different doula to support me this time or not? What do I do if the midwives don’t come to my homebirth - my husbands fea...2024-04-0746 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 106 - Q & A with Sallyann - Placentas, MLU's, Breech Birth, Newborns at Christmas, Sleep Issues and Much More.Send us a textIn this weeks episode I share some exciting news!In addition, I am finally answering some of your questions about a wide variety of topics which include:- What happens if your placenta doesn't come out and the midwives have to remove it. What can I do to have a successful birth in a Midwife Led UnitCan I have my breech baby at homeHow can I cope with a newborn at Christmas when visiting friends and familyHow can I help my 2 month...2023-12-1050 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 97 - Part One - Breaking Generational Trauma and The Art of Re-ParentingSend us a textIn this weeks episode, I am chatting with Magdalena Finn about the journey she went on when planning to give birth to her son. She candidly shares how she was able to break the generational trauma that her mother and grandmother experienced, which allowed her to have such a positive birth for both her and her son. In addition, we talked about how surprised she felt as her son grew, and she found some of the normal toddler behaviours really triggering for her - and what she was able to...2023-10-081h 01The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 96 - Birth Embodiment with Conscious Birth Coach CharlotteSend us a textIn this episode of the podcast I am chatting with Charlotte Mindel who is a conscious birth coach. We hear Charlotte talk about birth embodiment and all that goes with it, including birth confidence, birth empowerment, birth choices - and preparation for birth in general. Charlotte's own birth story is an eyeopener with regards to how she feels so differently now she can look back at the way that she made decisions based on other peoples opinions, and how she will do this differently next time. Find Charlotte's website he...2023-10-011h 15The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 95 - Birth Partners and Doulas Working Alongside Care Providers - With Shellie PoulterSend us a textIn this week's episode I am chatting with the inspirational Shellie Poulter, about how birth partners and doulas can support you alongside your care providers. She explains how to take into consideration your nervous system, and what might be going on inside you, as well as trying to make sense of care providers and their trauma responses.Shellie's perspective is enlightening, and she offers great suggestions on how to ensure that anyone supporting you in labour can stay calm and relaxed and ask questions in an appropriate and effective manner where...2023-09-241h 00The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 94 - Homeopathy for Conception, Birth and Parenting with The Wild HomeopathSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Sapna who is a knowledgeable homeopath specialising in infertility and conception, as well as pregnancy, birth and postpartum care for the whole family.Our discussion takes us on a journey through the options available in homeopathy with such a wide range of remedies to choose from, and Sapna shares why engaging with a homeopath is so useful to ensure you choose the right ones for you and your symptoms. Website - https://www.thewildhomeopath.comLink to free 36-page...2023-09-171h 12The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 93 - Understanding Your Nervous System with Kimberly Ann JohnsonSend us a textIn this week's episode of the podcast, I am chatting with the amazing Kimberly Ann Johnson. We chat about a wide variety of topics, but Kimberly takes us on a deep dive into the nervous system and its effects on the body. This valuable information will help you understand more about your nervous system and in particular your own responses. Enjoy XYou can visit Kimberly's website here - http://kimberlyannjohnson.comDownload a copy of Chapter One of her book Call of...2023-09-101h 02The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 92 - Welcome to Season 4Send us a textIn this week's episode of the podcast - I am giving you an overview of what is to come in season 4. I know how much you have missed listening to such a wide range of amazing guests, so I wanted to let you in on the theme for these upcoming episodes - which is about stepping into your power and achieving a sovereign birth.You deserve to have the birth that you want - and I hope this season will fill in some of the missing gaps in your knowledge, in o...2023-09-0308 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastBonus Episode 91 - The Wave Comb - Using a Comb as a Tool in LabourSend us a textIn this bonus episode - recorded in 2022 - I am chatting to Kat Clive who invented the wave comb. This comb has been specifically designed to be placed in your hand as a birth management tool which can be used safely in labour. Throughout this episode, Kat talks us through her own birth experiences, and shares why she decided to use a comb in her second birth. She also explains the Gate Control Theory and what Acupressure points the comb can support. Disclaimer - I am not affi...2023-05-2135 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 90 - Emma's Story - C-Section and VBACSend us a textIn the very last episode of season 3, I am chatting with one of my very special birth clients Emma, who had two very different experiences with each of her children.Emma shares how she felt as a Muslim woman, having an unplanned c-section with her first baby, and then how she was clear that she wanted a natural birth next time around. Despite being given a diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes, she strongly believes she didn't have it due to leading such a healthy lifestyle. Emma did a lot of res...2023-05-141h 02The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 89 - 5 Top Tips to Support Your Breathing and Relaxation PracticeSend us a textIn the penultimate episode of season 3, I am flying solo. After identifying that my most popular episode is the one on breathing and relaxation skills, I wanted to support you further. So, I have chosen to look deeper into the practice and help you identify ways to not only make the techniques easier but also more effective. These 5 tips are useful to anyone who is looking to use breathing and relaxation in preparation for their birth. I hope you enjoy this episode ❤️If you love the podc...2023-04-3027 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 88 - Your Body, Your Birth, Your Choice with Mindful Midwife LisaSend us a textIn this weeks episode I am chatting with midwife Lisa Goulbourn about her role as a midwife working within the NHS. We discuss a wide range of information relating to the topic of your body, your birth, your choice - including homebirth, induction of labour, midwife appointments and much more. @mindfulmidwifelisaLinktree - https://linktr.ee/mindfulmidwife?fbclid=PAAaZYunQYI1ncZhwwER50vJ8KAMlSUrcbIwfztJ3hzD3bR6XC-K_lq8iSV_UIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a...2023-04-231h 01The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 87 - In Conversation with Dr Natalie Elphinstone OBGYNSend us a textIn this episode I have a candid conversation with Dr Natalie Elphinstone about her work as a private and public Obstetrician in Australia. Her amazing instagram account has shown the world countless incredible videos of the clients she supports who choose to have a maternal assisted caesarean aswell as other birth experiences. Natalie shares information about her training, her own birth choices and what made her decide to go back to basics and learn more about physiological birth. Follow her on Instagram @drnatalieelphinstoneIf you lov...2023-04-161h 07The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 86 - Georgie's story - First Time Mum's Homebirth with Low PAPP ASend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting to Georgie who gives us a full and frank account of her preparation for birth and the journey she went on when deciding how and where to have her baby. She also explains why she felt it was so important to prepare her partner. Georgie describes the way she discovered she had low PAPP A and how she was able to advocate for herself when choosing to decline an induction of labour - which was the recommendation by her care provider. This fa...2023-04-0257 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 85 - The Energetics of Birth with Jennie HarrisonSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Jennie Harrison about the energetics of birth from the baby's perspective. It is important for us to acknowledge how a baby can be affected by the feelings their mother has during pregnancy, and also how they are impacted by the birth experience overall. It also helps to understand how we carry trauma in our DNA through the generations, which is scientifically proven. Knowing how energetics play out in the postnatal period and throughout our life in general and then int...2023-03-261h 16The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 84 - Setting Boundaries for Birth - With Clinical Psychologist JennaSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Dr. Jenna Brough about the importance of setting boundaries for your birth. Jenna explains what boundaries are, and why they are essential for your pregnancy preparation. We also discuss why it is so easy to struggle with asserting ourselves in labour, and how we often feel the need to please our care providers and put their wishes over our own. This is such an insightful episode that will help you to understand why boundaries are important not only for birth, but pa...2023-03-1953 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 83 - The Birth Partners Role - With Betty from @thebirthpartneracademySend us a textIn this week's episode, I am delighted to be chatting with Betty from The Birth Partner Academy. We get into a wonderful conversation about how Betty became interested in offering support to birth partners and what we both feel birth partners need to know and why. This episode is jam-packed with tips and solutions to help you understand more about the birth partner role, how to ensure that you choose the right birth partner for you, and what your birth partner needs to know about the role they play. In...2023-03-121h 07The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 82 - Hypnobirthing with Claire FultonSend us a textIn this week's episode, Claire Fulton and I are discussing Hypnobirthing. Claire, from the Nurture Nest, hosts a popular Hypnobirthing Podcast where she shares tips, and positive birth stories as well as speaking to occasional guests who share knowledge and information on how to have a positive birth experience. I was excited to chat to Claire about this topic, as it is a really useful tool for not only pregnancy but for life too. You can find claire Insatagram - @the_nurture_nestPodcast - The...2023-03-051h 03The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 81 - In Conversation with Prenatal Chiropractor Dr Elliot BerlinSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with award-winning chiropractor and doula Dr Elliot Berlin about his role in supporting women through a healthy conception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Dr. Berlin shares his wisdom and offers tips and information to support you in achieving the same. We chat about his journey to becoming a chiropractor and how he came to specialise in pregnancy. His own personal journey of conception led to an understanding of how important it is to ensure that both your body and mind are healthy in order to conceive a...2023-02-2655 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 80 - Part Two - Radical Birth Keeper Felicity answers questions about the NHS systemSend us a textPart Two - In this week's episode, I am chatting again with radical birth keeper Felicity - about the state of the NHS. She has very kindly agreed to answer my questions on a wide variety of different topics that I have been desperate to talk about for so long, but unable to find someone willing to agree and open up. Felicity also brings questions from her own audience on relative subjects. This is a critical conversation - and one that I hope you will share. We discuss all of the fol...2023-02-191h 47The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 79 - Part One - NHS Whistleblower Felicity shares her story of working as a former midwife.Send us a textIn this week's episode of the podcast, I am chatting with Radical Birth Keeper Felicity who shares her journey of becoming an NHS Midwife, and also explains why she felt she had to leave. Felicity talks openly and honestly about her experience, explaining what she witnessed and also what she actively participated in during her time as a medical midwife. I believe it helps to have a deeper understanding of the system within the NHS, so that you can understand the importance of taking ownership of your birth experience. 2023-02-121h 02The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 78 - Birth & Breastfeeding - With Midwife Katie James IBCLCSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with Midwife and IBCLC Lactation Consultant Katie James.We chat about all aspects of breastfeeding including - the breast crawl, how birth affects breastfeeding, how partners can support breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact, and Katie's amazing new online breastfeeding course. You can find Katie - Instagram @themidwivescauldronKatie's website and breastfeeding course - www.katiejames.siteIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a cof...2023-02-051h 05The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 77 - The Birth Map with Catherine BellSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with birth cartographer Catherine Bell. Catherine shares with us what a birth map is and how she came up with the idea. She also explains in detail how the book and game work, where you can access them, and how you can use them to prepare for a positive birth experience. Follow Catherine on Instagram @birthmappingCatherines website www.birthmap.lifeIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me...2023-01-2955 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 76 - Hospital Birth & Freebirth with Victoria from @freetobirthSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with the lovely Victoria from @freetobirth, who shares the stark difference between her two births. One was a planned homebirth that moved to hospital and the other was a planned homebirth that progressed to a freebirth. Victoria candidly shares how her lack of birth preparation affected her ability to cope in her first birth experience and she also didn't understand that she could advocate for herself in the circumstances she was in and decline interventions that were offered to her.Throughout her s...2023-01-221h 24The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 75 - Physiological Birth - Five Key Physiological PrinciplesSend us a textIn today's episode, I am giving you a quick run-through of the 5 Key Physiological Principles that make up the book The Art of Giving Birth. I am delighted to give you a brief overview of each principle and outline what is covered in the book. Don't forget you can download the Introduction and Chapter One for FREE before deciding if this book is for you. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.lin...2023-01-1541 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 74 - Q and A Session with Sallyann - Pushing, Safety Word, Pets & Kids, Homebirth, Tearing and much much more...Send us a textIn this week's episode of the podcast, I am answering a variety of questions about giving birth, with topics that include - What to do if you experience a plateau in labour and you feel an urge to push, the use of a safety word, how to keep your energy up when birth is long, how a birth partner or doula should behave during the birth, should you have more than one birth plan and much much more...Please continue to send in your questions for future episodes so I can s...2023-01-0840 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 73 - Caesarean Birth with Divina Johnson the C-Section CoachSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking about all things C-section with the C-section coach Divina Johnson. We talk in detail about Divina's three very different C-section experiences, two of which were very traumatic. In addition, we chat about her third very healing birth which led to her becoming the C-section coach and supporting others to have a positive abdominal birth. Instagram - @csectioncoach Website - divinajohnson.comIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a c...2022-12-1859 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 72 - In Conversation with Dr. Nathan Riley - The Holistic OBGYNSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting to Dr. Nathan Riley AKA The Holistic OBGYN. We have a really open and honest discussion about so many aspects of Nathan's journey into becoming an MD who specialised in Obstetrics, and how and why he is now working privately. Nathan has some incredible insights into his work, and he also shares with us how tough it was when it was time for his first child to be born. We get into some really deep conversations about birth, death, autonomy...2022-12-111h 07The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 71 - Orgasmic Birth with Debra Pascali-BonaroSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with Debra Pascali-Bonaro about Orgasmic Birth. Debra and I get into a wonderful conversation about what is an orgasmic birth - and how we can benefit from learning more about the body's capabilities of giving birth in a pleasurable way.The more we talk openly about our body and our body parts, the more we can recognise how to enjoy birth, and embrace the sensations we feel instead of allowing fear to dominate.We also discuss the role of the birth p...2022-12-0459 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 70 - Induction of Labour and The Arrive Trial with Dr Sarah J MurphySend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting all things Induction with Dr. Murphy who has very bravely agreed to come on and share with us what the Arrive Trial was about and how it has dramatically changed practice within maternity services across the world - and definitely not for the better (in my opinion). Choosing to accept or decline an induction is a very personal decision - but it's hard to make a well-informed decision when you are not exposed to ALL the facts about why an induction might be offered to y...2022-11-2747 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 69 - Midwife Lydia shares her experience of working as an NHS Continuity MidwifeSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am enjoying a conversation with the lovely Lydia who is an NHS midwife in Birmingham. Lydia shares her experience of being a continuity midwife, pregnancy yoga teacher, and hypnobirthing instructor who is also now pregnant and expecting her first baby. We chat about a wide range of topics relating to her role as a midwife and her own preparation for birth and that of her birth partner. If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'b...2022-11-2049 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 68 - From Womb to World with Anna VerwaalSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with the incredible Anna Verwaal who shares her thoughts and feelings about the lasting imprints that live within us from our own time in the womb and the birth experiences we have. Anna talks about conscious conception and how we can help support our children to come into being with the most optimal conditions possible because we can work on and ideally eliminate many of the fears that live within us, and so much more...There is an abundance of wisdom in this e...2022-11-131h 07The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 67 - Pop That Mumma - Poppy's Birth StorySend us a textPoppy Child from @popthatmumma shares her experience of giving birth in the NHS maternity system. Poppy's birth is inspirational - however, there were a few twists and turns. This is a really great story that will help you to identify some key reasons why you should always follow your body during physiological birth because Poppy almost lost out on her dream birth at the final hurdle.Instagram @popthatmummaWebsite - https://www.hypnobirthing-positive-birth.com/birthboxIf you love the podcast and would like to support it...2022-11-0653 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 66 - Gestational Diabetes and Pregnancy Nutrition with Lily Nichols RDNSend us a textIn this episode I am chatting with Lily Nichols RDN who shares with us why it's useful to know more about the foods you eat and how they can affect your blood sugar levels. We spoke in detail about the different screening methods for Gestational Diabetes and why it's important to understand what each test is for - so you will know if you want to accept or decline. Lily also gave tips on how to improve your diet and lessen the chances of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes in general or other c...2022-10-301h 16The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 65 - Birth Story - Planning a Home Birth with Your First Baby - Yazz's StorySend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with new mum Yazz Salah, who shares her story of planning and achieving a homebirth with her first baby. The preparation of her birth partner was integral to her success, and despite a few bumps in the road, Yazz had a beautiful birth - at home. If you enjoy this episode - please leave a 5 *rating and review and share it with your friends.If you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me...2022-10-2354 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 64 - Owning Your Birth - A Chat (and a rant) with Doula Daisy DinwoodieSend us a textIn today's episode, I am chatting about all things birth with the lovely Daisy Dinwoodie, a fellow doula, and pregnancy yoga teacher. We chat about our role as doulas and offer birth stories and experiences about anything from c-section to free birth. We laugh about the idea that many care providers think they offer shared decision making and we offer words of advice to pregnant women and their partners about how to take ownership of their birth experiences.If you enjoy this jam-packed episode - please leave a 5 *rating and review a...2022-10-161h 13The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 63 - Unwanted Induction of Labour with the Schoenberg FamilySend us a textHayley and Katja Schoenberg bravely share their story of conceiving using donor sperm, going through a pregnancy during covid times, and having an unwanted induction of labour for a predicted big baby, which lead to a traumatic birth experience for them both. This isn't an easy story to hear, but it's essential for both you and your partner to understand so you can try to avoid going through many of the devastating procedures and interventions that caused this trauma. You can follow Hayley and Katja on Instagram @theschoenbergfamily2022-10-0959 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 62 - Pregnancy, Periods and Self-Care with Herbalist and Midwife Rosemary UmoluSend us a textIn this week's episode, I had the privilege of chatting with Rosemary Umolu. Rosemary is a Midwife & Herbalist helping women get rid of period pains. Her love of nature & reproductive health inspired her to become a midwife, combining herbal knowledge and traditional skills to help women birth safely.We spoke of her journey to becoming a herbalist, the importance of self-care, her role as a midwife, and how to take ownership when it comes to your life and your birth. This is a truly wonderful episode which I hope y...2022-10-021h 11The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 61 - Understanding All 3 Ways You Can Give BirthSend us a textI am back with Season 3 of the podcast, and in this episode I am flying solo. I wanted to record this episode alone and share with you all my personal stance on the difference between the three ways you can give birth. I believe it is essential for every pregnant woman or person to fully understand their options when planning for birth so that when you know the 3 different types of birth, you can prevent yourself from accidentally accepting interventions or procedures without realising the consequences of those decisions. Stepping into yo...2022-09-2530 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 60 - Q & A session with Sallyann - Physiological birth, Induction, Breastfeeding, Doulas and much more...Send us a textIn the last episode of Season 2, I am answering some of the questions that were sent to me by my listeners. I am covering information on birth preparation, birth partners, vaginal examinations, induction of labour, doulas, breastfeeding and much more... It can be so helpful to listen to the many unexpected nuggets of information that come up when questions are being answered. I will be back with Season 3 in a few weeks - so subscribe now to make sure you don't miss out on the next episode when it's re...2022-03-2740 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 59 - In Conversation with Dr Jenna Brough - What is 'Normal' and how it relates to Childbirth and the Postpartum PeriodSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Dr Jenna Brough who is a perinatal clinical psychologist. We get into a deep discussion about the term 'normal' and how it relates to birth. How medicalised birth and intervention is seen as the norm and how most recommendations for intervention are based on fear of litigation.Book a session with Jenna https://linktr.ee/tribepsychologyYou can find Jenna on Instagram @tribepsychologyIf you would like to buy a copy of the book that accompanies this podcast...2022-03-2055 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 58 - Laura's story - Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Home Breech Birth during CovidSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Laura Berkeley who shares with us her journey through two very different pregnancy and birth experiences - where she suffered hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and had a vaginal breech birth at home with her second baby during Covid. Laura gives great tips and information about becoming a mother and what has worked well for her since the birth of her first child. Laura is a trained hypnobirthing teacher and doula. Laura's website - https://thelemontreebirth.co.ukFollow Laura on In...2022-03-131h 01The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 57 - The Motherhood Journey with Aimee StrongmanSend us a textIn this week's episode, I am talking to the lovely Aimee Strongman from Glow Yoga in Dorset. She shares with us her wisdom on the motherhood journey, taken from her pregnancy yoga classes - which helps support the women who attend her sessions, to tune into their instincts and incorporate the tools she offers on the mind, body connection. As a pregnancy yoga teacher, Aimee really understands the importance of breathwork and relaxation. During our conversation, she offers many tips and suggestions to make pregnancy and birth a more spiritual exp...2022-03-0646 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 56 - Maternity Services Past and Present - With Midwife Sheena ByromSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting to the lovely Sheena Byrom, as she shares her story of working in the maternity system, and what it has been like from the 1970's - to the current day.Sheena talks of her time as a student, and how her career has led her through many different roles, finally becoming the head of midwifery for a large trust - which included setting up 3 midwife-led units. Her insights were fascinating, and it wasn't always easy for Sheena as she describes terrible bullying and a 9-year c...2022-02-271h 01The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 55 - In Conversation with Human Rights Lawyer Hermine Hayes-KleinSend us a textIn this week's episode, I had the privilege of chatting to the incredible human rights lawyer Hermine Hayes-Klein, who shares so much of her knowledge of the law of informed consent and refusal in relation to a pregnant woman or person's rights in childbirth. Hermine and I chat in detail about how to provide support during this time, as partners, doulas, or family members - in order to make sure that as advocates, we fully understand our role. The sound quality isn't great, as Hermine was out and about...2022-02-2057 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 54 - Vaginal Breech VBAC birth in an MLU - Louisa's storySend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting to Louisa, a mum of 3, who recently gave birth in a Midwife Led Unit to a breech baby. Louisa had a C-section with her first baby who was also breech and then went on to have a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean) for her 2nd. Her preparation for her 3rd baby was very thorough, in order to achieve a similar experience to her 2nd birth. After realising at the end of the pregnancy that her baby was breech, and clearly very co...2022-02-131h 06The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 53 - Part 2 - How mindset and positivity can help you achieve the birth of your dreamsSend us a textIn this week's episode, we catch up with Carmen, who shares the VBAC birth story of her 3rd baby after having 2 previous c- sections. Her birth story is so inspirational and she describes how her mindset and certainty in her ability to give birth to her baby really worked in helping her to achieve her dream birth, despite circumstances unfolding in a way that was not expected. Carmen runs courses on mindset which you can find here - www.thebirthcoachcompany.comAnd follow her on Instagram @thebirthcoachcompany2022-02-0656 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 52 - A Surrogate Pregnancy Journey - with Teresa CooteSend us a textIn this episode, Teresa Coote shares her journey of supporting two families to become parents through surrogacy.Through her research, she chose to use Brilliant Beginnings - a fully supported surrogacy service that matches intended parents with their surrogates and takes them through the entire journey to ensure a positive and safe surrogacy journey. https://brilliantbeginnings.co.ukIf you would like to buy a copy of the book that accompanies this podcast - click here:-Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide t...2022-01-3053 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 51 - In Conversation with US Midwife Blyss YoungSend us a textAt the end of 2021, I had the privilege of spending an hour with the wonderful Blyss Young, a licensed midwife who practices in California, USA. We chatted about a wide range of subjects, including why she became a midwife, physiological birth, antenatal education, birth partners and more...You can find Blyss here - https://www.birthingblyss.comFollow her on Instagram - @birthingblyss Listen to Blyss and Dr Stu on their podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683If you wo...2022-01-2349 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 50 - Part 2 of Becoming Trauma Informed - with Sheryl WynneSend us a textIn the second of two episodes, Sheryl Wynne shares with us what it means to become trauma-informed and what it is like in her experience. In becoming aware of trauma, she has moved forward to support others to recognise trauma and is now running monthly courses to help birth workers, hypnobirthing instructors and others, to open their eyes to the best way to support women and birthing people throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond.Sheryl can be found at - https://simplynatal.co.uk On Instagram @simply_natal_healing_bir...2022-01-1654 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 49 - Part 1 of Becoming Trauma Informed - Sheryl's birth storiesSend us a textIn the first of two episodes, Sheryl Wynne shares with us her two very different birth experiences. Sheryl honestly and openly describes how her first birth was very traumatic for her, and how the support she received was lacking, throughout her experience. She also takes us on the journey she went on postnatally to discover, that she wasn't to blame for the experience she had. In becoming aware of trauma, she was able to have a very positive second birth and has moved forward to support others to recognise what it mea...2022-01-091h 11The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 48 - Why I HATE contraction apps - an unnecessary intervention!Send us a textIn this episode, I give my top 3 reasons why I hate contraction apps.I have a good old rant about this seemingly innocent gadget, that is in fact an intervention.You would be amazed at the amount of births that are sabotaged by an app that does not take into account what is actually happening in the birth room - as it cannot take into consideration the behaviour of the labouring woman or person. As a birth partner, it is even more important that you let birth h...2022-01-0219 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 47 - Physiological birth V Managed birth - an insight into the difference between the two.Send us a textIn this episode, I am sharing my views on the differences between physiological birth and a medically managed birth with interventions.I share tips on how to succeed in achieving a physiological birth, and what to look out for if you have a managed birth. I cover vaginal examinations, positions, sounds, monitoring the baby, pushing and much more.Here is a link to more information on cervical recoil by @drsarawickhamhttps://www.sarawickham.com/original-articles/exploring-cervical-recoil/If you would like to buy a copy...2021-12-1920 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 46 - In conversation with Dr Rachel Reed - Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of PassageSend us a textIn this episode, I am excited to be in conversation with the amazing midwife Dr Rachel Reed. Rachel is most commonly known for her blog 'Midwife Thinking' and is the author of two incredibly popular books, aswell as being the co-host of the brilliant Midwives' Cauldron podcast. Rachel is originally from the UK, but now lives in Queensland Australia. She is a researcher, speaker, teacher, and consultant. During our time together, we chatted about a wide range of topics including - her blog, her books, physiological birth, mid...2021-12-121h 04The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 45 - Postnatal Support and 'Covid Babies' with Professor Amy BrownSend us a textIn this week's episode of the podcast, I had the privilege of chatting to the very lovely Professor Amy Brown. Amy is a professor of maternal and child public health at Swansea University. She is the director of their research center - LIFT (Lactation Infant Feeding and Translation), and the author of 10 books and numerous research articles which can be found on her website. During this episode, we chat about the importance of preparation in pregnancy for the postnatal period. How all birth partners need to understand in...2021-12-0552 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 44 - In conversation with 'Dr Stu' - Obstetrician Stuart Fischbein and I chat all things birthSend us a textIn this episode, I had the privilege of chatting with community based obstetrician Dr Stuart Fischbein, about many of the issues that pregnant women and people are facing in maternity services today, both in the US and the UK. We discuss information on twin birth, breech birth, vbac, gestational diabetes, home birth, microbiome and much more. You can contact Dr Stu via his website - http://www.birthinginstincts.comListen to Dr Stu and Blyss on their podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/birthing-instincts/id15528166832021-11-281h 09The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 43 - 5 reasons why you might decide NOT to learn hypnobirthing!Send us a textHave you been wondering if hypnobirthing is for you? Have you looked at the pro's but not considered the con's?This episode will help you to identify 5 reasons why you might want to avoid taking a hypnobirthing training. As a hypnobirthing teacher, I believe it is important for you to know ALL the facts when it comes to hypnobirthing training. Most people get the best out of the techniques once they are fully invested, and it is important to know how it will work on the day. 2021-11-2119 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 42 - Placenta Encapsulation and Remedies - Is this right for you?Send us a textIn today's episode I am chatting to Carly Lewis who is a placenta remedies specialist. Carly runs Prism placenta training and also chairs the PRN (Placenta Remedies Network).She shares with us the benefits of placenta encapsulation and talks about the wide variety of remedies that can be made from the placenta. She also answers some of the frequently asked questions that she gets from potential clients.You can find a placenta remedies specialist near you by searching - www.placentaremediesnetwork.orgIf you are interested in...2021-11-1441 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 41 - Rob's story - Father of 3 shares his experiences of becoming a dad!Send us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting with Rob Geraghty who candidly shares his experiences of being a birth partner, and becoming a father of 3 children.So often the focus in maternity care is around supporting the women during pregnancy and birth, so it is easy to forget the partner and ask how they are doing. Rob admits that he didn't always find it easy in the beginning, and was happier when he was able to get back to more of a work-life balance. He points out that not al...2021-11-0748 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 40 - Human rights in childbirth - with birth activist Emma AshworthSend us a textIn today's episode, I am chatting with birth rights activist Emma Ashworth about the need to understand your rights in pregnancy and birth, in order to ensure that your plans for birth are not affected by the fear-based practice that we see in maternity services today. We also hear Emma talk about the current midwifery crisis in the NHS and how to navigate your birth options during this time. This episode contains some important truths regarding issues that pregnant women and people face when navigating the healthcare system. If...2021-10-311h 04The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 39 - Freebirth - Giving birth without medical assistance - Leonie's storySend us a textIn today's episode, I am speaking to Leonie Rainbird-Savin who candidly shares her experience of giving birth 3 times with only her husband present. During each pregnancy, Leonie's thoughts and feelings varied regarding how much care she wanted to access. Listen to her describe each birth, and the planning and preparation that went into those 3 pregnancies. Leonie also shares her feelings about the interventions that followed each one of her births, which effectively 'broke the bubble' of her ideal postpartum period. If you would like to connect with...2021-10-241h 08The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 38 - Part One - How mindset and positivity can help with conception, pregnancy, birth and lifeSend us a textIn this episode, I am speaking to Carmen who is expecting her 3rd child. Her journey so far, through 2 C-sections and 1 devastating miscarriage, has led her to use positive mindset tools to help her to conceive and prepare for her upcoming birth. We hear all about how Carmen's plans are unfolding during her pregnancy and are looking forward to catching up with her again after the birth.Carmen runs courses on mindset which you can find here - www.thebirthcoachcompany.comAnd follow her on Instagram @thebirthcoachcompany2021-10-1748 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 37 - Hospital and Home VBAC after 2 C-sections with Michelle QuashieSend us a textIn this episode, I am chatting with birth activist Michelle Quashie about the very different birth experiences she had with her 4 children. These include a premature birth via emergency c-section, a crash c-section after haemorrhaging with placenta previa, a hospital VBAC and a home VBAC with an independent midwife. Michelle shares how her confidence in her own body led her to finally achieve her dream to birth with no intervention. Michelle is currently involved in the Childbirth Choices Matter campaign, to get Independent Midwives (IM) insurance to practice, and to help women who...2021-10-1056 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 36 - Male Midwife James shares his story of supporting physiological birthSend us a textIn this episode, I am speaking to James, a male midwife who is a true inspiration to so many birth keepers.James has a real passion to support pregnant women and people through physiological childbirth, and he shares with us his story, of how he always wanted to be a midwife from a very young age - and his journey to fulfilling that dream. He now works in rural Wales, where the service is midwife-led only. With no hospitals close by, families in his care are offered the opportunity t...2021-10-0356 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 35 - Precipitous birth - Aimee and Tom share their birth and postnatal experiencesSend us a textIn this episode, Aimee and Tom talk candidly about their journey through the very fast birth experience of their first child, and the subsequent anxiety Aimee felt in the early months of becoming a mother. They also share their reasons why they decided to plan their next birth at home. Tom's role as a birth partner is enlightening as he shares with us his feelings about the role throughout the episode, and it is so helpful to hear his tips for other fathers-to-be and birth partners in general I fel...2021-09-261h 09The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 34 - Molly O'Brien talks about body imbalance and biomechanics for labour and birthSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking to the very knowledgeable midwife Molly O'Brien about imbalances in the body that can affect the labour and birth process. It is important to remember that most women and birthing people will not have an issue giving birth to their babies. In modern times, however, we sit a lot, we drive everywhere, and sometimes we have accidents or falls that can affect the fascia in our bodies, resulting in tight areas that may stop the baby from moving through easily. Body alignment and a good und...2021-09-1957 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 33 - Midwife Becky Reed talks about the Albany practice and their continuity of carer modelSend us a textIn this episode, inspirational midwife and author Becky Reed share's with us the story behind establishing the well-known Albany case loading practice in South East London during the 1990's. Listening to her incredible journey through the years of being both an independent and NHS midwife, helps us to see how amazing support can affect a labouring woman or birthing person and their family, resulting in beautiful birth experiences for all. Becky also speaks about her book - Birth in Focus, which you can purchase directly from her if you would like a...2021-09-121h 00The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 32 - Prodromal labour - When labour starts and stops before active labour beginsSend us a textWelcome back to the podcast after the summer break. In this episode, I am talking to the wonderful Alex Burner, who is sharing with us her experience of prodromal labour. This is when labour starts and stops before switching into active labour - often lasting days or weeks in some cases. Alex talks us through her 3 births, and explains why she thinks this happened to her. We also explore other reasons why it can happen so that anyone listening can prepare in advance if they feel this might be an...2021-09-0541 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastBonus Episode - Mama Designs - Ideas for what to buy for when your baby arrivesSend us a textDuring the summer break, I thought it might be nice to release a bonus episode.I was so happy to be able to talk to the lovely Keira, from the multi-award-winning Mama Designs, about the amazing business she set up when her eldest was a small baby. She now makes a wide range of baby and toddler products and has over 66k followers on Instagram. Keira also shares with us the brief story of her 3 births, and her top tips for birth partners. You can find all of t...2021-08-1532 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 30 - Stillbirth - The devastating loss of a baby and gaining support as you move forwardSend us a textIn this episode, I talk to Amy from the Lily Mae Foundation - a charity which works tirelessly to provide support to anyone who experiences stillbirth, miscarriage, neonatal death or medical termination. Amy shares what it feels like to find out that your baby has no heartbeat, and her experience of going through the loss of a stillborn baby. She talks about the decision making process that comes with that awful news, and her subsequent labour and birth. We also talk about deciding to become pregnant again, and the feelings that co...2021-07-1848 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 29 - Paternal Mental Health - Support for fathers who experience birth traumaSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking to Scott Mair about Paternal Mental Health!!We get into a discussion about why it is important that all pregnant women and their birth partners should know that if the birth doesn't go according to plan, especially if interventions occur, then it is not uncommon for one or both parents to feel traumatised. While there is typically support available for the postnatal woman, there is little consideration for the birth partner or dad, who may have been affected by the experience but is u...2021-07-1152 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 28 - Emma AKA The Naked Doula - On Life, Death and becoming a Visual EducatorSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking with Emma - AKA @thenakeddoula, who shares with us her very raw and painful story of the loss of her mother during pregnancy and her subsequent birth of her son by planned c-section.In early motherhood, she decided to train as a doula and hypnobirthing teacher, and she speaks about how she had a desire to create strong colourful messages to educate and empower pregnant women using visual images. Her popular Instagram page is a great source of knowledge and information - so g...2021-07-0451 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 27 - Birth story of an Induction V Homebirth with Megan RossiterSend us a textThis is the first episode of my birth story series.I am so excited to be talking with the lovely Megan Rossiter, who shares her journey through the birth of her two children. The first was an Induction, and the second was a homebirth. Megan talks about her journey from midwifery to motherhood, and about how she has moved on to teach antenatal courses. Her speciality is to help support new, soon-to-be families to have a positive birth experience by learning evidence-based information. Her popular Birth_Ed podcast is...2021-06-271h 04The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 26 - A frank conversation with NHS midwife Cara - AKA @the_insta_midwifeSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking with Cara, an NHS community midwife who talks about her journey to becoming a popular Instagram midwife, and how she shares her knowledge with 1000’s of families who are looking to achieve a positive birth experience. Her bubbly personality and honest, woman-centered approach leads us into a great discussion about some of the issues that pregnant women and birthing people are facing when giving birth within the NHS. You can find Cara on Instagram - @the_insta_midwifeIf you would like...2021-06-2049 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 25 - Tongue Tie for both breast and bottle feeding families with Carmelle GentleSend us a textDuring this episode, I speak with Carmelle Gentle, a midwife who is amongst many things, a feeding and lactation expert who specialises in babies with tongue-tie.Carmelle, who truly does live up to her name - Gentle by name, Gentle by nature - gave up some of her very busy time to share with us exactly what you might need to look out for when spotting a tongue tie in both a breast and bottle-fed baby. She can not only assess babies for tongue tie but is also qualified t...2021-06-1358 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 24 - Mantenatal - Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting for MenSend us a textIn this episode, I am talking with Gordon from Mantenatal. An antenatal company providing educational information to prepare dads-to-be for birth and fatherhood. https://www.mantenatal.co.ukInstagram - @mantenatal If you would like to buy a copy of the book that accompanies this podcast - click here:-Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner — https://bit.ly/LabourofloveOr purchase a copy via my website - www.birthability.co.ukFollow me on Insta...2021-06-061h 01The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 23 - Pregnancy Yoga - discussing the benefits for the body and mind during pregnancySend us a textIn this episode, I am talking with fellow pregnancy yoga teacher Daisy Dinwoodie. We met in the physiological birth club on Clubhouse, discussing and sharing our very similar philosophies about pregnancy and childbirth. Daisy shares her knowledge of pregnancy yoga and the many benefits from her classes, which are run by a local charity in Edinburgh. She talks about working with the breath, body autonomy, helping to develop a deep understanding around birth options, and includes great tips for birth partners. Daisy Dinwoodie - https://www.mamadouladaisy.com2021-05-3054 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 22 - Physiological birth and top tips to achieving one - with Birth Keeper Kemi JohnsonSend us a textDuring this episode, I am speaking with the incredible Kemi Johnson, a fully trained midwife, and birth keeper, who dedicates her time to calling out bad practice within the NHS maternity system, and speaking up for pregnant women and birthing people to help them to discover the benefits of physiological birth. Kemi is currently in Dara Salaam in Tanzania, so the sound quality reflects this. Like many of us, her aim is to ensure that not only are new parents having positive birth experiences but their babies are not forced to c...2021-05-2351 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 21 - Breastfeeding - Essential information for supporting a new parent with Maddie McMahonSend us a textToday I am talking to Maddie McMahon, a breastfeeding councillor with a passion to travel the country and provide breastfeeding support to areas of deprivation on her Boobie Bus, with other members from her amazing charity Maddie’s Miracle. I am delighted to share this incredible conversation that will support so many families on their breastfeeding journey. You can find Maddie - developingdoulas.co.ukthebirthhub.co.ukmaddiemcmahon.comBreastfeeding helplines:-National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212.Association of Breastfeeding Mothers: 0300 330 5453.La Leche Leag...2021-05-151h 02The Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 20 - Postnatal Planning - Essential Preparation in PregnancySend us a textIn this week's episode, I am chatting to the lovely Zare de Candole who is a birth and postnatal doula amongst many other things. She shares her great wisdom of what is required when preparing for the baby's arrival during pregnancy. She makes many recommendations about using a planning journal to ensure that anyone expecting a baby considers the wide variety of issues that may arise in the early days with a newborn, and how to ensure that you are all cared for and the new mother and baby are nurtured to facilitate bo...2021-05-0948 minThe Ultimate Birth Partner PodcastEpisode 19 - Hypnobirthing - skills for labour, skills for parenthood, skills for life.Send us a textIn this episode, I am really happy to be introducing you to my wonderful friend Victoria Heath. Victoria is a Hypnotherapist who offers a wide range of services including Hypnobirthing, Life Coaching, and EMDR. I was delighted that she agreed to come and share her wisdom with you all so that you can learn lots of information about hypnobirthing and tips for supporting birth in general. This conversation is bursting with wonderful tips for all, and I hope you enjoy it.If you would like to work with Victoria, please visit h...2021-05-0252 min