Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast
Faith Over Fear is a Christian podcast hosted by Natalie Portman, a Christian birth doula and childbirth educator. It offers Scripture-based encouragement and practical tips for pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood. The podcast features powerful Christian birth stories and aims to help listeners approach childbirth with faith rather than fear. It emphasizes surrender to God's design and purpose for birth.
Episodes
50. Discerning Vital Force from Acupuncture to Homeopathy: Biblical Discernment of Birth Practices, Ep. 3
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm continuing our series on biblical discernment of birth practices by looking at acupuncture, moxibustion, reiki, homeopathy, crystals, and sound healing. These are six practices that look completely different on the surface but share one common thread underneath.I'll be honest, I've recommended acupuncture and moxibustion to clients more times tha
49. Testing Yoga & Hypnobirthing Against Scripture: Biblical Discernment of Birth Practices, Ep. 2
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we're continuing the Biblical Discernment of Birth Practices series with two of the most mainstream practices in the birth world: yoga and hypnobirthing. You've probably heard that they're "just stretching" and "just relaxation," but is that actually true? Today we're holding both practices up to Scripture and asking the thre
48. 3 Questions to Test Any Birth Practice: Biblical Discernment of Birth Practices, Ep. 1
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm kicking off a brand new series called Biblical Discernment of Birth Practices, a conversation the Lord has been stirring in my heart for a long time. Over the next several months, we'll be walking through some of the most common practices in the birth world (things like yoga, hypnobirth, acupuncture, homeopathy, placenta encapsulation, the Enneagram, a
47. When “Christian” Birth Advice Isn’t Biblical: Spotting False Teaching in Pregnancy and Birth with Dannette McGrew
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m sitting down with Dannette McGrew — certified doula, childbirth educator, and passionate apologist — for a conversation that is so needed in the Christian birth world right now. Dannette has been doing the deep work of examining the worldviews that have quietly crept into birth spaces, even among people calling themselves Christian birth professionals. And what
46. (Part Two) What 25 Days in the NICU Taught Us About Faith, Control & God's Provision
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm continuing Isaac's birth story — and this time, my husband Brian is joining me to share what those 25 days in the NICU were really like from both of our perspectives. From the moment Isaac was taken away minutes after birth, to the feeding battles, the emotional exhaustion of leaving him each day, and finally bringing him home — this is the full story
45. (Part One) My Preterm Birth Story, a Hidden Abruption, and The Lord's Perfect Provision
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sharing the full story of my third birth — Isaac's unexpected preterm birth at 33 weeks — and how a weekend away with my mom and sisters turned into one of the most sacred, surprising, and faith-stretching days of my life.This birth was nothing like my first two. After two straightforward, uncomplicated labors, I found myself being admitted to the hosp
44. Is Childbirth Pain a Punishment from God? A Biblical Deep Dive into Genesis
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm diving deep into one of the most misunderstood passages in all of Scripture — Genesis 3 — and tackling a question that so many Christian mamas have carried in secret: is childbirth pain actually God's punishment for Eve's sin?This is a topic I've been wanting to bring to this podcast for a long time, because the way we answer it shapes every
43. 10 Pounds, No Tearing & Unmedicated: A Pelvic Floor Therapist's Surprising Birth Story
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sitting down with returning guest Dr. Victoria Adeeb—a pelvic floor therapist who just delivered a 10-pound baby unmedicated with no tearing—to hear the full story of how she prepared physically, emotionally, and spiritually for what she calls her "dream birth."But here's what makes Victoria's story so powerful: even with all her profes
42. Why Do Some Women Feel Little Pain in Labor—and Others Feel a Lot?
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm exploring one of the most misunderstood aspects of birth: why some women experience very little pain in labor while others experience a lot—and why neither experience says anything about your strength, your preparation, or your faith.As a doula, I've witnessed labor pain exist on an incredibly wide spectrum. I've supported mamas who describe cont
41. Breaking Through Fear After Cesarean: How Preparation & Surrender Led to Veronica's Healing Home Birth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Veronica shares the powerful story of her redemptive home birth after cesarean—and how prayer warriors, faithful preparation, and ultimate surrender to God's plan transformed her birth experience from trauma to triumph.After a 33-hour labor ending in an emergency c-section with her first, Veronica found herself pregnant again while still healing—physically and
40. The 4 Emotional Stages of Labor & Why Your Support Team Needs to Know Them
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through the emotional stages of labor—not just what happens physically, but the powerful emotional signposts that help you and your birth team know exactly where you are in the process and how to respond with confidence instead of fear.This framework, inspired by Penny Simkin's incredible work, has transformed how I support families as a d
39. Your Baby's Position Matters: When to Check, Ways to Help Baby Turn, & Surrendering the Outcome to God
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Dr. Marrow, a board-certified OBGYN and VBAC mom from Full Circle Women's Care, to discuss a topic that can feel overwhelming for many moms: what to do when your baby is breech, transverse, or in another challenging position for birth.Together we explore the timeline of when baby's position truly matters (hint: not at your 20-week scan!)
38. Stop Consuming Endless Content, Start Building Confidence: The Truth About Birth Preparation
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm addressing something I see over and over again with expecting parents—the difference between consuming birth content and actually being prepared for birth. While we have more birth information available than ever before through podcasts, social media, and online resources, so many parents still approach birth feeling anxious and unprepared.This conversation
37. God is in Control: A First-Time Mom's Journey from Anxious Planning to Peaceful Surrender
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I welcome Lindsay Carter who shares her powerful first birth story—one that took unexpected turns and ultimately deepened her faith in ways she never imagined. From meticulous planning for an unmedicated birth to facing an infection, needing an epidural, and those heart-stopping moments when baby Kate wasn't breathing, Lindsay's journey beautifully illust
36. The Work of Rest: Preparing for Biblical Sabbath in Pregnancy & Postpartum
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing something that might sound contradictory at first—but it's become one of the most freeing truths I've learned: it takes work to rest. Using John Mark Comer's simple Sabbath framework from The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, I'm walking you through how to prepare for biblical rest in the midst of pregnancy, motherhood, and postpar
35. Why Her "Failed" VBACs Were Actually God's Perfect Plan: A Story of Unexpected Grace
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm chatting with Kayla, a mama of two under two, who shares how God used her two unplanned cesareans to deepen her trust in Him as a good Father—transforming what could have been crushing disappointment into a powerful testimony of His faithfulness.Kayla's story is proof that when we trust ourselves less and trust the Lord more, He can work through any c
34. Safe Natural Cold Remedies for Pregnant & Nursing Mamas (That Actually Work!)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sharing my go-to natural remedies for healing from colds and flu during pregnancy and breastfeeding—practical solutions that have helped me and countless clients navigate sickness without relying on medication.This cold and flu season has been particularly challenging for so many mamas in my community. When you're already pouring everything into growin
BONUS: Count It All Joy - Finding God's Goodness Through Trials & Joy In 2025
Send us Fan MailIn this BONUS episode, I'm sharing a heartfelt year-end reflection as we close out 2025—a year that tested my faith through trials I never saw coming, yet revealed God's faithfulness in ways I couldn't have imagined.This has been a year of unexpected challenges and profound growth. Just days after launching this podcast in April, I faced a serious mental health crisi
33. God's Glory in the Unexpected: What Mary's Messy Birth Teaches Us
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm exploring the Christmas story through the lens of Mary's birth experience—and what it teaches us about finding God's glory when our own births don't go according to plan.This message came to me unexpectedly during a church service, when I suddenly saw Mary's story not just as a familiar Christmas narrative, but as a birth story. A messy
32. Eczema, Colic & Food Allergies: How Your Pregnancy Gut Health Shapes Baby's Future
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sitting down with Jessica Ramdhany Thomas, a functional pediatric practitioner and mom of two, to uncover the surprising connection between your gut health during pregnancy and your baby's future health. We're diving deep into how the microbiome you cultivate now can impact whether your little one develops eczema, colic, food allergies—and even af
31. Third Trimester Checklist: 10 Faith-Filled Steps for a Peaceful Birth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm walking you through your third trimester checklist—10 faith-filled steps to help you prepare practically and spiritually for your upcoming birth. Whether you're feeling the weight of that watermelon belly, googling at 2 AM, or wondering if you'll ever feel truly ready, this episode is designed to bring you peace and clarity.The third trimester can
30. Back Labor, Big Baby, and Believing A Good God: Caroline's Birth Stories
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm joined by Caroline, a nurse who brings a unique perspective from caring for critically ill postpartum patients to experiencing her own two drastically different births. She openly shares how back labor, a 9-pound baby, and nearly 5 hours of pushing challenged everything she thought she knew about birth—and how God remained faithful through it all.Caroline&
29. 5 Signs You're Praying for the Wrong Things for Your Birth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm exploring what happens when our prayers for birth come from a place of control rather than surrender—and how God has been transforming my heart from anxiety to trust as I prepare for my third baby's arrival.After carrying the weight of perfectionism through my first two births, treating them like report cards of my strength and worth, I'm experien
28. Why Your Birth Preparation Matters More Than You Think: Maria's Life-Changing Story
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Maria Lilly, a Christian mom whose first birth experience completely transformed her life—leading her from a corporate accounting job to becoming a doula and Lamaze certified childbirth educator. Maria shares her powerful story of navigating a terrifying prenatal diagnosis, NICU stay, and ultimately discovering God's faithfulness in the most
27. Preparing for Induction: What to Expect, Pack & Pray as a Christian Mama
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through everything you need to know about preparing for an induction—from practical tips to spiritual encouragement—so you can approach your birth with peace and confidence, even if this wasn't your original plan.Maybe your provider has mentioned induction as a possibility, or perhaps you already have a date scheduled. Whatever emotions yo
26. You Weren't Made to Do This Alone: God's Design for Support in Labor
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm diving deep into a topic that's been on my heart—how you can experience professional doula support while keeping your birth intimate and private through virtual birth support. This option could be the perfect solution for mamas who are torn between wanting expert guidance and maintaining the sacred space of birth with just their husband present.After s
25. Excruciating Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy? Why It's NOT Normal & How to Find Real Help
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Kate Smith, pelvic floor physical therapist and owner of Nurture You Pelvic Health, to discuss a topic that affects countless women but is often dismissed: severe pelvic pain during pregnancy. If you've ever been told your excruciating pain is "just part of being pregnant," this conversation will validate your experience and of
24. The Essential Second Trimester Checklist: 7 Faith-Filled Steps for a Strong, Peaceful Pregnancy
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through a practical, faith-filled checklist to help you prepare well during your second trimester—the sweet spot of pregnancy when energy returns and you can finally focus on nourishing your body, mind, and heart for the journey ahead.Whether you're just starting to feel like yourself again or you want to make sure you're on the right
23. She Prepared for an Unmedicated Birth But Got a C-Section—What God Revealed Through Loss & A Medical Miracle
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sitting down with my dear friend Gracie Clowe—a mama who prepared her heart, mind, and body for an unmedicated birth, only to find herself on an operating table for an unplanned C-section. But that's just the beginning of her story.Gracie's journey is one of confusion, surrender, heartbreak, and ultimately, miraculous revelation. After feeling cl
22. Understanding Your Rights - Informed Consent & Informed Refusal in Any Birth Setting
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm breaking down something every pregnant mama needs to know: you always have a choice when it comes to your birth care, no matter where you're planning to deliver. We're diving deep into informed consent and informed refusal—your fundamental rights that don't disappear just because you walk into a hospital or birth center.Too often, I see birt
21. Why "Bouncing Back" After Baby Hurts Christian Moms + What to Do Instead (with Laura Lindahl)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sitting down with Laura Lindahl—certified pre and postnatal coach, exercise physiologist, and Christian body image coach—to talk about something so many moms wrestle with: the pressure to "bounce back" after baby and how to approach postpartum health from a place of grace, not guilt.Laura's story will resonate with so many of us. She went fro
20. If You're Planning on Breastfeeding, Listen To This First...
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know about breastfeeding before your baby arrives—because preparing for this beautiful journey is just as important as preparing for birth itself. Too many mamas focus all their energy on delivery day but don't think about the feeding relationship that follows, and I don't want that to be you.Whether you're pre
BONUS: When You Feel Like a Failing Mom: God's Sufficient Grace in Pregnancy Struggles
Send us Fan MailIn this vulnerable bonus episode, I'm sharing the hardest month of my third pregnancy—battling severe anxiety and depression while navigating morning sickness, parenting struggles, and feeling completely overwhelmed as a mom of two expecting her third baby.This isn't the polished, faith-filled message I usually share. This is me in the trenches, feeling like I'm fail
19. Overcoming Birth Trauma and Fear: A Foster Mom's Journey to Three Different Deliveries
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing the incredible birth journey of my very first doula client, Nicki—a foster mom of five whose three births taught her (and me!) powerful lessons about overcoming fear, trusting God's timing, and finding peace through trauma.Nicki's story begins with a terrifying first birth that left her with a fourth-degree tear, massive blood loss, and m
18. [Listener Favorite Replay] How Birth & Motherhood Reflects the Gospel (Originally Ep. 7)
Send us Fan MailWhile I take a short rest during my first trimester, I’m bringing back one of the most meaningful episodes of the podcast. This conversation has resonated deeply with so many mamas, reminding us that birth and motherhood are not just physical experiences, but also powerful reflections of the gospel.If you’re longing for encouragement, or you want to see your motherhood journey thro
17. [Listener Favorite Replay] Anxiety & Depression: The Hidden Cost of Trying to Control Birth & Motherhood (Originally Ep. 6)
Send us Fan MailWhile I’m taking a short season of rest during my first trimester, I’m bringing back one of the most impactful and listened-to conversations we’ve had on the podcast. If you’ve ever wrestled with fear that your birth or postpartum might not go the way you hoped, or if you’ve struggled in the weeks after bringing your baby home, this replay will meet you with truth, honesty, and enc
16. [Listener Favorite Replay] Natural Labor Prep: Simple Ways to Ready Your Body for Birth (Originally Ep. 3)
Send us Fan MailWhile I’m taking a short rest during my first trimester, I wanted to bring back one of the most-loved episodes of the podcast. This conversation has helped so many mamas release fear, embrace God’s design, and feel more confident heading into birth. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it again, I pray it blesses and encourages you today. In this episode of Fa
BONUS: Big News + Taking Some Rest Time
Send us Fan MailIn this special bonus episode, I'm sharing some big news with you—we're expecting our third baby! This surprise pregnancy has been both a tremendous blessing and a journey that's teaching me so much about rest, surrender, and where my true worth comes from.This announcement comes during a challenging first trimester filled with nausea, exhaustion, and the physical de
15. First Trimester Checklist Essentials: From Choosing A Provider to Managing Morning Sickness
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through everything you need to know for a confident, faith-filled first trimester—from the moment you see that positive test to building the foundation for your entire pregnancy journey.Whether you're holding a pregnancy test with shaking hands, feeling overwhelmed by all the decisions ahead, or wanting to honor God through this long await
14. Leaking, Pelvic Pain, and "That's Just Mom Life"? Why You Deserve Better (And How to Get It)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sitting down with Dr. Victoria Adeeb, a pelvic floor therapist and founder of Better Body Rehab in Jacksonville Beach, to talk about something every mom needs to hear—that caring for your body isn't selfish, it's sacred kingdom work.Victoria specializes in women's health and has such a heart for helping mamas feel confident in their bodies b
13. Discerning the Right Birth Setting For You: Hospital, Birth Center, or Home?
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through one of the most important decisions you'll make during pregnancy—choosing your birth setting. Whether you're considering a hospital birth, birth center, or home birth, each option comes with different levels of support, intervention, comfort, and control, and there's no "right" answer—just the one that's ri
12. When Others Say “You Don't Get a Medal for Natural Birth” But God Says “Present Your Body as a Living Sacrifice”
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Katie Prizzia, a faith-filled mama of three, as she shares her incredible testimony of three completely different birth experiences—and how each one revealed God's faithfulness in unexpected ways.Katie's journey took her from an overwhelming premature birth with her first baby, to a faster but still medicated delivery with her second, an
11. Pack with Peace: Hospital Bag Packing List Essentials
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm walking you through everything you actually need to pack for your hospital stay—not too much, not too little, but just right for your comfort and your baby's first precious days.If you're staring at your hospital bag wondering if you're doing this whole thing right, you're
10. When God's Plan Doesn't Match Yours: Trusting Through Pregnancy Loss and Sleep Struggles
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm joined by Jamie Ortiz, a pediatric sleep coach, military spouse, and mama of two who shares her powerful journey through pregnancy loss, high-risk births, and finding God's faithfulness in the midst of heartbreak.Jamie's motherhood story began with devastating loss—giving birth prema
9. Am I in Labor? Discerning the Signs
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m walking you through one of the most common questions expectant mamas ask: “Am I in labor?” Whether you’re experiencing your first round of practice contractions or wondering if this is finally the real deal, this episode will help you discern the signs with confidence and peace.As you approach your
8. Why She Changed Her Mind About Epidurals: Emily Whalen's Story
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm sitting down with Emily Whalen (@nurtured_little_nest)—a sweet mama, content creator, and someone I had the honor of serving as her doula. Emily's story is one of transformation: from mental health struggles and medication concerns to discovering the power of mindset in birth, and ultimat
7. How Birth & Motherhood Reflects the Gospel
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sharing how the profound experience of birth and motherhood reveals beautiful gospel truths that will transform how you see God's love for you.From the moment you discover you're pregnant to the intense moments of labor and the sweet surrender of holding your newborn, every stage of this journey offers glimpses into God's heart and His sacrif
6. Anxiety & Depression: The Hidden Cost of Trying to Control Birth & Motherhood
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by my friend Crystal Doiron, a licensed clinical social worker and mama, as she courageously shares her story of postpartum depression and anxiety—and the hope she found on the other side.Crystal's journey began with detailed plans, a "birth binder" (not just a birth plan!), and the determination to do everything "right." But
5. Creating Your Birth Preferences: A Step-by-Step Guide
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm sharing a practical but powerful tool for your birth journey—creating effective birth preferences that serve as a communication tool for your entire birth team. Rather than focusing on controlling every aspect of birth, this approach creates clarity and unity while honoring God's ultimate
4. She Waited Two Years for a Positive Pregnancy Test—Then God Moved (with Sarah Salain)
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m joined by my very first guest—Sarah Salain, a registered nurse, Christian holistic health coach, and new mama—who shares her powerful story of waiting, surrender, and God’s faithfulness.After years of hormonal challenges and praying for a baby, Sarah found herself walking through a long and painful
3. Natural Labor Prep: Simple Ways to Ready Your Body for Birth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, we’re talking all about natural ways to help your body prepare for labor—without fear, overwhelm, or pressure to do “all the things.”Whether you’re weeks away from meeting your baby or just starting to plan for birth, understanding cervical ripening can empower you to partner with your body, honor God’
2. From Hospital Birth to Home Birth: Daniel's Birth
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m sharing the full story of my second birth—Daniel’s peaceful home birth—and how it stretched my faith, challenged my need for control, and ultimately led me to experience more joy and surrender than I thought possible.This pregnancy and birth journey was different from my first. After delivering my
1. How God Used My Birth Story to Call Me Into Birth Work (Ellie’s Unmedicated Hospital Birth)
Send us Fan MailIn this very first episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of the most transformative days of my life—the birth of my daughter, Ellie.From navigating unexpected complications early in pregnancy to giving birth unmedicated in a hospital setting, this episode is full of the real, raw, faith-filled moments that s
My Heart Behind the Podcast
Send us Fan MailWelcome to Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast!In this short trailer episode, I’m sharing the heart behind the podcast and why I believe Christian mamas need a space like this now more than ever.You’ll hear what to expect from each episode, the mission driving this podcast, and how we’ll walk through pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood together—with our
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