Made For Birth; The VBAC Podcast For Birth After Cesarean
This podcast is designed for mothers planning a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) or CBAC (cesarean birth after cesarean), offering support and inspiration throughout their birth journey. Each weekly episode features empowering stories, expert advice, and the latest research to help listeners approach childbirth with confidence. The host provides encouragement and practical information to navigate both the challenges and triumphs of birth after a previous C-section. It aims to reassure mothers that they are capable and prepared for the birth experience they desire.
Episodes
117- The Truth Is in the Data: What VBAC Research Actually Says with Jen Kamel of VBAC FACTS
You’ve heard the statistics.You’ve Googled uterine rupture. You’ve read the studies. You’ve joined the VBAC groups. You’ve probably heard one number from your provider and a completely different one somewhere else.But here’s the question:Do you actually know what the research means?In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Jen Kamel, founder of VBAC Facts®, to dig into the research behind v
116- What He Learned About Birth Changed Everything: A Partner’s Perspective with Jacob Dubois
What happens when a skeptical partner actually starts learning about birth?For Jacob Dubois, it changed everything.In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Jacob, author of Why Home Birth, to talk about birth from a perspective we don’t hear nearly enough: the partner’s.Jacob shares what it was like supporting his wife through homebirth, the fears and questions he had along the way, and ho
115- More Than Showing Up: The Logistics of Doula Work with Annie Hill
What does it actually take to be available when a client goes into labor at 2 a.m., on a holiday, or three weeks before her due date?In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Annie Hill, doula trainer and former homebirth midwife, to talk about the side of doula work most people never see.We’re getting into the LOGISTICS—being on call, managing family life and childcare, creating backup sys
114- Beyond Sleep Training: A Holistic Approach to Baby & Child Sleep with Laura, RN
Sleep is one of the biggest stressors for new parents—but what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong?In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Laura, RN, founder of Strawberry Moon Sleep, to talk about a holistic approach to infant and child sleep. Instead of focusing on quick fixes or one-size-fits-all methods, we explore what sleep looks like through the lens of biology, development, regu
113- Chiropractic Care, VBAC, and the Whole-Body Approach to Birth with Dr. Alayna Clark
What does chiropractic care have to do with VBAC, breech babies, shoulder dystocia, and postpartum recovery?A lot more than most women realize.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alayna Clark, a Webster-certified chiropractor specializing in prenatal and pediatric care, to discuss how a whole-body approach to pregnancy can support better birth outcomes. We dive into the role of pelvic function, b
112- The Long-Term Effects of Pregnancy and Birth with Emily Roper
What if the impact of pregnancy and birth extends far beyond labor day?In this episode of Made for Birth, I sit down with Emily Roper to explore how a baby’s earliest experiences—from life in the womb through birth and the postpartum period—can influence long-term development, nervous system regulation, behavior, learning, and overall health.We discuss the growing understanding of how maternal hea
111- Questioning the Standard of Maternity Care with Dr. Stuart Fischbein, MD
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Stuart Fischbein to discuss VBAC, informed consent, risk, hospital policies, and the state of modern maternity care.Drawing from more than 40 years in obstetrics, Dr. Stu shares why he believes VBAC is often misunderstood, how fear and liability influence birth decisions, what current guidelines actually say, and what families can do to make informed choices ab
110- Why Birth Feels Like an Emergency Even When It Isn't
Birth can feel like one long emergency—even when it isn't.A provider expresses concern. A test comes back slightly outside the normal range. A recommendation is made. Suddenly, what started as a routine prenatal appointment feels like a crisis.In this episode, we're unpacking why birth so often feels urgent, high-stakes, and scary, even when there is no actual emergency unfolding. You&ap
109- Why Culture Is So Afraid of VBAC
For decades, VBAC has been painted as dangerous, reckless, or “too risky.”But the truth? The conversation around VBAC is far more nuanced than most women are ever told.In this episode, we’re unpacking why culture is so afraid of VBAC, how birth became increasingly medicalized, and what shifted in the late 90s and early 2000s that dramatically changed the way providers and hospitals approached vag
108- You Don’t Need More Birth Advice
Most moms preparing for a VBAC aren’t lacking information.They’re drowning in it.In this episode, I’m sharing why I created The VBAC Space… and the missing piece I see over and over again in birth preparation.Because knowing things intellectually and actually feeling calm, prepared, supported, and confident in labor are two very different things.We’re talking about: • why fear thrives in isolation
107- The More We Control Birth, The Harder It Often Gets
What if birth feels harder not because women’s bodies are failing… but because modern birth environments constantly disrupt physiology?In this episode, we’re unpacking the missing piece in so many birth conversations: physiological birth.We’ve been taught to view labor as mechanical — dilation charts, timelines, measurements, and “progress.” But birth is hormonal, neurological, emotional, and deep
106- A Safe VBAC” Isn’t What You Think It Is
“I just want a safe birth.”You’ve probably said it. Every mom does.But here’s the question no one is asking you back…What does “safe” actually mean—to you?In this episode, we’re pulling apart one of the most commonly used (and misunderstood) words in birth: safety.Because in today’s birth culture, “safe” is often treated like a fixed definition… when in reality?👉 It’s deeply personal.👉 It’s shaped
105- When You Need To Step Back To Move Forward
Sometimes the most productive thing you can do…Is pause.Not research more.Not make another decision.Not try to force clarity.Just… step back.Because if you’ve been deep in learning, planning, preparing—there comes a point where pushing harder doesn’t actually help.It just creates more noise.In this episode, we’re talking about:Why constantly trying to “figure it out” can start working against youW
104- Why One-Size-Fits-All Birth Advice Doesn’t Work
You’ve seen the posts.Read the stories.Saved the “this is how I got my VBAC” lists.And without even realizing it…you start wondering if you should just do exactly what they didBUT You were never meant to follow someone else’s birth plan.Because what worked for her?Was built around her body, her provider, her history, her comfort level, her support system.Not yours.In this episode, we’re unpacking:
103- What to Do When You’re Put on the Spot
You can know exactly what you want going into your birth……and still freeze the moment someone looks at you and says,“So what do you want to do?”Because it’s not just about having a plan.It’s about navigating real-time pressure, authority, and unexpected decisions when your brain is already overwhelmed.In this episode, we’re getting into:Why you freeze in the moment (even when you’ve prepared)The h
102- Too Many Options - No Clarity
You’ve read the books.Listened to the podcasts.Saved all the posts.So why does it still feel like… you don’t actually know what to do?In this episode, we’re talking about the moment when “being informed” quietly turns into feeling overwhelmed, second-guessing yourself, and freezing when it actually matters.Because the truth is —more information doesn’t always create more confidence.Sometimes it ju
101- The Moment You Freeze (And Don’t Know What to Say)
You know that moment…You’re sitting in an appointment, your provider suggests a plan, and suddenly—you go blank.Not because you don’t care.Not because you didn’t prepare.But because in that moment… you don’t know what to say.In this episode, I’m sharing a real-life experience that caught me off guard—and reminded me just how common this is (even when you do know your options).We’re talking about:✨
100- 100 Episodes Later: What I Wish Every VBAC Mom Knew Before Going Into Labor
After 100 episodes of conversations, education, and real talk about birth…This one feels different.Because today, I’m pulling back the curtain on something I’ve been building behind the scenes—something designed to take everything you’ve been learning and help you actually use it.If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the research… listening, saving, trying to prepare…But still feel unsure when
99- The #1 Reason VBAC Plans Fall Apart (And It’s Not Your Body)
You’ve been told your body is the problem.That your pelvis is too small.That your baby is too big.That your labor just “didn’t work.”But what if that’s not actually why VBAC plans fall apart?In this episode, we’re getting real about the actual reason so many VBAC attempts don’t go the way moms hoped—and spoiler: it’s not your body failing you.We’re talking about:• the hidden factors most providers
98-Why Baby Position Matters Before an Induction
Mama, did you know your baby’s position can completely change how your labor goes — especially if an induction is on the horizon? In this episode, we’re breaking down why baby positioning matters, how it affects labor progress, and what you can do in the weeks (and even days) before birth to give your VBAC the best chance at a smooth, empowered experience.You’ll learn:Signs your baby might be post
97-The Cascade of Interventions: How One Small Decision Can Change Your Entire Birth
Most cesareans don’t begin with an emergency.They begin with a series of small, routine decisions that slowly shift the course of labor.This is called the cascade of interventions.In this episode, you’ll learn:• What the cascade of interventions is• How induction, epidurals, and Pitocin can influence labor progression• Why many cesareans are the result of accumulated interventions—not failure• How
96- Failure To Progress Isn't What You Think
She was told her body failed.That she didn’t progress.That her labor stalled.That her cesarean was necessary because her body couldn’t do it.But what if the problem wasn’t her body?In this episode, we’re breaking down the truth behind the diagnosis “failure to progress”—what it really means, why it’s often misunderstood, and how birth actually unfolds physiologically.If you’ve ever been told your
95- Why Do Women Even Want a VBAC?
"Why would anyone even WANT a VBAC?"If you've ever been asked this question (or asked it yourself), this episode is for you.We're diving into the REAL reasons women pursue VBACs—and spoiler alert: it's about so much more than avoiding surgery. From healing birth trauma to reclaiming your power, from practical recovery to proving something to yourself... every reason is val
94- How Will I Know I’m in Labor?
Everyone says “you’ll just know.”But when you’re actually pregnant—especially if you’ve been induced, had a cesarean, or experienced a complicated birth—that advice can feel confusing at best and wildly unhelpful at worst.In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise and talking about what labor really looks and feels like in real life. Not the dramatic movie version. Not the textbook checklist
93- Choosing the Right Doula - Why Fit Matters More Than Anything
Choosing a doula isn’t about finding a doula—it’s about finding the right support for you.In this episode, we’re talking about how to actually know if a doula is a good fit, especially if you’re planning a VBAC. Not all doulas practice the same way, and not all doulas are deeply familiar with the unique challenges that can come with birth after cesarean.We’ll cover:Why “Are you certified?” isn’t t
92- You Don't Have To Do This Alone
You can read every book.Listen to every podcast.Follow every birth account on Instagram.And still feel unsure.Not because you’re doing it wrong—but because information without guidance creates overwhelm, not confidence.In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on online birth coaching—what it actually is, why it works (yes, even for hospital births), and how having the right support during pre
91- Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work — Motherhood Edition
If you’ve ever started a new year full of good intentions… only to feel behind before January is over — this episode is for you.Motherhood doesn’t pause so you can “start fresh,” and most New Year’s resolutions were never designed with moms in mind. In this episode, we unpack why resolutions so often fall apart in motherhood, how unrealistic expectations quietly fuel shame, and what actually suppo
90- Breaking Birth Bias- What’s Really Behind High Cesarean Rates
We’ve been told for years that cesarean rates are high because women’s bodies are failing—that somehow, birth just doesn’t work anymore. But that’s not the truth.In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s really driving those high cesarean numbers—and spoiler alert—it’s not biology, it’s bias.You’ll learn:💥 What “birth bias” actually means (and how it quietly shapes your care)🏥 How
89- Sleep Deprivation is Torture—And We Deserve Better
Let’s be real—sleep deprivation hits harder than anyone warns you. The fog, the tears, the moments where you question if you’ll ever feel like yourself again. It’s not just “new mom tired”—it’s a physiological and emotional storm that affects your healing, hormones, and mental health.In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really happening in your body when you’re running on empty, why rest is
88- A Year of Growth, Grace, and Grit: One Year of the Made For Birth Podcast
One year. 13,205 downloads. 57 countries. 1,500 cities. Every continent (except Antarctica).What started as a microphone, a mission, and a mama with something to say has turned into a community that stretches around the world — and that absolutely blows my mind.In this anniversary episode, I’m sitting down to reflect on the past year — the growth, the pauses, the pivots, and the beautiful chaos th
87- Why Movement Matters in Pregnancy + Birth with Kate Hopkins
Movement isn’t just “nice to have” in pregnancy—it’s essential. In this episode, I sit down with Kate Hopkins, a doula, L&D nurse, and Body Ready Method pro, to break down why movement matters so much for both pregnancy and birth. Kate shares how the right movements can reduce common complications, support your baby’s position, and help you feel strong and prepared for labor. Whether you’re lo
86- From Nurse to Doula: Jessica Gable on Advocacy and Empowered Hospital Birth
I’m sitting down with Jessica Gable, a registered nurse turned doula who is passionate about low-intervention hospital birth and childbirth advocacy. Jessica has supported countless moms, including those navigating VBACs, and she’s bringing both real-life stories and practical strategies to help you find your voice in the birth room.We’re talking about:✨ How to prevent those “How did I get here?”
85- You're Not Broken, You're Postpartum
It’s here, Mama—launch day! 💛 My book You’re Not Broken, You’re Postpartum is officially out in the world, and in this special episode, I’m giving you a gift: I’m reading the introductory chapter straight from the book.This isn’t polished or sugarcoated—it’s raw, honest, and written for the nights you feel unseen, the mornings you feel overwhelmed, and the days you wonder if you’re enough. Spoiler
84- Your Birth Impacts Your Postpartum
When your birth story doesn’t go as planned, it can leave a mark on your heart that shows up in postpartum in ways you didn’t expect. In this episode, I’m opening up about my own journey—becoming a mom 9 years ago through a cesarean I never imagined—and how that unexpected path made my postpartum heavier than it had to be.We’ll talk about the hidden connection between your birth and your postpartu
83- Your Cervix Is Not A Crystal Ball
Why Dilation Doesn’t Predict BirthYou’ve heard it. You’ve maybe even stressed over it:“You’re only 1 cm…”“You’ve been 4 cm for weeks…”“You’re not making any progress.”But here’s the truth: Your cervix is not a fortune teller.In this episode, we’re calling out the over-focus on cervical dilation and why it’s such a misleading measure of how “close” you are to labor—or how labor is progressing.You’l
82- Is Your Provider's Fear Influencing Your Decisions?
Let’s get one thing straight: your provider’s fear should not be the reason you say yes to something in birth.In this episode, we’re diving into how fear-based counseling shows up in VBAC consults and what true informed consent actually looks and feels like.We’re unpacking the difference between evidence-based recommendations and emotionally charged pressure—and why understanding that difference i
81- I’m Not Anti-OB. I’m Pro You.
You’ve heard it before—“Just trust your doctor.”But what if trusting yourself mattered just as much?In this episode, I’m breaking down what it really means to advocate for your birth, especially when your OB has a different plan. Spoiler: being pro-patient choice doesn’t mean you’re anti-doctor—it means you’re pro-you.We’ll talk about:Why many OBs guide with fear instead of factsHow to spot defens
80- When Labor Stalls
You’re in labor. You’re doing everything right. But suddenly… things slow way down.Is something wrong?Maybe not at all.In this episode, we unpack one of the most misunderstood reasons labor “stalls” — baby’s position. We talk posterior, asynclitic, and all the funky angles babies can wiggle into that slow the birth process down — and why that’s not a failure, it’s a signal.You’ll learn how experie
79- Why You Can’t Hack the Start of Birth: 10 Induction Myths
Desperate for labor to start? You’re not alone. But mama, before you chug the castor oil or speed-walk your neighborhood like it’s a race track, this episode is your wake-up call.We’re busting 10 common myths about inducing labor at home — the ones you’ve seen on TikTok, heard from your cousin, or silently believed yourself. You’ll learn what actually starts labor (hint: it’s not spicy food), what
78- The 5 Biggest Breastfeeding Myths with Little Bear Lactation IBCLC Jaimie
If your first breastfeeding journey felt harder than it should’ve been… it probably was. And you’re not crazy for thinking something wasn’t right.In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jaimie—an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of 5 dedicated to helping mothers who value breastfeeding navigate challenges with confidence & clarity by teaching them to work with their design,
77- The Postpartum Mental Load No One Warned Us About
You’re not lazy. You’re not ungrateful. You’re not doing it wrong.You’re carrying the postpartum mental load—and it’s invisible, exhausting, and absolutely real.In this episode, we’re naming the weight moms carry that no one talks about: the never-ending mental tabs, emotional labor, planning, anticipating, and managing that comes with having a baby.It’s not just about diaper changes and healing—i
76- Big News, Bold Moves
Today’s episode is a little different—in the best possible way. I’m finally sharing all the exciting things that have been happening behind the scenes in my business (and believe me, there’s a lot to catch you up on!).Inside this episode, you’ll hear:✨ The heart behind my upcoming book “You’re Not Broken, You’re Postpartum”✨ What goes into my 1:1 Birth & Postpartum Planning Sessions—and why th
75- The Birth That Changed Her: Baylee’s CBAC as a Labor & Delivery Nurse
In this powerful episode, Baylee, a labor and delivery nurse pulls back the curtain on her two cesarean births—and the emotional and personal growth that came with each one.Her first birth happened early in her nursing career. She trusted the process, trusted the staff, and expected her induction to unfold with guidance and support. Instead, she was met with fear-based messaging, pressure to compl
74- Three Tools You Need For An Unmedicated Birth
Planning to birth without an epidural? This episode is your prep talk and power boost. I’m breaking down three tools every mama needs in her back pocket when preparing for an unmedicated birth—and trust me, they’re probably not what you’re expecting.Whether you’re still deciding or you’re fully committed to going unmedicated, this conversation will help you feel more grounded, more informed, and w
73- From Uncertain to Unshakable: What Real VBAC Education Gives You
Did you know that the right birth education could be the difference between a smooth, empowered VBAC and a repeat C-section you didn’t want? 🤯Most hospital childbirth classes barely scratch the surface when it comes to VBAC, leaving moms unprepared for the policies, biases, and interventions that can seriously impact their birth experience.In this episode, we’re diving deep into:✅ The huge differe
72- Preparing for Emotional Surprises in Birth: Jessica's Cesarean Story
Birth isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, it’s mental, it’s soul-deep.In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with the incredible Jessica Rushing to talk about what happens when emotions take center stage in labor. Jessica shares a powerful story of emotional twists in birth and how working through those feelings, instead of against them, made all the difference.We dive deep into why preparing your
71- Informed, Not Intimidated: VBAC vs Repeat Cesarean
When it comes to deciding between a VBAC or a repeat cesarean, too many mamas are left with surface-level info and a whole lot of fear. And let’s be honest—that’s not good enough when it comes to one of the biggest decisions of your life.In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise and diving deep into the evidence—so you can walk away feeling clear, confident, and fully informed.👉 Not pressur
70- The Truth About Birth Positions: Your Pelvis Is MOBILE, Not Broken
Did you know that the way you position your body during labor can literally make or break how smoothly things progress? 🤯Most hospital births still default to pushing flat on your back—but here’s the truth your OB might not mention: your pelvis is designed to MOVE—and your labor positions should too!In this episode, we’re breaking it all down:🔹 The three major parts of the pelvis—the inlet, midpel
69- Advocacy in Action: How to Speak Up and Stay Centered in Birth with Krystil at Adoring Doulas
Today we’re talking about something every pregnant woman deserves to know: how to advocate for yourself in pregnancy and birth — without apology, without fear, and without shrinking to make others comfortable.I’m sitting down with the amazing Adoring Doula to break it all down: what true advocacy looks like, why it matters so much, and how having the right doula in your corner can completely chang
68- Breathing Techniques for Every Stage of Labor
Did you know the way you breathe during labor can literally transform your entire birth experience?Your breath isn’t just about getting oxygen—it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to ease pain, stay grounded, and help your body work in sync with your contractions.When you know how to use it, your breath becomes your secret weapon.In this episode, we’re diving deep into:🌬️ The best breathin
67- When Labor Starts: Don’t Panic... Do This Instead
🚨 Labor has started… now what?!That first contraction can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re not winging it. In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what to do when labor begins, step-by-step—physically, mentally, and emotionally.We’re covering:✔️ The most common early labor mistakes (and how to avoid falling into those traps)✔️ How to know when to REST and w
66- The Mindset Shift That Will Transform Your VBAC
Birth isn’t just a physical journey—it’s a mental one too. And when you’re planning a VBAC, your mindset is one of your greatest tools.In this episode, we’re digging deep into:✔️ The biggest mental roadblocks VBAC moms face (and how to bust through them)✔️ How your past birth experiences can shape—and sometimes sabotage—your mindset✔️ Why affirmations and visualization aren’t just “woo”—they’re po
65- What to Pack for Birth—Hospital, Birth Center & Homebirth Essentials
Let’s be real—packing for birth can feel like prepping for a mystery trip. The stakes are high, the snacks are non-negotiable, and somehow, you can’t remember if you need a charger or a snack first. Whether you’re heading to the hospital, a birth center, or staying home to bring your baby into your sacred space, this episode is all about cutting through the chaos and getting down to what really ma
64- Read Between the Lines: How to Tell If Your Provider’s Not Actually on Your Side
How do you know if your provider really supports your birth choices? What if you realize too late that your birth setting isn’t what you thought it would be? 🚩In this episode, we’re diving into the biggest red flags in hospital and birth center settings—both the obvious ones (“We don’t allow VBACs”) and the subtle ones (“We’ll see how things go…”). I’ll walk you through the warning signs, the ques
63- From Fear to Fierce—Reframing Labor Anxiety into Confidence
Let’s be real—fear is one of the biggest blocks to a powerful, satisfying birth. It creeps in through horror stories, past trauma, unknowns, and pressure to “get it right.” But what if you didn’t have to carry that fear into labor? What if you could walk in with grounded confidence and a belief in your body’s wisdom?In this episode, we’re breaking down the fear-mindset connection and showing you h
62- Strapped In & Misled? The Truth About Fetal Monitoring
Fetal monitoring might not sound glamorous, but let’s be real—it’s one of those birth topics you need to understand before labor begins. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the tools hospitals and providers use to keep an eye on baby during birth. From continuous EFM to intermittent auscultation, internal monitoring, and the midwifery vs. medical approach, you’ll get the full breakdown (plus t
61- Managing “Failure to Progress” Conversations
“Failure to progress.”Just hearing those words can send a wave of fear through any birthing person—and that’s exactly why we need to talk about it.In this episode of [Your Podcast Name], we’re diving deep into how to navigate the pressure, ask the right questions, and advocate fiercely when someone drops the “failure to progress” label during your labor.We’ll cover:✨ What “failure to progress” act
60- Due Dates: What Medical Providers Don't Tell You
Due dates have been treated like expiration dates for far too long—and it’s time to set the record straight.In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on everything you actually need to know about due dates:✨ Where the current system even came from (spoiler: it’s outdated!)✨ Why your “due date” is really a month-long window of normal birth timing✨ How labor truly begins (hint: it’s a baby-led
59- Ride the Waves- How to Let Your Birth Hormones Lead the Way
Birth is more than just contractions and pushing—It’s a full-body, whole-person hormonal symphony designed to carry you through labor, help you bond with your baby, and support your postpartum recovery.But here’s the thing: modern birth settings often disrupt this natural rhythm. And when we don’t understand what’s happening behind the scenes, we miss out on powerful tools that can actually make b
58- Affirmations: How to Rewire Your Brain for an Empowered Birth
You’ve seen them on Instagram—those pretty little quotes like “I trust my body” or “Each surge brings me closer to my baby.” But let’s be real… do affirmations actually work? Or are they just woo-woo fluff?In this episode, we’re diving deep into the science and soul behind birth affirmations—and why they are so much more than feel-good quotes. You’ll learn how to rewire your brain, regulate your n
57- Holding Space for Pregnancy After Loss with PAL Doula Sarah Lingle
Pregnancy after loss is a journey filled with conflicting emotions—grief, joy, fear, hope—all woven together in the most tender way. In this powerful episode, I’m joined by certified birth and bereavement doula Sarah Lingle, who brings her heart, her story, and her expertise to the mic.Sarah is a loss mom herself, and she knows firsthand what it means to carry life again after heartbreak. She shar
56- Protecting Your Peace: Handling “What If” Conversations Like a Boss
What if your baby is too big? What if something goes wrong? What if you can’t handle the pain?Ugh. If you’re pregnant, chances are you’ve been hit with at least one of these “What If” questions. And let’s be real—these conversations can mess with your mindset fast.In this episode, we’re diving into exactly how to handle fear-based questions with confidence so they don’t leave you feeling anxious o
55- Navigating Hospital Birth with Doula Kayla Wamsley
Can you really have a natural birth in a hospital setting that’s often built for interventions? The answer is YES—and today’s guest is here to show you how.In this empowering episode, I’m joined by the incredible Doula Kayla Wamsley, a seasoned birth worker, educator, and advocate for informed, physiological birth—no matter where you choose to have your baby. Kayla brings the wisdom, the strategy,
54- Cesarean Rates Don’t Lie— Race and Birth
Did you know that Black and Indigenous women in the U.S. are significantly more likely to have cesarean births—often unnecessarily—and face higher maternal mortality rates? This isn’t just a coincidence; it’s a systemic issue rooted in implicit bias, medical coercion, and a lack of informed consent.In this episode, we’re breaking it all down:➡️ The statistics that expose these disparities➡️ How ra
53- I SEE YOU- The Strength & Invisible Struggles of Cesarean Moms
Ever feel like your C-section birth story doesn’t get the same recognition as a vaginal birth? Or like your recovery was treated like an afterthought? You’re not alone.In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about the beauty and resilience of cesarean moms—and the invisible struggles that often come with it. From the lack of postpartum care to the frustration of feeling dismissed, we’
52- Planned vs. Pressured: Do Mothers Really Have a Choice?
Are cesareans always necessary? Or are moms being pushed into surgery without true informed consent?Too often, hospital policies and defensive medicine dictate birth more than the mother’s individual needs. Many moms don’t fully understand what a cesarean means for their body, recovery, and future births—until it’s already happening.In this episode, we’re breaking it down:⚡️ Why cesarean rates are
51- You Didn’t Fail: Unpacking the Myths That Steal Our Trust
In this episode of the Made For Birth Podcast, we dive deep into the myths surrounding cesareans and how they impact a mother’s trust in herself and her body. Many moms carry the weight of guilt and shame after having a cesarean, but it’s time to let go of those outdated beliefs. Tune in as we unpack the truth about cesareans, trust, and how to rebuild your confidence—no matter how your baby arriv
50- The Medicalization of Cesareans & Lack of Autonomy
Did you truly choose your cesarean? Or did it feel like a decision that was made for you? 🤔Too many moms don’t fully understand what a cesarean entails until they’re already on the table. Whether it’s an unexpected shift during labor or the subtle pressure to “just schedule it,” the lack of autonomy in birth is a real problem.In this episode, we’re unpacking:✅ Why so many moms feel blindsided by t
49- Birth Trauma, PTSD & Self Confidence with Leslie Herhold
Birth trauma is real, and healing starts with understanding. 💜Too often, moms are told to just “move on” after a traumatic birth because their baby is healthy. But what about you? Birth trauma isn’t just about what happened—it’s about how it made you feel. If you walked away from birth feeling unheard, dismissed, or broken, this episode is for you.I’m sitting down with perinatal therapist Leslie H
48- You Are Seen, You Are Heard—Honoring Cesarean Moms
April 1st marks the start of Cesarean Awareness Month, and today’s episode is for every mom who has ever experienced a cesarean birth—whether it was planned, unexpected, empowering, or filled with emotions you’re still processing.If you’ve ever felt dismissed, unheard, or like your birth story wasn’t as celebrated as it should be, this episode is your reminder that your birth mattered, your feelin
47- The Doula Difference: How Birth Support Has Evolved & Why It’s So Powerful
Doulas aren’t just a trend—we’ve been around for thousands of years, supporting, guiding, and holding space for birthing women. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the history of doulas, how the profession evolved, and why having continuous support during birth can be so powerful—especially for VBAC and CBAC moms. Whether you’re curious about hiring a doula, thinking about becoming one, or jus
46- The #1 Thing That Can Change Your Birth Experience—(Spoiler: It’s a Doula!)
If you’ve ever walked away from birth feeling like something was missing—like you weren’t fully heard, supported, or in control—this episode is for you.Doulas are one of the most powerful, research-backed ways to improve birth outcomes, yet so many moms still don’t know exactly what we do, how we fit into the birth space, or why having one could be the best decision you make for your birth.In this
45-The Trial of Labor Myth: Why VBAC Isn’t Something You “Pass” or “Fail”
Words matter—especially in birth. The way we talk about VBAC can shape our entire experience, whether we realize it or not. “Trial of labor.” “Failed VBAC.” “Successful birth.” These phrases aren’t just words—they carry weight, plant seeds of doubt, and reinforce the idea that birth is a test to pass or fail.In this episode, we’re diving into how language impacts our mindset, our confidence, and t
44- More Than Skin Deep: The Truth About Birth & Body Scars With Dr. Jen
Your scars tell a story—but do they still hold tension, pain, or even unprocessed trauma? In this episode of Made for Birth, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Arceneaux, aka The Scar Lady, to uncover the truth about how scars impact the body after cesarean births, episiotomies, and even other surgical procedures. We dive deep into the connection between scars, stored trauma, and healing—because your bo
43- #1 Key to a Positive Birth- The Hierarchy of Needs
A “healthy baby” is just the bare minimum—but what about you? What about feeling safe, supported, and respected during birth? What about walking away from your experience feeling empowered and accomplished, not just relieved that it’s over?In this episode, we’re breaking down the #1 key to a positive birth: The Hierarchy of Needs. Inspired by Maslow’s famous pyramid, we’ll walk through the fundame
42- The MAGIC of Physiological Birth
Your body was made for birth—no micromanaging, no interventions, just the beautifully designed process unfolding as nature intended. But in a world where birth is often treated like a medical event instead of a physiological process, many moms don’t get to experience just how powerful undisturbed labor can be.In this episode, we’re diving deep into the magic of physiological birth—what happens whe
41- Partners Matter: How to Show Up, Step Up, and Support a VBAC
A VBAC isn’t just about the birthing person—it’s a team effort. The right support can make ALL the difference in how birth unfolds, but too often, partners feel lost, unsure of what to do, or sidelined in the process.In this episode, we’re diving into tangible ways partners can prepare for a VBAC, how they can provide physical and emotional support during labor, and why their role as an advocate i
40- The Change We Deserve: Rethinking Maternity Care
The maternity system is broken—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we’re talking about why midwives and obstetricians don’t work together, even though they absolutely should. I’ll break down why pregnancy has been over-medicalized, how Obstetricians are trained to see risk everywhere (even when it’s not there), and why defensive medicine is actually causing more complications—not preventin
39- COLLABORATION: The Future of Women's Health
For far too long, birth has been placed in the wrong hands. Instead of midwives leading women’s care and referring to OBs when complications arise, we’ve flipped the system upside down—treating every pregnancy like a medical crisis waiting to happen.In this episode, we’re breaking down:✨ Why pregnancy is NOT an illness that needs to be “managed”✨ The historical divide between midwives and OBs—and
38- Reclaiming Birth: The Power of Midwifery Care
For far too long, the modern birth system has been built around managing birth instead of trusting it. Hospital policies, routine interventions, and a one-size-fits-all approach have stripped birth of what it was meant to be—a powerful, physiological event that belongs to YOU.But here’s the truth: Midwifery care is making a comeback, and for good reason.In this episode, we’re diving deep into:🔥 Ho
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