Best My Essential Birth Podcasts (2025)

1
Birth Story: How Jaycie Hohn Conquered Her Birth Fears with Mind Over Matter 48:38

Play Pause

4h ago48:38

48:38

This week, we’re celebrating 300 episodes of Pregnancy and Birth Made Easy—can you believe it?! I’m so honored to mark this milestone by sharing an incredibly raw, honest, and empowering birth story from Jaycie Hohn, one of our amazing My Essential Birth students. She walks us through her pregnancy journey, her labor experience, and the beautiful s…

1
E36: Tackling PPD Questions: Expert Insight for Parents, with Dr. Mera Keenan 33:01

9h ago33:01

33:01

In this episode of Delivered, we are so grateful to be joined again by Dr. Mera Keenan. Dr. Keenan is the OB that delivered our baby girl, who will be turning FIVE so soon!! As a board-certified OB, she now serves patients in an OB ER based in the DC area. Dr. Keenan & I will be discussing some of the most common PPD questions parents have—from ear…

1
Power in Pregnancy: Essential Strength Training Tips 36:01

6d ago36:01

36:01

Maintaining some movement and exercise during pregnancy can help decrease aches & pains, prepares you for the physical act of labour, and can aid in postpartum recovery. But what about more intense work-out regimens or strength training? Dr. Alicia chats with Rebecca Tranter, registered massage therapist, Level 1 certified CrossFit trainer, and exp…

1
Pelvic Floor Mastery: Dr. Arielle Martone's Guide to Postpartum Wellness 41:21

7d ago41:21

41:21

In today’s episode, I’m so excited to welcome Dr. Arielle Martone to the show! Arielle is a physical therapist and postpartum coach who is truly passionate about helping moms feel strong, supported, and at home in their bodies again after birth. Whether you’re freshly postpartum or it’s been years since you gave birth, this conversation is full of …

1
Prep Your Doula Business for Summer with Alyssa Knapp 34:42

8d ago34:42

34:42

Host: Jodi Congdon Guest: Alyssa Knapp, Founder of Integrative Wellness Journeys Episode Summary: In this honest and energizing episode of the Birth Boss Podcast, Jodi sits down with returning guest Alyssa Knapp to talk all things summer business planning—especially for moms juggling work, client care, and that deep craving to enjoy the season. Fro…

1
Reclaiming Postpartum: A New (Old) Model of Mama + Baby Care 1:00:10

13d ago1:00:10

1:00:10

What if the way we care for new mothers is all wrong? Not just lacking. Not just outdated. But built on a model that misses the heart and soul of what postpartum truly is — and what it could be. When I was a home birth midwife, postpartum care was the care. I'd visit mamas and babies at home five or six times in the first few weeks. We’d talk about…

1
Birth Story: Going Beyond 40 Weeks with Amber Mejia-Mohr 50:27

14d ago50:27

50:27

In this episode, I’m chatting with the amazing Amber, who takes us through her powerful journey during her 41-week pregnancy with her third baby. She opens up about navigating a high-risk diagnosis, the ways she prepared for labor, and the challenges she overcame during birth. Amber’s story is such a beautiful reminder of the strength that comes fr…

1
Marketing that Actually Works for Doulas 26:53

20d ago26:53

26:53

Feeling burned out by marketing that doesn’t seem to work — or worse, doesn’t feel like you? In this honest episode of the Hip to Heart Birth Boss Podcast, Jodi breaks down exactly why traditional marketing advice fails doulas, and what to do instead. We’re unpacking strategies that feel better and actually bring in clients: from content that conve…

1
Uncovering Calm in Parenthood: The Path to a Balanced Nervous System 41:54

20d ago41:54

41:54

Feeling frazzled, overwhelmed, or just plain anxious all the time? You’re not alone - and this brand new She Found Motherhood Podcast episode is for you. Dr. Sarah Lea sits down with the incredible Rachel Mark - Registered Acupuncturist, Integrative Health Coach, and self-proclaimed body-nerd with degrees in Kinesiology, Acupuncture, and Traditiona…

1
Decoding Labor: How Long Will Your Birth Journey Be? 30:20

21d ago30:20

30:20

In this solo episode, I’m diving into the natural rhythms of labor and how we can work with them—not against them. We’ll talk about what the stages of labor really look like, how long they typically last (because every body and every birth is different!), and what can influence how labor unfolds—like baby’s position or certain medical interventions…

1
195. Goodbye for Now: A Full-Circle Reflection on Our Podcast Journey 22:51

26d ago22:51

22:51

In this episode, it's goodbye for now as I reflect on the five-year journey of Full and Thriving and share some big life updates, including the bittersweet decision to press pause on the podcast. I talk about the joys of new motherhood, the shifts in my professional direction, and the deep gratitude I feel for everyone who’s listened, supported, an…

1
[Replay] The Hidden Motherhood Struggle with Catherine Birndorf and Paige Bellenbaum 1:07:13

28d ago1:07:13

1:07:13

In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month I am re-sharing this 2023 conversation with the founders of The Motherhood Center in NYC. With Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) being the #1 complication associated with birth in the US and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this remains a critical conversation. It’s not just you. You're n…

1
Postpartum 101: Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle's Comeback 29:23

28d ago29:23

29:23

In this episode, I’m diving into a topic that so many of you have asked about—your menstrual cycle after baby. When does it come back? Why is it irregular? What’s up with all the bleeding and hormone shifts? I’m breaking it all down for you with a gentle, supportive approach. We’ll chat about how nutrition, stress, breastfeeding, and even certain s…

1
E35: Motherhood Space Matters: Building Community After Birth, with Dr. Jill Garrett, Psy.D., PMH-C 39:20

29d ago39:20

39:20

In this episode of Delivered, we are joined by Dr. Jill Garrett, a licensed psychologist who specializes in perinatal mental health. Dr. Garrett is the founding psychologist and program director of Baptist Health’s maternal mental health program, The Motherhood Space. The Motherhood Space is the first wellness-inspired, mental health day program fo…

1
Strengthening Your Foundation: Pelvic Floor 101 31:39

1M ago31:39

31:39

As we've often said, education is a form of healthcare. When it comes to your pelvic health, the more you understand about the physiology of the area and the changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth, the more empowered you’ll feel. Today, we’re speaking with Aliya Dhalla, a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, about the basic structure of the p…

1
Ditching Unrealistic Expectations: Postpartum Advice from Doula Caitlin Wilder 46:37

1M ago46:37

46:37

In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Caitlin Wilder, a doula who brings so much honesty and compassion to the postpartum space. We’re talking all about what it really looks like after baby arrives—normalizing the hard stuff, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and shifting the focus from baby gear to emotional and mental prep.…

1
195. The 4 Seasons of Your Menstrual Cycle: How to Sync with Your Body’s Natural Rhythm with Flurina Thali 1:02:15

1M ago1:02:15

1:02:15

🎙️ Episode Title: The 4 Seasons of Your Menstrual Cycle: How to Sync with Your Body’s Natural Rhythm with Flurina Thali Description: In this enlightening episode, we’re joined by Flurina Thali, a menstrual cycle coach and embodiment guide, who shares how tuning into the natural "seasons" of your menstrual cycle can help you live with more alignment…

1
Normalize It: From Miscarriage to Midlife—Owning Our Stories Without Shame with Jessica Zucker 1:02:31

1M ago1:02:31

1:02:31

There are the stories we tell out loud, and then there are the ones we keep tucked away—the ones that ache the most, because we’ve carried them in silence. On this episode of On Health, we’re breaking the silence—and the stigma—around some of the most vulnerable, hidden experiences women carry: miscarriage, illness, identity loss, perfectionism, ag…

1
Birth Story: Insights into Home Birth: Godelieve Peters-Boselie's Story of Strength and Preparation 59:21

1M ago59:21

59:21

In this episode, I have the absolute joy of chatting with Godelieve from the Netherlands about her beautiful and empowering home birth experience. She takes us through her fast-paced labor, the tools and techniques she used to stay grounded through contractions, and how preparation and support made all the difference. We also dive into what postpar…

1
194. Bouncing Forward, Not Back: A Fun Chat on Postpartum Body Image & Motherhood with Rachel Evans, Ph.D 42:10

2M ago42:10

42:10

Are you a new or expecting mom navigating body image changes before, during, or after pregnancy? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Rachel Evans, psychologist, eating disorder survivor, and mom of two, to explore the complex emotional and physical shifts that come with motherhood. We dive into the real experience of postpartum body image, h…

1
From Partners to Parents: Preparing your Relationship for a Newborn 26:50

2M ago26:50

26:50

Today Dr. Alicia and Dr. Pip Houghton discuss a topic that is near and dear to their hearts - how to babyproof your relationship. The arrival of a newborn will undoubtedly create a new dynamic within your family unit, and while it brings great joy, we also run the risk of being blindsided by the challenges of this shift while also experiencing heig…

1
8 Surprising Facts about Birth 26:53

2M ago26:53

26:53

In this episode, I’m sharing eight important truths about childbirth that often get overlooked—but can make such a difference in how empowered and prepared you feel. From the fact that your water might not break on its own, to what an epidural really feels like, to knowing that you have the right to say no to any test or procedure—this is the kind …

1
E34: The Path to Healing Through an Intensive Outpatient Program, with Lauren LMHC 43:15

2M ago43:15

43:15

In this special episode of Delivered, we are so happy to welcome Lauren back to the show! Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge in the mental health field, with a strong background in the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). In today's episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of healing within the structure of an Intensive Outpatient Prog…

1
Breastfeeding Challenges, Tongue Tie, & Trusting Your Instincts 1:14:23

2M ago1:14:23

1:14:23

What if you already have what it takes to breastfeed your baby—and just need the right support to unlock it? This question is at the heart of my conversation with Lisa Paladino, Certified Nurse Midwife, IBCLC, and a fierce advocate for women and babies. Lisa has decades of experience helping families navigate the powerful, joyous, and sometimes con…

1
Baby's Best Start: Craniosacral Therapy Unveiled with Meaghan Beames, CST 41:23

2M ago41:23

41:23

In this episode, I’m so excited to introduce you to Meaghan Beames, a craniosacral therapist who brings such a gentle, knowledgeable approach to supporting both babies and mamas. We’re diving into what craniosacral therapy (CST) actually is, how it works, and the amazing ways it can help—especially with things like colic, latching challenges, and t…

1
The $100K Doula Myth 18:18

2M ago18:18

18:18

In this episode, my focus is uncovering the financial challenges faced by doulas today and I explore the main reasons why some achieve significant financial success while others continue to struggle. The importance of a smart business model is a top priority in building a financially stable business, but the close second and third are pricing that …

1
Labor Pains and Gains: The Truth About Contractions 21:13

2M ago21:13

21:13

In this episode, we’re shifting the way we think about contractions—because yes, they’re intense and exhausting, but they’re also incredibly purposeful. Each one is helping your cervix open and bringing your baby closer to your arms. I’ll walk you through how viewing contractions as beneficial can totally change your mindset during labor. We’ll als…

1
Have You Been Medically Hexed? The Power of Words to Heal and to Harm 45:29

2M ago45:29

45:29

Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling more defeated than when you arrived? Perhaps a diagnosis felt like a life sentence, or a well-meaning comment planted a seed of fear that lingered for months. This isn’t just bad bedside manner; it’s a phenomenon I call “medical hexing.” It’s the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, way that languag…

1
Birth Story: Premature Miracles: Kyla's Inspiring NICU Experience 37:42

2M ago37:42

37:42

This week’s episode is all about the power of advocacy—trusting your voice, your instincts, and your choices during pregnancy and birth. I’m honored to share Kyla’s incredible birth story, as she opens up about welcoming her daughter at just 28 weeks. We talk about the emotional strength it took to navigate such an unexpected journey, how affirmati…

1
E33: The Realities of Motherhood: What no one Prepares you for, with Erin Ference, MSW 46:54

2M ago46:54

46:54

In this special episode of Delivered, we are joined by Erin Ference, MSW. She is the Social Work Team Lead for Inpatient Case Management at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. In our episode, we dive into the truth that Motherhood is beautiful, but let’s be real—it’s also messy, exhausting, and nothing like the picture-perfect moments we see on social…

1
Passive Income Created From Essential Expertise w/ Jen Tawil 39:45

2M ago39:45

39:45

In this episode I'm chatting with postpartum doula Jen Tawil, who uniquely combines her experience as a former private investigator with her doula practice and from that came the creation of her first digital course, Trust But Verify: The Childcare Interview Process. Passive income is a must when we are building our businesses because it allows us …

1
Preterm Birth: What Every Parent Needs to Know 27:35

3M ago27:35

27:35

There is a lot doctors and scientists still don’t fully understand about what includes labour, both pre and at term. But we do know that there are treatments that can reduce your chance of having a preterm birth, especially if you have had one in the past. Preterm birth can be especially traumatic for those living in remote communities which is why…

1
Motherhood Unfiltered: Struggles, Joy, and Finding Balance with Sophie Harris 39:51

3M ago39:51

39:51

Stephanie King interviews Sophie Harris, a postpartum therapist, about postpartum challenges and self-care. They discuss overcoming self-neglect, emotional struggles, setting boundaries, and the importance of community support. Listeners get practical advice for better postpartum experiences. Click HERE for the Show Notes! Where to find Sophie and …

1
Holding On and Letting Go: Modern Friendship in Women’s Lives with Anna Goldfarb 1:22:29

3M ago1:22:29

1:22:29

What if friendships were just as vital to our health as sleep, nutrition, and exercise? Research suggests they might be. But in our fast-paced, modern world, nurturing deep and lasting friendships can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I sit down with journalist and author Anna Goldfarb to explore the evolving landscape of friendship—why it can be…

1
Unmedicated Home Birth: Liv & Matt's Story of The Gift of Their Christmas Baby 1:06:12

3M ago1:06:12

1:06:12

Stephanie discusses the empowering journey of Liv and Matt's home birth, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and preparations. They share initial fears, the importance of supportive people, and practical advice for both moms and dads, offering insights into a calm and prepared home birth. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essent…

1
Agencies Creating Sustainability For Doulas w/ Hillary Melchiors 40:46

3M ago40:46

40:46

In this episode of the Birth Boss podcast, I'm sitting down with with Hilary Melchiors, owner of the Doula Group of Evansville, and fun fact, the only certified postpartum doula in a 75 mile radius of her! This brings up some differences in the way we started and currently run our agencies, which is somewhat dependent on our geographical location, …

1
193. The Good Daughter Syndrome: Help for Daughters of Narcissistic, Borderline, or Difficult Mothers with Katherine Fabrizio M.A., L.C.M.H.C. 49:32

3M ago49:32

49:32

Do you constantly seek your mother’s approval at the expense of your own happiness? Do you struggle with boundaries or feel emotionally trapped in your relationship with her? In this episode, I sit down with Catherine Fabrizio, psychotherapist and author of The Good Daughter Syndrome, to discuss how daughters of difficult, narcissistic, or emotiona…

1
Car Seat Safety 101: More Than Just Choosing a Seat! 46:31

3M ago46:31

46:31

Why do we even bother with car seats? Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of preventable death in children ages one through nine in Canada. Driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do, and most of us do it on a daily basis with our children in the mix. The good news is, child safety seats have been shown to reduce fatal injury…

1
Your Newborn and Vitamin K: Making Informed Decisions 31:06

3M ago31:06

31:06

Stephanie discusses the importance of knowing your options of administering Vitamin K to newborns. She covers various options including injections, oral doses, and maternal supplementation, weighing their benefits and potential risks, and emphasizes the importance of informed parental choice. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential …

1
E32: Reclaiming Yourself: the Hidden Journey of Motherhood, with Sarah Barnett, Postpartum Doula & Chef 45:35

3M ago45:35

45:35

In this special episode of Delivered, we are so fortunate to be joined again by Sarah Barnett, who is an amazing postpartum doula, chef, and retreat host. In this raw and real episode, we dive into the untold stories of motherhood—the moments that transform, challenge, and empower. Becoming a mother is often portrayed as a joyful journey, but the r…

1
Harnessing the Power of Your Cycle: A Guide to Fertility with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack of Fertility Friday 1:02:14

3M ago1:02:14

1:02:14

The world of women's health is vast and often misunderstood, especially when it comes to fertility and menstrual cycles. But understanding these essential aspects of health can empower women to take charge of their bodies. Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, creator of Fertility Friday, gives us insights! Show Notes HERE! Where you can find Lisa: Website Instag…

1
Moving Beyond Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome to Find Happiness with Emma Seppälä 1:13:15

3M ago1:13:15

1:13:15

Have you ever felt torn between dreaming big and staying realistic? Between trusting your instincts and wondering if fear is holding you back? In today’s conversation, we’re diving deep into what it truly means to reclaim your personal sovereignty—the ability to stand fully in your own power, free from self-doubt, external expectations, and the wei…

1
Managing Yourself and Your Strategy w/ Alyssa Knapp 57:11

3M ago57:11

57:11

In this episode of the Birth Boss podcast, I'm hanging out with Alyssa Knapp, a holistic business coach, and we are chatting in depth about the journey of entrepreneurship in the health and wellness industry. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the importance of integrating mind, body, and spirit in coaching, finding your niche, and balancing b…

1
Normalizing Entrepreneurship in Doula Work 20:28

3M ago20:28

20:28

In this episode I emphasizes the importance of not only recognizing, but normalizing entrepreneurship within the doula profession. I share a little bit about my personal journey from being a doula to establishing an agency, highlighting the significance of viewing myself as a business owner from early on, and not "just a doula". Throughout this epi…