Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy

This birth story is such a beautiful reminder that preparation, prayer, and unwavering partner support can truly transform the labor experience. In this episode, Kaitlyn and her husband Kale share their faith-filled home birth journey — from unexpected pregnancy challenges and prenatal depression to the incredible moment Kale caught their baby in the birth tub. You’ll hear the raw realities of third-trimester pain, mental health struggles, intentional birth prep as a couple, and the pow...

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2025

What would you do if your baby came so fast… there was no time to make it to the hospital? In this unforgettable, heart-melting birth story, My Essential Birth Mama Karlen shares her journey with us through a challenging pregnancy, an unexpected early labor after planning for induction, and a completely unplanned roadside birth with only her husband by her side. From the moment she realized, “I’m doing this right now,” to the incredible birth that follows, I know you're going to love this bir...

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2025

BLACK FRIDAY IS HERE: GRAB MY ESSENTIAL BIRTH FOR ONLY $197!! “I love my baby… AND I’m struggling.” If you’ve ever thought that and immediately felt guilt, shame, or fear that something was wrong—you are not alone. In this deeply moving and much-needed episode, I sit down with Dr. Margo Lowy, author of the powerful new book Maternal Ambivalence, to talk about the full emotional reality of motherhood—starting in pregnancy. This conversation is profoundly healing. It normalizes the feelings so...

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2025

If you’ve ever wondered what a peaceful, physiological, deeply empowering home birth can look like — especially with a big baby — this episode will become your new obsession. Today, Taylor Ward walks us through her beautiful birth story of her 9 lb 12 oz baby boy born at home… after going 8 days past her due date… with zero cervical checks, no stitches, and the most intuitive, grounded labor mindset you’ve ever heard. If you’re craving real-life encouragement, home birth inspiration, mental p...

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2025

Pregnant and already worried about how your baby will sleep? Forget cry-it-out and rigid sleep methods — there’s a gentler, biology-based way to support your baby’s rest. In this episode, Pediatric Sleep Expert Louise Herbert shares what every pregnant mom needs to know before your little one even arrives. Learn how to set up your baby’s environment, support their natural rhythms, and protect your own mental health...yep that matters and we talk about why in this episode! Some Highlights!! 1:...

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by Nov 7 and get TWO exclusive bonuses: The Belly Mapping Guide + Partner Belly Binding Video! Help your baby get into the best position for birth and support your healing postpartum. You’ve been prepping for birth, but with so much conflicting advice, it’s easy to feel nervous or unprepared… and you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down what most people don’t tell you about getting ready for labor — from birth myths and epidurals to baby position...

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by Nov 4 and get TWO exclusive bonuses: The Belly Mapping Guide + Partner Belly Binding Video! Help your baby get into the best position for birth and support your healing postpartum. You know your baby better than anyone — but when it comes to milestones, feeding, or development, it’s easy to second-guess yourself...and you're not alone! In this episode, I’m joined by Jordyn Gorman of Eat, Play, Say — a pediatric therapist and mama who helps parents support...

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by November 4th and get TWO exclusive BONUSES: The Belly Mapping Guide & Partner Belly Binding Video Tutorial. It's everything you need to help your baby be in the perfect position for birth AND to support your belly postpartum! ------- One day she sneezed... and everything shifted. 😳 When Lisette’s water broke before 36 weeks, her home birth plans changed in an instant — but her confidence didn’t. What followed was a powerful story of faith, flexib...

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2025

Your gut isn’t just about digestion — it’s shaping your baby’s health from the very first bite! In this episode, we uncover the surprising ways your gut impacts baby’s immune system, brain development, and even lifelong wellness. From what to eat each trimester, to testing negative for Group B Strep, to preparing your body for birth and postpartum recovery — we’re covering the gut secrets every pregnant mom needs to know. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1:01 – Your gut = your ...

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2025

This week I'm chatting with Daizjah, who shares her incredible first birth story at a military hospital. From finding out she was pregnant just weeks before her wedding, to preparing with CrossFit up until 34 weeks, mental rehearsals, the role that faith played, and a labor playlist... to the big day—Daizjah takes us through every detail. You're going to love this inspiring, and faith-filled birth story! Here's what you'll learn in this episode: 2:04 – Meet Daizjah: Military Veteran and wife ...

Transcribed - Published: 8 October 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by October 7th and get exclusive Affirmations BONUSES: featuring a calming Birth Affirmations Audio Track and 25 beautifully crafted, printable Birth Affirmation Cards to keep you grounded, confident, and inspired for birth. Grab it Here: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted Everywhere you turn, someone has an opinion about what you should eat during pregnancy, how fast you should bounce back postpartum, or the “magic foods” that will skyrocket your m...

Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by October 7th and get the exclusive Rise & Birth Pack (My Essential Birth Course PLUS downloadable Birth Affirmations Audio + Affirmation Cards) Grab it here: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted If you've ever been told you have a suspected "BIG" baby, you know that the stress of hearing that statement can be overwhelming. Talks of extra ultrasounds, monitoring, induction, and even cesarean birth start becoming part of your regular office visits...

Transcribed - Published: 24 September 2025

Join the My Essential Birth Course by October 7th and get the exclusive Rise & Birth Pack featuring a calming Birth Affirmations Audio Track and 25 beautifully crafted, printable Birth Affirmation Cards to keep you grounded, confident, and inspired for birth. Learn more: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted Okay, Mama, this one is tender, faith-filled, and downright empowering. Rachel (mom of two under two in Michigan) brings us into her living room for an unmedicated home birth t...

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2025

You’ve probably had this moment: you’re sitting in a provider’s office, pregnant belly in front of you, when someone says, “This is what you’ll get at your next appointment.” No conversation. No options. Just a directive. If your stomach has ever dropped in that moment, wondering: “Do I even get a say here?” This episode is for you, mama. I sat down with Alexandra Galaska, the powerhouse behind Just the Inserts, to talk about how to cut through fear, confusion, and the “this is just what we d...

Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2025

The first six weeks of pregnancy can feel like the longest waiting game of your life. Heck, those two weeks after you have sex may as well be a year!! Even once you’ve got the positive test, and your body is already shifting, that first prenatal appointment still doesn’t happen for weeks. Cue: late-night Googling, second-guessing every cramp or craving, and wondering what’s actually normal. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on those early weeks. From my own experiences (yes, even ...

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2025

Four years of infertility. Two failed IUIs. A spot on the IVF waitlist. And then… six months after shifting her food and lifestyle with PrimalBod (use code MEB100 for $100 off if you want to try it!), Dominique’s story took a turn she’ll never forget: two pink lines in an Airbnb, before a wedding, shoving the test in her husband’s face while he was still scrolling his phone. (ICONIC.) This conversation is part raw honesty, part “wait, why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?”, and fully a remin...

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2025

Four years of infertility. Two failed IUIs. A spot on the IVF waitlist. And then… six months after shifting her food and lifestyle with PrimalBod (use code MEB100 for $100 off if you want to try it!), Dominique’s story took a turn she’ll never forget: two pink lines in an Airbnb, before a wedding, shoving the test in her husband’s face while he was still scrolling his phone. (ICONIC.) This conversation is part raw honesty, part “wait, why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?”, and fully a remin...

Published: 27 August 2025

What happens when your due date collides with a snowstorm in Georgia? When I first connected with Abby, I knew her birth story was going to be special, but GAH!! It’s so good and I just know it’s going to inspire every mama listening. As a first-time mom, she navigated early bloody show, a surprise snowstorm, and nearly three days of labor with an amazing, calm, grounded intuition that’s absolutely contagious. From the nausea that knocked her off her feet in the first trimester to the “crunch...

Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2025

No one told me that postpartum recovery isn’t just about “getting back to normal.” It’s about rebuilding from the inside out, pelvic floor, core, energy, mindset, and that what you do (and don’t do) in those early days matters more than you think. That’s why I brought Dr. Jessica London, pelvic floor therapist and mama’s best friend in recovery, on the podcast to walk you through exactly what’s happening in your body and how to move forward, without overdoing it. (And she was kind enough to s...

Transcribed - Published: 13 August 2025

"You probably shouldn’t learn how to swim when you're drowning." That one hit me hard—and it’s exactly why this episode exists. Whether you’re a first-time mama, or you’ve had a difficult breastfeeding journey before, this conversation is going to leave you feeling empowered, educated, and supported. I sat down with Jamie Zaki, an IBCLC, doula, nurse, and mom of five (yes, five!), to talk about how to prepare for breastfeeding before baby arrives. Jamie shares her real, raw postpartum story—i...

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2025

From trauma to triumph — Samantha and Matt’s birth story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible. After a terrifying first birth that left them both shaken, they came into baby #2’s birth with education, preparation, and a whole lot of heart. With gestational diabetes, high-risk care, and past trauma stacked against her, Samantha shares how she found her strength, leaned on her partner, and birthed her baby in just over 6 hours, naturally, confidently, and joyfully. This episode is a ...

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

If you’ve ever been told that your exclusively breastfed baby has to take vitamin D drops, you’re not alone. But maybe, like me, you paused and thought, “Wait… why?” In this episode, I’m walking you through the real reason behind the recommendation, what the research says, how sunlight plays a big role, and what your options are when it comes to supporting your baby’s health. Plus, I share a personal reflection that had me tearing up—because motherhood is beautiful, messy, and fleeting. Let’s...

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

What do you get when you mix Irish twins, a surprise pregnancy, and a determined mama ready for her first home birth? A fast, powerful, and totally redemptive third birth story! 🙌 In this episode, Maren takes us through the highs, the stalls, and the five-minute pushing stage that made her say: “I’m never going back to the hospital.” She shares the mental prep that kept her grounded, how her husband and mom tag-teamed support, and why letting her body lead was the best decision she could’ve m...

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

Ever heard someone say you're “eating for two”? Or that once you’ve had a cesarean, you’ll always have to? Let’s set the record straight, friend! In this episode, I’m breaking down five of the most common pregnancy myths that are still floating around out there—and giving you the real, evidence-based truth (with a side of tough love and encouragement, of course). ✨ You don’t need to follow all the advice being thrown your way. You just need good information and a whole lot of trust in your in...

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

What if breech didn’t automatically mean cesarean? In this episode, I sit down with my good friend and midwife Bonnie Baker to talk all about breech babies—how they’re born, when it’s safe, and what your options really are (especially outside of a hospital setting). Whether you’re a birth junkie or you just found out your baby is breech, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Show Notes HERE! Where to find Bonnie: WebsiteInstagramLinks Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential ...

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Let’s talk about something that affects so many mamas but often gets brushed under the rug—mental health during pregnancy. In this episode, I’m getting real about SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), what they are, how common they are, the benefits and the risks (yes, for both mom and baby), and—most importantly—the wide range of options available to you. This episode came straight from one of you (I love when that happens!), and I want you to know that no matter where you are on ...

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

This week’s episode is such a treat because we’ve got a birth story—and not just any birth story—one that includes both mama and dad! Sarah and Matthew share the story of how they prepared (physically, mentally, and emotionally) to bring their baby girl into the world. Their journey is such a powerful reminder of what intentional preparation, trust, and partnership can look like. Sarah walks us through her health challenges before pregnancy, how she got her body ready to conceive, what labor ...

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

In this episode, we’re talking all about one of my favorite topics—freedom of movement during labor! I’m diving into why it’s so important to listen to your body and move in ways that feel good as you work through contractions. From squatting to hands-and-knees to standing and swaying, we’ll explore how different positions can make a big difference in your comfort and your baby’s progress. Spoiler: lying on your back isn’t your only option—and it’s definitely not the best one for everyone. I’...

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

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 support she received from her husband. She also shares heartfelt advice for both moms and dads as they prepare for birth. It’s the perfect reminder ...

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Arielle Martone, a physical therapist and postpartum coach, who specializes in helping moms reconnect with and rebuild their bodies after birth. Whether you're newly postpartum or years past delivery, this conversation is packed with insights you can use today. Show Notes HERE! Where to Find Arielle: Instagram: @findingyourwaymama Website: ariellemartone.comLinks Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birt...

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Amber shares her journey through her 41-week pregnancy with her 3rd child, detailing her experiences with high-risk diagnosis, labor preparations, and overcoming challenges during birth. She emphasizes the importance of trust, support, relaxation techniques, and shares advice for expecting mothers. Show Notes HERE! Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We l...

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Stephanie discusses natural labor patterns, emphasizing comfort at home before hospital visits. She outlines labor stages, average durations, and factors influencing labor length, such as position and medical interventions. Tips and emotional support are highlighted, including nesting and readiness. Show Notes HERE! Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramBreech without BordersGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to hello@mye...

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Stephanie King, childbirth educator, discusses the return of menstrual cycles postpartum, addressing irregularities, bleeding, and hormones. She offers advice on nutrition, stress reduction, supplements, and breastfeeding. She also highlights ways to help restore menstrual cycles and overall health. Show Notes HERE! Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth Instagram GET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We...

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Doula Caitlin Wilder emphasizes the importance of normalizing struggles, sharing realistic postpartum experiences, and focusing on mental and emotional preparation over material items. They also talk about the critical role of a supportive postpartum team and self-care tailored to individual needs. Show Notes HERE! How to connect with Caitlin: WebsiteInstagramPodcastLinks Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach...

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Stephanie King, a childbirth educator, interviews Godelieve from the Netherlands about her empowering home birth experience. They discuss her rapid labor, techniques for managing contractions, and the importance of preparation and support. Godelieve also shares insights on Dutch postpartum care. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you...

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Stephanie shares eight essential and often overlooked aspects of childbirth. These include the possibility that your water might not break, the reality that an epidural doesn't eliminate all sensation, understanding your options, and having the right to refuse any tests or procedures. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you! L...

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Stephanie introduces craniosacral therapy (CST) with Meaghan Beames. They discuss the benefits of CST for babies and pregnant moms, how it helps with colic, latching, and other issues. She highlights how CST works, its differences from chiropractic care, and practical advice for expectant mothers. Show Notes HERE! Where to find Meaghan: WebsiteInstagramLinks Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any ti...

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Each contraction during labor is beneficial, contributing to the opening of the cervix and the baby’s eventual birth. While exhausting, these contractions are important for both the baby and the mother's body. This episode emphasizes a positive mindset by reminding that labor is temporary. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you! Lo...

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

This week's episode emphasizes advocating for yourself during pregnancy and birth and features Kyla's birth story of her daughter born at 28 weeks. It covers emotional preparations, affirmations, and breathing techniques. Kyla shares her NICU experience, breastfeeding challenges, and parenting tips. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from...

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

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 how to connect with her: InstagramWebsite1:1 TherapyGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you!...

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

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 CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from yo...

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

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 CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you! ...

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

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: WebsiteInstagramPodcastLinks Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramReal Food for FertilityGET IN TO...

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

We discuss how postpartum should be mother-centered and family-focused. Dr. Kristal Lau shares insights on blending traditional and modern postpartum practices. They discuss the importance of planning for postpartum, ensuring proper nutrition and rest, and including partners in the care process. Show Notes HERE! How to find Dr. Lau: InstagramPostpartum 30Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out a...

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Select someone for your birth space who makes you feel loved and protected, rather than someone you feel obligated to include. They should support your wishes without personal motives or desires, believing in and respecting your needs during this time. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We love hearing from you! Looking for more info on the birth cours...

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Stephanie encourages new mamas in this postpartum episode about what happens if your healing journey takes a turn. New moms are encouraged to take care of themselves postpartum, along with a reminder to help others once they feel well, fostering a supportive community. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramPostpartum Support International - 1-800-944-4773Conditions to Watch for PostpartumPost-Delivery ComplicationsGET IN TOUC...

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Stephanie discusses the importance of communication and preparation for childbirth with guest Morgan. Morgan shares her positive birth experiences, contrasting her induced first labor with a natural second one, emphasizing the significance of supportive partners, education, and a good birth plan. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramThe Fresh Test For 20% OFF use Coupon Code: MYESSENTIALBIRTH GET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out...

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

Lily Nichols discusses the importance of focusing on both women's and men's nutrition for fertility. They emphasize the significance of preconception planning, optimal diets, and essential supplements. Lily shares practical advice and research to help couples prepare for a healthy pregnancy. You can access the Show Notes HERE! Where to find Lily Nichols: InstagramWebsite Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramReal Food ...

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

If you're considering having little ones being in your birth space for the arrival of your newest little one, this is the episode for you! Stephanie discusses how to prepare your children for the sacred birth space and gives insight on making it a peaceful environment full of positivity and love. Click for the Show Notes HERE! Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramBooks for Kids about BirthGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any ...

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

Ashley and Bryan share about their unexpectedly rapid labor/delivery experience, which culminated in their son Jack being born in a parking lot. They discuss the preparation and intuition that helped them through the process, emphasizing the importance of informed decisions and partner involvement. Show Notes HERE! Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH! 🤩 Reach out at any time to [email protected]. We...

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025