Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy

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 positioning, mindset, and practical ways to feel confident no matter how your birth unfolds.We’re covering what really matters during birth prep, including how to: • Spot the signs of active labor and plan for support • Understand epidurals, pain, and movement — what providers often don’t mention • Influence your baby’s position safely during pregnancy • Use mindset, flexibility, and planning to stay calm and confident • Prepare your birth partner to truly be your rock in the delivery room • Focus on three simple, actionable things you can start today to feel readyIf you’ve ever wondered, “Am I ready for this?” or “What actually matters for a smooth birth?” — this episode is for you. It’s honest, empowering, and full of practical tips to help you feel informed AND ready for your best birth yet! Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

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 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 their baby’s growth holistically.We’re covering baby milestones, early intervention, starting solids, feeding confidence, and how to trust your mama gut. If you’ve wondered, “Is my baby on track?” or “Should I start solids yet?” — this one’s for you, mama.In this episode: • When to trust your gut vs. seek early intervention (and it’s free in the U.S.) • How to know if baby is ready for solids — and what to start with • Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding & formula facts for confident feeding choices • High-protein, nutrient-dense foods for babies who need more calories • Why play is the most powerful tool for development (ages 0–5) • The impact of screens & distraction on early childhood development • How to advocate for your child when something feels “off”From feeding to milestones, this episode is your guide to understanding your baby’s whole-body development — and trusting your instincts every step of the way.  Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

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, flexibility, and teamwork that shows how beautiful births can happen anywhere. If you’re a mama who wants to feel calm, prepared, and empowered no matter what birth brings, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to trust your body and your baby. Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode:1:45 – A Rocky Start That Turned Into a Miracle 4:02 – The Moment She Switched from Hospital to Home6:58 – Why Home Birth, Really?8:48 – A Partner All In 11:58 – The Daily Habits That Set Her Up for Success18:10 – When Plans Change: Her Water Breaks Early 😳 22:40 – The Calm Before Baby’s Debut28:24 – What Contractions Really Felt Like30:21 – Inside Her Mind During Labor33:53 – Building Your Dream Birth Team (and Plan for it Financially)35:52 – Her Best Advice for Mamas-to-Be 💕38:07 – Dad’s Turn: What He Learned from the Inside42:34 – When Baby’s Coming Early…44:30 – His Secret to Supporting Mom During Labor46:12 – Knowledge = ConfidenceHow understanding birth and taking a comprehensive birth course gave them both peace and power when making decisions.47:23 – Dad's Final Advice for Couples49:43 – Reflections from Dad Every birth story teaches us something powerful — and Lisette’s will have you smiling, nodding your head as she walks you through her pregnancy and birth, and feeling more confident about your own.I hope you'll take a listen to see how preparation, faith, and teamwork turned unexpected twists into a beautiful, empowering birth story.Get super prepared, just like Lisette & her husband, with the Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

Discover how your gut health impacts your baby's immune system and brain development from the very start! Learn which foods are key for each trimester and why real food triumphs over supplements. Find out how to test negative for Group B Strep and the surprising role of vaginal births in supporting your baby's microbiome. Plus, explore effective habits to keep your digestion on track and maintain energy during pregnancy. Get ready to nourish both you and your little one!

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 to a military husband.3:24 – A Natural Start: How she let her body adjust after getting off the pill (spoiler - it didn't take long 😉) and what she experienced in each trimester9:00 – Military Hospital Reality: Navigating care when you don’t get to pick your provider 11:10 – The Doula Difference: Why hiring a doula transformed her birth experience14:08 – Patience at 40+ Weeks: Staying calm without induction pressure17:19 – Pregnancy Prep Essentials: Exercise, red raspberry leaf tea, chiropractor visits, stretching, and swapping her office chair for a birth ball19:58 – Breathwork & Mental Prep: The one practice she says made all the difference in labor21:27 – Faith in Pregnancy: How faith and a special scripture gave her courage and power from God23:41 – Early Labor & First Contractions: How it all started at 2 AM and the very first thing she noticed29:00 – Labor Progression at Home: Walks, stretches, spicy food, and water labor to encourage contractions...what worked best?!34:00 – Hospital Arrival & Intense Labor: Laboring in the tub, the mucus plug, positioning, and working through contractions37:00 – Pushing & the Birth: How she handled pushing, birthing positions, and witnessing her baby’s birth46:41 – Immediate Postpartum & Skin-to-Skin: Delayed cord-clamping, getting her baby to her chest, and bonding49:00 – Her Best Advice for Moms & Dads: Take a listen, it's so good!!Whether you’re just starting your pregnancy journey or counting down the final weeks, Daizjah’s story is a powerful reminder that preparation, faith, and trusting your body can make all the difference.If you’re ready to feel empowered, confident, and inspired for your own birth, this episode is a must-listen AND the My Essential Birth Course i Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

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/getstartedEverywhere 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 milk supply. But how much of it is actually true?In this week’s episode, I sit down with Brooke Harmer— mama, nutritionist, and postpartum advocate — to answer questions like; Should I eat this? How do I increase my milk supply? How can I lose some of this baby weight? - yep, we cover it all!Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode:3:00 — Meet Brooke & Why She’s So Passionate About This WorkHer story and why nutrition is more than just food for moms.7:05 — Pregnancy Nutrition (Without the Overwhelm)The #1 thing to focus on that keeps it simple and stress-free.10:32 — Eating During Labor?!Why food is fuel — even when you’re in the thick of contractions.17:52 — Epidural Moms, This Is for YouSpoiler: you still need to eat. Here’s why.18:45 — Vaginal vs. Cesarean RecoveryHow birth type changes what your body needs to heal.21:27 — “Colic” Isn’t Real?Why Brooke says colic is the IBS of baby diagnoses.24:22 — If You’re Given Antibiotics Postpartum…The crucial step you can’t skip for your recovery.28:37 — The Myths That Keep Moms From HealingWhy salads and smoothies may not be the best postpartum foods.34:07 — The Truth About Postpartum Weight LossWhere your focus should actually be (and how to get there safely).42:21 — How Birth Experience Affects BreastfeedingWhat no one tells you about birth and milk supply.46:29 — Boosting Milk SupplySimple steps that actually work.49:20 — The #1 Thing Moms Need PostpartumBrooke’s most important advice for every mama.Links we mentioned in the episode:  Brooke's Website: Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

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/getstartedIf 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. You want to make the very best, and safest decisions for your baby during this pregnancy and birth, but maybe you're feeling unsure about the information or pushed into interventions you're uncomfortable with. You're in the right place!! In this episode, I walk you through, step-by-step, exactly what having a suspected "BIG" baby means, what all of your options really are, and what you need to do to prepare yourself and your birth partner for a birth you'll love! Never fear mama. Take some nice deep breaths and get to listening. 🎧 Check out the Show Notes Here: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/blog/big-baby-the-exact-steps-to-take-right-now Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

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/getstartedOkay, 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 that was calm, supported, and so her. From a late-pregnancy breech scare to a Spinning Babies breakthrough, from Olive Garden eggplant parm to a labor playlist featuring Maverick City’s “Use To This,” this story sparkles with surrender, community, and a baby girl who absolutely heard her mama’s voice in the womb.Well Cover: 05:40 — Breech at 37 Weeks: Plus a quick framework for handling a late-pregnancy curveball (educate, pray/meditate, assemble team, talk to baby).15:30 — How She Turned Baby Head-Down: A Spinning Babies session,  chiropractic care, belly banding, and talking to her baby. 24:45 — Home Birth Setup That Saved Chaos: Pre-staged tub/hoses, dim lights, hot/warm towels and a husband who went on an ice run. 34:55 — Coping Like Intervals (Active Labor) Treat contractions as 60-second sprints, why low moo-ing works, and when to get in/out of tub.47:20 — When the Water Would Not Break, To A Healthy Baby In Three Pushes: What a bulging bag of waters feels like, getting consent, why AROM sped things up, then three-push delivery and golden hour at home.Before you go, I want to remind you that Rachel didn’t just “luck out” with a calm, empowering home birth. She trained for it. She learned how to advocate when her first birth wasn’t aligned, she knew how to talk with her midwives about breech, and she had practical tools ready for every stage of labor. That kind of confidence doesn’t just happen… It’s built.That’s why I’m always shouting from the rooftops: a birth course changes everything.Birth is one of the most physically intense, emotionally charged, and spiritually transformative events of your life. If you’d prep for a marathon, why wouldn’t you prep for birth?When you join the My Essential Birth Course, you’re literally stacking your tool belt so that when the curveballs come (br Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

Get Started with the My Essential Birth Course for only $87! (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted)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 do” culture in medicine. Alexandra’s journey began as a new mom overwhelmed by conflicting voices. What she uncovered (the actual government-issued manufacturer inserts for pharmaceuticals and vaccines) became the foundation of her mission: helping parents make truly informed decisions with confidence, not coercion.This conversation is not about being “for” or “against” anything. It’s about equipping yourself with facts, frameworks, and questions so you can walk into your provider’s office as the CEO of your health and your child’s, not a passive spectator.Show notes HERE!!Links & ResourcesFollow Alexandra on Instagram: @JustTheInsertsFind Alexandra’s FREE, no email required Course: Make Informed Medical Decisions Join me inside the My Essential Birth Course, where I’ll guide you step by step through the medical options, decisions, and preparations that lead to a birth you feel confident about and truly love. Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

Get Started with the My Essential Birth Course for only $87! (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted) 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 as a birth educator, I was up at 3 a.m. searching symptoms 🙋‍♀️) to what I see with my doula clients, I want you to feel seen, supported, and not alone in this in-between stage.Show Notes here: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/blog/episode-313-am-i-pregnant-answers-for-the-first-6-weeks Links Mentioned: 3 Exercises to Help Prepare for Your Best Birth (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/3-exercises)Click here for a list To Ask Your Doctor/OB Provider (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/OB)Click here for a list To Ask Your Midwife (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/midwife)Join the My Essential Birth Course for step-by-step pregnancy and birth prep (https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstarted)  Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here’s how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM!