What if we were taught..

In this episode, I'm joined by chiropractor Dr Rachael Davie to explore the role of chiropractic care in pregnancy, birth preparation, postpartum recovery, and infant wellbeing. Rachael specialises in perinatal and paediatric chiropractic care, and together we unpack many of the myths and misconceptions that still surround chiropractic work — particularly when it comes to pregnant women and babies. We discuss the different techniques used in chiropractic care (including gentle, low-force approaches), how bodywork can support pelvic alignment during pregnancy, and why this may help create optimal conditions for birth. We also explore the importance of collaborative care — including working alongside physiotherapists, lactation consultants, and other practitioners to support families throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. A large part of this conversation focuses on the role of chiropractic care in babies, particularly those experiencing feeding challenges, tension patterns, or difficulties related to tongue ties. Rachel shares how gentle bodywork can support babies by addressing fascial tension, improving movement patterns, and supporting the nervous system. This episode is a fascinating look at the role of bodywork in the perinatal period and offers a deeper understanding of how gentle structural support may benefit both mothers and babies. In This Episode We Discuss • What chiropractic care actually involves • Common myths and misconceptions about chiropractic treatment • The different chiropractic techniques used in pregnancy and paediatrics • Why pelvic alignment and symmetry may support birth physiology • The role of bodywork in supporting optimal fetal positioning • Pregnancy-related discomforts such as pelvic pain, sciatica and round ligament pain • Why collaborative care between practitioners is so important • The role of pelvic floor physiotherapy in pregnancy • Postpartum recovery and nervous system regulation • How posture and feeding positions impact the postpartum body • Gentle chiropractic care for babies • Feeding challenges, tongue ties and body tension in infants • The connection between the mouth, neck and nervous system • Why early bodywork may support breastfeeding and infant comfort • Primitive reflexes and early neurodevelopment in babies Dr Rachael Davie is a chiropractor and RMIT graduate, holding a Bachelor of Health Science and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chiropractic. She has undertaken extensive postgraduate training, including a Diplomate in Paediatric Neurodevelopment, and further studies in Sacro-Occipital Technique, the Activator Method, cranial work and intra-oral fascia releasing, primitive reflex and tone assessment, and Applied Kinesiology. Dr Rachael Davie Dr Davie has a strong clinical interest in paediatrics and neurodevelopment, with a focus on cranial care, oral tie assessment, and collaborative work with orofacial myologists. She also performs neurodevelopmental assessments for school-aged children. Alongside her paediatric focus, Dr Davie works closely with women during pregnancy and in postpartum care, and has additional interests in TMJ dysfunction and sports chiropractic care. Through her work, Dr Davie is passionate about supporting nervous system health and helping patients of all ages achieve optimal function and development. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on ; Instagram: @whatifweweretaught and @the_pregnancy_collective Facebook: The Pregnancy Collective Follow Dr Rachael Davie Instagram — @solacebodyworkgc Website —Solacebodywork Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this deeply thoughtful and expansive conversation, I'm joined by Naomi Jansson to explore early pregnancy loss through a cultural, historical, and physiological lens. Together, we unpack the lived experience of women navigating pregnancy loss and examine the broader context in which it exists — including the taboo that still surrounds miscarriage, the influence of culture and religion, and the gaps in current health infrastructure. We explore how traditional medicine systems acknowledge the physiology of pregnancy loss, and how different cultures manage and support women during this time. By looking beyond the Western model of care, we reflect on what is often missing — and what becomes possible when pregnancy loss is recognised as a significant rite of passage and honoured as a true postpartum experience. This episode places strong emphasis on nourishing and supporting the mother not only emotionally and psychologically, but biologically and hormonally. We discuss the importance of tending to the postpartum body after early loss, and how deeper recognition at an individual and systemic level can lead to more compassionate, comprehensive care. Naomi also shares practical examples of how care can look different, and introduces the "Complete Care Women's Wellness " model she is developing - a clinical and case-management approach designed specifically to better support women experiencing pregnancy loss. This is an important and necessary conversation for midwives, birth workers, and anyone wanting to better understand how we can meet women - and ourselves - with greater reverence, understanding, and care. Dr Naomi Jansson Is a second-generation Chinese Medicine Doctor and educator, and an integrative Clinical Nurse Consultant specialising in Women's Health and Complex Clinical Care, with over 25 years of experience. She works across private clinics, integrative health centres, and hospital settings, where she has held leadership roles including Clinical Lead and Perinatal Service Manager. In all settings, she is a dedicated advocate for Traditional Medicine, women-centred models of care, and culturally responsive practice. Naomi serves as an advisor on the STEM Committee at RMIT and sits on the Board of the Matrescence Birth Centre. She is the Founder and Clinical Director of The Well Supported Mothers Collective, which provides professional education and resources in women's health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. Raised in a Traditional Medicine household, Naomi developed an early, embodied relationship with classical healing systems. This foundation led to formal study and lifelong apprenticeship across multiple East Asian medical traditions, including Chinese Medicine (Zhongyi), Japanese Medicine (HariKyu), Tibetan Medicine (Sowa Rigpa), and Indian Medicine (Ayurveda). In addition to her classical training, Naomi has cultivated deep relationships with intercultural and folk medicine traditions for women's health. Her studies include learning from Indigenous Australian, South American, European, Middle Eastern, Irish/Celtic, and Russian teachers, midwives, and traditional practitioners. Her training encompasses pelvic steaming, Closing the Bones rituals, rebozo and faja abdominal binding, traditional womb and breast care practices, movement for birth, folk herbalism, and therapeutic foods and teas for recovery. Her work holds a particular focus on comprehensive postpartum recovery, honouring all pregnancy and birth experiences. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on ; Instagram: @whatifweweretaught and @the_pregnancy_collective Facebook: The Pregnancy Collective Follow Naomi Instagram — @gentle_traditions and @well_supported_ mother and @complete_care_womens_wellness Website —Gentle Traditions and The Well Supported Mothers Collective and Complete Care Womens Wellness Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

Ok Fella's..If you're listening to this episode, firstly — well done. Your role in birth is massive. You are not just a bystander. You are a core part of this experience, and in labour, she will look to you more than anyone else for safety, reassurance and grounding. In this episode, I'm sharing my top tips for partners on how to truly support your woman through pregnancy, birth and postpartum — in a way that builds connection, confidence and calm. I cover: Why getting educated about birth matters more than you realise (and how it changes everything) The conversations you need to have during pregnancy to understand what she actually wants What labour really looks like — and how to "read the room" Practical, in-the-moment tools: massage, hip squeezes, breath work, tone of voice, eye contact and nervous system regulation What to say (and what not to say) How to advocate for her if plans change Setting up the birth environment and protecting the "birth bubble" Why a doula can support both of you How to look after yourself during a long labour The emotional side of birth for partners — including fear, helplessness and overwhelm Postpartum: your new role as support crew, gatekeeper and emotional anchor We also talk honestly about: When birth doesn't go to plan (induction, epidural, caesarean, NICU) Birth trauma for dads Postpartum depression in men The huge identity shift that happens after baby arrives Skin-to-skin for partners and the powerful brain changes that come with it The questions men are often too afraid to ask Plus, I share helpful resources to get you started. Here's what I want you to remember: You are there to witness, support and believe in her. It's natural to want to "solve" her pain (if she has pain) - but what she needs most is connection, presence and to feel heard. In birth and in postpartum. You will never forget the way your partner gives birth. And she will never forget the way you made her feel while she did it. You don't need to be perfect. You just need to be present. For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; whatifweweretaught the_pregnancy_collective Follow me on Facebook; The Pregnancy Collective Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this powerful conversation, I'm joined by Jane Hardwicke Collings — international speaker, author, and pioneer in the field of rites of passage for women. Together, we explore how we can begin reframing Menarche and the menstrual cycle, moving away from shame, silence, and purely clinical education, and towards a culture of understanding, respect, and embodied wisdom. This episode is especially for parents who feel like they're starting from scratch — those who were never taught about their own cycles in a holistic way and now want to do things differently for their children. We discuss ; How to educate both daughters and sons. When these conversations can begin, and how to create a supportive household culture around the menstrual cycle. Jane shares her beautiful framework of the cycle as seasons, explores the emotional, mental, and physical rhythms across the month, and offers practical insights into hormones, and the body's innate wisdom. We discuss the significant role fathers play and how they can support their daughters. We also dive into rites of passage, honouring menarche in meaningful ways and what society could look like if we truly supported cyclical living. This episode is an invitation to help remove shame, empower families, and create a cultural shift so the next generation grows up informed, respected, and deeply connected to their bodies. *********Book Giveaway********** To honour Jane's work, I'll be running a giveaway of two of her beautiful books: Becoming a Woman: A Guide for Girls Approaching Menstruation and Blood Rites: The Spiritual Practice of Menstruation Head over to the "What If We Were Taught" Instagram page HERE to find out more. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on ; Instagram: @whatifweweretaught and @the_pregnancy_collective Facebook: The Pregnancy Collective Follow Jane Hardwicke Collings Instagram — @janehardwickecollings and @schoolofshamanicwomancraft Facebook-Jane Hardwicke Collings Website — www.janehardwickecollings.com and www.schoolofshamanicwomancraft.com Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

Today I'm joined by Tara Power and Franziska Alderton, two visionary women working to bring "Gaia" a Holistic Birthing and Family Sanctuary to life on the Gold Coast. In this episode, we explore the why behind Gaia, the vision for a holistic birthing sanctuary, and the model of care they hope to offer families. Tara and Franziska share how Gaia differs from existing maternity care models, where they're currently at in the planning process, their anticipated timeline, and their call to action for practitioners who feel aligned with this work. This conversation is an invitation; to build momentum, community, and connection, and to call in the people needed to help bring this shared vision into reality. Franziska Alderton Franziska brings nearly 20 years' experience in program and project management, infrastructure planning, and engineering across Australia and Europe. The vision for Gaia was born from her own lived experience of early motherhood and matrescence, and a deep desire to create a village of care, support, and connection for women and families. Tara Power Tara Power is the founder of Earth Mothers Community, supporting women through fertility, motherhood, and rites of passage using body-based wisdom, feminine energetics, and creative expression. Her work is informed by training in Ayurvedic health, yoga, trauma-informed therapy, and women's bodywork, and is deeply shaped by her own journey of transformation. About Gaia Gaia Holistic Birthing and Family Sanctuary's vision is to be; a heart-led, evidence-based, women-centred model of maternity and family care. Through a collaborative, multidisciplinary team, Gaia supports informed choice, continuity of care, emotional wellbeing, and community connection throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram: @whatifweweretaught @the_pregnancy_collective Follow Gaia Instagram — @gaiabirthingsanctuary Facebook- Gaia Holistic Birthing and Family Sanctuary Website — www.gaiabirthing.com.au Donation for Go Fund me HERE to help support the build of Gaia Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

Welcome to the final episode of 2025. In this special solo episode, I'm busting the most common misconceptions about hypnobirthing and clearing up what it really is — and what it definitely isn't. From myths around hypnosis to misunderstandings about pain, control, and mindset, this episode is all about separating fact from fiction so you can feel informed and empowered. This episode is also a celebration. We've officially reached 40 episodes and 15,000 downloads, and I want to say a heartfelt thank you to every single one of you for tuning in, sharing, and supporting the podcast this year. It has been another incredible year of sharing evidence-based, empowering conversations around pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond — the things we so often aren't taught, but absolutely deserve to know. Thank you for being part of this community. I can't wait to be back with you Jan 14th 2026 For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; whatifweweretaught the_pregnancy_collective Follow me on Facebook; The Pregnancy Collective Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this episode, I'm joined by Jen Dugard. Jen Dugard is the founder of MumSafe, creator of Safe return to Exercise certification and author of How to Love your Body as much as your Baby.. In this episode we take a deep dive into what MumSafe is, why it exists, and why safe, well-informed exercise guidance is so essential for every pregnant and postpartum woman. Together, we explore: • The importance of training in facilities that understand pregnancy and postpartum needs, and how this protects women from injury • Current exercise guidelines and how to prepare your body for birth • Pelvic floor awareness and why it should underpin all training • What women should look for when choosing a trainer or gym — including red flags and must-ask questions • What gold-standard screening looks like in practice • How to tell if a gym is genuinely pelvic-floor aware (including language, progression, and what NOT to hear) • The Mumsafe model, what makes it unique, and the ongoing education required for all Mumsafe trainers • How systems advocacy and public health awareness could transform the way we support mothers This is a powerful, much-needed conversation about raising the standard of care for mums through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum — and creating safer, more supportive spaces for every woman to move her body. And if your wanting to get your hands on a free copy of one of Jen's book head over to the "@whatifweweretaught " instagram page to check out the giveaway xx. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram: @whatifweweretaught @the_pregnancy_collective Connect with Jen Instagram — @jendugard and @mumsafemovement Website — https://www.jendugard.com and https://mumsafemovement.com Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In this episode, Leah Itsines shares the deeply personal journey of her second pregnancy and the birth of baby Jesse. Planning a VBAC, Leah opens up about the extensive preparation she did for Jesse's birth and reflects on the challenges, surprises, and joys along the way. Raw, vulnerable, and often hilarious, Leah recounts her labour story with authenticity and humor, giving listeners a front-row seat to the highs and lows of bringing Jesse into the world. She also shares her postpartum experience and what it's been like adjusting to life as a family of four. A heartfelt and candid conversation, this episode is full of insights, laughter, and real-life parenting moments — you won't want to miss it. And if your wanting to get your hands on a free copy of one of Leah's amazing cook books head over to the "@whatifweweretaught " instagram page to check out the giveaway she is gifting xx. For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram: @whatifweweretaught @the_pregnancy_collective Connect with Leah Instagram — @leahitsines Website — www.leahitsines.com.au Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

In today's episode, we take a deep dive into the much-needed conversation around early pregnancy loss, exploring it through a holistic and compassionate lens with acupuncturist and fertility expert, Paige Waters. With over a decade of experience in fertility and women's health, Paige shares her wisdom and expertise as we discuss: The emotional and psychological impact of early pregnancy loss Common causes and contributing factors — from a holistic Chinese medicine perspective Recurrent pregnancy loss and how Chinese medicine can support understanding and healing The importance of aftercare and recovery following loss Prevention and early testing options Navigating the public system and current gaps in testing, support, and resources Paternal factors and their influence on pregnancy outcomes Nutrition, lifestyle, and preconception health — and their impact on fertility and future pregnancies This episode shines a light on an area too often overlooked — acknowledging the emotional, physical, and systemic layers of early pregnancy loss, while offering practical, holistic guidance for healing and hope. ✨ For full show notes and all links mentioned, visit: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow us on Instagram: @the_pregnancy_collective Connect with Paige: Instagram — @paigewatersacupuncture Website — www.paigewatersacupuncture.com.au Please note: All information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.

Today's episode explores a deeply important topic — early pregnancy loss. Early pregnancy loss (often referred to as "miscarriage") is defined as a pregnancy loss before 20 weeks' gestation. It affects 1 in 4 pregnancies and is an area that needs more information, education, support, and follow-up care. I'm joined by Dr Drew Moffrey, a Private Obstetrician and Gynaecologist based at Pindara Hospital on the Gold Coast. Drew also hosts the annual Circle of Support event, raising vital funds for families navigating early loss. Together, we explore: What defines early pregnancy loss and the various types — threatened, inevitable, incomplete, missed, and recurrent Signs and symptoms of early pregnancy loss Common causes Available investigations and management options Paternal factors — sperm quality, placental influence, and DNA integrity How nutrition, lifestyle, and preconception health impact outcomes Supportive approaches, including acupuncture Navigating the healthcare system — the GP's role, how families without a specialist can be supported. Preventative strategies and the importance of compassionate aftercare We also discuss recurrent pregnancy loss, including what defines it and key investigations and testing recommendations. And so much more.. Recommended support services and organisations: Pink Elephants Support Network Red Nose Grief and Loss SANDS COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence Athena Hammond – The Birth Counsel You can donate directly to the Circle of Support here: Pink Elephants Fundraiser – Lara Melrose For full show notes and links mentioned in this episode head over to: www.thepregnancycollective.com.au Follow me on Instagram; the_pregnancy_collective Check out Dr Drew on Instagram; @drdrewmoffrey Visit his website and connect here: drdrewmoffrey.com.au Please note; all information shared on this Podcast by myself or guests is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice.