Have you ever felt like you were limited with your birth options? At 35 weeks Jessica and Seth Burdette decided to make the switch from a hospital birth with OB care, to a home birth with the Atlanta Birth Center. Most people don’t consider switching that late into the game (the vast majority don’t realize that’s even an option), and so we found it so empowering to hear how Jessica and Seth decided to do what felt right for them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a fun and different kind of episode for DIAH. We’re taking a slight curve off of the path of birth stories and empowering birth conversations to focus on us for a second. And by us, I more specifically mean our marriage - our relationship style and our communication (or sometimes lack thereof). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I chat with Brianna and Joe Larsen about their second birth, and they did it at home! This birth was the opportunity to fulfill a deep desire for a home birth self-empowerment for Brianna. And get this - Joe himself is a home birth baby! So bringing a more holistic approach and trust in the way God designed our bodies, he was in full support of the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you been wondering "What is sex going to be like when I'm pregnant?" If so, this is the episode for you! Let’s talk about SEX, BABY! Not just the kind that makes the babies, but the kind you continue doing while the bun is in the oven. This episode is inspired by an article I wrote on some of our experience with pregnant sex. You can find that article here - http://backtocomplete.com/sex-while-pregnant/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we have another mom and dad conversation. Sean and Renee Kleve share the story of their pregnancy and birth of their first baby, their son Mason. Mason is just 4 weeks old at the time of this interview, so we are very grateful to both Sean and Renee for taking the time to hang out with us on the Doing It At Home podcast. The beautiful photos that accompany this episode (over on www.diahpodcast.com) are from Strom Strandell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is inspired by recent events in the online birth community. It’s pretty commonplace to have some of your images removed from Instagram if you are an account sharing images of birth. Due to things like “guidelines and regulations” as well as other users finding certain content offensive and then reporting it, we’ve seen a number of issues pop surrounding the censorship of motherhood since we ourselves started learning more about the community and being a part of the conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re talking with Kathryn Orr, a certified birth doula, childbirth educator and more recently the outreach coordinator for the fantastic documentary “Why Not Home?” We’re familiar with “Why Not Home?” over here at Doing It At Home - because we had the pleasure of having Jessicca Moore, the creator of the film, on the podcast back in episode 82. So we’re very excited to have this mama of 2 share her birth stories with us and talk about her obsession with all things birth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we share why we're thankful for our home birth. Might sound like a weird topic, but having experienced home birth ourselves and interviewed dozens and dozens of moms and families who have chosen it as well (some who've also had experiences giving birth in a hospital), it's easy to see why we wanted to talk about the elements of giving birth at home which we really appreciate. Happy Thanksgiving to all the Doing It At Home listeners, moms, non-moms, dads, partners and supporters! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re talking with Carissa Breen about her home birth journey and story. Carissa and her husband Ryan planned the home birth for their first baby, River, while simultaneously planning a move across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I chat with Paige LoPinto, mama of 2 and creator of BirthTube, a private Facebook group dedicated to connecting women through pregnancy and birth, specifically by live streaming births of members of the group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You guys!! Episode 100 is here! I can’t even believe it’s been 100 episodes. To all of our listeners and supporters - those of you who have just started listening, dropped in to hear an episode or two, and those who have been with us from the beginning or binge-listened to catch up….we freaking LOVE you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we’re having a bit of fun and taking a look at a few colorful birth scenes from movies and tv. This is a follow up to episode 97 where we talk about a home birth that was depicted in the hit tv show Jane The Virgin. That conversation inspired us to explore other depictions of birth….and the result is this silly episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We welcome back Katie McCormick to the show today! She joined us back in episode 73 where we talked about her and her husband Ryan planning a home birth in their cottage in West Cork, Ireland after leaving life in Portland, Oregon. Since talking with Katie McCormick, we spoke with another Katy - Katy Drew, a friend of Katie McCormick’s and a “non-mom” who inspired episode 76. And get this - while we were speaking to Katy - Katie was in labor! So lots of cool connections and happenings since we first connected with the expat mama to be. Now she’s mama to baby River - born 13 days past his guess date! This was of course part of their story - learning to be patient, surrender and understand that babies have their own timelines and ideas of when they’d like to make their appearance.  We learn about some of the natural induction options that Katie went over with her midwife: nipple stimulation, essential oils, castor oil in orange juice...anyone else try out some of these methods? Mainly the focus was on letting go. When labor finally did begin, Katie was ready. She was grateful. And she had no fear.  Ryan actually gets to join us in the interview as well! And Ryan’s take on the whole experience? He says, “It was outrageous! So amazing!” He says it was one of the most extraordinary events of living. Katie also opens up a little bit on postpartum life and how she’s integrating this new role, finding support in community and finding gratitude in the little moments. Thank you to Katie, Ryan and River for being a part of the DIAH family :) Offers From Our Awesome Partners: Needed: https://bit.ly/2DuMBxP - use code DIAH to get 20% off your order Splash Blanket: https://bit.ly/3JPe1g0 - use code DIAH for 10% off your order Esembly: https://bit.ly/3eanCSz - use code DIH20 to get 20% off your order More From Doing It At Home: Send us your birth story: https://bit.ly/3jOjCKl Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vJcPmU DIAH Website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ DIAH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://bit.ly/3pzuzQC DIAH Merch: www.diahpodcast.com/merch Give Back to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re discussing the depiction of a home birth in the popular tv show Jane The Virgin. Show Notes: Jane The Virgin Chapter Sixty Seven - http://www.cwtv.com/shows/jane-the-virgin/chapter-sixty-seven/?play=6ed0699d-21b6-4d3c-95ae-cbc0b5563d00 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode airs the day after Halloween - and we think it’s quite fitting. Because as a parent, sleep can be a scary subject! So do not fear - we have Alyssa Blask on the show today to help exorcise some of those stressful sleep demons. Alyssa has quite the resume - let’s just say she wears a lot of hats. She has a masters in early childhood and childhood development. She’s a doula. And a sleep consultant for infants and toddlers - what we focus on a lot of during our conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we welcome back the amazing Anne Margolis back to the Doing It At Home podcast. We spoke with Anne back in episode 24 titled, “Normal, Natural and Joyful Childbirth.” Anne is a powerhouse in the birth community. She has over 21 years of experience as a home birth midwife, after previously working as an OB nurse in the hospital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re sharing Cayla’s birth story of her son Jude, born at home and 2 months old at the time we speak. Cayla's first son was born naturally in a hospital, and her second in a home birth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we are chatting with Caryn Ragin, wife to Dadrick and mama to baby Deborah. Caryn shares her journey to home birth, one that was not the most straight and narrow. She and her husband are a military family and became pregnant for the first time while in Korea. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re sharing four particularly great recent listener emails we received. These emails are all about empowering birth stories, the importance of talking about sex in pregnancy and new parenthood, a beautiful example of in hospital self advocacy, and a valuable insight from a “non-mom”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we bring you Laura’s incredible birth story. Laura and her partner Mikey live in Homer, Alaska with their daughter Hannah. I honestly don’t know the best manner or order to present all of the awesome elements of this story, so I’ll do my best to share it all as it hits me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Heads Up: this is an amazing episode. Full of conversation around pleasurable, joyful, ecstatic birth. It may cause you to feel empowered and excited around birth : ) But seriously, we are so honored to have Debra Pascali-Bonaro join us on the show. She’s another one of the powerhouses of the birthing community that we’ve been anxious to meet and chat with. She is the creator and director of the documentary, “Orgasmic Birth: The Best-Kept Secret.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’ve got the whole family on the phone - Meggie and Steve Andrews, along with their baby Liam - to talk about Liam's home birth story. We talk about the mental and emotional adjustments that come with a huge unexpected life change, some of the more colorful comments around choosing home birth (like "Is that witchcraft or something?"), and about finding a new midwife when you move in the middle of pregnancy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we get to speak with both mom and dad! We love when we get to chat with a home birth couple and hear both perspectives from the decision-making process to the experience itself. So we’re chatting with Jarmar and Jonnelle Dupas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew and I have been parents for a whole year now! This past week we celebrated Maya’s 1st birthday, the anniversary of the Doing It At Home podcast and one year of navigating parenthood together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode we're talking to a Doing It At Home Alumni, Lindsay Bonnar, about the home birth of her son Linken. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we're rebroadcasting Maya's home birth story, originally episode 9 "Star Wars, Kiddie Pools, and Hypnobabies: Our Home Birth Story". Today is Maya’s 1st birthday. Our baby girl is 1 year old! Please hold while we pull ourselves together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we have a special guest, Melinda Michshaw, who is talking to us about reflexology, essential oils and holistic health practices for pregnancy and birth. Melinda is a fantastic resource of information, and we think you’ll enjoy our convo! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we have Alyssa’s story. Alyssa is a mama and registered nurse who chose home birth with her daughter Zoey. And Alyssa is super knowledgeable. We were just in awe of all the information she has and can rattle off. There’s so much that we included parts of her emails and additional resources in the extra notes with the episode on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have the honor of speaking with Jessicca Moore, a family nurse practitioner and a filmmaker. She is the creator of the documentary film “Why Not Home?” which explores why labor and delivery medical professionals are choosing to give birth outside of the hospital, in this case - home! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re chatting with Thea. She and her husband Alex planned for a home birth for their daughter Harley. They envisioned a peaceful, serene environment. Calm, soothing and she knew she wanted water. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode we're talking about all of the amazingly helpful resources we used when planning our home birth: from Ina May Gaskin books, to the Hypnobabies audio course, to The Business Of Being Born documentary, to conversations with our amazing midwives. We go through the home birth resources that we personally used, along with pregnancy and birth planning resources we intend to use for baby #2. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we’re chatting with Jessica Thomas, to hear about her empowered birth choice to deliver in a hospital. Her story is beautiful and it's almost like she had a home birth experience in a hospital! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have the awesome honor and privilege of bringing you an empowering conversation with Ashley Woolsey - mother of 3, doula and creator of Motherhood Tabutiful (pronounced “ta-beautiful”) - a blog and online community for mothers to come together and share their stories of motherhood. To give some more context on Motherhood Tabutiful, here is it’s mission statement straight from the site: “Our mission is to create a safe and judgment free space for women and mothers to share their stories of the taboo subjects that surround motherhood.  It is with this space, that we hope to help normalize these subjects.  It is with this space, that we hope to offer comfort and solidarity among those who are hurting.  It is with this space, that we hope to encourage those struggling, to speak up and reach out.  We realize that motherhood is beautiful, and amazing, and fulfilling. But we also know that it is ugly, and dark, and difficult.  And so, it is with this space, that we hope to wrap our arms and our hearts around you, for a virtual hug, so that even in the ugliest, and darkest, and most difficult of times, you will find solace in knowing that you are not alone.” Ashley and Sarah connected a while back on Instagram. Then with the birth of Motherhood Tabutiful, we knew we wanted to have Ashley on to share her perspective and riff on some topics with us. We chat about that isolation that many women feel during motherhood. And for Ashley, she found that social media and finding a community was extremely helpful. So why not create an easy-to-access platform for moms to share, read, learn, inspire...particularly around topics that others will shy away from due to fear or discomfort. Ashley has crafted Motherhood Tabutiful to be judgment-free and a safe space to delve into these types of things and normalize them. So of course, we chat about home birth and how that ties into the categories of “taboo” and uncomfortable conversations.  Listen in to hear more, and check out Motherhood Tabutiful to learn about what Ashley’s up to! Links: Tabutiful website: http://www.motherhoodtabutiful.com/ Tabutiful Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherhoodtabutiful/ The Peanut Gallery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeanutgallery/ Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diahpodcast/ Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 DIAH Shop: ttps://bit.ly/3qhwgAe Needed:  https://bit.ly/2DuMBxP - use code DIAH to get 20% off your order Birthfit Prenatal Training: https://birthfit.com/b-prenatal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we’re talking with Kayleigh Johnson, mama to 14-month-old Amelia and wife to DJ. Kayleigh and her family live in Massachusetts, where they are planning for the birth of baby number two. Amelia was born in a hospital with an epidural and pitocin experience. To Kayleigh, the pitocin contractions felt very unnatural. They way she puts it, “it felt like it was happening to me.” So after some soul searching, they decided on a home birth for this pregnancy. A big influence? Podcasts and social media! Kayleigh got to see and connect with real people, real stories that seemed attainable and allowed her to see the experience for herself. Kayleigh’s faith is integral in her life, and so it’s been a part of her birth planning as well. She was able to find a Christian midwife who aligned with her belief system (she even found her midwife on social media! Thank you, technology!). This synergy has been important for the connection she’s seeking with her birth team. Kayleigh also has visions she is praying for in her birth. She’s believing for a pain-free, no tear, en caul birth. We’re happy and honored to hold that intention for her. And we’re very excited to share her story with you! Links: Supernatural Childbirth - https://www.amazon.com/Supernatural-Childbirth-Jackie-Mize/dp/0892747560 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diahpodcast/ Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 DIAH Shop: ttps://bit.ly/3qhwgAe Needed:  https://bit.ly/2DuMBxP - use code DIAH to get 20% off your order Birthfit Prenatal Training: https://birthfit.com/b-prenatal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a fun and little different kind of episode for you today. Katy emailed us after her great friend and fellow DIAH mama Katie McCormick (from episode 73) shared the podcast with her. Katy thanked us for what we’re up to with the show. As a “non-mom” (though she plans to be in the future), she’s always been fascinated by pregnancy and birth. She’s been exploring the option of home birth for herself when that time comes.  So we figured...let’s get on the phone, hit record and see what happens!  We believe that what Katy’s doing is an awesome example. If women who are not yet mothers are interested in exploring their future options, educating themselves, having conversations with other women at different stages of motherhood, then that means we have a lot more women empowered, confident and supported in their decisions. We are all for that! This doesn’t mean all women need to be doing this. It’s whatever works for you. We would just like to see more positive energy around conversations of pregnancy and birth, regardless of what phase of it someone is in.  So Katy shares with us some of her thoughts on why home birth would be a good fit for her. For one, she likes to take the most natural route possible with things. She’s also a more private person, and looks at birth as a very sacred time.  We also talk about how resources like the Doing It At Home podcast have helped, supported and informed on home birth related topics.  So if you are not pregnant yet, but considering home birth as an option, this is a perfect episode for you! Links: Ann Margolis episode - https://www.diahpodcast.com/single-post/2017/01/27/Normal-Natural-and-Joyful-Childbirth-with-Anne-Margolis Ann Margolis website - http://homesweethomebirth.com/ Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we’re talking with Becky Diaz. Becky is a personal trainer, nutritionist, and placenta encapsulator who used fitness and nutrition to help prepare for her most recent home birth.  Becky and her husband Hugo live in Los Angeles, California and have 3 children: Riley, Juilan and River. Her first was born in a hospital, where she experienced an epidural and pitocin. For babies 2 and 3, they decided to go with home birth. Becky was really interested in how she could use the experiences of pregnancy and birth to really push herself and learn about herself more. In our conversation, we talk a lot about the preparation she did for her third birth for baby River. This pregnancy involved a lot more mental work - being more mindful and not just muscling through the birth. This was more about trust and surrender to the process. Becky utilized techniques like meditation to support her. She used a visualization practice of seeing the sensations as waves crashing and washing away, rather than a painful contraction. Birth for her was incredibly spiritual, and she says it was the most meditative she’s ever felt.  Becky is a beautiful examples of knowing yourself, tapping into that and using it to help you prepare for such an incredible experience like birth is. Another key piece of advice from her that we totally agree with: “Don’t listen to someone else’s horror story.” In other words, be mindful of the material you take in during pregnancy and birth preparation. It can really make an impact.  Links:  Becky's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckydiazfit/ Becky's website: http://beckydiazfitness.blogspot.com/ Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, you get a little bit of a glimpse of our wacky world and Matthew’s and my silly banter.  Heads up on the audio for this episode: we know it’s not the most awesome thing ever. We’re kinda snobs about our audio quality (well, Matthew definitely is!), so it was quite irritating when we realized there was an issue after we recorded. Oh well, the show must go on! So if you didn’t notice anything, then forget we said anything!  Anyway, in this episode we’re just having fun. We’re keeping it pretty light and breezy, unscripted and our goofy, uncensored selves. We go over some updates and future things for Doing It At Home, also touch on some of the recent news in the birthing world. Like have you heard of this couple named Beyonce and Jay-Z? Well they’re kinda a big deal, and they just happened to welcome twins into the world - and technically in a home birth if the articles are correct.  And then things get really crazy - Matthew and I play a fun little word association game: home birth edition! Listen to find out what comes to Matthew’s mind when I throw out birth related words to him in rapid-fire fashion! Let’s just say we had a few laughs! Enjoy! Links: Beyonce article: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-4592136/Beyonce-prepares-home-birth-Hollywood-mansion.html Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode we're talking with Katie McCormick, an American ex-pat living in Ireland who is choosing home birth to welcome her baby into the world. Katie and her husband Ryan decided to leave their life in Portland, Oregon - quit their jobs and travel across Europe. About a year ago, they decided to settle in Ireland, eloped and got pregnant shortly after.  Katie knew immediately that she wanted to have a home birth. But being an expat in a new country, she had no idea where to begin as far as planning and resources. To use her words from her email to us: “When we got pregnant we were still living in a very temporary living space (think garage remodeled into a loft) on a sheep farm where we were 2 hours from the hospital, and no midwifes were willing to travel to us, so my initial search for beginning the birth plan kept coming up dry until one day through some magical universal energy I found a woman that recommended our midwife to us! However we would have to move 2 hours south to be close enough to be in her “region,” so thank  the stars we just recently have found a home on the southern coast of Ireland and got the “go ahead” from our midwife that we can birth in this house as we are close enough to her….. We are away from all our family, we are still foreigners in a new environment, yet we just know this is divine timing and this is where our child is meant to be born. The house we are living in now is a 150 year old stone cottage, and our landlady said many many babies have been born here; it feels quite kismet. Most people back in the states think we are little crazy/can’t believe we are doing this without family around etc, but truly we have never felt more supported than the community of people in our village, and little did I know we moved to an area where most women prefer home birth and have multiple stories to share. It is a small community, but because it is on the ocean, rugged, and so natural in this area, it is like a vortex of very creative and earthy people-it is an energy that makes you feel invincible.” We speak with Katie in the last few weeks of her pregnancy and get to hear how she’s feeling as the time in her pregnancy winds down and they prepare for baby’s arrival. She also shares the experience of what’s it like to have all of their family back in the States as they plan for home birth in their new home and country. Tune in and get ready for another inspiring pre-home birth story! Links: Dublin Doulas - http://www.dublinfamilydoulas.com/ Hypnobirth course - https://us.hypnobirthing.com/ Ina may  spiritual midwifery - https://www.amazon.com/Ina-Mays-Guide-Childbirth-Gaskin/dp/0553381156  www.wakingupinireland.com Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode we chat with Melissa Rae Irish-Miller about the home birth of her 5 children. I’m not even really sure with where to begin with this episode or what to tell you as far as the highlights...because there are too many! Melissa is a mother of 5. And all 5 of her children were born at home. And over the course of 20 years. Her oldest is 21 years old, and her youngest is 7 months old. Links: Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we are rebroadcasting a portion of our Mother's Day special -- Matthew's birth story. Today, July 22nd, is Matthew's birthday! And we thought what better way to celebrate on the podcast than to play the story of Matthew's birth 31 years ago. Back on Mother's Day of this year, both Matthew and I had conversations with our moms where they shared our birth stories. Neither of us were born at home, but it's our podcast and we can publish what we want! So we took the portion of that episode where Matthew's hearing his birth story from his mom, and republished it today. Happy Birthday Matthew! <3 : ) Links: Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode has a nice twist to it! It’s an interview, but not typically like the ones we do on the show. We’re kinda the ones being interviewed! Here’s some context and background: we received an awesome listener email from Kim. Kim is engaged to Tim. Yes, Kim and Tim. Kim and Tim are a great couple, creating this beautiful partnership. As they prepare to enter marriage and plan for this amazing life they intend to have together, they are naturally having conversations of eventually wanting to have children. What’s really cool is that they know they want to experience a home birth when the time comes. First off, we acknowledge them for being so in tuned with one another, and exploring this conversation beforehand. While they understand there isn’t direct planning that needs to be put in place right now for a home birth, they are recognizing the value in having these discussions and being on the same page. We can greatly appreciate this. Children - how to make them, birth them and raise them - can be a big topic of division between partners. To work on aligning with one another early in the game is something that we support. So for any of you listeners out there who have not had any children yet - this is a great episode for you. Because you don’t have to be pregnant to be interested in birth, or interested in exploring what your future options could be. It’s never too early for information, inspiration and empowerment. Kim and Tim ask Matthew and me (Sarah) some of the questions they have like physical and mental preparation for pregnancy and birth and how the partner can be involved and an active support role. We had such a blast chatting with these two. We’re going to keep in touch and keep tabs on their journey for when they eventually want to “do it at home!”   Link: The Business Of Being Born Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we have the joy of chatting with Olivia and Will, parents to sweet 7-week-old baby Audrey. Olivia and Will share the story of their journey to choosing home birth, planning for it, and then discovering at 37 weeks pregnant that it was no longer a viable option for them. Olivia is a neonatal nurse in the NICU - so she sees all the things that can go wrong. This was part of the reason why she and Will didn’t want to be a hospital for Audrey’s birth. She’s also very transparent about not being 100% confident in the decision and having reservations about sharing their plans with others for fear of judgement and less than powerful conversation. It’s also wild to hear the difference in healthcare costs and options in different countries (see show notes on our website for an email from Olivia all about it). Olivia and Will live in Australia and while planning their home birth they only spent about $60 for a general practitioner visit and the cost of a birthing pool. Whether they chose to birth at home or in the hospital, it would be free! After they learned they could no longer have a home birth, they worked on finding peace with the situation and preparing themselves for having an amazing birth experience despite the change in plans. Olivia still labored most of the time at home, before traveling to the birthing center where they had their daughter Audrey. Olivia and Will are such a beautiful couple and we’re so happy to have connected with them to share their inspiring story on the podcast!    Links: Why Not Home Unhindered Childbirth Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 A special post interview email from Olivia: After we finished the call I realized we never even spoke about the differences in our healthcare system - i.e. everything being free! Also about how we weren't able (didn't feel like) we could share our home birth choice with people, especially at work, for fear of judgment. Although I'm sure that's quite a common issue surrounding home birth. I would have liked to share a few things, but completely forgot/got side tracked! During pregnancy I had lots of severe SIJ pain, which really impacted negatively on exercise - I wasn't able run or do much cardio. So I walked everyday for about an hour at the beach with the dogs & listened to amazing empowering podcasts like yours! And I also went swimming, 3 times a week while I was working & then when I went on maternity leave at 34 weeks, I swam 5 times a week. I just loved the freedom! And I wanted to make sure baby was in a good position, I wanted to avoid a breech or posterior baby & swimming is great for that! I saw a chiropractor regularly for my hip pain which also really helped. I floated every single week up til 37 weeks in a float tank! I think it was the best thing I could have done. The relaxation was an absolute blessing & it helped with aching legs towards the end too. It was also really lovely because baby moved a lot in the tank, so I felt really connected (maybe I just noticed it more - my placenta was at the front, so I struggled to feel lots of movement). I think the most important message to pass on to women preparing for home birth - or just birth in general - is just to surround yourself with positive birth stories. Don't let the negative vibes in! Things didn't go to plan, but I'm so glad I didn't go into birth & delivery being scared of it - i was excited! I love our birth story & I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to plan & prepare for a home birth, even if it didn't work out that way. We have a beautiful baby girl, & that's really all that matters! Lots of love Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a special bonus episode for you! We had the chance to speak with Mark Krassner, creator of the guided meditation app for moms called Expectful. Sarah has been using this app recently and really loves it. So she was thrilled when we had the chance to talk with Mark about the app, the how and why of it's creation, and his mission to make meditation as common as prenatal vitamins. Enjoy this bonus episode with Mark! Links: Expectful Expectful on Instagram Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode we're talking with Deanne Ziadie, an amazing mama with a beautiful birth story. Dee planned for a home birth and ended up being transferred to a hospital. Despite the change in plans, Dee made the conscious choice to surrender her need to control the situation and let her baby lead the way. The result was the peaceful and healthy birth of her daughter, Seren. Links: Dee's Instagram Page Expectful Hypnobabies Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have a really incredible episode, for many reasons. For one, it’s a home birth story with an extensive journey, full of highs and lows. And it’s really about trusting your heart and your intuition. Ginny is the essence of a mother. The way she describes her connection with her children and her experience of her pregnancies...it gave me goosebumps multiple times during our conversation. She has dreams about her children - before she conceives them. Her trust and faith is so beautiful and something we can all learn from. She and her husband James have two children together: Grace who is 3 years old and Deborah who is 9 months old. Ginny opens up and shares part of the loss they’ve also experienced, having endured 3 miscarriages before Deborah’s birth. She’s open and honest about the loneliness she felt in the grief walk, the devastation and the healing. She shares how all of it has just brought her and James closer together, strengthening their partnership and bonding them in a more intimate way. Living in Alabama, where home birth was illegal at the time (happy to report this status has changed since our interview!), Ginny and James decided to have an unassisted home birth, otherwise known as free birth (The only way to have a home birth in Alabama at the time, as it was illegal to have any certified nurse midwife or medical professional in attendance for a planned home birth. This, as you can imagine, deterred many families from choosing home birth, with the fear factor of not being allowed to have any care providers present. Yes, we’re shaking our heads just thinking about it, too.). Even with the label of “high risk” after blood clotting and a stillbirth, Ginny and James proceeded to plan for their home birth. They were under the care of an OB for prenatal visits and educated themselves. For Ginny, she just knew the hospital wasn’t the right choice for her. And so, the two of them welcomed their baby daughter Deborah into the world from the comfort of their home, just the two of them. Listen to the episode to hear more! Notes: Ginny's birth story blog post "Dear Deborah: On The Day Your Were Born" Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is the Doing It At Home celebrity list of home births. We’re chatting about 8 celebrities who chose home birth. This of course is not the list of the only celebrities who had their babies at home. There’s a bunch out there, and probably even more that haven’t publicly shared this part of their lives (which we can understand, given all the attention they already get!). These are just the people we were most excited to talk about when we found out we shared this common experience with them.  Ricki Lake - One of the mamas behind the famous documentary The Business of Being Born. We had to acknowledge her in this list and thank for the awesome documentary that has inspired and influenced so many of us. Majority of the home birth moms we interview mentioned BOBB as a big part of their home birth decision and preparation. Think about how many home births have happened as a result of her and what she decided to boldly do! Erykah Badu - Matthew and I are huge fans. All hail her and her awesomeness. She had all 3 of her children at home. She even does doula work! Pamela Anderson - Celebrating the upcoming Baywatch movie, she had to be on the list when we found out she had both of her sons at home. Demi Moore - She made a big splash with her famous Vanity Fair cover, naked and pregnant, in 1991. And then had her babies at home. What a powerful woman! Gisele Bundchen - BOBB did a followup four-part series, one of which featured celebrity moms talking about their various birth experiences. Gisele totally rocked it, talking about her home birth so peacefully and matter of factly. Her chill vibe resonated and prompted us to add her to the list. Mayim Bialik - Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler! We are also big fans of Big Bang Theory. Mayim, aside from being a great actress and neuroscientist, is big on natural parenting, extended breastfeeding, and home birth. There was really no question of putting her on this list.  Justin and Emily Baldoni - This spot goes to both mom and dad. Justin shares so much of his experience of fatherhood and family life on his social media that he needed to be included along with his beautiful wife Emily. They’re on the list for a few reasons. For one, Sarah loves Jane the Virgin - it’s a total guilty pleasure and reminds her of home in South Florida. Another reason, they welcomed their first baby in a home birth - a daughter named...Maiya! We obviously love this name. They’re currently pregnant with baby number 2, and we’re very excited to watch this part of their journey. Queen Elizabeth II - So not your average home birth. But if you live in a palace, and you give birth there...well, call it home birth! The Queen gave birth to Prince Charles, with a royal midwife in attendance. This just seemed like such a cool fact that we had to talk about it and incorporate it into the list. Honorary number 9 spot goes out to Alanis Morissette, who also made an appearance in the BOBB followup series to talk about her home birth. Alanis songs are Matthew’s go-to for karaoke, so to acknowledge that and of course honor the splendor that is Alanis, she gets a special spot. Notes: Celebrity Home Births: 10 Celebrities Who Gave Birth At Home 11 Celebrity Home Birth Mamas UK Daily Mail article about Justin and Emily Baldoni home birth Business of Being Born and the additional series Wayfarer.com Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we're once again talking with Katie and Chris McGrath on their home birth. Katie and Chris joined us on the podcast a while back to share about their pregnancy, homebirth plans, and how preparation leading up to birth day. Today we're following up now that baby has arrived! Back in episode 39 we spoke with Katie and Chris McGrath, parents-to-be, awaiting the arrival of undetermined gender baby McGrath. Chris was actually our first home birth dad to join us on the show. Since our first interview with them, we’ve developed a close bond with the McGraths. We’ve connected over all the usual things home birth parents do, you know...like Star Wars, super heroes and Jurassic Park. We get right into the birth story, so if you want some background and all that led up to this, go back to episode 39 and check that out. There’s a lot of similarities with our own birth story. For example, Katie describes the experience as “pretty intense and pretty quick.” We get to hear first-hand from Chris about his role as birth partner and how he processed the event. There’s some really cool tips regarding having birth affirmations in the room as well. And they even had their dog with them during the birth! So pet owners who are debating what to do at birth time, listen in! Spoiler alert: baby turned out to be a girl. And baby Molly is quite the adorable ball of squish. So you’ll have to check out the episode page on our website to see for yourself! Links: Being A Birth Nerd And Trusting The Process with Katie & Chris McGrath (pt1) Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we're sharing tips that we've picked up from talking to home birth moms who chose to have their kids present at their siblings birth. A number of moms on the show had their kids present when their siblings came into the world, and we thought it would be a great idea to share some of the creative ways they prepared their kids for childbirth. We're sharing 5 simple tips for preparing your kids for homebirth. We reference a few previous episodes in this podcast, including episode 49 - The 11 Pound Home Birth Baby with Natalie Bancroft and Laura Fifield, and an episode with Laura Drury which has yet to publish (but keep a look out for it). If you had your children present at your home birth, and have any additional advice for fellow listeners, we'd love to hear it! You can reach out to us at [email protected].  Links: Our new "Doing It At Home" book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098GVJ9KL?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860 Our website: https://www.diahpodcast.com/ Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3jKtIYv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingitathome/ DIAH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGoKeBfEZ143sWU7V9I5Gdg DIAH Store: https://yoursuccessfulhomebirth.com/ DIAH Merch: https://bit.ly/3qhwgAe  Donate to DIAH: https://bit.ly/3qgm4r9 Sponsors Check out www.homesweethomebirth.com/loveyourbirth to learn about Anne Margolis's amazing birth course for having the most exquisite birth experience of your life! It's called "Love Your Birth" and you can use the code DIAHOME to get $20 off. (Code applies only to course, not to course + call bundle). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices