Best Dr. Nicole C. Rankins Podcasts (2025)

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Ep 299: How to Protect Your Power and Avoid an Unnecessary Episiotomy 19:13

2d ago19:13

19:13

Episiotomy is not routine anymore, but it hasn't gone away. If it's done without your consent or because your doctor's in a hurry, that’s a problem. So let's talk about it! Because when you understand what an episiotomy really is, when it's actually needed, and how to protect yourself from one that isn't needed, that's when you step into your power…

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Ep 298: From Birth Center to OR: Navigating An Umbilical Cord Prolapse Emergency 51:41

9d ago51:41

51:41

In the last birth story episode, episode 295, I shared a story of a home birth that went beautifully. Today, we’re exploring the other side of that experience—because while out-of-hospital births can be wonderful, they can also come with real risks. My guest, Megan, joins me to share her second birth story, which started at a standalone birth cente…

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Ep 297: Can’t Sleep During Pregnancy or Postpartum? Here’s What Actually Helps with Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialist Dr. Daniella Marchetti 43:59

16d ago43:59

43:59

Struggling to sleep during pregnancy or postpartum? You are definitely not alone. And it’s not just about being tired - it’s a chronic condition that deserves attention. Up to 80% of women experience insomnia by the third trimester, and many continue to struggle even two years postpartum. So if you’re having trouble, seek help. In this episode, I’m…

1
Ep 296: What Hospital Birth Can Learn from Home Birth 33:53

23d ago33:53

33:53

I never intended to talk much about home birth—mainly because I’ve never attended one myself. But here we are. Why? Because if we’re serious about making hospital birth safer, more respectful, and more empowering, we have to take a close look at what home birth gets right. This episode is not about debating home versus hospital birth. It’s about as…

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The 10 Best and Worst Parts of Being a Mom 18:49

28d ago18:49

18:49

With Mother’s Day around the corner, I want to share something really personal—what it’s actually like to be a mom (or mommy as my girls call me :)). In this episode, I’m getting real about the 10 best and worst things about motherhood. Whether you're already a mom or you're pregnant and wondering what lies ahead, this one’s for you. It’s honest, r…

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Ep 295: Creating Emotional Safety in Birth: A Home Birth Story with Lessons for All 53:35

1M ago53:35

53:35

This episode is a first for the podcast: I’m sharing a home birth story. While I primarily focus on hospital births, I wanted to learn more and see what we might take away from this experience to make hospital births better. Lauren joins me to share her beautiful, deeply thoughtful journey into birthing from home after having her first baby in a ho…

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How a Simple Blood Test Can Protect Future Pregnancies 12:42

1M ago12:42

12:42

Did you know your blood type can impact not just your current pregnancy, but future ones too? In this Thursday short episode, I’m breaking down what it means to be RH negative, how RhoGAM works, and why this small shot can prevent serious complications. Every woman and birthing person deserves to understand how something so simple can make such a b…

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Ep 294: What Extended Breastfeeding Really Looks Like - A Real Talk Guide with Erin Harris 49:01

1M ago49:01

49:01

What if you're not ready to stop breastfeeding but you're burned out from the constant demands? Or maybe you’re thinking of breastfeeding beyond the baby stage? In this episode I'm talking with Erin Harris, a certified lactation educator and the creator of Nursing Mamas, about the very real and rarely discussed world of extended breastfeeding. I am…

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Fast Labor, Long Pushing—Why Patience Matters in Birth - Story Time! 19:02

1M ago19:02

19:02

Just because labor moves fast doesn’t mean pushing will! In this powerful storytime episode, I take you into the delivery room with me for a birth that had a fast start, a long push, and a beautiful ending. You’ll learn why patience, positioning, and the right support team are everything—plus what to expect when birth doesn’t follow the script. Onl…

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Ep 293: Own Your Hospital Birth Experience with the B.I.R.T.H. Blueprint 26:27

1M ago26:27

26:27

What if I told you that understanding your birth environment is one of the most powerful ways to take charge of your birth? When you know what to expect at every stage—from check-in to how labor progress is assessed—you can make informed choices and feel more confident. That’s exactly what we’re talking about today with The B.I.R.T.H. Blueprint, a …

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The Truth About Pitocin: What It Is, How It Works, and When It’s Used 16:23

2M ago16:23

16:23

Heard scary stories about Pitocin? You’re not alone—and you deserve real information, not fear. In this quick and powerful episode, I’m sharing 10 fast facts about Pitocin: what it is, how it works, and what you actually need to know before it’s offered during labor. Walk away feeling informed, prepared, and empowered to make the best choices for y…

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Ep 292: Two Epidurals, Then Unmedicated: What Danica Learned (and Didn’t Expect) 48:20

2M ago48:20

48:20

Epidural or unmedicated: how do you know what’s right for you? Danica has done both and in this episode she takes us through her journey of having two epidural births followed by an unmedicated one—her biggest baby yet! She shares what worked, what didn’t, and how she felt in those first moments postpartum. It’s going to surprise you. If you’re wei…

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A Supported Birth is a Safe Birth: Creating Your Circle of Support 15:19

2M ago15:19

15:19

The right support can make all the difference in your birth experience. 💕 From your doctor to your partner to your labor nurse, your Circle of Support should empower and uplift you every step of the way. In this episode, I break down exactly who should be on your birth team and how to ensure they align with YOUR birth wishes. Because a supported bi…

1
Ep 291: Breath, Movement & Birth: Why Every Pregnancy Can Benefit from Yoga with Dr. Shilpa Babbar 46:16

2M ago46:16

46:16

Did you know that practicing prenatal yoga can actually shorten your labor by up to three hours? Or that simple breathing techniques might help manage your blood pressure during pregnancy? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Shilpa Babbar, a double board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist, researcher, and yoga instructor. We dive deep into…

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The MAMA Mindset: A Powerful Approach for a Confident Birth 13:09

2M ago13:09

13:09

What if the key to a calm, confident birth was all in your mindset? In this episode, I introduce the MAMA Mindset, part of my new Birth with Power Pathway framework. You’ll learn how Meditation, Affirmations, Movement, and an Attitude of gratitude can transform the way you approach birth—helping you feel calm, confident, and empowered. Tune in to d…

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Ep 290: Birth With Power! - A New Name, A Bigger Mission 12:45

2M ago12:45

12:45

This is it—the start of a new era! All About Pregnancy & Birth is now Birth With Power! Birth isn’t just something that happens to you; you can take charge and step into your power. In this episode, I’m sharing why I made this change, what it means for YOU, and what’s coming next, including the Birth With Power Pathway, my brand-new framework that …

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Welcome To Birth With Power! 2:23

2M ago2:23

2:23

Birth With Power is the go-to podcast for expecting mothers who want to take charge of their birth experience. Hosted by Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins, a practicing, board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of experience and thousands of births attended, this podcast delivers accurate, expert advice, real birth stories, and honest conversations to g…

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Ep #289: New Year, New Vision: Reflection, Rest, and a Special Gift 10:13

5M ago10:13

10:13

In this episode, I'm sharing important updates about the podcast and a special opportunity for expectant mamas! I'm also reflecting on my wishes for pregnancy and birth and the importance of empowerment and support for women. Plus I announce a limited-time sale for The Birth Preparation Course to help you feel confident and prepared for your childb…

1
Ep 288: 10 Wishes for Pregnancy, Birth, and Maternal Health Inspired by Metta Meditation 27:13

5M ago27:13

27:13

Get empowering pregnancy and birth tips delivered to your inbox each week! Join my email list here! It’s 2025! In this first episode of the year, I’m sharing 10 wishes for pregnancy, birth, and maternal health inspired by metta meditation, a practice rooted in cultivating goodwill and compassion. I learned about this beautiful practice from Aditi S…

1
Ep 287: Top Episodes of 2024! 27:12

5M ago27:12

27:12

Get more great info to help you have an empowered pregnancy and birth by joining my email list here! It’s that time of year again: I’m recapping the most downloaded episodes of 2024. Think of this as a kind of greatest hits or playlist - a perfect place for you to start if you’re new to the podcast. If you don’t see your favorite episode on this li…

1
Ep 286: Preparing for the Marathon Of Pregnancy with Amy Keifer from Expecting and Empowered 46:06

5M ago46:06

46:06

Stay in the know by joining my email list! I know you want to exercise during pregnancy, but what are you supposed to do and how do you do it safely? Amy Keifer from Expecting and Empowered is here to answer that question and more! After starting her personal training career working with pregnant clients, she realized there were a ton of misconcept…

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Ep 285: Gina’s Birth Story - When a Physician Has A Birth Related Injury 57:15

6M ago57:15

57:15

What happens when you’re a physician and you experience a childbirth-related injury? Are you treated any differently? Today’s guest experienced exactly that and you’re going to hear her unique perspective. Gina is an ophthalmology resident who had a birth complication that left her paralyzed in one leg. She has regained her mobility but this very r…

1
Ep 284: Keeping an Open Mind with Infant Craniosacral Therapist Meaghan Beames 39:37

6M ago39:37

39:37

When exploring ‘alternative’ therapies, it’s crucial to understand the training and qualifications of practitioners. Although licensure and certification aren’t guarantees, they certainly help give you some assurance that the person is trained and capable. This week’s guest, Meaghan Beames, is a Registered Massage Therapist and Craniosacral Therapi…

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Ep 283: Alexa’s Birth Story - A Routine Checkup With a Surprise Ending 55:40

6M ago55:40

55:40

I’ve said it many times: the only predictable thing about birth is that it’s unpredictable. But you can absolutely navigate that unpredictability by being prepared - which is exactly what Alexa did. After what she calls a “smooth pregnancy,” things took some surprising twists and turns which ended in a cesarean birth. At 35 weeks, her husband notic…

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Ep 282: Gestational Diabetes - Understanding and Managing It For A Healthy Pregnancy 39:33

6M ago39:33

39:33

Did you know that almost one in ten pregnancies in the United States is affected by gestational diabetes? While that might sound scary, the good news is that with the right information and care, people with gestational diabetes will most likely have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. When it’s time to be screened, don’t focus on “passing” the …

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Low Intervention Hospital Birth - Story Time! 12:00

7M ago12:00

12:00

I have a FANTASTIC Black Friday Sale coming! Join my email list at drnicolerankins.com/email so you'll be the first to get notified! You've heard of low intervention birth but what does it mean? In this episode I share how a low intervention birth under my care unfolded. Here's a peak - 8 AM - cervical check and 4 cm Intermittent monitoring, saline…

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Ep 281: Protecting Pregnancy Rights at Work with Women’s Rights Attorney Jack Tuckner and Attorney & Doula Catherine Crider 59:01

7M ago59:01

59:01

Did you know the U.S. is one of just four countries in the world - and the only developed nation - without guaranteed paid maternity leave? While we’ve made great strides in workplace fairness, the fight for equity is far from over. In a country where pregnancy can still jeopardize someone’s career, these protections are more crucial than ever. Tha…

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Listener Q&A - Maybe my cervix doesn’t dilate all the way?? 13:29

7M ago13:29

13:29

In this shorty episode I answer this listener question from Kate. And if you want me to answer a question for you DM me on Instagram @drnicolerankins or shoot me a message on my website contact form! "I was checked at 5 cm, started feeling pressure after a few hours, and then a really strong urge to push after another few hours. I was unmedicated, …

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Ep 280: Rachel’s Birth Story - Weaning Off Anxiety and Depression Meds 1:03:07

7M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

Rachel always wanted to be a mother, but before she could begin that journey, she felt it was important to get off of depression and anxiety medication. After spending three months weaning off her meds, she very quickly got pregnant. Her pregnancy, although a source of great excitement, also brought unexpected difficulties, including two falls - an…

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My Evolving Thoughts On Hospital Birth - Has It Gotten Worse?? 16:10

7M ago16:10

16:10

In this short episode I address this really thoughtful comment from a listener - "I've noticed that Dr. Rankins' position statements have gotten stronger on the negatives of a hospital birth over time (in the year+ that I've been listening). For instance her opening introduction now frames hospitals as a system that "too often takes away power from…

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Ep 279: Nausea and Vomiting In Pregnancy - What To Do To Help 36:12

7M ago36:12

36:12

Dealing with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is no fun. You’ve probably heard of “morning sickness” but that’s a misnomer - queasiness can happen at any time of day (and during any stage of pregnancy too). The good news is, for most people, it’s nothing to worry about. Even though it’s uncomfortable (and sometimes downright miserable), it’s ge…

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Ep 278: Jenna’s Birth Story - Expecting More Than Just “A Healthy Baby” 53:40

7M ago53:40

53:40

How did a birth described as “a series of traumatic events” end up being the best experience of Jenna’s life? Despite all of the unexpected challenges, getting through the 65 hour labor and birth helped her find peace and confidence in her intuition. Jenna’s story reminds us that it’s okay to feel both grateful to a medical team and to feel upset a…

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Ep 277: Repurposing the Pain of Infant Loss with Founder & CEO of Chasing the Rainbows, Bernice Quesenberry 41:59

8M ago41:59

41:59

In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month this October, in this episode we have secondary infertility and baby loss survivor Bernice Quesenberry (and quick note I inadvertently mispronounced her last name in the episode, my apologies!). She has repurposed her pain into something positive by starting a national nonprofit called Chasing t…

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Ep 276: 50th Birthday Reflections & Special Tribute 28:06

8M ago28:06

28:06

I just turned 50 - yes, 50! I know people - and women especially - can feel some kind of way about sharing their age. But I have no problem with sharing my age because every day is truly a gift. To mark this milestone, I wanted to take a few moments to reflect, express my gratitude, share some thoughts on what helped me get here, and what’s next. T…

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Ep 275: What EVERYONE Who’s Pregnant Needs To Know About The NICU with Mary Farrelly, RN 55:47

8M ago55:47

55:47

This episode may be about the NICU but it’s for any and every person who’s having a baby. The reason I say that is because it’s actually way more common than you think that a baby needs to receive intensive care. Nearly 40% of babies who go to the NICU are full-term. As a mom of two NICU babies, let me tell you: it’s the NICU nurses who are at your…

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Ep 274: Martha’s Birth Story - Low Intervention Hopes, High Intervention Reality, and Joy Despite It All 1:05:39

8M ago1:05:39

1:05:39

Martha hoped and prepared for a low intervention birth and ended up getting just about every intervention! She tried everything to get labor to start on its own but she ultimately was induced at 41 weeks. After 40 hours of labor with no pain medication other than nitrous oxide, she opted for an epidural. Soon after she was advised to get a non-emer…

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Ep 273: Bringing Miscarriage Out Of The Shadows 37:03

8M ago37:03

37:03

This episode was inspired by a message from long-time listener Sierra. She has experienced multiple miscarriages and, though she appreciated the episodes I have done discussing pregnancy loss, there are some issues specific to recurrent miscarriage that I haven’t gotten into yet. Sierra says “You've had some women who gave birth stories that had el…

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Eating and Drinking In Labor - It’s fine! 15:32

9M ago15:32

15:32

Medical recommendations surrounding eating and drinking in labor are evolving, but not quite where they should be. In this episode learn the rationale for restricting eating and drinking in labor, why it's outdated, what our current guidelines are, and my evidence based recommendations for eating and drinking in labor. Join my next FREE LIVE birth …

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Ep 272: Nicole’s Birth Story - An Empowering VBAC Followed By a Five-Week NICU Stay 49:20

9M ago49:20

49:20

Nicole (yes, another Nicole!) is here to share her empowering story of a successful VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) followed by a challenging postpartum. Because she was intentional about her care team, she set herself up for success in the ways that she was able to control. However, nobody could control the liver issues her daughter would expe…

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Listener Q&A - how many contractions are too many and what is terbutaline?? 15:59

9M ago15:59

15:59

In this short episode I'm answering this listener question from Cat! "Hi Dr. Nicole! Long time listener & love your podcast!!. Question for you - a friend of mine recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl but unfortunately her birth didn't go as planned. She got to the hospital at 7.5cm, got an epidural, and then they told her she was "having to…

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Ep 271: The Pain of a C-Section Without Anesthesia with Author Rachel Somerstein 55:21

9M ago55:21

55:21

In this episode I’m chatting with Rachel Somerstein about her traumatic experience having a C-section without adequate anesthesia. Already a professional journalist, this experience led Rachel to write her first book, Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section. In Invisible Labor Rachel weaves her personal narrative and investigative…

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Listener Q&A - Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and pregnancy 11:55

9M ago11:55

11:55

Lauren DMed me on Instagram and asked me to talk about CMV and pregnancy so here it is! In this short episode you'll learn What is CMV How it’s transmitted How it can impact pregnancy How it’s diagnosed How it can be prevented or treated If you have a question you want me to answer in an upcoming episode, shoot me a DM on Instagram @drnicolerankins…

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Ep 270: Ginny’s Birth Story - A Joyous Labor Induction 42:12

9M ago42:12

42:12

Ginny had an elective labor induction that went so smoothly she calls it a “dream.” But that doesn’t mean that everything about her pregnancy experience was easy. Multiple people in her personal life experienced birth-related complications while Ginny was pregnant including stillbirth. This caused Ginny a lot of anxiety. Also, she struggled with de…

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What you need to know about epidurals for pain relief in labor 18:33

10M ago18:33

18:33

Epidurals provide excellent pain relief during labor but there are risks and side effects. Learn how epidurals work and things you need to know before you get one. And no need to take notes, you can grab my comprehensive guide to managing pain in labor here! Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattress and get 10% off! https://avocadomattress.c…

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Ep 269: Vaccines & Pregnancy: Which ones, how they work, and why they’re important 38:14

10M ago38:14

38:14

In today's episode, you’re going to learn about vaccines and pregnancy. Vaccines -also called immunizations- are important in order to help prevent moms and babies from getting certain potentially serious infections. I know there’s a lot of concern about vaccines. But let me assure you, although vaccines are not risk free, they are very safe. There…

1
Using Nitrous Oxide and IV Medication For Labor Pain 15:15

10M ago15:15

15:15

In this short episode you'll learn about medications to manage pain in labor that are not an epidural, specifically opioid medications and nitrous oxide. You'll learn how they work, the side effects, risks, pros and cons of each. Grab the free guide to managing pain in labor - drnicolerankins.com/pain Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mattres…

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Ep 268: From the “Dude Zone” to the “Dad Zone” with Dr. David Arrell 51:18

10M ago51:18

51:18

David Arrell is a coach, consultant, and returning guest! About three years ago David joined us for a conversation about the WTF moments of fatherhood. Since then, his empire of dad advice has grown and he’s back with more helpful tips. Welcome to Fatherhood (or WTF as it’s appropriately called at times) is his fatherhood brand. What began with a b…

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How To Manage Labor Pain Without Medication 17:01

10M ago17:01

17:01

In this short episode you'll learn why it's really important to think about labor pain differently, tips to approach a medication free birth, and techniques to manage pain. Grab my free labor pain management guide here! Join The Birth Preparation Course here (use code DRNICOLE for an additional 10% off!). Our Sponsors: * Check out Avocado Green Mat…

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Ep 267: Katie’s Birth Story - An “Amazing!” Birth Center Birth 1:06:45

10M ago1:06:45

1:06:45

Katie calls her second birth an amazing experience - night and day from her first. The standard hospital birth she had for her first baby was fine, but this time she wanted a more holistic prenatal experience. This led her to a private birth center with a group of amazing midwives. I don't usually share birth center birth stories because I’m not fa…

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Listener Q&A - Something was up with my placenta 11:44

10M ago11:44

11:44

In this shorty episode I answer this question from Keri. "Hi Dr. Nicole! I love the podcast and have a question for the Q&A. I have a 2 year old daughter. Easy pregnancy and delivery at 40w6d and healthy baby! At the hospital, it is routine to send the placenta to pathology. The report stated that I had “patchy chorangiosis” with a note that it is …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Dr. Nicole C. Rankins Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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