How To Prepare For Labor And Delivery public
[search 0]
More
Download the App!
show episodes
 
The Maternal Wealth Podcast creates a collective space for sharing all birth-related stories. I want to acknowledge birth's uniqueness, honor its variations, and remind us of the power we hold in giving birth. As a Labor and Delivery Nurse, I see the impact of our stories. Let's share those stories with those who come after us to prepare them for what's to come. For those who came before us, allowing them to reminisce and heal as we realize we were not alone in our experiences. Maternal Weal ...
  continue reading
 
Artwork

1
The Expecting and Empowered Podcast

Amy Kiefer + Krystle Howald

icon
Unsubscribe
icon
Unsubscribe
Monthly+
 
We’re Amy and Krystle, sisters, mamas and co-founders of Expecting and Empowered. We built this business because we saw a HUGE gap in information given to women who were pregnant or postpartum. During the incredibly demanding and challenging years of early motherhood, we wanted to create a safe space for women to learn, grow and feel supported.We wholeheartedly believe in serving every woman no matter where they are in their motherhood journey. Through our professional background, real life ...
  continue reading
 
Artwork
 
Many women find that their first-time birth experience wasn't exactly what they wanted or hoped for. If you'd like more knowledge about how to better prepare for labor and delivery, or want to know that you're not alone on your birthing journey, this podcast is for you. Every episode shares a real-life lesson learned from a real-life labor and delivery experience. Every episode offers the chance to connect with other women, to increase our knowledge of the birthing world, and to advocate for ...
  continue reading
 
Beth Connors is a certified nurse midwife, birth doula, childbirth educator, and girl mom. Every week, Your Birth Bestie, shares practical pregnancy tips, personal birth stories, and dives deep into informed and empowering maternity care to help you have the best labor and delivery experience. Tune in for expert insights and trusted support through every stage of pregnancy, birth, and parenthood! Get answers to all your pregnancy questions including: What pregnancy and labor interventions ar ...
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
Stephanie Dunne's birth story challenges everything we think we know about being prepared for childbirth. With 17 years of managing an OBGYN office and constant access to doctors, midwives, and specialists, Stephanie confidently approached her first pregnancy. Her pregnancy was textbook perfect—what could possibly go wrong? When labor began, it loo…
  continue reading
 
Dr. Lauren Davis takes us on an extraordinary journey from medical resident to holistic maternal health advocate in this captivating conversation about birth choices, postpartum healing, and the powerful integration of conventional and functional medicine. Originally trained as an osteopathic physician & family medicine, Dr. Davis's perspective on …
  continue reading
 
One-third of babies in the United States are delivered via c-section. In honor of C-Section Awareness Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to revisit one of our earliest episodes about everything you need to know during the first two weeks after a c-section. Here at Expecting and Empowered we celebrate all births whether they are vagin…
  continue reading
 
What happens when healthcare providers don't believe your experience? For licensed marriage and family therapist Reesa Morala, it meant months of unnecessary dietary restrictions, postpartum pain, and a desperate struggle to feed her firstborn son. Reesa's journey through motherhood began with a doctor who insisted she had gestational diabetes desp…
  continue reading
 
Creativity isn't just something we do—it's fundamentally who we are as mothers and birthing people. This profound insight emerges throughout my conversation with Carla, a visual artist who uses her gifts to help mothers reconnect with their innate power after birth. Carla's personal journey through two dramatically different birth experiences—from …
  continue reading
 
Transitioning from pregnancy to postpartum can sometimes leave new moms feeling confused, tired, and depleted. Here at Expecting and Empowered, we feel passionately that every mama should get the care, education, and support they deserve and love sharing the microphone with other women who feel the same. That's where Stacia Scott and her company Po…
  continue reading
 
"Can you feel the shift? Women, mothers, and birthing people everywhere are eager for change, ready to take their power back, walk in their sovereignty, and become the wise women they were called to be," says Midwife Audrey. This powerful conversation with Midwife Audrey launches a four-part series that aims to return discussions about pregnancy, b…
  continue reading
 
Meet Vanessa Gyan, a media professional who founded Modern Day Mom Ghana and is the CEO of The Sincerely Vee Foundation. Her life took an unexpected turn when a brief holiday visit to Ghana in 2012 became a permanent relocation. Now, eleven years later, Vanessa shares the powerful birth stories that shaped her journey as a mother of three and launc…
  continue reading
 
Send us a text What does Forrest Frank, Chappell Roan and a rude stare at Warby Parker have in common? They all made me reflect on how our culture views children—and how wildly different that is from how God sees them. In this episode, I’m unpacking the quiet grief of feeling like kids are “too much” for public spaces and the holy reminder that eve…
  continue reading
 
Parenthood's invisible work begins long before birth. In this eye-opening conversation with Paige Connell (SheIsAPaigeTurner), we explore how the mental load of motherhood silently shapes women's experiences from conception through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Paige reveals how women carry unseen responsibilities even before pregnancy—tracking ovu…
  continue reading
 
Finding the motivation to workout while being a mom can be hard. Our to-do lists are long and our schedules are busy! Amy is solo for today’s episode to share why we feel pure motivation isn’t going to get you to workout. Instead, changing your mindset, prioritizing yourself, and creating the habit of exercising by knowing your “why” are the three …
  continue reading
 
Send us a text In this episode of the Push Lab Podcast, Dr. Betsey discusses the critical aspects of childbirth education, focusing on the importance of pushing techniques and the misconceptions surrounding them. She emphasizes the need for mothers to advocate for themselves during labor, particularly regarding the choice between Valsalva and open …
  continue reading
 
Over our last few episodes, we’ve gone over our #1 most downloaded resource about c-section scar mobilization AND our second most downloaded resource ever on labor positions! Today we are bringing you a BRAND NEW resource we think all of you need to see all about the pelvic floor! The pelvic floor is the “basket” keeping all of our internal organs …
  continue reading
 
Courtney Boylan never imagined that her frustration with constantly losing clear nipple shields during late-night feedings would spark a business revolution in maternal products. But that's exactly how Le Lolo was born – from one mother's determination to bring beauty and dignity to the postpartum experience. When Courtney transitioned from Target …
  continue reading
 
Agatha, a remarkable new mom and our special guest joins us in sharing her journey of juggling aspirations in nursing and midwifery while embarking on motherhood. She recounts the joyous moment of learning she was pregnant and her husband's supportive role throughout her pregnancy. Agatha also opens up about her experiences with mild morning sickne…
  continue reading
 
What does it truly mean to feel empowered during childbirth? Katy Featherstone Coombs takes us on a remarkable journey through her two vastly different birth experiences, offering wisdom that extends far beyond the delivery room. After meeting her husband through Ultimate Frisbee, Katy approached her first pregnancy with careful preparation, choosi…
  continue reading
 
As moms of young babies and children, we focus so much on their sleep. Baby sleep is so important for growth and development. But why isn’t the sleep of the mother more talked about? Today on the podcast, Dr. Shelby Harris, a Board Certified Sleep Psychologist and mother, is here to help us dissect sleep as a mom. There are so many different influe…
  continue reading
 
Send us a text Preparing for childbirth isn’t just about birth plans and breathing techniques—it’s about getting your body ready for the big day! In this episode of The Push Lab Podcast, Dr. Betsey, pelvic floor physical therapist and birth expert, breaks down how pelvic floor therapy can help you prevent tearing, reduce pain, and feel more confide…
  continue reading
 
Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation on the Maternal Wealth Podcast as Ashlee shares her unique journey into motherhood. From her unexpected pregnancy announcement to the chaotic moments during labor and delivery, Ashley's story is a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences that many mothers can relate to. In this episode, host Step…
  continue reading
 
Join us as we embark on an enlightening chat with Oriana Teeple, giving us a window into her motherhood experiences that spanned across the UK and Germany. Oriana’s journey begins with a captivating love story in Poland, where she met her husband under extraordinary circumstances. From her maternity care experiences in London, where she celebrated …
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie Are you looking for ways to let go of worry and enjoy your pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind? In this episode, we will cover: The practical strategies for managing anxiety and embracing a calm, trusting mindset during pregnancy. Why personalized midwifery care supports emotional well-being alongside physical health.…
  continue reading
 
As avid lifelong runners, we, Amy and Krystle, know that when you’re a runner, you want to keep running through all phases of life! And sometimes, pelvic organ prolapse can feel like it’s keeping you from doing the thing you love. One of our most popular blog posts was about running with prolapse. So, today we thought we’d expand on that post and b…
  continue reading
 
After navigating the highs and lows of early motherhood alone, Kelley Weinzetl found herself reinventing her life in unexpected ways. She joins us to share her incredible journey from being a young single mom to becoming a life coach dedicated to empowering women, including creating an ebook about transforming your life titled The Power of 3. Kelle…
  continue reading
 
Send us a text What if your next birth could heal the trauma of your last? After a difficult first experience, I was determined to write a different story—one filled with trust, faith, and true support. From waiting 41 weeks and 5 days for labor to the powerful moment I met my sweet Baby P, this homebirth was everything I prayed for. It was raw, re…
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie Curious about how investing in personalized midwifery care can not only transform your birth experience but also be worth every dollar in a system where having a baby comes with a hefty price tag? Today, we’re breaking down the financial side of birth and why the right support is priceless. In this episode, we will cover: The…
  continue reading
 
What happens when motherhood comes earlier than expected or survives a life-threatening complication with the sixth pregnancy? Join us for an illuminating conversation with Jeanne Jordan, a seasoned labor and delivery scrub tech, who shares her extraordinary journey of love, family, and survival. Jeanne's story begins with a whirlwind romance with …
  continue reading
 
On the podcast today, we are happy to have Heather Knezic! Heather is a Labor & Delivery nurse, wife, mom of 3, birth educator and founder of A Life In Labor who has helped thousands of women achieve their most empowered birth experience. This episode is an open and honest conversation about having the goal of an unmedicated birth. We recognize and…
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie Have you ever wondered how evidence-based midwifery can help you feel confident in the safety of a home birth? In this episode, we will cover: The most common fears about home birth safety and how to address them with personalized midwifery care. Why trusting the birth process can empower you to make confident choices for you…
  continue reading
 
Send us a text In this episode, I introduce my husband, Dr. James (but you can call him Jimmy!), a physical therapist like myself. Together, we dive into the birth story of our firstborn, Noah—a hospital birth that did not go as planned. From being told my body was failing me before labor even started to a traumatic induction, unnecessary intervent…
  continue reading
 
We are thrilled for you to meet our newest guest, Erin Ronder Neves, who is not only the Owner and Founder of Beyond Birthing Village, but also a Birth & Postpartum Doula, Certified Childbirth Educator a Spinning Babies® Parent Educator and a Certified Lactation Counselor After facing the emotional hurdles of postpartum depression and anxiety, Erin…
  continue reading
 
Send us a text It’s finally happening—I’m launching The Push Lab Podcast! But why did it take me five years to hit record? In this episode, I’m sharing the real, raw journey of how my own traumatic birth experience led me to create The Push Lab birth course, why I’ve struggled with showing up on social media lately, and how God kept nudging me to s…
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie Have you ever wondered how choosing the right midwife can ensure a safe and empowering home birth experience? In this episode, we will cover: The key traits to look for in a compassionate midwifery provider who prioritizes home birth safety... Why finding an evidence-based midwife can give you confidence in your birth choices…
  continue reading
 
EmilyOuellet's story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of support. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, from the early days of dreaming about a family with her husband to confronting the challenges of infertility, particularly during the uncertainties of the COVID pandemic. Emily, a licensed mental health coun…
  continue reading
 
Today, Krystle and Amy are diving into different laboring positions to utilize during labor and delivery! There is still a big misconception about movement during the laboring process, however, we know from the research that utilizing several positions can help your baby descend during the labor process. Our goal during this episode is to educate y…
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie Have you ever wondered how trusting the birth process with personalized midwifery care can help you avoid unnecessary interventions? In this episode, we will cover: The importance of natural childbirth preparation to reduce the pressure of induction... Why personalized midwifery care provides the holistic birth support you ne…
  continue reading
 
Uncover the transformative journey of Charlotte Brielle, the visionary founder and executive director of Wombs of the World. Charlotte's unique blend of anthropology, sociology, and passion for birth practices has sparked a global movement in maternal health. Her path from a curious child fascinated by birth to a full-spectrum doula has taken her a…
  continue reading
 
Join us on a transformative journey with Kirsty Yetter, a dedicated mother, prenatal yoga instructor, doula, and future midwife, who shares her inspiring path into prenatal yoga and birth work. Her story begins with a pivotal experience during her first pregnancy and grows through enriching encounters in India and the Peace Corps. Kirsty reveals ho…
  continue reading
 
We could not be more excited to bring you today’s episode! Our special guest, Dr. Dianna Dixon is a Postpartum Certified Doula, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and Certified Lactation Counselor, as well as a Doctor of Public Administration among other amazing qualifications. She created her platform, Pump with Purpose, after her final breastfeed…
  continue reading
 
Discover the transformative journey of Dr. Courtney Neill, a chiropractor and owner of Foundations Family Chiropractic, whose personal health challenges led her from the world of art and marketing to a profound calling in pediatric, prenatal, and postnatal care. Inspired by her own recovery from digestive issues and a seizure disorder through chiro…
  continue reading
 
What if the invisible labor of childbirth was hiding more than you've ever imagined? On the Maternal Wealth Podcast, we uncover the hidden realities of cesarean sections in a conversation inspired by "Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section" by Rachel Somerstein. My sister Rachel joins me to share her deeply personal journey throu…
  continue reading
 
This week we are revisiting one of our most listened to episodes, ever! This Christmas we wanted to give you the gift of information - and this episode is packed FULL of info we want you to know! We get asked often in our community about preparing for labor and delivery, which is why we recorded this episode in 2022 and thousands of you have listen…
  continue reading
 
Discover the inspiring journey of Anissa Sartini, a certified professional midwife from Texas, who navigates the world of midwifery with resilience and dedication. Despite facing challenges as a hard-of-hearing individual in a demanding field, Anissa has created a successful practice that champions inclusive care for BIPOC and LGBTQ families. In th…
  continue reading
 
Discover the innovative world of lactation consultancy with our guest, Holly Johnson, a dedicated International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) whose journey from a cattle ranch to launching a mobile lactation clinic is nothing short of inspiring. Holly's firsthand experiences as a military spouse facing breastfeeding challenges have f…
  continue reading
 
We feel very passionately that c-section mamas deserve to have all the information they need to have a full recovery after birth. Co-founder of Expecting and Empowered, Krystle, is a c-section mama herself, having had 3 cesarean births! Her personal experience combined with her professional experience as a Women’s Health Physical Therapist means sh…
  continue reading
 
Prepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of Dr. Samantha Quézet-Lee, who seamlessly weaves her expertise as a chiropractor, yoga instructor, and former athlete into her new role as a mother. Discover how Dr. Quézet-Lee's experiences with traditional Chinese postpartum confinement and her collaboration with her mother-in-law have enriched he…
  continue reading
 
Imagine the joy and surprise of discovering a new life growing within you after a whimsical vacation in Italy. On this episode of Maternal Wealth, we welcome Kamila Lozano, who shares her touching and unpredictable journey into motherhood. Kamila's decision to embrace her roots and give birth in Poland, despite the challenges of a pandemic, highlig…
  continue reading
 
Today we are happy to host Stephanie King from My Essential Birth (@myessentialbirth), a mother, childbirth educator, and doula. After experiencing several unexpected changes leading up to the births of her children, Stephanie was inspired to get educated on the birthing process so she could inform and educate pregnant mothers to trust their bodies…
  continue reading
 
Choosing the path of single motherhood is no small feat. In this episode, Courtney shares her inspiring journey, making the powerful decision to become a mother on her own terms through intrauterine insemination (IUI). As a dedicated nanny, Courtney faced a challenging pregnancy with her first child, Chandler, navigating severe sickness and gestati…
  continue reading
 
Krystle and Amy are back together to bring you today’s episode, 5 things you didn’t know you could ask for during a c-section! Krystle is not only our Expecting and Empowered in-house Physical Therapy expert, but is a three-time cesarean birth mama, making her a wealth of knowledge about the c-sections. Krystle is going to walk us through today’s 5…
  continue reading
 
Text Your Birth Bestie In today’s episode, I talk with experienced doula, Lexi Zuo about how expecting moms and their partners can prepare for a C-section, whether planned or unexpected. Lexi shares her knowledge, from calming fears to ensuring a positive, individualized experience! We will discuss: Common fears about C-sections and ways to address…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Quick Reference Guide

Listen to this show while you explore
Play