Evidence Based Birth®

Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN

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In the Evidence Based Birth® podcast, we cover the research evidence on hot topics about pregnancy and childbirth! Our mission is to help birth workers build the evidence based knowledge, skills, and power they need to protect families' ability to give birth with empowerment. The work we do has a huge impact on parents who are searching for accurate information to empower their prenatal, birth, and postpartum experiences!

EBB 348 - Best Practices for Size-Inclusive Birth Care with Jen McLellan of Plus Size Birth

Jen McLellan, founder of Plus Size Birth and host of the Plus Mommy Podcast, is joining Dr. Dekker to explore how birth workers can provide compassionate, size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies. Jen shares her journey to founding Plus Size Birth, the impact of size bias in healthcare, and practical advice for both expectant parents and birth professionals. Together, they discuss how to challenge assumptions about plus-size pregnancies, the importance of self-advocacy, and how to create

Feb 26, • 56:27

EBB 347 - Updated Evidence on Vitamin K

In this very important episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker is taking a look at the updated evidence on Vitamin K for newborns. Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) is a rare but serious condition that can lead to life-threatening complications in infants. Dr. Dekker breaks down what Vitamin K is, why newborns are at risk for VKDB, and the different supplementation options available—including the Vitamin K shot and oral drops. This episode also tackles myths and misinformation surrounding Vitamin K, inc

Feb 19, • 46:33

EBB 346 - Uncovering the Facts about Private Cord Blood Banking with Journalist Sarah Kliff

In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and investigative journalist Sarah Kliff of The New York Times explore the intricate world of cord blood banking. Sarah shares insights from her article, "Promised Cures, Tainted Cells," which explored cord blood banking practices, their marketing claims, and the stark contrast between public and private banking systems.   Together, they discuss: The differences between public and private cord blood banks Marketing tactics and their impact on parents

Feb 12, • 48:27

EBB 345 - Taking the First Steps toward Trauma-Informed Lactation Care with Porsche Holland-Otunba, Founder of Reclaim Black Motherhood

Porsche Holland-Otunba, CEO of Reclaim Black Motherhood, joins Dr. Dekker to share her personal journey from trauma to advocacy in the birthing world. Porsche opens up about her own traumatic birth experience, which ignited her passion for fighting for better care for Black families. She discusses how a lack of informed choice, systemic biases, and inadequate lactation support affected her pregnancy and birth, leading her to become a passionate birth worker, doula, and lactation consultant. Por

Feb 5, • 49:17

REPLAY: EBB 262 – Advocacy During Birth and Navigating a Hospital Stay for Newborn Jaundice with Emily Chandler and Taylor Washburn, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

In today’s episode, we’re revisiting an inspiring birth story featuring Emily Chandler and Taylor Washburn, graduates of the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class. They share their journey of navigating an informed and empowered hospital birth experience, along with the challenges they faced during an extended hospital stay for their newborn’s jaundice diagnosis.   Emily, a marine scientist, and Taylor, a teacher and rowing coach in the Boston area, enjoy an active lifestyle filled with hiki

Jan 29, • 58:11

EBB 344 - Crash Course in Perinatal Mood Disorders and Treatment with Dr. Kat Kaeni, Perinatal Psychologist and Past Board Chair of Postpartum Support International

Dr. Rebecca Dekker welcomes Dr. Kat Kaeni, a perinatal mental health certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook, and host of the Mom & Mind podcast. Dr. Kat shares her personal journey with postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD, and how it shaped her commitment to supporting parents during the perinatal period. They explore the spectrum of perinatal mental health conditions, from baby blues to postpartum psychosis, and discuss the stigma, barriers to care, and strategies for man

Jan 22, • 41:39

EBB 343 - Top Ten Evidence-Based Strategies for Lowering the Risk of Cesarean

In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Morgan Richardson Cayama, EBB Research Fellow and doctoral candidate in public health, are sharing the top 10 evidence-based strategies for reducing your risk of a Cesarean birth. Drawing from the latest research, including insights from the ARRIVE trial and EBB’s Signature Articles, Rebecca and Morgan discuss actionable methods such as choosing a provider and birth setting with low Cesarean rates, receiving midwifery-led care, using labor support like a

Jan 15, • 48:29

EBB 342: Lifelong Lessons in Lactation with Dr. Kimarie Bugg, the First African American IBCLC and President of Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere

In this episode, learn how Dr. Kimarie Bugg’s lifelong dedication to lactation and health equity is transforming lives nationwide. Dr. Bugg is President of Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE) and the first African American International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Dr. Bugg shares her journey into the field of lactation, sparked by personal challenges breastfeeding her first set of twins in the late 1970s. She recounts the evolution of breastfeeding support, her groundbreaki

Jan 8, • 43:27

Special Announcement from EBB

Happy New Year to all our listeners! Join us in listening to a mini story about how our team got together last fall... and be the first to learn about a major event we're planning for you in 2025! To get on the waitlist for the upcoming event, visit ebbirth.com/waitlist

Jan 7, • 6:24

EBB 341 - 2024 Year-in-Review and Sneak Peek of 2025!

Happy New Year! Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB research fellows Morgan Richardson Cayama and Sara Ailshire as they celebrate the evidence from 2024. From updating key research on waterbirth, doulas, and elective inductions to launching new handouts, webinars, and pocket guides, it was a busy and rewarding year for Team EBB. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s ahead in 2025, including an updated virtual conference, fresh podcast episodes, and exciting new research. Let’s celebrate the wins,

Jan 1, • 56:25

EBB 340 - Emetophobia in Pregnancy and an Inspiring Home Birth Story with Kat Sullivan and Ben Winston, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with EBB Childbirth Class graduates Kat Sullivan and Ben Winston about their journey through pregnancy and birth. Kat shares her deeply personal experience of living with emetophobia—the fear of vomiting—and how it impacted her pregnancy and decision to pursue a home birth. From navigating intrusive thoughts and panic attacks to finding a supportive care team and discovering the power of SSRIs, Kat and Ben open up about their challenges and triumphs. Hear how they prepar

Dec 18, 2024 • 37:08

EBB 339 - Q & A on the ARRIVE Trial with the EBB Research Team

Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB Research Fellow Morgan Richardson Cayama tackle your questions about the ARRIVE trial and elective inductions at 39 weeks. They explore the evidence behind this controversial study, discuss the implications for Cesarean rates, and unpack the concept of patient autonomy in maternity care. Plus, they share practical tips for managing pressure to induce and delve into how the ARRIVE trial impacts outcomes

Dec 11, 2024 • 45:05

EBB 338 - What is Respectful Maternity Care? with Dr. Jessica Brumley, CNM, PhD, and President of the American College of Nurse Midwives

Dr. Jessica Brumley, a Certified Nurse Midwife and President of the American College of Nurse Midwives, joins Dr. Dekker to explore the transformative impact of respectful maternity care. Dr. Brumley reflects on her journey to midwifery, inspired by a lifelong commitment to equitable and compassionate healthcare. Together, they discuss the importance of supporting normal physiology in birth, the guiding principles of the midwifery model, and the need for systemic change to foster respectful care

Dec 4, 2024 • 47:16

EBB 337 - Getting through a Long Labor Induction without Pain Medication with Camden Crane Wachowiak, Fitness Instructor and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate

In this episode, I’m joined by Camden Crane Wachowiak—a health coach, EBB Childbirth Class graduate, and new mom—who shares her high-risk pregnancy and birth journey. Camden walks us through her induction experience after her water broke at term and her decision to labor with non-pharmacological comfort measures. We also talk about Camden's approach to navigating unique health considerations during pregnancy, including antiphospholipid syndrome and a cardiac pacemaker. She reflects on the empowe

Nov 27, 2024 • 47:24

EBB 336 - Team EBB's Top Tips for Bringing Your Baby Home from the Hospital

Team EBB's Chanté Perryman, Rikki Jenkins and Sara Ailshire are taking over the podcast to share their tips for transitioning home from the hospital and supporting new parents postpartum! Rikki, a seasoned childbirth educator, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and Instructor Program Coordinator at EBB, stresses the importance of having a strong support system and being open about postpartum mental health. Sara, a Research Fellow at EBB, draws from cultural practices and her ow

Nov 20, 2024 • 59:01

EBB 335 - Evidence on Newborn Baths and Screening for Low Blood Sugars

We're celebrating the upcoming release of the brand new Pocket Guide to Newborn Procedures! Join us as Dr. Dekker explores essential aspects of newborn care: the evidence on 1) pain management during newborn procedures, 2) baby's first bath, and 3) whether and how newborns should receive screening for low blood sugar. In this episode, you'll learn about newborn comfort techniques like skin-to-skin care, massage, "tucking in," and the use of pacifiers. You'll also walk away with a new appreciati

Nov 13, 2024 • 45:22

EBB 334 - Evidence on the ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 Weeks

Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB Research Fellow Morgan Richardson Cayama as we explore the ARRIVE Trial and its impact on elective induction at 39 weeks. Together, we'll break down what elective induction involves, examine the trial's findings and critiques, and discuss the latest evidence on this increasingly common practice. Elective inductions have surged since the Trial's release. In this podcast episode, we'll talk about the latest post-ARRIVE research, and the benefits, risks, and profess

Oct 30, 2024 • 53:46

EBB 333 - Treatment for Uterine Fibroids and its Impact on Fertility, Pregnancy, and Birth with Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell, OB/GYN and Advocate for Health Equity

In this episode, we're talking about uterine fibroids and their impact on pregnancy and birth with Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell, a board-certified OB/GYN and nationally recognized expert in fibroid treatment. Dr. Gillispie-Bell shares her wealth of knowledge on this critical, yet often overlooked, topic—explaining everything from what fibroids are to the various treatment options available. We cover how fibroids affect reproductive health, debunk myths about Cesarean versus vaginal birth, and dis

Oct 23, 2024 • 52:52

EBB 332 - Advocating for Yourself during Prenatal Visits with Retired Obstetrician Dr. Leslie Farrington, Co-Founder of the Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood

Dr. Leslie Farrington, an African-American retired OB/GYN, birth justice advocate, and co-founder of the Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood, shares how her early experience with midwifery inspired her passion for patient-centered care. As a physician who later recognized the harmful effects of “physician supremacy” in the medical system, she details her transformation into an advocate for liberation and anti-racism in healthcare. She discusses how systemic issues impact Black maternal health an

Oct 16, 2024 • 48:01

EBB 331 - How Chiropractic Care Can Help with the Aches and Pains of Pregnancy with Dr. Lisa Vawter

Chiropractor Dr. Lisa Vawter is all about women's health, especially when it comes to prenatal and postpartum care. With certifications in the Webster technique, Spinning Babies®, and BirthFit™, she's got all the tools to support expectant and new moms in a holistic way. Dr. Vawter is a firm believer in the power of chiropractic care to ease pregnancy symptoms like low back pain and sciatica, focusing on things like posture, muscle engagement, and body balance. Inspired by her own pregnancy jou

Oct 9, 2024 • 1:00:32

EBB 330 - An Unmedicated Hospital Birth Story Using Self-Hypnosis with Dr. Emily and Doug Guilfoy, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

In this episode, we're joined by EBB Childbirth Class graduates Dr. Emily Guilfoy and her husband, Doug, as they share their unmedicated birth story. Dr. Emily, a chiropractor, walks us through her preparation for birth using self-hypnosis and the mental and physical strategies she employed for a calm, empowering labor. Together, they discuss their experience in the EBB Childbirth Class, working with their doula, and how they created a serene birthing environment in a hospital setting. Dr. Guilf

Oct 2, 2024 • 42:50

EBB 329 - Q & A about Blood Types, Rh Incompatibility in Pregnancy, and the Rhogam Shot

In this episode, we're exploring the fascinating science of blood types and blood incompatibility in pregnancy. You’ll learn about the basics of blood types, how they are inherited, and why knowing your blood type is crucial—especially during pregnancy. Rebecca and Sara also discuss the implications of Rh incompatibility, ABO incompatibility, and other rare blood types on maternal and fetal health. (17:15) Rhogam Injection: Preventing Rh Incompatibility Complications (18:23) Hemolytic Disease

Sep 25, 2024 • 52:00

EBB 328 - Importance of Bilingual Doula Care with Neysha Reyes Cruz of Olas de Amor

Neysha Reyes Cruz’s journey to becoming a birth doula was sparked by witnessing the inadequate support and resources during a friend’s hospital birth in Puerto Rico. Her personal experiences and those of her family have further fueled her commitment and passion for advocating on behalf of women, particularly within Hispanic and Latinx communities. Neysha recognizes the significant need for more bilingual doulas to ensure culturally competent care and clear communication for non-English speaking

Sep 18, 2024 • 56:35

EBB 327 - Latina Advocacy and Fighting the Maternal Mortality Epidemic in California with Kimberly Turbin and Michele Monserratt-Ramos of Consumer Watchdog

We are joined by Kimberly Turbin and Michele Monserratt-Ramos, staunch advocates against obstetric violence driven by personal experiences and a commitment to marginalized communities. Note: Read the transcript in English or español here! Or watch with closed captions on the EBB YouTube channel.  Kimberly's advocacy began after a traumatic birth experience in 2013, which she courageously shared publicly to ignite awareness and debate on obstetric mistreatment. Michele, with her extensive backg

Sep 11, 2024 • 49:03

EBB 326 - Reducing Toxin Exposure in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Lisa Smith, Dietician, Holistic Nutritionist, and Gut Health Expert

Lisa Smith, a registered dietitian and host of the Pretty Well podcast, joins us on the EBB podcast to discuss the crucial topic of reducing toxins in the home during pregnancy and postpartum. Lisa shares her personal health journey, including her experience with Hashimoto's disease (an autoimmune condition impacting the thyroid), and highlights the importance of reducing environmental toxins to promote optimal health. Listen and learn about the connection between toxins and gut health, how indu

Sep 4, 2024 • 44:10

EBB 325 - Surviving HELLP Syndrome and Planning a VBAC in a Subsequent Pregnancy with Jolene Brink, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate

Following an emergency c-section due to HELLP syndrome in her first pregnancy, Jolene Brink was determined to have a different birthing experience with her second child. Through the support of a knowledgeable medical team and insights gained from her EBB Childbirth Class, she successfully achieved her goal of an unmedicated VBAC with the birth of her son, Guthrie, in 2022. Jolene's journey towards a VBAC was a transformative process of healing, empowerment, and reclaiming her birthing experience

Aug 28, 2024 • 41:00

EBB 324 - Blending Birth, Science, Technology, and Storytelling with Erica Chidi, Co-founder and CEO of LOOM

Erica Chidi joins us to share her journey from working as a full-spectrum doula to becoming an educator and leader in women's health. With over a decade of experience, Erica discusses how her upbringing in a medical family, coupled with her unique approach to doula work, led her to create LOOM, a health information app designed to empower women and non-binary individuals. She explains the app’s mission to provide accessible, science-backed health information and personal stories that help users

Aug 21, 2024 • 29:40

EBB 323 - Q & A on Frequent Air Travel in Pregnancy, Induction for Low Platelets, and Anterior vs. Posterior Placenta

In today's episode, we're diving into a mini Q&A session to address some pressing questions from our incredible EBB Pro Members. We'll explore the risks of radiation exposure during air travel in pregnancy, particularly for airline crew members. Then, we'll discuss the implications of low platelet counts and whether they necessitate induction. Lastly, we'll look at new research on the location of the placenta—whether anterior, posterior or lateral—and its impact on birth experiences. Tune in for

Aug 14, 2024 • 40:24

EBB 322 - Harnessing the Power of the Mind to Enhance Joy and Comfort in Childbirth with Kerry Tuschhoff, Founder of Hypnobabies®️

Kerry Tuschhoff, founder and director of Hypnobabies®, brings a wealth of experience as a childbirth educator, doula, speaker, and hypnotherapist to the realm of hypnobirthing. Inspired by her own challenging birth experiences and a TV show about hypnosis for childbirth, she meticulously studied hypnotherapy and pain management to develop Hypnobabies®, which integrates hypno-anesthesia techniques for effective pain relief during labor. Her program not only empowers expectant parents to make inf

Aug 7, 2024 • 47:15

EBB 321 - An Empowering, Trauma-Informed Home Birth with First-Time Mom and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Iris Casey

Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class graduate Iris Casey is sharing her inspiring home birth story with Dr. Dekker. Iris opens up about her journey to motherhood, after grappling with the decision to become a parent and overcoming past traumas. She recounts the unexpected onset of labor, navigating the early stages with her supportive partner, and utilizing the knowledge gained from the EBB Childbirth Class and Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies are Not Pizzas!", to create a tailored birth plan. Tune

Jul 31, 2024 • 56:46

EBB 320 - Evidence on the Impact of Epidurals on the Pushing Phase of Labor

The impact of epidurals on the second stage of labor has sparked a lot of discussion. Research suggests that epidurals can prolong this stage... and a prolonged second stage can be associated with increased risks of infection, severe tears and the need for interventions like forceps-assisted delivery or Cesarean. But does an epidural mean that you are higher risk for complications during the second stage of labor, or are there ways to lessen your risks?   In this episode, Dr. Dekker explores

Jul 24, 2024 • 22:40

EBB 319 - Exploring Love and Intimacy in Birth with Debra Pascali-Bonaro, Founder of Orgasmic Birth

Dr. Rebecca Dekker's joined by Debra Pascali-Bonaro, host of the Orgasmic Birth podcast, to explore the connections between love, intimacy, and childbirth. A world-renowned speaker and doula trainer, and the creative force behind the documentary "Orgasmic Birth: The Best-Kept Secret," Debra shares her origins into the world of childbirth education and her groundbreaking work. Debra and Dr. Dekker delve into how intimacy can enhance the birthing experience by promoting relaxation, reducing fea

Jul 17, 2024 • 48:40

EBB 318 - Advocating for Waterbirth in Hospitals with Dr. Liz Nutter, DNP, CNM, and Retired Lieutenant Colonel

Dr. Liz Nutter, a retired Lieutenant Colonel with over 20 years of nursing and healthcare leadership experience, is bringing her expertise as a board-certified nurse midwife and national expert in waterbirth and hydrotherapy evidence-based practice. Dr. Nutter shares her journey from serving in the United States Army to becoming an assistant professor at St. Martin's University in Washington State. She discusses her pivotal role in advocating for waterbirth practices within the military healt

Jul 10, 2024 • 45:24

REPLAY: EBB 186 – A Positive Pregnancy and Birth Outcome with Multiple High-Risk Labels with EBB Childbirth Class Parent, Angela Jones

Today, we’re sharing a replay of our podcast episode with EBB Childbirth Class parent, Angela Jones, about having an uncomplicated pregnancy and birth when labeled as high risk. Angela is a macro-level social worker, wife to her husband, Tony, and mom to her son, Allister, and their cats, Pumpernickel and Lion-O. Angela and Tony graduated from the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class with EBB instructor, Victoria Michonski. Both Victoria and Heather McCullough, who is also an EBB instructor, we

Jul 3, 2024 • 1:01:56

EBB 317 - Evidence on Epidurals for Pain Management during Labor

Have you ever wondered what the evidence is on epidurals for pain management during labor? Join us on today’s podcast as we discuss most recent evidence on epidurals, spinals, and combined spinal-epidurals! We’ll begin with some background on these methods, including how common they are in the U.S. and around the world, before moving on to the effectiveness, benefits, and risks for use during labor. We’ll also talk about alternative methods of pain relief during labor, and share recommendations

Jun 26, 2024 • 42:01

EBB 316 - Discovering a Passion for Birth Work and Training the Next Generation of Black Doulas with Brandie Bishop, CEO of the National Black Doulas Association

Brandie Bishop, CEO of the National Black Doulas Association (NBDA), joins us to explore the vital role of doulas in supporting pregnant individuals and families within Black and Brown communities. From her early experiences working with refugee families to her passion for advocating for marginalized populations, Brandie's unique journey into birth work led to her role today— continuing NBDA's mission of training the next generation of Black doulas. Through comprehensive trainings and mentorship

Jun 12, 2024 • 36:47

EBB 315 - Supporting LGBTQ+ Families from Fertility through Parenthood with Gena Jaffe, Founder of Connecting Rainbows

In this episode, Dr. Dekker's joined by Gena Jaffe, an LGBTQ+ activist, attorney, and founder of Connecting Rainbows©️. Gena shares her personal story of embarking on reciprocal IVF with her wife and the legal hurdles they faced as a lesbian couple. From navigating complex parental rights to accessing inclusive healthcare, Gena sheds light on the challenges faced by some LGBTQ+ individuals and families on their path to parenthood.  Gena's experience led her to creating Connecting Rainbows©️, a

Jun 5, 2024 • 32:25

EBB 314 - Babywearing Benefits and Tips with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, Postpartum Doula, and Babywearing Expert

Learn about the world of babywearing, including its impact on infant development, digestion, and sleep with Whitney Dula, a maternal child health advocate and founder of The Mama's Dula. Whitney shares her personal journey into babywearing, the rich cultural history of babywearing, its role in community-based child-rearing practices, and practical tips for parents. From fostering a close bond between caregivers and babies to being an affordable alternative to expensive baby carriers, learn how t

May 29, 2024 • 50:45

EBB 313 - A Birth Story with Hydrotherapy and Injectable Opioids for Pain Management with Melissa and Brendon Smyles, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

In this episode, EBB Childbirth Class graduates Melissa and Brendon Smyles' share their experiences preparing for an unmedicated birth while embracing flexibility in their birthing plan. From the unexpected premature rupture of membranes to the decision to use fentanyl for rest during labor, Melissa and Brendon tell their birth story, emphasizing the importance of informed choices and personalized support. Join us as they reflect on the transformative power of evidence-based education and the p

May 22, 2024 • 36:55

EBB 312 - Evidence on Injectable Opioids for Pain Management during Labor

Were you aware that beyond the standard epidural, there is an additional medication option for managing pain during childbirth? Today, Dr. Dekker discusses another common option, intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) opioids. Dr. Dekker explains the different types of injectable opioids available during labor, how they work, and the current evidence that you need to know to make an informed decision. Plus, learn about the benefits and risks of IV opioids for pain relief labor and an in-depth lo

May 15, 2024 • 19:55

REPLAY - EBB 149 – Shifting from Hospital Labor and Delivery Nurse to Home Birth Advocate with Melissa Anne DuBois

For Nurse's Week 2024, we wanted to share a replay of one of our favorite episodes at EBB, and that is an interview with Melissa Anne DuBois about shifting from hospital labor and delivery nurse to home birth advocate. Content note: Discussion of obstetric racism and graphic description of obstetric violence. Melissa Anne DuBois is an experienced perinatal nurse living in Central Massachusetts. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Nursing in 2006 a

May 8, 2024 • 1:00:12

EBB 311 - Creating a Community-Led Birth Center in New York City with Myla Flores of the Womb Bus

Join us in diving deep into Myla Flores' incredible story of becoming a leader and visionary in the birth field! From Myla's early experiences as a birth doula to her ongoing advocacy for safe, dignified birth options, Myla's passion shines through as she discusses the challenges and triumphs of birth work.  Discover how The Womb Bus, a mobile wellness hub, brings essential education, resources, and outreach to blossoming families in under-resourced areas. Learn about Myla's vision for The Birt

May 1, 2024 • 41:56

EBB 310 - Doulas & Nurses Advocating Together for Positive Shifts in Birth Culture with Joyce Dykema, EBB Instructor & Brianna Fields, RN

Dr. Rebecca Dekker is joined by Joyce Dykema, doula and EBB Instructor, and Brianna Fields, a labor and delivery nurse, to discuss advocating for positive shifts in birth culture, particularly in Nebraska. Joyce shares her journey into birth work and the impact of the Evidence Based Birth Instructor program on accessing research evidence, highlighting changes in hospital practices and provider attitudes that support more diverse birthing options.   Brianna discusses her experience in Joyce

Apr 24, 2024 • 1:02:56

EBB 309 - Evidence on Doulas

What is a doula, and what are the different types of doulas? How many people use doulas during childbirth, and what does a doula actually do? Are there any randomized, controlled trials on doula support? What are the benefits and risks of having a doula, if any? And if the evidence shows that doulas improve health outcomes… then why are some hospitals around the world unsupportive of labor companions? And how can you find a doula if you’re interested in having one at your birth?    Today’s

Apr 17, 2024 • 57:21

EBB 308 - The Intersection of Environmental Justice and Midwifery Care with Dr. Tanya Khemet Taiwo

Curious which toxins should be most avoided for people of reproductive age and their children? In this episode, Dr. Tanya Khemet Taiwo, LM, CPM, MPH, PhD unravels the intricate connection between environmental exposures and their profound impact on pregnancy and birth outcomes. We will explore the hidden risks associated with heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. You'll learn about the research on how environmental exposures contribute to issues like reduced birth weight, miscarri

Apr 10, 2024 • 43:18

EBB 307 - Unexplained Infertility, Endometriosis, and a Birth Center Birth Story with Ellora La Shier, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate

In this episode, Ellora La Shier, graduate of the EBB Childbirth Class, shares about her struggle with six years of unexplained infertility and how it impacted her eventual birth story. Listen in as Ellora describes the frustration of unexplained infertility, suffering through years of increasingly painful periods, and the relief of finally receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis. Despite facing numerous challenges and undergoing various treatments, including intrauterine insemination (IUI), El

Apr 3, 2024 • 43:55

EBB 306 - Culturally Sensitive Doula Training with Divya Deswal and Neha Misra of the Doula Collective in India

As we wrap up the celebration of World Doula Week, explore the transformative journey of pregnancy and childbirth in the Indian context with Divya Deswal and Neha Misra, founders of The Doula Collective©️. In this interview, Divya and Neha shed light on the unique challenges and triumphs faced by expectant families in India. You'll learn how The Doula Collective©️, with its culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approach, is reshaping the landscape of birth support!  Also... have you ever hear

Mar 27, 2024 • 45:52

EBB 305 - A High-Risk Pregnancy and Miraculous Birth with Krista and John DeYoung, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

You're going to love this family-centered birth story with Dr. Dekker's brother John DeYoung and his wife Krista DeYoung! On today's episode, Krista and John (who are graduates of the EBB Childbirth Class with EBB Instructor Chanté Perryman) get vulnerable and open up about their complex pregnancy and son Eli's miraculous birth story. In addition to facing a pregnancy with a prior diagnosis of Crohn's disease, they also had to cope with lockdowns during the pandemic, genetic concerns includin

Mar 20, 2024 • 57:46

EBB 304 - Q & A on PPD/Pitocin, Delayed Cord Clamping, Nubain, and Placental Encapsulation

Welcome to a special Q &A episode of the Evidence Based Birth® Podcast! Today I address some of your burning questions on key childbirth topics! In this episode, I share evidence on the (unproven) relationship between synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) administration and postpartum depression, the complexities of delayed cord clamping and the power dynamics around requesting delayed cord clamping, the use of Nubain (an IV opioid) for pain relief during labor and its potential impact on babies, a

Mar 13, 2024 • 21:20

EBB 303 - Advocating for Bodily Autonomy in Pregnancy and Birth with Mama Doctor Jones, OB/GYN

In this episode, we chat with obstetrician Dr. Danielle Jones, aka Mama Doctor Jones, about challenging norms in pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Jones passionately advocates for patient autonomy as we dive into the resistance to eating and drinking from the anesthesia community, debunk myths on this hot topic, and call on healthcare professionals to prioritize evidence-based practices. We also discuss the challenges nurses and obstetricians face in changing hospital policies, especially when conf

Mar 6, 2024 • 44:02

EBB 302 - Solo Delivery: Navigating Birth During Spouse's Military Deployment with Kellie McKinnon, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate

Delve into a powerful and emotional conversation with the incredible Kellie McKinnon, a military spouse, San Diego-based personal trainer, and graduate of the Evidence Based Birth®️ Childbirth Class! In this episode, Kellie shares her unique and challenging journey through pregnancy while her partner was deployed. We explore the emotional and logistical aspects of facing pregnancy and childbirth without the physical presence of a partner. Discover the importance of a doula, the role of

Feb 28, 2024 • 52:04

EBB 301 - A Crash Course in Pregnancy and Parental Leave Rights in the U.S. with Daphne Delvaux, Esq. of The Mamattorney

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Daphne Delvaux, Esq., widely known as The Mamattorney. As an award-winning trial attorney and founder of Delvaux Law, Daphne is a passionate advocate for women's rights at work, particularly focusing on motherhood discrimination cases. In this conversation, we dive into the complexities of workplace trauma, reasonable accommodations, and the crucial understanding of employment rights during pregnancy and postpartum. Daphne shares her expert

Feb 21, 2024 • 48:38

EBB 300 - Evidence on Waterbirth

Is waterbirth safe? Are there any randomized, controlled trials on this subject? What are the benefits and risks of waterbirth? And if the evidence shows that waterbirth is a safe and beneficial form of childbirth… then why do so many hospitals “ban” this practice? And how can you access a waterbirth if that is something you are interested in? Today’s podcast episode is chock full of research from our peer-reviewed Evidence Based Birth® Signature Article: The Evidence on Waterbirth. To learn mor

Feb 14, 2024 • 52:24

REPLAY - EBB 130: Home Birth in the Black Community with Isis Rose

February 7, 2024 - For today's episode, we are highlighting one of our favorite home birth podcast episodes with the replay of a 2020 conversation with student midwife, Isis Rose, about her very own home birth. If you are inspired during this listen, please support Isis in her midwifery journey! She is currently accepting support via her GoFundMe page and Venmo.  ----- In this episode I talk with Isis Rose, a full spectrum doula, home birth mom, certified lactation counselor, and placenta encaps

Feb 7, 2024 • 1:07:22

EBB 299 - A Breech Vaginal Birth Story with EBB Parents Naoma Kleisner and Mohamed Koraichi

This episode is a deeply personal and inspiring journey shared by Naoma Kleisner, MSN, RN, and Mohamed Koraichi, who bravely chose a breech vaginal birth for their son. From the early discovery of a breech position at 25 weeks to the challenges of finding supportive care in Chicago, their story unfolds with determination and resilience. We'll explore their birthing experience, including acupressure, birth balls, and the choices they made to ensure a positive outcome. This episode is not just abo

Jan 31, 2024 • 44:24

EBB 298 - Overcoming Barriers to Breech Vaginal Birth with Dr. Emiliano Chavira, OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist

In this episode, join me in delving into the intricate world of breech births with esteemed maternal-fetal medicine specialist, Dr. Emiliano Chavira. From the disappearance of breech vaginal births in modern obstetrics, to the challenges faced by practitioners advocating for this option, Dr. Chavira shares insights from his unique career path.   You'll discover the renaissance of unmedicated physiologic breech births, the ongoing struggle of the rare providers who offer this choice, and the p

Jan 24, 2024 • 50:32

EBB 297 - Frequently Asked Questions about Breech with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Sara Ailshire, MA

In the previous episode (EBB 296), we covered the evidence on breech vaginal birth. This week we are answering your questions! Can a baby spontaneously flip from breech back to head-first position before birth? Is home breech birth safe or not? Which factors influence the chances you'll have a breech baby? On today’s podcast, join us on a Q & A all about breech birth! If you want to get informed and empowered on the topic of breech positioning in pregnancy—either for yourself or for your client

Jan 17, 2024 • 16:57

EBB 296 - Evidence on Breech Birth with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Sara Ailshire, MA

Have you ever wondered why doctors almost always recommend a Cesarean for breech? Is that because breech vaginal birth is dangerous? Which methods can help a breech baby turn? On today’s podcast, join us on a deep dive into the evidence on all things breech! You’ll walk away with confidence in your knowledge on the following topics: Evidence on Breech Vaginal Birth vs. Breech Cesarean Birth – How a flawed study (the “Term Breech Trial”) led to hospitals banning breech vaginal birth around the

Jan 10, 2024 • 54:45

A Story + Special Announcement from EBB

Happy New Year to all our listeners! Join us in listening to a short story about some big challenges we were facing in our field 5 years ago and what's changed since then. And you'll be the first to learn about a major event EBB is planning for you in 2024!  To get on the waitlist for the 2024 Evidence Based Birth® Conference (open to birth workers and expectant parents), visit ebbirth.com/waitlist

Jan 3, 2024 • 11:18

EBB 295 - Evidence Based Birth®️ 2023 Year in Review with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Sara Ailshire, MA

*Request from Team EBB: We would love it if you left a review for us on your favorite podcast platform! Let us know one new thing you learned, and/or one thing you would like us to cover next year.  In this episode, Dr. Dekker and EBB Research Fellow Sara Ailshire reflect on groundbreaking research published by Evidence Based Birth in 2023. Dive into evidence-based insights on Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in pregnancy, Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM), and skin-to-skin care after a Cesarean.

Dec 27, 2023 • 56:02

EBB 294 - Blending Ancestral Wisdom and Research Evidence with Emilie Rodriguez & Guramrit LeBron of Ashé Birthing Services in New York City

In this episode, I'm joined by Emilie Rodriguez and Guramrit LeBron, the dynamic duo behind Ashé Birthing Services and The Bridge Directory. Ashé Birthing Services is a collective of specially selected birth workers who provide full-spectrum care for families in the greater New York City area. Their approach blends evidence-based research with ancestral practices, offering families a unique individual experience often missing in mainstream maternal care.   Emilie and Guramrit share their pers

Dec 13, 2023 • 44:18

EBB 293 - Decolonial Approaches to Birth and Supporting Survivors with Eri Guajardo Johnson of Birth Bruja

In this episode, I'm welcoming Eri Guajardo Johnson, the founder of Birth Bruja, a platform dedicated to decolonial approaches to healing and reproductive care. Eri, a queer, biracial, Latinx birth worker, specializes in supporting survivors of sexual violence and marginalized populations. We discuss the importance of centering Black and Indigenous wisdom, breaking down oppressive systems, and creating alternatives in the realm of birth work. Eri also shares insights on self-compassion and the

Dec 6, 2023 • 52:47

EBB 292: Confronting the Unknowns in Childbirth with Liesel Teen of the Mommy Labor Nurse

In this episode, I’m joined by Liesel Teen, a seasoned L&D nurse and childbirth educator and the creator of Mommy Labor Nurse, where she reveals the common myths surrounding pregnancy and birth.   Learn about the shocking misconceptions, such as babies running out of room, the impact of baby size on vaginal delivery, the importance of partner education, and the need for postpartum care. She also delves into the unexpected, and rare, scenario of giving birth in the car, and shares essential tips

Nov 29, 2023 • 40:04

EBB 291 - Evidence on Skin-to-Skin after a Cesarean

In this episode, we delve into the latest evidence-based information on skin-to-skin care in the operating room after a Cesarean. I'm joined by co-host Sara Ailshire, a doctoral candidate in anthropology and the 2023 EBB Research Fellow, and we explore the history, benefits, and barriers surrounding this practice. Discover how skin-to-skin care positively influences lactation, stabilizes newborns, and enhances the birth experience, and learn why some hospitals and providers are hesitant to offe

Nov 15, 2023 • 41:16

EBB 290 - Supporting Black Families from Pregnancy through Lactation with Dr. Nastassia Harris, Founder of of Perinatal Health Equity Initiative

In this episode, I'm talking with Dr. Nastassia Harris, a registered nurse and international board-certified lactation consultant, to discuss her extensive experience in the field of maternal and infant health. Dr. Harris shares her journey into this vital profession, highlighting her passion for improving breastfeeding rates in the Black community and eliminating racial disparities in maternal and infant health. She sheds light on the work of the Perinatal Health Equity Initiative, a no

Nov 8, 2023 • 46:48

EBB 289 - Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes, a Difficult Birth and Shoulder Dystocia with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Siri Lachmansingh

In this episode, I'm joined by Siri Lachmansingh, who shares her remarkable journey of pregnancy and childbirth while managing type 1 diabetes.   Siri delves into the unique challenges and considerations for pregnant individuals with diabetes, including blood sugar management and medical monitoring. Siri also takes us through the choices she made during her induction process and the empowering moments she experienced during her second birth journey. Tune in as Siri's st

Nov 1, 2023 • 57:09

EBB 288 - From Birthing in the Pandemic to Birthing a Career as a Postpartum Doula and Chef with Malisa Dekker of Planted Postpartum

In this episode, I’m talking with Malisa Dekker, a Postpartum Doula and Chef based in Brooklyn, New York, about her profound journey through two contrasting birth and postpartum experiences that shaped her passion for postpartum wellness. Malisa’s first birth took place during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic, where interventions and a lack of support left her feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. With the desire for change, Malisa embarked on her second pregnancy, seeking empowerm

Oct 25, 2023 • 45:15

EBB 287 - A Positive Hospital Waterbirth Story with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Katrina Hull

Content Warning: postpartum hemorrhage, GBS Positive, antibiotics for GBS,   On this episode of the EBB podcast, I talk with Katrina Hull, a graduate of the EBB childbirth class about her positive hospital water birth story.   Katrina Hull is a former high school math and engineering teacher with over a decade of experience in the classroom. Her passion for education and entrepreneurship has led her to her current role as coordinating producer at PBS NewsHour Classroom where she develops le

Oct 18, 2023 • 1:06:36

EBB 286 - Importance of Postpartum Support with the Founder of In Kind Boxes, Maria Berglund

I am so excited to share today's episode of Evidence Based Birth® podcast with you! Today, I am bringing you an interview with Maria Berglund, the founder of In Kind Boxes, a nonprofit organization with a mission to help families thrive after birth with a baby shower gift that gives back.   This episode is coming out just in time for our listeners who are doulas and midwives to apply for In Kind's partnership program! Tune in to get all the details!   Maria Berglund, is a Cana

Oct 11, 2023 • 28:10

EBB 285 - Creating a Sustainable Career in Birth Work with Jessica Diggs, Midwife, Doula Mentor, and Co-Founder of Centered.

On this episode of the EBB Podcast, I interview Jessica Diggs, midwife, doula mentor and co-founder of Centered about creating a sustainable career in birth work.   Jessica is a licensed midwife working in a solo practice in Los Angeles. Jessica supports people and families through holistic gynecological care, home birth services, and conception support. Jessica has a skill and love for making childbirth and reproductive education digestible and accessible for all people. She is the co-founde

Oct 4, 2023 • 49:37

EBB 284 - How to Help NICU Families Find Empowerment and Healing During their Challenging Journeys with Hollis Wakefield

In this episode, I'm joined by Hollis Wakefield, also known as The NICU Doula. Join us as we delve into a crucial topic: how to help NICU families find empowerment and healing during their challenging journeys. Hollis is a former NICU parent turned birth worker, educator, and family advocate, and she shares her own powerful story of navigating a traumatic birth, early delivery, and the emotional roller coaster of having a medically complex baby in the NICU. She sheds light on the critical gap

Sep 27, 2023 • 41:38

EBB 283 - How Colonialism, Environmental Instability, and Politics Impact Birth in Puerto Rico with EBB Instructors, Tania Silva-Meléndez and Tamara Trinidad-González, CPM

On today's podcast, I talk with Tania Silva Meléndez  and Tamara Trinidad González, CPM, birth workers and Evidence Based Birth® Instructors about giving birth and midwifery care in Puerto Rico.   Tania Silva Meléndez  is a certified birth, postpartum, and abortion doula serving families in Puerto Rico since 2009. She's also a certified childbirth educator and breastfeeding/chestfeeding educator and counselor. She is the general coordinator of the team of Caderamen, a nonprofit community-bas

Sep 20, 2023 • 52:31

EBB 282 - Celebrating "Baby Making for Everybody: A Guide for LGBTQ+ and Solo Parents" with Midwife Authors Marea Goodman & Ray Rachlin

On this episode of the Evidence Based Birth podcast, I talk with Marea Goodman of Restore Midwifery and Ray Rachlin of Refuge Midwifery, all about their work and their new book Baby Making For Everybody- A Guide for LGBTQ+ and Solo Parents.   Marea Goodman, CPM, pronouns she/her/they, is the licensed midwife specializing in pregnancy, birth, postpartum and conception care for the LGBTQ+ community. She's the co-author of the new book Baby Making For Everybody- A Guide for LGBTQ+ and Solo Paren

Sep 13, 2023 • 41:03

REPLAY - The Evidence on Birthing Positions

On today's episode we are bringing back one of the most popular Signature Article episodes on the Evidence on Birthing Positions. Listen and learn more about: How upright birthing positions benefit pregnant people and babies, How common are upright birthing positions and understanding your options, Which birthing positions are best supported by evidence, and, For people with epidurals, which birthing positions are best supported by evidence. Read more about The Evidence on: Birthing Positions

Sep 6, 2023 • 47:34

EBB 281 - Mini Q&A about Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)

Content note: We strongly encourage you to listen to EBB Podcast Episode 277 The Evidence on PROM and check out our recently updated Signature Article on PROM here before listening to this episode.    Content Warnings: Discussion of viability, complications with preterm birth, causes of preterm birth, and racism.    On this episode of the EBB Podcast, we bring you a mini episode on the research on Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes. We are excited to share this episode as an extension o

Aug 30, 2023 • 22:06

EBB 280 - Bringing Equity to Lactation Imagery with Nekisha Killings, IBCLC and Founder of the Melanated Mammary Atlas®

On this episode of the EBB podcast, I talk with Nekisha Killings, IBCLC and founder of The Melanated Mammary Atlas®, all about cultural humility and educating clinicians and birth workers about identifying and diagnosing conditions that present in Black and Brown breasts/chests.   Nekisha Killings, holds a master's in public health (MPH) and is an international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). She's an equity strategist and maternal and child health advocate who speaks, teaches a

Aug 23, 2023 • 44:29

EBB 279 - A Surprise Advanced Maternal Age Pregnancy and Unplanned Home Birth with Dr. Maria Rosselson and Nimrod Gutman, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

In this episode of the EBB Podcast, I talk with EBB Childbirth Class graduates, Dr. Maria Rosselson and Nim Guttman their surprise pregnancy, and equally surprising home birth.   Dr. Maria Rosselson is a physician practicing as a board certified ophthalmologist in the Chicago area. Her husband, Nim Guttman, is an architect. They've been married since 2016 and live with their dog, Asher.   Maria and Nim share their experiences taking the EBB Childbirth Class and how it resulted in an evoluti

Aug 16, 2023 • 46:15

EBB 278: Creating an Innovative, Afrocentric Model of Prenatal Care with Hakima Payne, Founder and Executive Director of Uzazi Village

On this episode of the EBB podcast, we interview Hakima Payne, founder and executive director of Uzazi Village, about her creation of the Village Circle, an innovative Afrocentric model of prenatal and postpartum care.    Hakima Payne, holds a bachelor's in nursing and a master's in nursing education. She is the founder of Uzazi Village, a nonprofit working to eliminate maternal health disparities in African American communities, as well as the founder of The Village Doula Program, which is a

Aug 9, 2023 • 43:06

EBB 277 - Evidence on Induction vs. Waiting for Labor with Term PROM

On this episode of the EBB Podcast, I am so excited to bring you brand new, evidence on premature rupture of membranes (PROM) at term!      We are releasing today’s episode to celebrate the update of our Signature Article on the Evidence on PROM.     In today’s episode, I am going to cover the following topics related to PROM: What are the membranes, and what does it mean to say they’ve “ruptured”? Membrane rupture can help prepare the body for the process of childbirth—but why? What is i

Aug 2, 2023 • 51:21

REPLAY - EBB 194: Nutrition and Real Food in Pregnancy with Lily Nichols, RDN

July 26, 2023 - For today's episode, we are highlighting one of our favorite podcast episodes with the replay of an interview with Lily Nichols, RDN, all about nutrition and real food in pregnancy. Content warning: gestational diabetes, high-risk pregnancies, food insecurities, "failed diet therapy", NICU, and interventions On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Lily Nichols, RDN, about nutrition and real food in pregnancy. Lily Nichols (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Cer

Jul 26, 2023 • 37:42

EBB 276: Challenging the Myths of the "Perfect Mother" and "Perfect Birth" with Avital Norman Nathman, Author, Editor, and Activist

On this episode of the EBB podcast, we are talking with Avital Norman Nathman, author and freelance writer about trends in birth and parenthood in the US.   Avital is a freelance writer and editor who focuses her work on motherhood, maternal health, gender and reproductive rights and justice. Her writing, which places a feminist lens on a variety of topics, including motherhood, maternal health, gender, reproductive rights, and cannabis, can be found in a variety of print and online articles

Jul 19, 2023 • 45:01

EBB 275: A PROM, GBS, and Birth Center Transfer Story with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Emily Helgerson

In today's episode, we talk with Emily Helgerson, an EBB Childbirth Class Graduate about how taking the EBB Childbirth class helped her navigate transferring from a birth center to the hospital after experiencing premature rupture of membranes while being positive for Group B Strep.   Emily Helgerson holds a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education in Spanish, with a minor in Italian, from the University of Minnesota and a master's in second language teaching with a focus on immersion from Mc

Jul 12, 2023 • 46:37

EBB 274: Honoring the Mothers of Gynecology with Michelle Browder— Artist, Activist, and Creator of the Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey Monument

On this episode of the EBB podcast, we talk with Michelle Browder, artist, activist, and the creator of the Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsy Monument in Montgomery, Alabama, established to honor the three Mothers of Gynecology.   Michelle Browder is a nationally recognized artist, activist, and amplifier, bridging the racial divide through art, history, and conversation. Michelle's artwork has been exhibited in art galleries around the world, most notably, the Rosa Parks Museum located in Montgomery, Al

Jul 5, 2023 • 50:35

EBB 273 - Evidence on Nitrous Oxide for Pain Management During Labor

In this episode of the EBB Podcast, we dive into the updated research on Nitrous Oxide. I discuss the following topics:  What is Nitrous Oxide?  How is it used? How commonly is Nitrous Oxide used around the world?  How does Nitrous Oxide impact overall satisfaction in birth? What are the benefits of Nitrous Oxide? What are the risks of using Nitrous Oxide?  And lastly, as always, we will discuss the bottom line!  Resources & References For Practitioners  Association of Ontario Midwives: Ni

Jun 28, 2023 • 29:30

EBB 272 - Navigating Assisted Reproduction & Full Spectrum Childbirth Support with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Jessica King

In this episode we talk with Jessica King, an EBB Childbirth Class graduate, about their journey to parenthood and the importance of finding support networks before, during, and after pregnancy.     Jessica grew up in Upstate New York and then moved to Boston to get her Master's in architecture. While in Boston, she met her wife and fellow upstate New Yorker, Sarah. They started working on creating their family three years ago, and they welcomed their daughter this past November! Jessica and

Jun 21, 2023 • 58:26

EBB 271 - Bringing a Whole Family Approach to Birth and Postpartum Doula Work with Brandi Jordan, Founder of The Cradle Company

On this episode the EBB Podcast, we talk with Brandi Jordan, the founder of The Cradle Company and the Dear Doula podcast, all about supporting infant mental health using a whole family approach.   Brandi is a board-certified lactation consultant, pediatric sleep specialist, newborn care specialist, and a postpartum doula. Brandi's work as a consultant, parenting group leader and in-home practitioner have led her to develop a unique philosophy of gentle parenting techniques that are pragmatic

Jun 14, 2023 • 45:01

EBB 270 - Intersectionality and Representation in Birth Work with Cheyenne Varner, Doula and Founder of The Educated Birth

In this episode of the EBB podcast, we talk with Cheyenne Varner, the founder of The Educated Birth, about intersectional reproductive health and the importance of birth education to be more inclusive and representative.   Cheyenne, is a professional certified birth and postpartum doula and founder of The Educated Birth. The Educated Birth creates intersectional reproductive health education content, from online articles to social media posts to digital and print teaching tools for reproducti

Jun 7, 2023 • 37:55

EBB 269 - Mini Q & A on Early Newborn Discharge from the Hospital, Vacuum Delivery, and More!

In this Mini Q&A episode of the EBB podcast, I will be answering a variety of questions that have recently been asked of us, including:   1.    What if my hospital won't let my healthy newborn go home before 48 hours? 2.    Are modern ultrasounds better at detecting big babies? 3.    What's the maximum time a vacuum can be used during a vacuum assisted delivery? 4.    Does EBB have any new resources I should know about?   References/Resources: Read the AAP Guidelines on Hospital Stays

May 31, 2023 • 24:09

EBB 268 - Debunk the Myths of Premature Rupture of Membranes, GBS, & Waterbirth with EBB Founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker

On today’s podcast, we will be sharing with you an excerpt from a live webinar featuring Dr. Rebecca Dekker all about debunking the myths of Premature Rupture of Membranes, GBS, & Waterbirth.  We discuss the following topics: The Updated Evidence on Premature Rupture of Membranes - There are two new meta-analyses on GBS-- but they have limitations and cannot be applied to countries that screen and treat GBS. New guidelines are included from ACNM, ACOG & the Association of Ontario Midwives.

May 24, 2023 • 1:06:02

Replay - EBB 155 - Pelvic Floor Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin

May 17, 2023 - On today's episode we are honoring Pelvic Floor Awareness Month with a replay episode from one of our most popular episodes, an interview with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin all about pelvic floor health in both pregnancy and postpartum. Content warning: discussion of sexual function and dysfunctions in plain terms. In this episode, I will be talking with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin. Dr. Martin is a pelvic floor specialist for 13 years and now an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor. Dr. Marti

May 17, 2023 • 32:08

EBB 267 - Debunking Myths about Fundal Massage with Barbie Christianson, RN

On this episode of the Evidence Base Birth® Podcast, we talk with Barbie Christianson, RN all about fundal massage. We discuss what the evidence actually says about this routine procedure versus what happens in everyday practice, and why this practice continues to persist in routine preventative care.   Barbie Christianson is a nurse, community educator and advocate, as well as a parent of four young children. Their mission is to communally dismantle oppressive structures specifically in reprodu

May 10, 2023 • 56:31

EBB 266 - Advocating for your Newborn during an Unexpected NICU Stay with EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Priscilla and Nathan Layman

On this episode of the EBB Podcast, we talked with EBB Childbirth Class Graduates, Priscilla and Nathan Layman about how the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class prepared them for a home birth and their unexpected hospital transfer with a NICU stay.     Nathan and Priscilla are happy parents who live and work in San Antonio, Texas. Nathan is a pipeline engineer and Priscilla splits her time between caring for their 19-month-old daughter and providing part-time psychotherapy services, as a

May 3, 2023 • 58:17

EBB 265 - Evidence on Anti-Racism in Health Care and Birth Work

On today’s episode we are celebrating the release of Part 3 of our BRAND NEW Signature Article, "The Evidence on: Anti-Racism in Health Care and Birth Work!" EBB Research Editor Ihotu Ali, the lead author on this paper, talks with Rebecca Dekker about how  Evidence-Based Equity Tools are solutions that can collectively move Black and Brown voices, leaders, innovative programs, accountability conversations, supportive funding, and legislation from the sidelines to the mainstream. You can find all

Apr 26, 2023 • 1:06:51

EBB 264 - Top 3 Tips for Exercise in Pregnancy with Gina and Roxanne of Mamaste Fit

In this episode, we talk with Gina and Roxanne, the sister duo behind Mamastefit about how fitness can keep you comfortable and pain-free during pregnancy and birth.   Gina Conley and Roxanne Albert are the sister duo of MamasteFit. Together they offer childbirth education, specializing in labor and pelvic biomechanics and pre and postnatal fitness programming. Located in Aberdeen, North Carolina, you can train with them in person or you learn from them all over the world with their Instagram

Apr 19, 2023 • 43:29

EBB 263 - Birthing Liberation with author, CEO, educator, full spectrum doula, and Black Luxury expert, Sabia Wade

In this episode we talk with Sabia Wade about her new book, Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free.   Sabia Wade (she/ they) is the founder of Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings, an accessible and inclusive training program for community care workers, and the founder of For the Village, a nonprofit providing doulas at no or low cost to low-income and marginalized communities in San Diego, California, as a coach, board member, investor, educator, and programming developme

Apr 12, 2023 • 43:54

EBB 262 - Advocacy During Birth and a Navigating a Hospital Stay for Newborn Jaundice with Emily Chandler and Taylor Washburn, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates

In this episode we talk with Emily Chandler and Taylor Washburn, EBB Childbirth Class graduates about their experiences in the childbirth class; their informed and empowered hospital birth; and how they navigated an extended hospital stay for newborn jaundice.   Emily, is a marine scientist, and Taylor, is a teacher and rowing coach in the Boston area. Together, they love hiking, biking, rowing, and taking advantage of the great outdoors. And they're also very busy taking care of their baby. Whi

Apr 5, 2023 • 54:11

EBB 261 - Ask Me Anything about Group B Strep

In this bonus episode, we wrap up our 2-part series on Group B Strep in Pregnancy, where I answer some of your questions following the first two episodes. Here are the questions answered in this bonus episode: Is it possible to retest between an initial GBS swab and going into labor? Are there things that can be done to get a negative test before labor occurs? If you are GBS positive in one pregnancy, are you likely to be positive in subsequent pregnancies? Discussion about an important limitat

Mar 29, 2023 • 17:00

EBB 260 - Midwifery, Community Birth Work, and Plant Medicine in Louisiana with Ms. Divine Bailey-Nicholas, the Founder of Divine Birth Wisdom

In this episode, we’re going to talk with Ms. Divine Bailey-Nicholas, midwife apprentice, doula, certified lactation counselor, and master herbalist about her career in birth work, advocacy and plant medicine in Louisiana. We learn how she utilizes a community model of care that brings resources and education to combat maternal health deserts in the Deep South of the US.   Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Ms. Divine is proud of her Delta, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia roots. Her cultura

Mar 22, 2023 • 49:50

EBB 259 - Cross-Cultural Experiences in Childbirth with Ruth Greene, Doula and Co-owner of Having a Baby in China Consulting Services

In this episode, we're going to talk with Ruth Greene, birth doula, Evidence Based Birth® Pro Member, and Co-owner of Having a Baby in China Consulting Services, about the challenges of giving birth in a foreign country and how pregnancy and childbirth can unite us despite our unique cultural & lived experiences.   After the birth of her second baby in a local hospital in China, Ruth began volunteering to support other foreigners as they struggled to navigate an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Mar 15, 2023 • 48:19

EBB 258 - A Hospital Waterbirth Story with Cord Avulsion featuring EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Samantha Reisz, PhD.

In this episode we talk with Samantha Reisz, EBB Childbirth Class graduate about her experiences taking the class and preparing for a waterbirth in a hospital with her “Golden Ticket” birth team, who were skilled and prepared to manage a placental cord avulsion also known as cord snapping.   Samantha Reisz, she/her, is a Scholarly Assistant Professor of Human Development at Washington State University in Vancouver, Washington, just outside of the Portland, Oregon area. She completed her bachelor

Mar 8, 2023 • 44:49

EBB 257 - The Updated Evidence on Group B Strep: Part 2

In this episode, we continue to bring you the Updated Evidence on Group B Strep in Pregnancy. This is Part 2 of a 2-part series, where we talk about the evidence on alternative treatments for GBS and answer some of your FAQs about this hot topic.   In Part 2, we’ll be talking about: The “Other Risk Factor approach,” Alternatives to antibiotics for GBS, including Chlorhexidine and garlic, Vaccines, Probiotics, Topical use of human milk, Address frequently asked questions R

Mar 1, 2023 • 1:00:43

EBB 256 - Top 3 Recommendations for Preventing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction after Birth with Dr. Sarah Duvall, Founder of Core Exercise Solutions

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with physical therapist and founder of Core Exercise Solutions, Dr. Sarah Duvall (she/her) about connecting with your pelvic floor and preventing dysfunction after birth.    Dr. Sarah Duvall, CPT is the founder of Core Exercise Solutions, a center for continuing education and online programs focusing on the pelvic floor. She uses her platform to share her passion for empowering individuals to connect with their bodies in pregnancy and heal holistically aft

Feb 22, 2023 • 45:39

EBB 255 - Teaching Girls What They Need to Know About Their Bodies with Laurisa Paul, RN, EBB Pro Member and Founder of Girls Who Know.

In today's podcast, we talk with Laurisa Paul, a Registered Nurse, EBB Pro Member and founder of Girls Who Know® about her journey towards teaching girls what they need to know and respect about their bodies.   Laurisa was the winner of our EBB Pro Member September Circle Community challenge, where she won the opportunity to have her work featured on the podcast. I am excited to share my conversation with Laurisa where she talks about her passion for helping others love themselves fully and feel

Feb 15, 2023 • 44:19

EBB 254 - Evidence on Group B Strep in Pregnancy

In this episode, we bring you the Evidence on Group B Strep in Pregnancy, in anticipation of the research update to the Signature Article on Group B Strep in Pregnancy.   This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. In today’s Part 1, we’ll be talking about: The evidence on GBS during pregnancy The evidence on testing for GBS The evidence on antibiotics, including the pros and cons of giving antibiotics during labor for GBS. Content Warning: GBS-related stillbirth, infant death, critical illness of newb

Feb 8, 2023 • 1:04:19

EBB 253 - Preparing for a 38-week Labor Induction due to Intrauterine Growth Restriction with Leah Bergman, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate

In this episode we talk with Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class graduate, Leah Bergman about her experiences navigating a recommended 38-week induction due to a diagnosis of Intrauterine Growth Restriction. Leah Bergman is a new mom and has recently made the decision to leave her full-time job as a church musician to be able to dedicate more time to her family and raising her daughter. When she's not involved in music or busy with the baby, Leah enjoys cooking, knitting, coloring, sewing, an

Feb 1, 2023 • 35:52

EBB 252 - A Candid Conversation about Doula Advocacy with Doula and EBB Instructor Leslie Greene

In this episode we talk with EBB Instructor Leslie Greene, about doula advocacy and empowering families through the EBB Childbirth education class.   Leslie Greene, pronouns, she/her, is a birth and postpartum doula, childbirth educator, baby wearing consultant and Evidence Based Birth Instructor and founder of Peridot Births. Leslie's work reflects her passion for birth justice, and she has a special interest in supporting Black and brown birthing families and members of the LBGTQIA+ community.

Jan 25, 2023 • 54:49

Replay - EBB 166 The Experience of a Powerful and Miraculous Birth with Brooklynn and Hoang Pham

Today, I am excited to share a replay of one of my favorite birth stories featured on the Evidence Based Birth® podcast. EBB childbirth class graduates, Brooklyn and Hoang Pham, share their power and miraculous birth story, which became an instant classic and truly touched my heart.   As a content warning, we talk about the significantly high rates of maternal mortality among Black and Brown individuals and racism in birth work.  On today’s podcast, we will be talking with Brooklynn and Hoang Ph

Jan 18, 2023 • 58:34

EBB 251 - Naseema McElroy, Founder of Financially Intentional, Shares her Courageous Story of Speaking up as a Labor and Delivery Nurse

On today’s podcast we talk with Naseema McElroy, Labor and Delivery nurse and the Founder of Financially Intentional about racism, workplace trauma, and inequities in the US healthcare system. We also discuss how to find your voice and stand up for human rights within the system.   Naseema McElroy started as a Labor and Delivery nurse and later became the Founder of Financially Intentional, a personal finance platform normalizing Black wealth. Naseema is the mother of two daughters and loves sha

Jan 11, 2023 • 43:56

EBB 250 - 2022 Year in Review with Dr. Rebecca Dekker

In this week’s episode, I'm going to cover the “2022 A Year in Review” and reflect on all the projects and research we accomplished at Evidence Based Birth®. I share my favorite projects and podcast episodes from this year; the top five most downloaded episodes in 2022; and discuss the research recap on the four updated Signature Articles: o   Signature Article on the Evidence on Birthing Positions o   Signature Article on the Evidence on Eating and Drinking in Labor o   Signature Article on the

Dec 28, 2022 • 39:21

EBB 249 - The Joys and Challenges of Surrogacy with EBB Instructor Doula Scarlett Lynsky

In this episode, we are talking with Scarlett Lynsky (she/her) from Hatchings Doula all about her experiences as an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor and two-time gestational surrogate. Scarlett Lynsky was born, raised, and practices as a doula and childbirth educator in Portland, Oregon. Fascinated by childbirth from an early age, and inspired by Grantly Dick-Read's Childbirth Without Fear, she decided to become a Childbirth Educator and Doula in 2009. Over the last 13 years, Scarlett has attend

Dec 14, 2022 • 58:47

EBB 248 - Processing a Cesarean while Planning for a VBAC with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Jencie Richtman

On today's podcast, we talk with Jencie Richtman, an Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class graduate, about her experience taking the EBB Childbirth Class to help navigate her VBAC. Jencie and her husband are graduates of the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class with EBB instructor Julie Fors. Jencie is a mother of two living in the north suburbs of Chicago with her husband. Jencie used the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class as a tool to help her with her VBAC with her second child. In thi

Dec 7, 2022 • 40:32

EBB 247 - Transition from Hospital Midwifery to a Home Birth Practice with Aiyana Davison, CNM, WHNP and Founder of The Vagina Chronicles.

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Certified Nurse Midwife and Founder of The Vagina Chronicles, Aiyana Davison (She/Her), about her transition from hospital midwifery to a home birth practice.     Aiyana is a Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner currently practicing in Southern California. While she has worked for the past six years at a large hospital-based teaching facility, she recently started her own home birth practice and has plans to open a birth cente

Nov 30, 2022 • 41:58

EBB 246 - Debunking Infant Food Reactivity Myths with Dr. Trill Paullin, Molecular Biologist and Founder of Free to Feed

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Molecular Biologist and Founder of Free to Feed, Dr. Trill Paullin (She/Her), about misconception in infant feeding and infant food reactivity.  Dr. Trill is mother to two beautiful daughters who had severe infant food reactions to proteins transferred from her diet to breast milk. After processing the painful fact that she could hurt her children through breastfeeding, she started researching how to produce breast milk they could properly digest.  Dr

Nov 16, 2022 • 35:01

EBB 245 - Evidence on Pitocin Augmentation, Epidurals, Cesarean

To celebrate the upcoming release of our Intervention Pocket Guide, we are going to share with you some of the new research on interventions! Last week I had so much fun on Episode 244 sharing the research on amniotomy (or AROM), assisted vaginal delivery (also known as forceps or vacuum assisted delivery), and internal monitoring. Today I’m going to reveal information from the Pocket Guide on 3 more interventions-- Pitocin Augmentation, Regional Analgesia (Epidurals and Spinals), and Cesareans.

Nov 9, 2022 • 33:57

EBB 244 - Evidence on Artificial Rupture of Membranes, Assisted Vaginal Delivery, and Internal Monitoring

EBB 244: Evidence on Artificial Rupture of Membranes, Assisted Vaginal Delivery, and Internal Monitoring.   We are so excited to announce the upcoming release of a new Evidence Based Birth(R) Pocket Guide, all about Interventions! To give you a sneak peek to the Invention Pocket Guide,  we are diving into the research and evidence on artificial rupture of membranes, assisted vaginal delivery an internal monitoring.   Content note: Discussion of the benefits and risks of these interventions, incl

Nov 2, 2022 • 35:01

EBB 243 - Importance of Kick Counting for Preventing Stillbirth with Stephaney Moody, Health Equity Ambassador of Count the Kicks

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Stephaney Moody, a Health Equity Ambassador and an advocate for Healthy Birthday and Count the Kicks about the importance of kick counting to prevent stillbirth. Stephaney Moody’s passion for stillbirth prevention came after her family experienced loss, when her sister lost her daughter. Upon learning about the inequities that persist in stillbirth outcomes in the African-American Community, she felt led to join the fight against preventable stillbirt

Oct 26, 2022 • 38:42

EBB 242 - Empowering Nurses and Parents with the Founder of Bundle Birth, Sarah Lavonne

On today’s podcast, we have a fun episode where we talk with Labor & Delivery Nurse and the founder of Bundle Birth, Sarah Lavonne, about supporting families so that they can have a confident and empowered birth experience.   Sarah Lavonne, pronouns she/her, a pioneer in nursing and birth education, is the founder & CEO at Bundle Birth, A Nursing Corporation. Sarah is a Registered Nurse Certified in inpatient Obstetric Nursing, a certified childbirth educator, and a certified lactation education

Oct 19, 2022 • 42:53

EBB 241 - The Updated Evidence on Birthing Positions

Have you ever thought about what position you would like to use to give birth? Most movies and television series depict birthing positions such as back-lying or semi-sitting in bed. But many people, if given the choice, instinctively choose a more upright position for birthing their baby—such as hands-and-knees, squatting, or kneeling. What is the evidence on the different positions that can be used to help push your baby out? And why are the lying or semi-sitting positions so frequently recomm

Oct 12, 2022 • 47:25

Replay - EBB 136 – Solutions for the Crisis in American Maternity Care with Jennie Joseph

October 5, 2022 – In honor of National Midwifery Week, I am so excited to present to you a podcast replay with the esteemed midwife Jennie Joseph.  Jennie was featured on EBB episode 136 in 2020, and since then she has gone on to become the first Black midwife to own an Accredited Midwifery school (Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery) in the U.S.. Jennie was also announced as Time Magazine’s Woman of the Year in 2022! If you haven’t listened to this episode yet, you should!! I was on the

Oct 5, 2022 • 57:40

EBB 240 - Top Five Most Surprising Findings from the EBB Abortion Research Guide with Dr. Rebecca Dekker & Doctoral Candidate Tyler Jean Dukes

In today’s episode, hosted by Evidence Based Birth® founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker, along with Doctoral Candidate Tyler Jean Dukes, we talk about the five most surprising findings from compiling the EBB Abortion Research Resource Guide: 5) Research on the demographics of who has abortions as well as statistics on who supports/opposes abortion, 4) Historical research on the last time abortion was illegal in the U.S., and how the historical oppression of midwives relates to past campaigns against abo

Sep 28, 2022 • 56:22

EBB 239 - A Dream Preterm Birth Experience in Brazil with EBB Parents, Luciana Arraes and Jonathan Moyer

A Dream Preterm Birth Experience in Brazil with EBB Parents, Luciana Arraes and Jonathan Moyer On today’s podcast, we’re talking with EBB Childbirth Class parents, Luciana Arraes and Jonathan Moyer, about their preterm birth experience in Brazil and how their preparation and knowledge paired with a "Golden Ticket" birth team provided the birth of their dreams. Luciana (she/her) is a Brazilian violinist who plays in the National Theater Symphony in Brasilia, Brasil. Luciana is married to Jonath

Sep 14, 2022 • 49:19

EBB 238 - Black Fatherhood and Fighting Anti-Black Racism with Brandon Diggs Williams, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Brandon Diggs Williams (he/him), BSW, MSW, LCSW, about Black fatherhood, parenting in partnership, self-care, and fighting anti-Black racism. Mr. Williams currently works full-time at the Durham VA Medical Center (DVAMC), providing individual, couples, and (primarily) group therapy through the VA. He specializes in personal/spiritual development, transformative thinking, and cultural competency with a focus on the Bla

Sep 7, 2022 • 1:02:22

EBB 237 - Infant Feeding and Meeting your Community where they're at with Family Nurse Practitioner and IBCLC Nikki Hunter-Greenaway

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with Nikki Hunter-Greenaway, Nurse Practitioner and IBCLC, about the formula shortage this year and meeting your community at where they are to provide the concierge reproductive health care they deserve. Nikki Hunter-Greenaway, AKA, Nurse Nikki is a board-certified family nurse practitioner and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Nikki is the proud owner of Bloom Maternal Health, which provides Telehealth and house calls to pregnant and po

Aug 31, 2022 • 43:47

EBB 236 - An Unexpected Cesarean after an Unmedicated First Birth with EBB Parent Katie Kane

In today’s podcast, we’re going to be talking with EBB Childbirth Class Parent, Katie Kane about the birth of her second baby. Unexpectedly, her second baby was in a breech position, leading to a surgical birth after the unmedicated vaginal birth of her first baby.   Katie Kane is a high school counselor who lives in New Jersey with her two daughters, husband, and dog Roscoe.   Katie is the first EBB Childbirth Class graduate to tell both of her birth stories on the Evidence Based Birth® Podcast

Aug 24, 2022 • 55:07

EBB 235 - Evidence on IV Fluids with Dr. Rebecca Dekker

In today’s episode, hosted by Evidence Based Birth® founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker, we talk about four major topics related to updated research evidence on IV Fluids: 1) research on how IV Fluids can affect the length of labor, 2) research on how IV Fluids can impact breast/chest/body feeding, 3) the relationship between fluids, newborn weight, and blood sugar levels, and 4) finally, review the current recommendations surrounding IV use in labor. This podcast is also posted on our YouTube chan

Aug 17, 2022 • 40:08

Replay - EBB 45 How do Peanut Balls Support Labor with Cheri Grant

In this week's podcast I interview Cheri Grant RN, ICCE, CLC, ICD, CLD, CD BDT(DONA), known in the birth world as "the peanut ball lady.” She is the founder, chief contributor and inspiration for Premier Birth Tools. For over 45 years, she has served women as a labor and delivery nurse, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, national speaker, author, doula, and doula trainer. She has helped with well over 2,700 deliveries in the span of her career. Cheri is also the founder of Tulsa Doulas,

Aug 10, 2022 • 33:07

EBB 234 - Tackling Fatphobia in Lactation with Kristin Cavuto

On today’s podcast, we’re going to talk with the founder of Every Baby Eats, licensed clinical social worker, and IBCLC, Kristin Cavuto Kristin Cavuto, pronouns she/they, is a licensed clinical social worker in IBCLC and private practice in central New Jersey. Her practice specialties are low supply, parental and infant mental health, and the intersection of ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender in the care of the new family.   Kristin is the mother of two children who nursed full-time desp

Aug 3, 2022 • 46:53

Episode 233 - Updates on Eating during Labor

Today, we are going to explore brand new updates to the Evidence Based Birth® Signature Article, Evidence on: Eating during Labor! We talk about four major topics:  Nutritional needs during labor New info on gestational or pre-gestational diabetes and eating during labor New research on anesthesiology and its relationship to eating and drinking during labor, and Finally, how body mass index and fatphobia relate to anesthesia concerns, and what that has to do with eating during labor.    Content

Jul 27, 2022 • 33:44

Replay - EBB 152 Shafia Monroe on Traditional Midwifery, Spirituality, and Advocacy

Today, I am so excited to present to you a replay of one of our most popular episodes on the Evidence Based Birth® podcast, and that is an episode from 2020 with special guest, Shafia Monroe. Before we get started with the replay, I wanted to let you know that this episode contains discussion of Black infant and maternal mortality related to racism, slavery and Jim Crow, and racism that continues to affect people’s lives today.   Shafia gave us such an inspirational episode in 2020, that we want

Jul 20, 2022 • 1:02:20

EBB 232 - Advocacy, VBAC, and Becoming a Home Birth Midwife with Melek Öz

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Melek Öz about vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC), advocacy, and becoming a home birth midwife! Content note: Mention of weight loss and racism. Melek Öz (she/her) is a home birth midwife living with her family in South Austin, Texas. She moved to Austin in 2001 to attend the University of Texas, where she completed both her undergraduate studies and law school before transitioning to birth work. Melek has been active in birth advocacy for more than

Jul 13, 2022 • 46:55

EBB 231 - A Joyful, High-Intervention Birth with EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Lisa Mangini and Anand Swaminathan

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class Parents, Lisa Mangini and Anand Swaminathan about their high-intervention birth story! So many people have negative associations with interventions— but Lisa and Anand's story shows how you can still experience a joyful, empowering birth, even in the midst of complications! Lisa Mangini is a writer living in Central Pennsylvania with her husband, Anand and young son. She teaches English and creative writing at a university and is

Jul 6, 2022 • 45:46

EBB 230 - An Inspirational Home Waterbirth Story with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Shelitha Owens

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class Parent, Shelitha Owens about her inspirational home waterbirth story. Shelitha Owens (she/her) is an environmental policy manager who lives in Oaklawn Illinois, a suburb of Chicago with her husband Bobby, their dog, Reeses and their new baby, Alexander, who was born on June 18, 2021. Having a biology background, Shelitha has always been fascinated with anatomy and was curious about pregnancy and birth. After having her son at hom

Jun 29, 2022 • 59:40

EBB 229 - Evidence on Doulas: Community-based Model, the Pandemic, and Reimbursement with the EBB Research Team

In today's episode, hosted by the EBB Research Team, we are sharing the audio from a private livestream we did with our Pro Members at Evidence Based Birth. We talk about three major topics related to updated research evidence on doulas: 1) research on the pandemic's effect on the doula profession around the world, 2) research on the difference between community-based doulas and private or traditional doulas, and 3) new info on paying or getting reimbursement for doula care in the U.S. [NOTE FOR

Jun 22, 2022 • 43:16

EBB 228 - Uplifting Radicalized Birth Work with Anna, The Pocket Doula

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with the founder of The Pocket Doula, Anna Balagtas, about uplifting queer, and trans-care.  Anna Balagtas (she/siya) is a queer, Pinay full circle birth worker, educator, facilitator, energy worker, and pleasure advocate. Her practice is rooted in the decolonization of birth work, radical QTBIPOC care, and queer reproductive justice, taught to her by king yaa. Anna's deepest joy comes from witnessing her communities thrive through community care, mutual

Jun 15, 2022 • 37:36

EBB 227 – Amplifying the Need for Intersectional Birth Support for QTBIPOC Birthing People with Xian Brooks of the Dandy Doula

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with the founder of Dandy Doula, Xian Brooks, MPH, about the importance of intersectional birth work and amplifying the need for intersectional birth support for queer, trans, and BIPOC birthing bodies. Xian Brooks (he/him) is a public health professional from Louisville, Kentucky, where he is a community-based birth doula and a Master of Science in Nursing student. Xian completed his Bachelor's of Science in Public Health Education at North Carolina Centr

Jun 8, 2022 • 52:56

EBB 226 - An Emergency Cesarean Due to Bandl's Ring with EBB Parent Mandy Childs and EBB Instructor Dana Patterson

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class parent, Mandy Childs and her doula, Dana Patterson, about having an emergency cesarean due to Bandl's ring.  Mandy Childs (she/her) is a first-time parent to her son who she gave birth to in Greenville, South Carolina in March of 2021. Living now in Lynchburg, Virginia, Mandy is a trained elementary school teacher and currently a program coordinator for a nonprofit called Global Autism Project. Mandy lives with her husband, Ben, t

May 25, 2022 • 52:04

EBB 225 – Trauma-Informed Childbirth Education with Mandy Irby, The Birth Nurse

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with board-certified labor nurse and creator of the Birth Nurse, Mandy Irby, about trauma-informed childbirth education. Mandy Irby (she/her) is a board-certified labor nurse with 13 years of experience, supporting survivors of assault and trauma through pregnancy, birth planning, and at their bedside during childbirth and pregnancy loss. After her own birth trauma, Mandy quickly learned that the birth care system is not centered on human rights, patient c

May 18, 2022 • 55:36

EBB 224 - Failure to Progress or Failure to Wait with Ihotu Ali, Erin Wilson, and Rebecca Dekker

On today’s podcast, we will be sharing with you an excerpt from a live webinar featuring Dr. Rebecca Dekker and the EBB Research Team that was taught for our Evidence Based Birth® Professional Members, all about failure to progress versus failure to wait.  What is the history of “Failure to Progress”? What are the top 5 factors that influence labor progress? Dr. Dekker and the EBB Research Team will talk about the history and background of "Failure to Progress" and how we have the definition all

May 11, 2022 • 1:14:23

EBB 223 - An Empowering Hospital Water Birth Story with Samantha Parker and Justin Fontaine

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class graduates, Samantha Parker and Justin Fontaine, about their exciting hospital water birth story. Samantha Parker (she/her) is an environmental scientist with the State of California and an avid runner. Samantha’s husband, Justin Fontaine (he/him) is a principal systems engineer and a CrossFit: Level 2 trainer. Samantha and Justin live in Rockland, California with their almost 10-year-old son, and now their happy baby girl, Kira. S

May 4, 2022 • 51:54

EBB 222 - Navigating Induction and Pregnancy at 35+ with EBB Instructor and Birth Fusion Founder, Jennifer Anderson

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Birth Fusion founder and Evidence Based Birth® Instructor, Jennifer Anderson, about her work as a childbirth educator and doula while serving families who get pregnant via in vitro fertilization and those over the age of 35. Jennifer Anderson (she/her) is an RN, doula, childbirth educator, birth photographer, and Evidence Based Birth Instructor. Jennifer provides labor support to couples in the Sacramento, California region and she also teaches the Ev

Apr 27, 2022 • 1:00:34

EBB 221 - Evidence on Birthing Positions and Tried-and-True Midwifery Practices for Protecting the Perineum

In this episode, we are finishing up our series on protecting the perineum by talking about the evidence on birthing positions and how upright positions help prevent tears! We’ll also discuss tried-and-true protective practices that midwives have passed down through countless generations (hint: it's simpler/easier than you think!) Head's up... if you haven't listened to EBB Episode 206 yet, I recommend listening to that episode first, since it covers introductory information about perineal tears

Apr 20, 2022 • 50:25

EBB 220 - Fighting Bias in the Birth Room with Irth® App Founder, Kimberly Seals Allers

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Irth® App founder, Kimberly Seals Allers, to update us on Irth® App's mission to fight against racism and bias in perinatal and infant care.  Kimberly Seals Allers (she/her) is an award-winning journalist, five-time author, international speaker strategist, and an advocate for perinatal and infant health. A former senior editor at Essence, and writer at Fortune Magazine, Kimberly is a leading voice on the racial and socio-cultural complexities of birt

Apr 13, 2022 • 40:57

EBB 219 - Life as a Student Midwife with EBB's New Program Team Manager, Chanté Perryman

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with student midwife and Evidence Based Birth®'s new Program Team Manager, Chanté Perryman about life as a student midwife. Chanté Perryman (she/her) is a midwifery student studying to become a certified professional midwife in Central Kentucky. She owns Baby Dreams Maternity Concierge and has a goal of opening a freestanding birth center to continue to provide community support, education, and advocacy for birthing families. Chanté is the new Program Team

Apr 6, 2022 • 34:11

EBB 218 - The Evidence on Perineal Massage during Labor with Dr. Rebecca Dekker

In this episode, we are continuing our series on protecting the perineum by talking about the evidence on whether prenatal perineal massage during labor (more specifically, during the pushing phase) is effective at preventing severe perineal tears. We’ll also discuss the importance of critically analyzing research, and poor quality meta-analyses can have a negative impact by spreading inaccurate information! Head's up... if you haven't listened to EBB Episode 206 yet, I recommend listening to th

Mar 30, 2022 • 39:37

EBB 217 - Disability Justice in Birth and Parenting with Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu about disability justice in birth and parenting. Stefanie Lyn Kaufman-Mthimkhulu, (they/she) is a white, queer, and non-binary disabled, neuro-divergent, a survivor of sexual violence in the psychiatric system. They show up for their communities as a disability justice educator and organizer, parent, somatic and non-clinical healer, writer, transformative justice practitioner, and, as the founding director of Project LE

Mar 23, 2022 • 35:47

EBB 216 - The Evidence on Prenatal Perineal Massage for Preventing Tears in Childbirth with Dr. Rebecca Dekker

In this episode, we are continuing our series on protecting the perineum by talking about the evidence on whether prenatal perineal massage is effective at preventing perineal tears during childbirth. We’ll also discuss the importance of critically analyzing research, and what “predatory open access publishing” has to do with some of the research on perineal massage! Head's up... if you haven't listened to EBB Episode 206 yet, I recommend listening to that episode first, since it covers introduc

Mar 16, 2022 • 43:22

EBB 215 - Debunking Reproductive Health Myths with OB Hospitalist, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln

On today's podcast, we will be talking with board-certified OB-GYN, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, about evidence-based information on reproductive health. Dr. Jennifer Lincoln (she/her) is a board-certified OB-GYN who currently practices as an OB hospitalist and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Lincoln loves using social media to provide evidence-based, easy-to-digest information while busting the many myths surrounding vaginal and reproductive health.

Mar 9, 2022 • 28:55

EBB 214 - Supporting Pumping Parents in Lactation with IBCLC, Nichelle Clark

On today's podcast, to celebrate IBCLC Day, we're going to highlight and talk with IBCLC Nichelle Clark about supporting pumping parents in lactation. Nichelle Clark (she/her) is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, or IBCLC, wife, and mother of two residing in Chesapeake, Virginia. She is the owner of SonShine & Rainbows Lactation Services. Born and raised in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Nichelle joined the United States Navy in 2010 and served honorably for 7.5 years. In 2020, s

Mar 2, 2022 • 45:45

EBB 213 - Cultural Appropriation and Racial Healing in Birth Work with EBB Research Editor, Ihotu Ali

On today's podcast, we’re talking with EBB's newest research editor and co-founder of the Minnesota Healing Justice Network, Ihotu Ali, about cultural appropriation and racial healing in birth work. Ihotu Ali (she/her) is a doula, Maya abdominal massage therapist, a doctoral student in chiropractic medicine, and now EBB’s newest research editor. Ihotu, meaning “love” in the Idoma language, is the granddaughter of a traditional Nigerian chief, of Polish-Irish farmers, and a graduate of Columbia U

Feb 23, 2022 • 50:39

EBB 212 – A Rainbow Baby Birth Experience with EBB Childbirth Class Parents Kaya and Jess Tuchscherer

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class parents, Kaya and Jess Tuchscherer, about their double rainbow baby in giving birth after two prior losses.  Kaya Tuchscherer (she/her) is a physical therapist, and Jess Tuchscherer (he/him) is a high school English teacher and river guide. They love good food, family, and outdoor adventures. Kaya and Jess live in Jackson, Wyoming with their son, Henry, and two chocolate Labradors, Eddie and Porter.  We talk about Kaya and Jess’ i

Feb 16, 2022 • 47:03

Supporting Expectant Families Through Birth and Lactation with Birth Doula and EBB Program Team Assistant, Rikki Jenkins

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with birth doula and EBB's program team assistant, Rikki Jenkins about empowering expectant families through birth and lactation support. Rikki Jenkins, pronouns (she/her) is a certified birth doula and lactation counselor. Rikki holds a bachelor's of science degree in maternal child health with an emphasis in human lactation and social justice. Rikki is the co-creator of Heart and Sol Collective, an inclusive pregnancy support center, where she hosts supp

Feb 9, 2022 • 30:48

EBB 210 - Evidence on Warm Compresses and Hands-on vs. Hands-off for Protecting the Perineum

In this episode, we are continuing our series on protecting the perineum! In this episode, we will cover the evidence on using warm, wet compresses (i.e. washcloths) for lowering the risk of tears and increasing comfort during birth. We’ll also talk about the controversy on hands-on vs. hands-off...which technique should providers be using? Head's up...if you haven't listened to EBB Episode 206 yet, I recommend listening to that episode first, since it covers introductory information about perin

Feb 2, 2022 • 25:23

Providing Unbiased VBAC Access and Support with VBAC Facts® Founder, Jen Kamel

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Jen Kamel of VBAC Facts® about VBAC or vaginal birth after cesarean.  As the founder and CEO of VBAC Facts®, Jen Kamel is an internationally recognized consumer advocate, whose mission is to increase feedback access through education, legislation changes, and amplifying the consumer’s voice. Jen travels throughout the United States training perinatal professionals, presents grand rounds at hospitals, and works as a legislative consultant throughout th

Jan 26, 2022 • 44:30

Advocating for Your Rights in Birth with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Cheyanne Saenz

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class graduate, Cheyanne Saenz, about advocating for her human rights during her birth experience. Cheyanne Saenz (she/her) is a fun, loving, and outgoing 27-year-old, who lives in Tulare, California. Cheyanne's faith and her family are the most important in her life. Cheyanne took the EBB Childbirth Class instructed by EBB Childbirth Class Instructor, Jennifer Anderson. Cheyanne uses her brain in puzzles, solving problems, and helping

Jan 19, 2022 • 53:56

Gender-Affirming Birth Work and Education with Full Spectrum Doula and Childbirth Educator, Moss Froom

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with non-binary doula and childbirth educator, Moss Froom, about gender-affirming birth work and education. Moss Froom (they/them), is a non-binary doula and childbirth educator living in Baltimore, Maryland. Moss offers trans and queer centered support services for people at all stages of their reproductive and family building journeys. Moss also teaches other birth workers how to provide support that's affirming and celebratory of trans and queer familie

Jan 12, 2022 • 35:43

EBB 206 - Evidence on Perineal Tears and the Importance of Avoiding Episiotomy with EBB Founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker

In this episode, we are kicking off a new series on protecting the perineum - starting with the evidence on perineal tears and the importance of avoiding episiotomies. In this episode, we will cover the factors that can increase or decrease your risk of tearing during birth. We’ll also talk about the types of perineal tears that can occur, as well as the consequences of perineal tears. Finally, we’ll wrap up this podcast by discussing why it’s so important to avoid an episiotomy during childbirt

Jan 5, 2022 • 33:57

End of Year Wrap Up with Team EBB: Rebecca, Erin, Ali, Mystique, and Cat

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with team members of Evidence Based Birth®, about a wrap-up of this past year and what our goals are for next year.  Dr. Rebecca Dekker (she/her) is the founder and CEO of Evidence Based Birth® where in a world without allergies, you would find Rebecca running a garden center or maybe leading a summer camp for kids who love animals. Erin Wilson (she/her) is the research editor for Evidence Based Birth® where if Erin were stranded on a desert island, she wo

Dec 29, 2021 • 58:38

Refuting the Spread of Misinformation Online About COVID with Board Certified Physician, Dr. Stacy De-Lin

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with board certified physician Dr. Stacy De-Lin about the spread of misinformation online about COVID, particularly COVID and pregnancy.  Dr. Stacy De-Lin MD (she/her), is a board certified physician whose specialty and area of practice is gynecology and family planning. Dr. De-Lin is an Associate Medical Director at Planned Parenthood and works to provide access to full-spectrum reproductive healthcare no matter what. In addition to her busy practice, Dr.

Dec 15, 2021 • 38:41

Including the 9 Stages of Newborn Behavior in Postpartum Care with EBB Continuing Education Coordinator, Kayla Bitten

On today's podcast, we talk with Kayla Bitten, student midwife and Evidence Based Birth® continuing education coordinator about the nine stages of newborn behavior. Kayla Bitten (she/her) is a Black queer medical racism and equity activist, educator, and writer with over 10 years experience in the world of birth work. Kayla’s work is rooted in tradition, advocacy, and her southern culture. Kayla is a student midwife in Alabama and is working to provide equitable support and options for BIPOC fam

Dec 8, 2021 • 36:08

A Fast First-Time Birth Experience with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate, Hailey Grachico

On today's podcast we talk with Haley Grachico about her intense, fast birth experience at a freestanding birth center. Haley and her husband, Dr. Ismael, are graduates of the EBB childbirth class with EBB Instructors Marnellie Bishop and Ali Buchanan. For the birth of their baby, Josefine, they hired Marnellie and Marnellie's backup Ali Buchanan as their doula. Iz completed his general surgery residency at Oregon Health and Science University just 13 days before Josefine's arrival. A week after

Dec 1, 2021 • 35:28

Bridging the Gap Between Evidence and Human Rights with Perinatal Nurse and Nurse Educator, Paula Richards

On today's podcast we're going to talk with Paula Richards about advocacy work as a trauma-informed nurse educator.  Paula Richards (she/her) is a perinatal nurse and nurse educator who likes to nerd out about OB-related nursing professional development on Instagram under the handle @NurseBrownGirl. Paula joined the Evidence Based Birth® Instructor program in the spring of 2020 and she's also a guest teacher in the videos of our Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class where we talk about interven

Nov 17, 2021 • 56:20

Taking a Stand Against White Supremacy and Creating Solidarity in Birth Work with EBB Founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker

On today’s episode, we celebrate our 200th episode on the Evidence Based Birth®podcast, where Ihotu Ali, EBB Research Associate, will be talking with our founder, Rebecca Dekker, about solidarity in birth work. In this episode, Ihotu asks Rebecca about her cultural upbringing, and Rebecca reflects candidly on racism and cultural differences she witnessed as a child growing up in the suburbs of Memphis, Tennessee. We also explore the harmful impacts of white privilege and white supremacy on birth

Nov 10, 2021 • 56:55

Writing about Racism's Effects on Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes with EBB Research Associate, Ihotu Ali

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Ihotu Ali, MPH, who is writing about research on the effects of racism on pregnancy and birth outcomes. Ihotu (“love” in the Idoma language) (she/her) is a prenatal and Maya Abdominal massage therapist with a Master's in Public Health, and a doctoral student in Chiropractic Medicine. Ihotu is the granddaughter of a traditional Nigerian Chief, of Polish-Irish farmers, is a graduate of Columbia University. Ihoutu also conducted maternal health research

Nov 3, 2021 • 37:41

EBB 198 - Evidence on Eating and Drinking During Labor

On today’s episode, we're going to take a deep dive into the research evidence on eating and drinking during labor! In this episode, I talk about the history of anesthesia and food and oral fluids during labor— starting in the 1940s and moving forward to current times. I also talk about Nothing by Mouth (NPO) policies in hospitals, and discuss how researchers have reframed the topic for birthing people today as one of bodily choice. I also talk about whether or not people should be able to eat

Oct 27, 2021 • 35:33

Addressing Perinatal Mental Health for Communities of Color with the co-founders of the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color, Divya Kuma, Jabina Coleman, and Desirée Israel

On today’s episode, we have EBB podcast coordinator, Mystique Hargrove, talking with the co-founders of the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color, Divya Kumar, Jabina Coleman, and Desirée Israel. Divya Kumar (she/her) is a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise, LLC, and a licensed certified social worker. Ms. Kumar is also a certified lactation counselor and holds a certification in perinatal mental health from Postpartum Support International. Ms. Kumar specializes in perinatal m

Oct 20, 2021 • 37:18

Pelvic Biomechanics and Movement in Labor with Brittany Sharpe McCollum

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Brittany Sharpe McCollum about pelvic biomechanics, movement, and fetal positioning during labor.  Brittany Sharpe McCollum, CCE(BWI), CD(DONA), CLC (she/her) is the owner of Blossoming Bellies Wholistic Birth Services in the greater Philadelphia PA area, providing childbirth education classes, birth doula services, and dynamic labor support and pelvic biomechanics training workshops for both professionals and expectant parents. Brittany is a sought

Oct 13, 2021 • 39:54

EBB 195 - Grief and Healing Through Pregnancy and Infant Loss with Full Spectrum Doula, Rose Rankin

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Rose Rankin about grief and healing through pregnancy and infant loss. Rose Rankin (she/her) is a full spectrum doula from Brooklyn, New York, who lives in Greensboro, North Carolina. Rose focuses her work on parents who are experiencing a loss, have a pregnancy with a child who is incompatible with life, or have a child with a terminal condition. Rose has been on the other side of this work numerous times before and her mission is to provide the care

Oct 6, 2021 • 29:01

Nutrition and Real Food in Pregnancy with Lily Nichols, RDN

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Lily Nichols, RDN, about nutrition and real food in pregnancy. Lily Nichols (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator, researcher, and author with a passion for evidence-based prenatal nutrition. Her work is known for being research-focused, thorough, and critical of outdated dietary guidelines. She is co-founder of the Women's Health Nutrition Academy and the author of two books, Real Food for Pregnancy and Real F

Sep 29, 2021 • 36:47

Evidence on Essential Oils during Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

In this episode I am joined by Anna Bertone (she/her), MPH, a research consultant at Evidence Based Birth®, to discuss the evidence on aromatherapy and essential oils for use during pregnancy, labor/birth, and postpartum. In this episode, we cover: What is aromatherapy, where did it come from, and how does it work? What have researchers found on essential oils for nausea and vomiting, stress reduction, and immune function during pregnancy? Which essential oils have been found to be effective fo

Sep 22, 2021 • 43:25

Raising Awareness and Advocacy for Sickle Cell Anemia Families with Advocate and Intuitive Womb Worker, Carissa Hunter

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Carissa Hunter about advocacy for families with sickle cell anemia. After her daughter was born with a blood disorder called sickle cell anemia, Carissa started on a quest for healthy living and is now an intuitive womb worker— a holistic practitioner with many specialties in holistic healthcare. Specializing specifically in intuitive healing, ancestral lineage healing, energy, and sound healing, Carissa also is experienced in medical herbalism, and a

Sep 15, 2021 • 39:39

Cultural Awareness in Birth and Postpartum Work with Community Doula and EBB Instructor, Marnellie Bishop

On today's podcast, we talk to Marnellie Bishop about life as a birth/postpartum doula and childbirth educator and the importance of cultural awareness in birth work. Marnellie Bishop (she/her) is a certified birth and postpartum doula and childbirth educator. Marnellie has additional training as an Evidence Based Birth®  Instructor and Hypnobabies Hypno-Doula. Serving the Portland, Oregon community, Marnellie takes on the role as a board member and director of finance and operations at Communit

Sep 8, 2021 • 42:24

EBB 190 - Updated Evidence on Big Babies

In this episode I am joined by Erin Wilson, MPH, a research editor at Evidence Based Birth, to discuss the latest research on Big Babies. In this episode, we cover: What is considered a "big" baby? Can we accurately predict if a baby will be born big? Does it really matter if a baby is born big? What are the risks? Could suspecting that you're pregnant with a big baby be more harmful than helpful? Is early induction beneficial for big babies? RESOURCES: You can access all of the references for

Sep 1, 2021 • 37:50

Why Black Lactation Matters and the Importance of Black Breastfeeding Week with IBCLC, Janiya Mitnaul Williams

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Janiya Mitnaul Williams, IBCLC, about becoming a lactation consultant and the importance of Black Breastfeeding Week. Janiya Mitnaul Williams is an international board certified lactation consultant, a registered lactation consultant, and a certified lactation counselor who has been supporting nursing families since 2007. She holds degrees from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and Union Institute & University in Speech, Lang

Aug 25, 2021 • 42:20

Birthing a Posterior-Positioned Baby with EBB Childbirth Class parent, Kathryn Remivansan

On today's podcast, we are talking with Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class parent, Kathryn Remivasan, about her experience giving birth to a posterior-positioned baby. Kathryn and her husband, Dushyant, are graduates of the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class with EBB Instructor and doula, Julie Fors. Dushyant and Kathryn are software engineers. They live in Chicago with their two cats, dog, and now beautiful baby girl, Elakshi, who Kathryn gave birth to in January 2021. We talk about Kat

Aug 11, 2021 • 1:03:10

Advocacy for Postpartum Medicaid Extension Coverage with Dr. Monica McLemore and Dr. Jamila K. Taylor

On today’s podcast, we have the pleasure to talk with our honored guests, Dr. Monica McLemore and Dr. Jamila K. Taylor, about postpartum justice and the need for Medicaid coverage for the entire postpartum year. Dr. Monica McLemore is a tenured associate professor at the University of California-San Francisco in the family healthcare nursing department, an affiliated scientist with advancing new standards in reproductive health, and a member of the Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health. Sh

Aug 4, 2021 • 40:01

A Positive Pregnancy and Birth Outcome with Multiple High-Risk Labels with EBB Childbirth Class Parent, Angela Jones

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with EBB Childbirth Class parent, Angela Jones, about having an uncomplicated pregnancy and birth when labeled as high risk. Angela is a macro-level social worker, wife to her husband, Tony, and mom to her son, Alistair, and their cats, Pumpernickel and Lion-O. Angela and Tony graduated from the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class with EBB instructor, Victoria Michonski. Both Victoria and Heather McCullough, who is also an EBB instructor, were Angela and

Jul 28, 2021 • 59:39

The History of Narrative Medicine and Childbirth with Tyler Jean Dukes

On today’s podcast, we will be talking with Tyler Jean Dukes, my doctoral fellow intern.  Tyler (she/her) is a doctoral candidate and graduate instructor at Texas Christian University. Over this past year, Tyler has been working with me as part of a graduate fellowship program. Tyler specializes in the medical humanities and early British literature. She is also a trained childbirth doula, which informs her scholarly and personal interests. Tyler teaches many classes at TCU, including “Introduct

Jul 21, 2021 • 43:03

How Research Evidence is Carried Out with EBB Founder Dr. Rebecca Dekker

On today's podcast, we talk about how to evaluate clinical research and how it is actually carried out. We are currently in the midst of a free 30-day trial of the EBB Pro Membership, and this podcast episode is a sample part of a class series inside the membership! Have you ever wondered how research is carried out, and why certain things are studied... but why other aspects of birth and midwifery care are not? Do you know how many billions of dollars are spent in the U.S. research industry eac

Jul 14, 2021 • 45:59

Pushing for Licensed Certified Professional Midwifery in Kentucky with Mary Kathryn DeLodder

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Mary Kathryn DeLodder about licensing certified professional midwives in Kentucky.  Mary Kathryn DeLodder (she/her) is a consumer advocate and leader of the Kentucky Birth Coalition. From 2012 through 2019 she worked on efforts to license certified professional midwives in Kentucky. She is now working on legislation to improve access to birth centers in Kentucky.  We will talk about how Mary Kathryn first became interested in helping pass the midwifer

Jul 7, 2021 • 1:01:51

Black-led Queer and Trans Birth Work with Mystique Hargrove, Kortney Lapeyrolerie, and Nadine Ashby

On today’s podcast, we have an exciting takeover in celebration of Pride Month. We have Mystique Hargrove, Kortney Lapeyrolerie, and Nadine Ashby to talk about their experiences as Black queer and trans birth workers. Mystique (She/They) is the radical femme CEO, and creator of "The Black Birth Healer." Mystique is a holistic birth and postpartum wellness specialist who is certified as a full spectrum doula, a lactation educator, a childbirth educator, and a Diaspora death doula. Mystique is a P

Jun 23, 2021 • 53:46

Restoring Black-led Nurse-Midwifery Care in Alabama with Dr. Stephanie Mitchell

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Dr. Stephanie Mitchell about starting a midwifery-led birth center.  Dr. Mitchell is a certified nurse-midwife who earned her BSN from Curry College, along with her MSN and her doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University. Dr. Mitchell is the founder of The Birth Sanctuary of Gainesville, Alabama, a freestanding birth center under development that will be the first Black-owned birth center in the state. She is actively involved in te

Jun 16, 2021 • 59:17

Trauma-Informed Care and Consent with Feminist Midwife, Stephanie Tillman

On today’s podcast we are excited to feature Feminist Midwife, Stephanie Tillman (she/her), a midwife at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Stephanie is on the Board of Directors of Nurses for Sexual and Reproductive Health and the Midwest Access Project. Stephanie is also a member of the American College of Nurse-Midwives Ethics Committee and is an advisory committee member of the Queer and Transgender Midwives Association.  We talk about Stephanie’s journey to becoming a midwife involved

Jun 9, 2021 • 1:05:23

An Empowering and Transformative Home Birth Experience with Trish and Mimi Ang

On today's podcast, we are thrilled to share with you an empowering and transformative home birth story from Trish and Mimi Ang. Trish (she/her) and Mimi (she/her) are first-time parents to their baby boy, Aspen Kai, and they are graduates of the EBB Childbirth Class. Mimi and Trish fell in love three years ago over rock climbing, and pushed up their home insemination plans last year due to COVID.  We spoke with Trish and Mimi about using an alternative process for their family planning, as we

Jun 2, 2021 • 58:12

EBB 178 - Pregnancy After 35 with OB/GYN and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Dr. Shannon M. Clark

On today’s podcast, I'm so excited to welcome Dr. Shannon Clark. Dr. Clark is a double board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and maternal-fetal medicine specialist focusing on the care of people with perinatal or fetal complications in pregnancy.   With a special interest in pregnancy after the age of 35, Dr. Clark has been inspired not only by the experiences of friends and patients but by her own personal experience of trying to get pregnant in her forties. We talk about Dr. Clark’s jo

May 26, 2021 • 38:36

EBB 177 - Pregnancy After 35 and the Experience of an Unplanned Homebirth with Mera and Dimitri

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Mera and Dimitri about having their fourth baby after the age of 35 and giving birth before they could make it to the hospital.  Mera is a freelance writer, enrichment educator, and mom of four living in South Carolina. Dimitri is an army veteran studying computer science and a father of four in South Carolina. Mera and Dimitri recently gave birth to their baby in October of 2020. And they took the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth class with EBB instr

May 19, 2021 • 33:43

EBB 176 - Evidence on Advanced Maternal Age

We are thrilled to announce that we have updated the research information on one of our most popular articles, the Evidence on Advanced Maternal Age. My mom had her first baby at the age of 19, and that was "normal" back then. But today, it seems like delaying pregnancy until your 30s or older is becoming the norm. All around the world, the average age at first birth is going up and reaching record highs! So needless to say, the topic of "Advanced Maternal Age" affects a LOT of people! In toda

May 12, 2021 • 59:45

EBB 175 - Evidence on Midwives

Today's podcast episode is focused on a very important topic— the Evidence on Midwives. We've been asked for years to publish an article or podcast on the evidence on midwifery care, and we felt there was no better day to release a podcast episode on this topic than May 5th, International Day of the Midwife! In this episode, I discuss the different types of midwives, the history of midwifery care (and how it was nearly eliminated in the U.S.), and the research on the better health outcomes that

May 5, 2021 • 44:59

EBB 174 - The Need for More Black OB/GYN Representation with Dr. Rachel Bervell and Dr. Tamandra Morgan

On today’s podcast, we are thrilled to share with you an important interview with the co-founders of The Black OBGYN Project, Dr. Rachel Bervell, and Dr. Tamandra Morgan.  Dr. Rachel Bervell, a graduate of Harvard and Georgetown University, is the founder of the nonprofit organization “Hugs for Ghana," and co-founder of “The Fresh Resource Urban Initiative Team” or FRUIT, which addresses food insecurity and underserved communities through health literacy and nutrition courses. Dr. Bervell conti

Apr 28, 2021 • 50:49

EBB 173 - Evidence on External Cephalic Version for Breech Positioned Babies

In this week’s podcast, we wrap up our mini-series on breech babies by covering the latest research on external cephalic version (ECV) for breech positioned babies! Topics covered in this podcast episode include updated information on: How common it is to have a breech positioned baby How often people are offered and receive an ECV for a breech baby The effectiveness of ECV for lowering the risk of Cesarean Benefits and risks of the ECV procedure Pain management during an ECV Timing of an ECV

Apr 21, 2021 • 38:45

EBB 172 - Breech Vaginal Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze and Dr. David Hayes

On today’s podcast, we have the pleasure to talk to our honored guests, Dr. Rixa Freeze and Dr. David Hayes about breech vaginal birth.  Dr. Rixa Freeze has a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa and is a researcher, professor, and mother of four children. Her current research specialization is vaginal breech birth, and she's president of Breech Without Borders, a 501(c)3 non-profit. She also blogs at Stand and Deliver. Dr. David Hayes, MD, is an OBGYN who works at Harvest Moon Women’s Health with

Apr 14, 2021 • 56:31

EBB 171 - The Experience of a Unique Vaginal Breech Birth with Janae and Andrew Rick

On today’s podcast, we will be talking with EBB Childbirth Class parents, Janae and Andrew Rick, as they share their unique birth story about their vaginal breech birth.  Janae is a senior graphic designer for a makeup company. Andrew is in the restaurant industry working as a bar back and bartender in Minneapolis.  After recently buying their first home at St. Paul Park in October of 2020, they gave birth to their first baby, a boy named Jenoa, in January 2021, who arrived exactly on his due da

Apr 7, 2021 • 1:00:32

EBB 170 - Addressing Mistreatment and Unsafe Childbirth Care with Birth Monopoly Founder, Cristen Pascucci

On today's podcast, I am excited to welcome a special guest and my friend, Cristen Pascucci of Birth Monopoly! Cristen and I talk about how to file hospital complaints when people experience mistreatment or unsafe care during childbirth.  Content warning: Obstetric violence, birth trauma, and sexual assault in obstetrics.  A former communications strategist at a top public affairs firm in Baltimore, Maryland, Cristen Pascucci is the founder of Birth Monopoly and creator of the online course, Kno

Mar 31, 2021 • 54:28

EBB 169 – The Importance of Postpartum Doula Care with Ali Buchanan

On today’s podcast episode, we will be talking with postpartum doula, Ali Buchanan, about the importance of postpartum doula care. Ali (she/her), is a certified postpartum doula with Cornerstone Doula Trainings, and currently trained as a full spectrum doula with Doula Trainings International (DTI). As a postpartum doula, Ali works with parents and families to transition into their new roles before and after birth. Ali is also my executive assistant here at Evidence Based Birth® where she helps

Mar 24, 2021 • 48:25

EBB 168 - Evidence-based OB-GYN Care with Dr. Amber Warmsley

On today’s podcast, we will be talking with our honored guest, Dr. Amber Warmsley. Dr. Warmsley is a wife of five years to an amazing husband and a mother of two young children. She's a native Southern Californian transplanted to the D.C. metro area who will always love the beach. Dr. Warmsley is also an attending board-certified practicing OB-GYN with 8 years experience, 12 years if you count residency (which you definitely should). Dr. Warmsley is currently Chairperson of the department of OB-

Mar 17, 2021 • 54:12

EBB 167 - Evidence on Erythromycin Eye Ointment for Newborns

On today's podcast, we will be talking about the evidence on using erythromycin eye ointment for newborns. As this is a controversial topic, I am excited to talk about the intriguing research evidence and the history of eye ointment regarding how it started and why it was used in the past, as well as why it is still being used today. We have covered this topic before here in our Signature Articles. We will also discuss whether or not it is effective for its designed purpose, along with antibiot

Mar 10, 2021 • 44:50

EBB 166 - The Experience of a Powerful and Miraculous Birth by Brooklynn and Hoang Pham

n today’s podcast, we will be talking with Brooklynn and Hoang Pham. Brooklynn and Hoang currently live in Davis, California, and are the parents to Marvel, who turned seven months last December. Brooklynn is the senior managing director of Teach For America in Sacramento, and Hoang is finishing up his final year of law school at UC Davis School of Law. They took the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth class with EBB instructor, Shalin Butterworth, and are here to share their birth story. Content W

Mar 3, 2021 • 57:02

EBB 165 - Fetal Position During Labor with L&D Nurse, Ann Marie Gilligan

On today's podcast, we talk with L&D nurse, Ann Marie Gilligan, about perinatal positioning during labor. Ann is a labor and delivery nurse in Minnesota, who is trained in high-risk obstetrics and advanced fetal monitoring, certified through Waterbirth International and also, certified as a sexual assault nurse examiner. Ann has 30 years of labor and delivery experience, ranging from the start-up team for an independent birth center to working at a level three high-risk labor and delivery unit t

Feb 24, 2021 • 1:02:41

EBB 164 - Updated Evidence on COVID-19 and Pregnancy

I'm pleased to share with you today's podcast episode, which is a comprehensive update of the research evidence on COVID-19 and pregnancy and childbirth! To view the scientific references for this article, visit the COVID-19 resource page here and look for the February 17, 2021 podcast episode text. In this podcast episode, I cover: The current global situation What we know so far about prevention/vaccines during pregnancy Testing and diagnosis Symptoms during pregnancy Risk of hospitalization

Feb 17, 2021 • 56:59

EBB 163 - Stress and Anxiety During Pregnancy with Nathalie Walton, CEO of Expectful

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Nathalie Walton, CEO of the Expectful app, about coping with anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum— especially when you have a high-risk pregnancy. Nathalie is the CEO of Expectful, the number one meditation and sleep app for growing families. She has spent the last eight years in leadership roles at Airbnb, Google, and eBay. As a new mother to her 10-month old son Everett, Nathalie experienced the failure of the U.S. healthcare system as it pertai

Feb 10, 2021 • 44:06

EBB 162 - Preparing and Powering through Birth During the COVID-19 Pandemic with Jamie and Ryan English

On today's podcast, we are talking with Jamie and Ryan English about their unexpectedly long but empowering hospital birth, as well as the effects of severe diastasis recti on the labor process. Jamie and Ryan are graduates of the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class, which they took with EBB instructor Jennifer Anderson. Ryan is a commercial property manager and Jamie is a photographer. They moved to Sacramento a few years ago from San Diego, California, and at the same time they found out th

Feb 3, 2021 • 1:00:07

EBB 161 - Addressing Maternity Bias and Infant Care with Irth app Founder, Kimberly Seals Allers

On today’s podcast, I'm excited to talk with Kimberly Seals Allers. Kimberly is an award-winning journalist, five-time author, international speaker, strategist, and advocate for maternal and infant health. A former senior editor at Essence, and a writer at Fortune Magazine, Kimberly is a leading voice on the socio-cultural complexities of motherhood. Kimberly is also the founder of Irth, a new app to address bias in maternity and infant care. We talk about how Kimberly’s new app, Irth, which ad

Jan 27, 2021 • 46:43

EBB 160 - Introducing Mystique Hargrove: EBB Featured Instructor and Podcast Coordinator

On today’s podcast, we will be speaking with Mystique Hargrove, EBB Featured Instructor, and our new Podcast Coordinator. Mystique (She/They) is a certified full spectrum doula who serves BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of color), and LGBTQ+ individuals in Greensboro, North Carolina. Mystique also serves as an advisory board member for the United States Lactation Consultant Association, and is a Certified Lactation Educator, as well as a Certified Childbirth Educator. Mystique completed her

Jan 19, 2021 • 33:38

EBB 159 - Failure to Progress

On today's podcast, we are going to talk about the research evidence on failure to progress.  We also talk about what studies have shown about the normal length of labor, as well as the benefits and risks of having a longer pushing time. We encourage you to visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/failuretoprogress to get all the research references and a one-page handout. For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/

Jan 13, 2021 • 43:10

EBB 158 - Empowering Hospital Birth Experience during COVID-19 with Fiona and Craig Castleton

On today's podcast, I interview Fiona and Craig Castleton about their birthing experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fiona and Craig welcomed their first baby in April 2020 — when everything was locked down. To prepare for their experience, they took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class with EBB Instructor, Shalin Butterworth, who also happened to be their doula. We talk about their experience taking the online Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class and how Shalin helped mentor them in c

Jan 6, 2021 • 1:00:39

EBB 157 - Year End Wrap Up of 2020

On today's podcast, I wrap up all the resources we created at Evidence Based Birth in 2020, as well as the challenges we faced as a team. I also talk about what our plans are for the year 2021. This was not an easy podcast to record. How do you sum up a year like 2020? Like many of you, our team members at EBB have experienced loss and grief, uncertainty and anxiety, stress, and burnout. Somehow our team pulled together to continue getting evidence based information to the public. We leaned on

Dec 30, 2020 • 29:17

EBB 156- Nicole Deggins of Sista Midwife Productions on Navigating Systemic Racism in Birth Work

In today’s episode, I interview Nicole Deggins, a Certified Nurse Midwife and one of the country's leading birth advocacy experts.. She served as faculty for the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative and sits on the Louisiana Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review committee, the Louisiana Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies council, and is a consultant for the Global Infant Safe Sleep Center. Nicole has provided guest lectures to public health students at universities and has provided training and c

Dec 16, 2020 • 59:27

EBB 155 - Pelvic Floor Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin

On today’s episode, I will be talking with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin. Dr. Martin is a pelvic floor specialist for 13 years. Dr. Martin is the owner and founder of JMM Health Solutions. She's created a few programs for pregnant individuals as well as two coaching programs, one of them being a 12-week program for people with endometriosis, and the other being a four-week program for individuals suffering from dyspareunia. We talk about the benefits of pelvic floor therapy for pregnancy and postpart

Dec 9, 2020 • 30:26

EBB 154 - Birthing at Home during COVID-19 with Grace and Roderick Murphy

On today's podcast, we're going to talk with Grace Murphy and Roderick Murphy about their home birth during COVID. Grace Murphy has been married to Roderick Murphy for the past two years, and they were high school sweethearts. Grace and Roderick are graduates of the Evidence Based Birth® childbirth class with EBB instructor, Heidi Duncan. They welcomed their firstborn son, Edmond, on June 14th of 2020. Roderick has been in the Army for the past six years, and just transferred to the civilian wor

Dec 2, 2020 • 36:04

EBB 153 – Pros and Cons of the Foley and Dilapan-S® for Cervical Ripening During an Induction

In this episode, I will talk about cervical ripening, the Bishop score, and some "mechanical" ways to ripen the cervix. More specifically, we'll talk about the advantages and disadvantages of cervical osmotic dilators (including Dilapan-S®), and using the Foley balloon for cervical ripening. Get on the wait list for the Pocket Guide here: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/pocket-guide-wait-list/ References on Cervical Ripening: Curran, M. (2020). Bishop Score Calculator. Click here. Kolkman, D. G.

Nov 18, 2020 • 28:13

EBB 152 - Shafia Monroe on Traditional Black Midwifery, Spirituality, and Community Advocacy

In today's podcast episode, we're going to talk with Shafia Monroe about the role of the traditional midwife. Shafia Monroe is a public health professional, a midwife, a motivational speaker, founder of the International Center for Traditional Childbearing, or ICTC, which was the first US-based black midwives and doulas professional organization. Shafia is also an author, infant mortality prevention specialist, doula trainer, and president of Doula Ready LLC. Since 2002, she has trained thousand

Nov 11, 2020 • 1:00:42

EBB 151- Updated Evidence on the Pros and Cons of Membrane Sweeping

In this episode I talk about the updated research evidence on using membrane sweeping or membrane stripping for inducing labor. Is membrane sweeping effective? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Why do some providers perform membrane sweeping without asking your permission beforehand? We talk about all of this, and more, in this latest episode of the Evidence Based Birth® podcast! For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on Facebook (https

Oct 28, 2020 • 18:30

EBB 150 - Global Childbirth Education in Japan with Brett Iimura

In this episode, I am joined with Brett Iimura to discuss global childbirth education and birth in Japan. Brett has had a varied career, including being a hansom cab driver in New York City, an ASL interpreter, field producer for Japanese TV, literacy tutor and childbirth educator, and doula. She has facilitated in-person classes as a certified childbirth educator and is the director of the Childbirth Education Center, the CEC, based in Japan. Brett has provided childbirth education classes in t

Oct 21, 2020 • 47:45

EBB 149 - Shifting from Hospital Labor and Delivery Nurse to Home Birth Advocate with Melissa Anne Dubois

**Trigger Content Warning: This podcast episode discusses racism and includes graphic descriptions of obstetric abuse.** In this episode, we're going to talk with Melissa Anne DuBois about shifting from the role of hospital labor and delivery nurse to home birth advocate. Melissa Anne graduated summa cum laude from the University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Nursing in 2006 and has worked in labor and delivery, high-risk obstetrics, outpatient OB-GYN, and maternity well-baby settings for t

Oct 14, 2020 • 59:28

EBB 148 - Community, Black Midwifery, and Advocacy with Brittany "Tru" Kellman of Jamaa Birth Village

**Trigger Warning: This podcast contains content on the topic of obstetric abuse and birth trauma.** In this episode, I interview Brittany “Tru” Kellman, the Founder and Executive Director of Jamaa Birth Village in Ferguson, Missouri. She is a mother and wife, certified professional midwife, certified doula and doula trainer, breastfeeding peer counselor, and author. In 2015 she launched her community campaign to improve birth, maternal, and infant care, and the overall wellness of families in a

Oct 7, 2020 • 27:52

EBB 147 - Long Preterm Birth with Caitlyn Martens

n this episode, I interview an Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class parent, Caitlyn Martens from Mesa, Arizona. Her son - now more than a year old - arrived a month early. Caitlyn took the EBB Childbirth Class with Instructor Lora Fiala, and had a doula. At 28 weeks Caitlyn switched her prenatal care from an OB practice to a midwife team, who were able to attend her at her planned hospital birth. **Trigger warning: In this episode we discuss birth trauma, and an experience of newborn resuscita

Sep 30, 2020 • 45:43

EBB 146 - Giving Birth in Atlanta with Tara Thompson

In this episode, I interview Evidence Based Birth® Instructor Tara Thompson. Tara is a certified birth doula with CAPPA, a Lamaze certified childbirth educator, and a licensed massage therapist specializing in pregnancy and postpartum. She has taught classes to expecting couples for more than ten years at a women’s center in Atlanta, Georgia. She’s also been teaching privately for over three years. Tara teaches the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class online, and has also taught the EBB Comfor

Sep 23, 2020 • 42:23

EBB 145 - Fatherhood and Advocacy in Birth with JaMichael Perryman

In this episode, I interview JaMichael Perryman, who is husband of Evidence Based Birth Professional Membership Coordinator and EBB Instructor Chanté Perryman. JaMichael is father to five children, and has experienced a wide variety of births - ranging from an emergency Cesarean to three VBACs which have all been precipitous births. He has been joining Chanté during her childbirth classes to offer a dad’s perspective for partners. In 2018 he was a speaker at Kentucky’s March for Moms.  JaMichael

Sep 16, 2020 • 36:00

EBB 144 - Evidence on Pineapple and Sex for Natural Labor Induction

In this episode I answer several questions about natural labor induction: Can eating pineapple help induce labor contractions? What about having sex? Is that really effective for starting labor!   Natural induction techniques continue to be among our most searched and requested topics at Evidence Based Birth®. I'm excited to share with you the evidence on these common labor induction techniques! For all the scientific references mentioned in this podcast, visit our blog post at ebbirth.com/144

Sep 9, 2020 • 19:14

EBB 143 - Birthing in a World with Reproductive Justice with Ihotu Ali, Daniela Montoya-Barthelemy, and Shayla Walker

In this episode, the Minnesota Healing Justice Network is taking over the podcast! In this very important episode, our guest speakers are Ihotu Ali, Daniela Montoya-Barthelemy, and Shayla Walker. **Content warning** this podcast includes discussion of racial violence and racial health disparities. Ihotu Jennifer Ali, MPH, LMT (she/her), is an integrative medicine doctor in training and doula with a decade of experience in public health and traditional practices around emotional support, pregna

Sep 3, 2020 • 1:00:54

EBB 142 - Home Birth Transfer during COVID-19 and Uprisings in MN with Jenae Herron and Marcel Malekebu

Today, I am excited to continue our important 3-day series about the Minnesota Healing Justice Network! **Content warning: In this episode, we talk about the uprisings after George Floyd’s murder and safety concerns during birth due to racial traumatic event. We also discuss an event in which parents were temporarily separated from their newborn baby, which may be disturbing to listen to.** In this episode, you'll hear from new parents Jenae Herron and Marcel Malekebu. Jenae is a housing case ma

Sep 2, 2020 • 53:03

EBB 141 - Birthing and Disparities in Minnesota with Rhonda Fellows and Dr. Jennifer Almanza

Today is a special day, as we are starting a 3-day podcast focus on the amazing work being done by the Minnesota Healing Justice Network! In today's episode, I am joined by EBB instructor, Rhonda Fellows and Dr. Jennifer Almanza to talk about birthing and disparities in Minnesota. **TRIGGER WARNING: In this episode, we talk about racial violence and Black and Indigenous maternal health disparities.** Rhonda Fellows is a Certified Birth Doula and Evidence Based Birth® Instructor who has 20 years

Sep 1, 2020 • 57:29

EBB 140 - From Hospital Birth to Home Birth with Kristin and Zach Crosby

In this episode, I interview parents Kristin and Zach Crosby, who live in Alabama with their four children. Kristin is a Registered Nurse, and has been a stay at home mom since the birth of their third child. They recently adopted a two year old. Zach is a systems administrator, and runs a locksmith company. They took the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class with EBB Instructor Traci Weafer. We talk about Kristen’s first two hospital births, and what led her to take a different approach with

Aug 26, 2020 • 35:03

EBB 139 - Evidence on Red Raspberry Leaf Tea for Natural Labor Induction

In this latest episode in our series on natural labor induction, I cover the evidence on consuming red raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy. Can red raspberry leaf tea assist with natural labor induction? How effective is it to prevent a cesarean birth? Have there been any randomized trials on the use of red raspberry leaf for pregnancy or labor induction? What does the evidence say about its effectiveness and safety? I’ll answer all these questions and more – and share the latest research on th

Aug 19, 2020 • 22:38

EBB 138 - Healing after a Traumatic Birth with Bianca Marie Roberson

In this episode, I interview women’s health expert Bianca Marie Roberson. Bianca is located in Maryland, and has over 17 years of experience working in the public health field, including serving as a health services administrator for the military, healthcare insurance operations analyst for the Georgia Department of Community Health, and a corporate healthcare accounts manager for CareerBuilder. **Content warning: This episode includes a description of obstetric violence After years of program m

Aug 12, 2020 • 40:06

EBB 137 - The Power of Birth Stories with Bryn Huntpalmer

In this episode I am joined by Bryn Huntpalmer, an Austin, Texas-based podcaster and mother of three young children. She is the founder of The Birth Hour podcast, which was featured in Time Magazine as one of the top 50 podcasts to listen to. The Birth Hour has nearly 500 episodes, and more than 10 million downloads to date. Bryn recently published her first book, The First Time Mom’s Pregnancy Handbook: A Week-by-Week Guide from Conception Through Baby’s First Three Months. She is passionate ab

Aug 5, 2020 • 48:35

EBB 136 - Solutions for the Crisis in American Maternity Care with Jennie Joseph

In this episode I welcome Jennie Joseph, one of the world’s most respected midwives and authorities on women’s health. She’s a true advocate for systematic reform that puts families first in health care. Jennie is the founder and executive director of Commonsense Childbirth, Inc., and is also creator of The JJ Way, a patient-centered model of care.  Jennie has worked in European hospitals, American birth centers, clinics, and home birth environments. She’s been instrumental in the regulation of

Jul 29, 2020 • 55:27

EBB 135 - The Need for More Indigenous Birth Workers with Miranda Kelly

In this episode, I interview Miranda Kelly, a certified birth doula, postpartum doula, and childbirth educator who has worked for ten years in Indigenous people’s health planning, policy education, and research. Miranda holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology, and a Master of Public Health degree. She is a mother of two girls, and is a member of the ekw’í7tl (pronounced ah-quay-tull) doula collective in Vancouver. Miranda is passionate about indigenous peoples reclaiming their aut

Jul 22, 2020 • 52:28

EBB 134 - Natural Induction Series: Evening Primrose Oil

In this episode, I cover the evidence on evening primrose oil (EPO) for natural labor induction. This oil is extracted from the seed of the evening primrose plant, which grows wild in North America and some parts of Europe. It’s a rich source of omega six essential fatty acids, as well as other compounds which are thought to help ripen the cervix for labor. I share the results of randomized control trials for administering EPO vaginally and taking it orally, as well as observational studies, a c

Jul 15, 2020 • 19:51

EBB 133 - Transitioning from Birth to Parenting with Dr. Heather Maguire

In this episode I interview Dr. Heather Maguire, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) with a doctorate in educational psychology. Dr. Maguire has spent over a decade studying behavior and working with children, parents and educators. She’s a proud mom of two kids, a professor teaching school psychology, and the founder and CEO of Prism Behavior, which helps parents manage challenging behaviors with confidence. She also hosts the Prism Behavior Podcast. We discuss the transition f

Jul 8, 2020 • 49:04

EBB 132 - Teen Pregnancy Support, and a Surrogacy Story with Ambrosia Meikle

In this episode I interview Ambrosia Meikle, a Los Angles-based Evidence Based Birth Instructor, CAPPA-certified birth and postpartum doula, and a full-spectrum doula. She is also a lactation educator specialist and childbirth educator, Ambrosia also volunteers to teach childbirth classes and provide doula services at a high school for pregnant teens. She is a mother of two. This show has a trigger warning for pregnancy termination related to a fatal birth defect. Before entering birth work, Am

Jul 1, 2020 • 40:44

EBB 131 - Evidence on: Pitocin During the Third Stage of Labor

In this episode, I cover all the latest evidence on the use of Pitocin during the third stage of labor - which is also the topic of the latest Evidence Based Birth Signature Article, released this week!  The third stage of labor, or placental stage, begins after the baby is born and ends after the birth of the placenta (sometimes called the “afterbirth”). It follows the first two stages of labor - the dilation stage and the pushing stage. In practice, there are three main approaches to care for

Jun 24, 2020 • 1:10:36

EBB 130 – Home Birth in the Black Community with Isis Rose

In this episode I talk with Isis Rose, a full spectrum doula, home birth mom, certified lactation counselor, and placenta encapsulation specialist. She lives in Urbana, Illinois. Isis is starting midwifery school in July, with plans to become a Certified Professional Midwife, and she’s a member of the Illinois Council of Certified Professional Midwives. Isis co-hosts the Homecoming Podcast alongside Chae Pounds, which launched in 2018 to tell stories of Black families who give birth at home. Is

Jun 10, 2020 • 1:04:26

EBB 129 - COVID-19 and your Childbirth Education Business with Natalie Eckdahl

Over the past 3 years, I have traveled and spoken with hundreds of childbirth educators from across the U.S. and Canada. At every conference I attended, one theme was repeated over and over--- educators told me that the field of childbirth education was in the midst of a huge crisis. Most childbirth educators said their registrations were declining, and that many first-time parents weren't taking childbirth education classes anymore (even though education is really important!)  Then, the pandemi

May 20, 2020 • 54:24

EBB 128 - Inducing Labor with Castor Oil and Dates

In this latest episode in our series on natural labor induction, I cover the evidence on using castor oil or eating date fruit to induce labor. Can castor oil increase the chances of you going into labor? When is it most effective? How many dates do you need to eat to reduce the length of pregnancy? I’ll answer all these questions and more - and share the latest research on these methods! For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on Facebook, I

May 13, 2020 • 24:36

EBB 127 - An unmedicated hospital birth with Katie Kane

In this episode, I am joined by Katie Kane, a parent from Cherry Hill, New Jersey who took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class when she was pregnant with her daughter. Katie worked with EBB Instructor Cat LaPlante.  From the beginning of her pregnancy, Katie planned for an unmedicated hospital birth - leading her on a path to researching doulas and eventually finding the EBB Childbirth Class. She was intentional in choosing her birth team, and ended up switching providers when she knew he

May 6, 2020 • 59:32

EBB 126 - Finding the right provider, and birth in the Dominican Republic with Leiko Hidaka

In this episode, I am joined by Leiko Hidaka, an Evidence Based Birth Instructor from the Dominican Republic. Leiko holds a Master’s degree in Human Settlements and Environment. She earned her birth doula certification with DONA International, and her childbirth educator certification with the International Childbirth Education Association. She serves as International Coordinator for ICAN, and also leads the local ICAN chapter of the Dominican Republic, where she is a highly respected and passio

Apr 29, 2020 • 58:29

EBB 125 - Evidence on Acupressure, Acupuncture and Breast Stimulation

In this episode I kick off a new series on natural labor induction - starting with the evidence on acupressure, shiatsu or acupuncture, and breast stimulation.  Natural induction techniques continue to be among our most searched and requested topics at Evidence Based Birth. I’ll continue to cover new methods over the next several months.  For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Ready to get involved? Check

Apr 22, 2020 • 34:51

EBB 124 – Health Disparities, Advocacy, and COVID with Sabia Wade

In this episode, I interview Sabia Wade, a Black and Queer full spectrum doula, doula business coach and reproductive justice advocate. She is the founder of For The Village and Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings. She’s also a Somatic Experience Practitioner in training. Sabia’s mission is to bring inclusive, accessible and full spectrum education and resources to all individuals and organizations dedicated to creating a world of inclusion, justice and equity to birthing people all over the world

Apr 15, 2020 • 53:14

EBB 123 - COVID-19 update & Advocating for yourself during labor with Heather McCullough

In this episode, I am joined by Heather McCullough, an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor, Certified Hypnobabies Instructor®, and Spinning Babies® Aware Practitioner. Heather is also CAPPA faculty, and is certified to train labor doulas, postpartum doulas, and lactation educators. She has also been a childbirth educator and a certified professional midwife for over 25 years.  Heather reveals some of the ways providers may interact with birthing people to steer them into situations that are best f

Apr 8, 2020 • 58:38

EBB 122 - Home birth during the pandemic with Vicki Penwell

In this episode, I am joined by Vicki Penwell, a licensed midwife and CPM, and the founder and executive director of Mercy in Action Vineyard, Inc. Mercy in Action is responsible for more than 15,500 safe births in the Philippines since 1991 - at no cost to the parents - with outcomes four times better than the country’s national average. Vicki is also executive director of the Mercy in Action College of Midwifery, has a Master’s degree in midwifery in the U.S., and a Master’s degree in intercul

Apr 1, 2020 • 40:01

EBB 121 - COVID-19 and Pregnancy

In this episode, I cover all the evidence to date on COVID-19 and pregnancy. This is an uncertain time and many are feeling a range of emotions. Our goal remains the same: to provide you with friendly, accessible, evidence based information so that you can make informed decisions. During a global pandemic, our goal is more important than ever. I've been working nonstop with Evidence Based Birth Research Editor Anna Bertone, MPH, to stay abreast of new research that comes out nearly every day a

Mar 26, 2020 • 47:57

EBB 120 – Cholestasis in Pregnancy with Nicole Phelps

In this episode I am excited to welcome Nicole Phelps! Nicole is a philanthropist who spends the majority of her volunteering with the Michael Phelps Foundation, which promotes water-safety, healthy living, and the pursuit of dreams. In addition to her efforts with the Foundation, she also supports events and programs with Make-A-Wish and Operation Shower among others. A mother of three boys, Phelps is a “Mommy Advocate” and works to bring awareness to the challenges of motherhood by sharing her

Mar 18, 2020 • 36:08

EBB 119 - Nurse Midwifery as a Career Option with Liane MacPherson

In this episode, I talk with certified nurse midwife Liane MacPherson. Liane has been working in women’s health for over 32 years - initially as a labor and delivery nurse, and for the past 19 years as a CNM. She is also a lactation consultant, a childbirth educator, and a midwifery professor with the Georgetown University graduate midwifery program, into which she introduced Evidence Based Birth’s Higher Ed resources. Liane is taking doctorate studies, and she has trained in a variety of places

Mar 11, 2020 • 39:42

EBB 118 - How to Have a Healthy Postpartum Transition with Dr. Alyssa Berlin

In this week’s episode I interview Dr. Alyssa Berlin, a clinical psychologist specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. She is also creator of the AfterBirth Plan Workshop, a program preparing couples for a physically and emotionally healthy postpartum transition - for the baby, for each partner, and for their evolving relationships. Dr. Berlin has specific expertise working with emotional concerns that may arise before, during, or after birth. She and her husband, Dr. Elliot Berlin,

Mar 4, 2020 • 34:28

EBB 117 - The Evidence on Inducing for Due Dates

In this episode, we discuss the evidence on inducing versus waiting for labor when you’re going past your due date. I am joined by Evidence Based Birth  researcher Anna Bertone, MPH, to explore all the latest on this topic and talk about the brand new Evidence Based Birth Signature Article - The Evidence on: Inducing for Due Dates.  **TRIGGER WARNING: In this episode, we talk about stillbirth and newborn death.** For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com.

Feb 26, 2020 • 54:59

EBB 116 - Inclusion for Queer and Trans Parent Families with Danie Crofoot

In this episode, I am joined by Danie Crofoot of Full Spectrum Doulas, an organization dedicated to creating dialogue around topics such as LGBTQIA+ inclusion, cultural competency, racial issues, and much more within the birth community. Their goal is to create space and support for people to have the power to write their own birth and postpartum stories. Danie is a childbirth educator and sex educator, and is known as a “traveling doula” - splitting time mostly between Los Angeles and New York.

Feb 19, 2020 • 41:20

EBB 115 - Self-Advocacy in Birth, and Tongue and Lip Tie with Michelle Odoerfer

In this episode I am joined by Michelle Odoerfer, a mother of two young girls living in Clinton Township, Michigan with her husband Andrew. Michelle experienced two very different births - her first, in a hospital, was tense as she had to endure verbal and physical aggression from an attending OB. Her second was a peaceful, unattended home birth, with just herself and her husband (baby came so fast the midwife didn’t make it). Hear Michelle share how she learned some tough lessons about self adv

Feb 12, 2020 • 41:52

EBB 114 - Fighting for Birth Needs as a Single Parent with Jenny Russell

In this episode I am joined by new parent Jenny Russell, a registered nurse from Tennessee. Jenny struggled with infertility during her previous marriage, became unexpectedly pregnant in a new relationship, and took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class as a single parent without a support person. Her EBB Instructor, Heidi Duncan, taught the class and also served as her doula. Jenny works full time as a clinical analyst in evidence based nursing documentation. She is also a full time caregiv

Feb 5, 2020 • 42:30

EBB 113 - The Evidence on VBAC

In this episode, I am excited to share the evidence on vaginal birth after Cesarean, or VBAC. We have received many requests at Evidence Based Birth to cover this topic, so I want to share with you the information on VBAC that I present in a class we teach in the EBB Higher Ed program. In this podcast, I define some common terms related to VBAC and talk about the history of the procedure. By the end, you will have the facts on the prevalence and risk factors for uterine rupture, and you’ll unde

Jan 29, 2020 • 44:04

EBB 112 - How Evidence Based Birth®️ Changed Me as a Nurse with Jessica Hazboun

In this episode, I am joined by Evidence Based Birth Instructor Jessica Hazboun, a childbirth educator and registered nurse with a background in labor and delivery. Jessica created her own birth business, Nearly Nested, to help empower new parents with evidence based information.  Hear Jessica detail her two very different birth stories, and how evidence based information changed her entire perspective on birth and how she relates to her clients and patients. In her words - “everything about th

Jan 22, 2020 • 44:48

EBB 111 - Positioning Breech Babies with Dr. Elliot Berlin

In this episode I am joined by Dr. Elliot Berlin, an award-winning prenatal chiropractor, childbirth educator, and labor support body worker. He is the co-founder of Berlin Wellness Group in Los Angeles, California, hosts The Informed Pregnancy podcast, and served as executive producer of two documentaries about birth - Head’s Up: The Disappearing Art of Breech Delivery, and Trial of Labor. Dr. Berlin is a labor support doula who attends births and provides laboring parents with body work such a

Jan 15, 2020 • 51:51

EBB 110 - Inside an Unplanned, Unassisted Home Birth with Parent Sabrina Tran

In this episode, I am joined by Sabrina Tran of Alabama, who recently had a daughter, and took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class with Instructor Traci Weafer. Sabrina, a therapist, is now a stay at home mom. Sabrina had a precipitous - or, extremely fast labor and delivery. She describes it as exciting! Hear her tell her story of how her baby was born before the midwife could make it to her home. I also share the evidence on perineal tearing,  and the relationships between tearing, prov

Jan 8, 2020 • 34:06

EBB 109 - Evidence Based Birth®️ in 2020!

This week, I am excited to bring you inside Evidence Based Birth and let you know what we will be up to in the coming year! I look back at all we accomplished in 2019 (and wow - what a year it was!) and how we are rolling right into 2020 with some amazing new projects and initiatives. I have to tell you, just looking at my list of goals really gets me excited about what is to come. You won’t want to miss the announcements I have to share in this episode! For more information and news about Evid

Jan 1, 2020 • 21:05

EBB 108 - EBB Conference Series: Birth Workers of Color

This episode concludes our series of interviews we conducted live from the 2019 Evidence Based Birth Conference - Bringing the Evidence to Life. EBB Instructor and Professional Membership Coordinator Chanté Perryman interviewed several different panels of attendees, hearing from them the most pressing issues in their communities, and how they plan to affect change.  This week, we hear from some inspiring birth workers of color: doula, certified lactation counselor, and student midwife Divine Ba

Dec 18, 2019 • 35:41

EBB 107 - EBB Conference Series: Midwives

This episode is the second in our series of interviews we conducted live from the 2019 Evidence Based Birth Conference. EBB Instructor and Professional Membership Coordinator Chanté Perryman interviewed several different panels of attendees, hearing from them the most pressing issues in their communities, and how they plan to affect change.  This week, we hear from midwives: CPM Paige Dickinson, CNM Jen Matera, and direct entry midwife Rachel Mueller. Hear about the cultural climate towards mid

Dec 11, 2019 • 33:42

EBB 106 - EBB Conference Series: Nurses and Doulas

This episode is the first in our series of interviews we conducted live from the 2019 Evidence Based Birth Conference - Bringing the Evidence to Life. EBB Instructor and Professional Membership Coordinator Chanté Perryman interviewed several different panels of attendees, hearing from them the most pressing issues in their communities, and how they plan to affect change after being inspired at the conference.  This week, we will hear from nurses and doulas: doula Rebecca McKinney, doula Sara Pi

Dec 4, 2019 • 23:30

EBB 105 - Perspectives on the Evidence Based Birth Conference with Heather Thompson and Dr. Sayida Peprah

In this episode, I am joined by two of our distinguished keynote speakers from the 2019 Evidence Based Birth Conference, “Bringing Evidence to Life”: Dr. Sayida Peprah, Psy.D, licensed clinical psychologist, trained birth doula and founder of Diversity Uplifts, Inc., and Heather Thompson, MS, PhD, a molecular and cellular biologist, clinical researcher, birth worker and deputy director of birth justice organization Elephant Circle. The 2019 Evidence Based Birth conference brought together an in

Nov 27, 2019 • 57:03

EBB 104 - The Evidence on Saline Locks

In this episode, I explore the latest evidence on the use of saline locks! A saline lock - sometimes called a “hep-lock” in reference to how it used to be used - is an intravenous (IV) catheter that is threaded into a peripheral vein, flushed with saline, and then capped off for later use. Nurses use saline locks to have easy access to the vein for potential injections. They can be useful in administering drugs as needed, and in the event of emergency surgery. What is the latest research on the

Nov 20, 2019 • 41:21

EBB 103 - Identifying Areas for Social Justice with Danielle Jackson

In this episode, I am joined by reproductive justice advocate Danielle Jackson. Danielle is a wife, mother, doula, and co-host of the podcast Birth Stories in Color. She works to empower women to birth without fear, and has focused her career on helping families recognize their strengths and build healthy support systems. She became a doula in 2016. Issues in her community of Columbus, Ohio drew Danielle to the organization Restoring Our Own Through Transformation, as a change agent in the ongoi

Nov 13, 2019 • 41:19

EBB 102 - Advocacy When Birth Gets Tricky with Parent Bess English

In this episode, I am joined by Bess English, a mother of two who lives near Pensacola, Florida.  Bess describes her first hospital birth experience as traumatic. When she was pregnant with her second child, she and her husband took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class to learn more about advocacy tools and comfort measures.  Bess’ attempted VBAC home birth did not go as planned - and she and her husband found themselves back in the hospital setting making some difficult choices. But this

Nov 6, 2019 • 54:15

EBB 101 - Gail Tully of Spinning Babies®️

In this episode, I am joined by Gail Tully - author, childbirth educator, midwife and creator of Spinning Babies. The Spinning Babies approach connects understanding of birth anatomy to fetal rotation and easier childbirth, and is recognized around the world by midwives, nurses, childbirth educators, doulas, and parents. Gail’s ability to recognize the spatial relationships between the soft tissue pelvis and the baby has contributed to a paradigm shift in childbirth care and education. She began

Oct 30, 2019 • 55:22

EBB 100 - Community Specific Birth Support with Ngozi Tibbs

In this episode I am joined by Ngozi Tibbs, a certified childbirth trainer and educator through Lamaze International, an international board certified lactation consultant, and co-founder of the Pittsburgh Black Breastfeeding Circle. With a Bachelor’s degree in maternal child health and a Master’s in public health, Ngozi has served as a private and community based doula, currently provides childbirth education and lactation consulting, and is involved with the non-profit Healthy Start. Often kno

Oct 23, 2019 • 42:46

EBB 99 - Plus Size Pregnancy and Birth with Jen McLellan

In this episode I am joined by Jen McLellan, author, speaker, and founder of the website Plus Size Birth and the Plus Mommy blog. She is also host of the popular podcast Plus Mommy, and is a certified childbirth educator, wife, and mother. With more than four million page views on her blog, Jen is passionate about helping others navigate the bumps along the road of motherhood. Jen notes that her doula’s recommendation to look into the midwife model of care changed the course of her first pregnan

Oct 16, 2019 • 42:06

EBB 98 - Inside a Husband/Wife Childbirth Team with Tia and Dr. Wale Ajao

In this episode, I am joined by Taiwo (Tia) Ajao and her husband Dr. Wale Ajao. Tia is an RN with a Master’s in Public Health, a Lamaze certified childbirth educator, and a DONA-trained birth doula. Wale is a medical doctor as well as a communication professional, specializing in film and video production. He is also a Lamaze certified childbirth educator, DONA-trained birth doula, and a certified professional photographer. Tia and Wale lead Hello Baby Baltimore, a health communications initiati

Oct 9, 2019 • 34:26

EBB 97 - Childbirth Prep and Realistic Expectations with Parent Bethany Clay

In this episode, I am joined by one of our Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class parents, Bethany Clay. Bethany has an 11-month old son, and lives in South Carolina. She works part time as a music teacher, and is passionate about sustainability and gardening. She was one of the first people to take the EBB Childbirth Class in 2018, with Instructor Mary Kury. Bethany describes her birth experience as long, peaceful, and wonderful, all at the same time! Hear how her birth preparation helped her fo

Oct 2, 2019 • 39:10

EBB 96 - Communication Between Families and Providers with Nicole Loew and Stephanie Edmonds

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Stephanie Edmonds and Dr. Nicole Loew, both PhDs in nursing. Stephanie (who also has a Masters in Public Health) specializes in pre-conception health, family planning, health services quality improvement, and veterans. Nicole has more than five years of sexual and reproductive health research experience, including the topics of responsible sexual behavior, risk communication and health communication. Together Stephanie and Nicole are hosts of The Woman Centere

Sep 25, 2019 • 47:21

EBB 95 - The State of Birth Work in NYC with Denise Bolds

In this episode, I am joined by Denise Bolds, a New York City-based medical social worker and DONA International certified birth doula. She specializes in high-risk VBACs and first time pregnancies, as well as same-sex and hospital births. She also supports breastfeeding, and is an Evidence Based Birth Instructor. Denise has served as a regional director with DONA International, and she is a published author of a self-help book called Raising Princes to be Kings: A Single Black Mother’s Guide t

Sep 18, 2019 • 44:12

EBB 94 - Overcoming Hyperemesis Gravidarum with Leonie Dawson

In this episode, I am joined by bestselling author and award-winning blogger Leonie Dawson to discuss her experience with hyperemesis and postpartum depression and anxiety. Leonie is an artist and entrepreneur based in Australia with a huge following. I asked her to join me on the EBB podcast because she’s blogged extensively about her experiences with hyperemesis and her difficult postpartum journey. Leonie details her pregnancy and birth experiences, as well as what she learned about herself t

Sep 11, 2019 • 57:05

EBB 93 - Unexpected Pre-Term Hospital Birth with Melissa Cassity

In this episode, I am joined by Melissa Cassity to talk about her experience taking the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class, and how it came into play during her unexpected pre-term birth.  Melissa has a 13-month old son and lives in South Carolina with her husband, Kelby.  She works as an instructional designer for an educational technology company. She and Kelby were among the first students of the EBB Childbirth Class, which they took with EBB Instructor Mary Kury. Melissa has a longstandi

Sep 4, 2019 • 49:49

EBB 92 - Impacts of the Community Birth Worker Model with Aza Nedhari

In this episode I am joined by Aza Nedhari, co-founder and executive director of Mamatoto Village, a non-profit training and deploying community health workers to support women through pregnancy, childbirth, and the first months of parenting. Nearly 90 percent of the organization’s clients are African American women who, as a group, suffer dramatically worse maternal health outcomes than other women. Aza pioneered the organization’s comprehensive perinatal health worker training, which uses the

Aug 28, 2019 • 45:42

EBB 91 - Meet MY midwife Karen Brown - featured in Babies are Not Pizzas!

In this episode, I am joined by my midwife, Karen Brown. Karen is a certified professional midwife, located in Central Kentucky, who practicing in 2007. She is a mother of four children; her youngest was born at home. In 2011 and 2013 Karen attended the home births of two of my children, which are featured in my new book, Babies are Not Pizzas! I’m excited to talk to Karen about her career, as well as my own birth experiences. I wrote and published Babies are Not Pizzas to address the preventabl

Aug 21, 2019 • 34:33

EBB 90 - Hear Chapter One of My New Book, Babies Are Not Pizzas!

My new book, Babies Are Not Pizzas, is slated for release next week! To get ready for this exciting event, I want to share with you the first chapter from the book. Listen as I read Chapter One: Naive, and get a first glimpse into my story. You'll hear the details of my first daughter's birth, how it sparked the passion for what I do, and how it started me on the road to founding Evidence Based Birth. For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on F

Aug 14, 2019 • 33:20

EBB 89 - The Journey to Medical School with Reid Johnson

In this episode, I am joined by Reid Johnson, a former student of mine! Reid graduated from university this past May with honors, majoring in biology. During his course of study he took my seminar on childbirth, called Babies Are Not Pizzas. I was honored to be asked to write his reference letter for medical school, and was so excited to hear that he was accepted. He starts his program this fall. I invited him to the EBB podcast to talk about what it's like to be a med student. ​ Reid shares his

Aug 7, 2019 • 32:00

EBB 88 - Ethics and Evidence on Circumcision

Evidence Based Birth has just released a new Signature Article about routine male newborn circumcision. We have been receiving requests to cover this topic for years; I know that opinions on newborn circumcision are diverse and very emotionally charged. In this podcast episode I explore circumcision in detail, including discussion on relevant human anatomy, where circumcision came from, why some parents choose non-religious circumcision today, how common it is around the world, and the procedur

Jul 31, 2019 • 1:15:00

Bonus Episode 9 - What is the theme of Babies Are not Pizzas?

In this week's Bonus Book Update podcast, I cover the overarching theme of Babies Are Not Pizzas. It was a surprising realization for me at the end of the writing process! What is the book about? Mainly, preventable birth trauma in a broken health care system. This is a complex topic. Listen as I cover all the nuances of this theme, and reveal to you some of the other areas of exploration in the story. RESOURCES: Get all the updates on my new book, Babies Are Not Pizzas! Click here to get o

Jul 26, 2019 • 6:03

EBB 87 - Cristen Pascucci on How to Disagree on Birth Topics - Respectfully!

In this episode, I interview Cristen Pascucci, founder of Birth Monopoly, about respectful disagreement when talking about childbirth topics. After the birth of her son in 2011, Cristen left a career in public affairs to study American maternity care and women’s rights. From 2012 to 2016, she served as vice president of Improving Birth, spearheading a multi-year grassroots media strategy to get America’s maternity care crisis into the national news. She also created a legal advocacy hotline for

Jul 24, 2019 • 52:48

Bonus Episode 8 - We've released the book cover!

I am thrilled to announce that we have released the cover image for my upcoming book, Babies are Not Pizzas! Check it out on Facebook and Instagram! In this week's Bonus Book Update podcast, I reveal some of the final details of the production process - and the start of our book launch! Listen to hear the official targeted release date... RESOURCES: Get all the updates on my new book, Babies Are Not Pizzas! Click here to get on the wait list. Follow Evidence Based Birth on Facebook and Insta

Jul 12, 2019 • 3:50

Bonus Episode 7 - How Do You Get a Book Published?

In this week's Bonus Book Update podcast, I tell you all about the route I chose to publish Babies Are Not Pizzas. These days, book publishing has been democratized, and anyone can self-publish a book outside of the traditional system. You know me - I did all the research to determine the best publication route for me and for Evidence Based Birth. I'll tell you what I decided on, and how I came to my conclusions. If you are thinking of writing a book someday, what I tell you here may inspire yo

Jul 5, 2019 • 8:40

EBB 85 - The power of a well-planned birth - of twins!

In this episode, I talk with Ashely Smith about her awe-inspiring and peaceful experience giving birth to twins. Ashley and her partner Trevor live in Lexington, Kentucky. They are both local business owners active in their community. As first time parents, they took time to equip themselves to have a smooth birth experience. Ashley always found herself describing the role of a doula to her friends and family, and finally got to experience having doula herself! She worked with Chanté Perryman, a

Jul 3, 2019 • 36:15

Bonus Episode 6 - Inside My Editing Team of Over 30 People!

In this week's Book Bonus podcast, I give you a glimpse of all the steps we took to make sure my book, Babies Are Not Pizzas, is accurate and polished! I'll take you through the multiple steps of the editing process - including a team of over 30 EBB supporters who have read the book and provided feedback! From fact checking to research, and fine-tuning the stories of all the people mentioned in the book, this process was intense and we were so excited to send it off for the final editing phase!

Jun 28, 2019 • 5:53

EBB 84 - The Latest Evidence on Vitamin K and a New EBB Article Update!

In this episode, I am joined by Evidence Based Birth® research editor Anna Bertone to explore the updates we’ve made to the EBB Signature Article on Vitamin K. Anna received her Master’s in public health at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and her Bachelor’s from East Carolina University. She currently lives in Huntsville, Alabama. Anna joined EBB as our research editor in 2016, and she works diligently on helping me update our research articles and classes that we teach, as well as helpi

Jun 26, 2019 • 31:11

Bonus Episode 5 - What Happens on a Writing Retreat?

On this week's Bonus Book Update podcast, I want to take you inside the final mile of my writing process. When I was just a few chapters shy of finishing my draft and life was just too crazy to find the time to tap into my creative energy, I decided I needed a few days to get away and concentrate completely on my book! And you know what? It was a great idea. I'll tell you all about the inspiring place I was able to retreat to, all the resources I brought with me to keep me on task (have you ever

Jun 21, 2019 • 6:03

EBB 83 - Why Families Need Postpartum Care

In this episode, I am joined by Natalie Telyatnikov, founder and creator of the online holistic program Better Postpartum. She is a certified postpartum support specialist trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorder support, as well as innate traditions of postpartum care. Natalie shares her personal journey of postpartum depression and anxiety, and the discoveries she made about how these issues are handled in the health care system. We also discuss the evidence on postpartum education, as w

Jun 19, 2019 • 40:07

Bonus Episode 4 - The Emotional Journey of Writing my Book

My weekly EBB Book Podcast updates are bringing you a behind-the-scenes look at my new book, Babies are Not Pizzas, which will launch this August! This week, I want to share with you some personal insights about my emotional journey during the writing process. This book tells my story and I needed to share it just the right way. I also had to take a deep examination of some very difficult times in my life. As many of you know - that kind of introspection is not easy! I learned so much along the

Jun 14, 2019 • 6:43

EBB 82 - Two Dads’ Insights on Birth and Starting a Family

In this episode, we’ll listen to my husband Dan Dekker and our brother-in-law Ryan talk about their experiences on becoming fathers and watching the births of their children. As we are approaching Father’s Day in the U.S., I wanted to do something special and share this interview that I recorded when I was teaching a college class on childbirth. We were discussing the importance of not only listening to the stories of people who give birth, but also their partners - because birth can be a life-a

Jun 12, 2019 • 35:08

Bonus Episode 3 - An exciting photo shoot with babies and pizza boxes!

In this special bonus episode of the Evidence Based Birth Book Update podcast, I'm going to take you behind the scenes for the most adorable (and the most chaotic) part of the book production process - the photo shoot! I got the chance to work with some of the sweetest babies - but things didn't quite go according to plan... To hear the whole story, download this week's Book Update podcast on iTunes, Stitcher or Spotify! Resources: Get all the latest news on my upcoming book via the Evidence B

Jun 7, 2019 • 4:06

Bonus Episode 2 - What type of book did I write?

I'm so excited to release my new book this August, Babies are Not Pizzas! I will admit, I spent a long considering how to craft this book... I needed to really think about my message and how it should be written to offer the biggest impact! Is this a guide to pregnancy - or something else? Well, I am happy to tell you what kind of book this is - and how I decided on the genre! RESOURCES: Get added to the Evidence Based Birth mailing list here, so you don't miss any updates!

May 31, 2019 • 4:57

EBB 80 - Life of a Doula Part 2 - a lightning-fast birth!

In this episode I interview Evidence Based Birth Instructor Program Director Cat LaPlante about her empowering birth experiences and her life as a birth professional. Cat is a certified doula and childbirth educator, and was also one of the first EBB Instructors. She has a passion for teaching expectant parents and birth professionals about evidence based care - she loves when parents get excited about the labor process! Cat lives with her husband and four boys.  Learn how Cat’s fourth birth at

May 29, 2019 • 22:31

Bonus Episode 1- My new book title is ...

My new book is coming out this August, and I think you're going to love the title... Download this podcast to hear it! This book is truly a labor of love, and it's been a fascinating journey crafting the story and message. I am releasing a special podcast series all about it. Download a new episode each Friday - you'll get sneak peeks and announcements, as well as behind the scenes insights into producing this book!   RESOURCES: Get added to the Evidence Based Birth mailing list here, so you don

May 24, 2019 • 3:12

EBB 79 - Life of a Doula Part 1 - from cesarean to VBAC

In this episode, I interview EBB Professional Membership Coordinator Chanté Perryman about her first cesarean and her super-fast VBAC! Chanté is a professional birth and postpartum doula, certified childbirth educator and a maternity coach at Baby Dreams Maternity Concierge. She is also an Evidence Based Birth Instructor. Chanté is a birth advocate in central Kentucky, coordinating the Bluegrass Baby Expo and publishing a quarterly magazine for parents. She also volunteers with the Kentucky Home

May 22, 2019 • 29:26

EBB 78 - The Evidence on Labor Induction for Gestational Diabetes

In this episode I bring you the evidence on labor induction for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). A few months ago, we released an article all about the evidence on diagnosing GDM, and we wanted to follow up that article with another focused solely on labor induction versus expectant management for GDM.  Listen to learn the two most common questions that people ask when they are diagnosed with GDM, as well as all of the situations that may occur under the umbrella term “expectant management”

May 15, 2019 • 20:41

EBB 77 - Nurses Can Make Labor More Comfortable

In this episode I am joined by three guests to talk about the Evidence Based Birth Comfort Measures for Labor and Delivery Nurses workshop. Our panel includes registered nurse, childbirth educator and EBB Instructor Jessica Hazboun from San Diego, labor and delivery nurse and childbirth educator Lori Lopez from Honolulu, and Evidence Based Birth Instructor Program Director, childbirth educator and doula Cat LaPlante from the New Jersey/Philadelphia area. The Comfort Measures workshop is a three

May 8, 2019 • 38:06

EBB 76 - Pushing Through Anxiety in Birth with Parent Emily Fleenor

In this episode I interview Emily Fleenor, a new parent who recently gave birth to her daughter while her husband was in active duty stationed at Fort Campbell in Tennessee. They both took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class from EBB Instructor Heidi Duncan, and appreciated the flexibility of the online format during times when Emily’s husband was away for work. Emily worked with a freestanding birthing center, and was very happy with her care. Find out why she was excited and empowered d

May 1, 2019 • 34:57

EBB 75 - Birth in Twilight Sleep - the Experiences of Rebecca’s Mom

In this episode I interview my mother, Carol, about her experience giving birth with “twilight sleep” - a state of sedation and general anesthesia that used to be administered during the second stage of labor. Carol is a mother of six. She has experienced three different types of childbirth: birth with twilight sleep, birth with an epidural, and birth without an epidural fully awake. She’s also a retired nurse and a retired pediatric nurse practitioner. With Mothers’ Day coming up in a couple of

Apr 24, 2019 • 20:51

EBB 74 - Hearing Black Moms’ Voices in the Birth World with Michelle Gabriel-Caldwell

In the United States, the month of April is recognized as National Minority Health Month. It’s an initiative to advance health equity across the country on behalf of all racial and ethnic minorities. And this week is Black Maternal Health Week! Black Mamas Matter Alliance is a non-profit organization sponsoring Black Maternal Health Week from April 11 through April 17. I strongly encourage you to connect with Black Mamas Matter and to sign up for their mailing list (find that link in the referen

Apr 17, 2019 • 29:34

EBB 73 - Learn all about the hospitalist role with Dr. Nicole Rankins

In this episode, I interview Dr. Nicole Rankins about the role of a hospitalist obstetrician, and how families can prepare themselves to have a safe and fulfilling birth in a hospital setting. Nicole is a wife and mother to two girls, an obstetrician/gynecologist, a podcast host, and an integrative health coach. She did her residency at Duke University, and also did a research fellowship at UNC Chapel Hill. Nicole currently practices at a community hospital in Virginia, and she loves helping wom

Apr 10, 2019 • 32:26

EBB 72 - Confidence to Face Changing Birth Plans with Heather Hyden and Jimmy Earley.

In this week's podcast, I interview new parents Heather Hyden and Jimmy Earley. They live in Lexington, Kentucky, and were one of the first couples to take the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class in 2018. Heather works at a local university, and Jimmy works at a local nonprofit. Their son Kess turned 9 months on the day we recorded this episode. Theirs is a unique story in that this pregnancy was actually their second. Their first baby had a fatal condition and that first pregnancy was not con

Apr 3, 2019 • 44:24

EBB 71 - Birth and Positive Masculinity with Ben Atkinson

In this episode, I interview Ben Atkinson. Ben has been married for 20 years, and has four children and one angel baby. He attended all five of his children’s births, and caught the last two himself. He has been exploring the masculine role in birth since his first child was born. With encouragement from a group of birth professionals, he developed a course for expectant fathers, to help them use this vulnerable time in their lives to explore and activate positive masculine traits and step into

Mar 27, 2019 • 31:38

EBB 69 - Facing a difficult birth with knowledge and empowerment

In this episode, I interview Noel and Joel Smothers, missionaries who gave birth to their first child last fall. They currently live in North Carolina but will be heading back to Brazil soon. Noel felt it was really important to have a vaginal birth if at all possible, so that she could continue to have future vaginal births when she's living in countries with less developed health systems. They took the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class with Instructor Mary Kury. I was so impressed by this

Mar 13, 2019 • 42:56

EBB 68 - Meet Mr. EBB!

In this episode, I am joined by "Mr. EBB" himself, Dan Dekker! Dan is an Accountant with his MBA, the father of 3 children, and also my husband. He has worked for more than 10 years in small business accounting, and five years ago left a successful corporate position to become a full-time stay-at-home dad and to serve as the Chief Financial Officer of Evidence Based Birth. Dan and I dive into the backstory of EBB - including how starting this business has impacted our family. Our Evidence Based

Mar 6, 2019 • 25:42

EBB 67 - Hear two special announcements from Evidence Based Birth®

In this episode, I am joined by EBB Professional Membership and Higher Ed Program Coordinator Chanté Perryman. Chanté is a certified birth and postpartum doula, a childbirth educator, an Evidence Based Birth Instructor, and will begin training as a midwife in 2020. She is a strong promoter of birth choices - coordinating an annual baby expo, publishing a quarterly magazine for local parents, and volunteering with the Kentucky Home Birth Coalition as an advocate for Certified Professional Midwive

Feb 27, 2019 • 19:44

EBB 66 - Empowering Birth in Underserved Populations with CNM Olivia Favela-Gary

In this episode, I interview certified nurse midwife Olivia Favela-Gary. Olivia has been a CNM for over five years, and has been a registered nurse for 10 years. She currently practices in Los Angeles and Southern California in a Federally Qualified Health Center, and attends births in a hospital setting working mostly with underserved and high risk populations. She also frequently works as a first assistant for cesarean births. Olivia hosts the podcast This American Midwife, and is mom to a dau

Feb 20, 2019 • 32:53

EBB 65 - Navigating the Hospital Birth System with Midwife Afua Hassan

In this episode, I interview midwife and Evidence Based Birth Professional member Afua Hassan. Afua has practiced as a midwife since 1984. In 2011, she expanded her home birth practice and founded The Birthing Place, Houston’s first freestanding birth center owned and operated by a black midwife. The name “The Birthing Place” was chosen by Afua in response to her observation that many women felt that they needed a hospital and a doctor to deliver babies. In her practice, Afua’s philosophy is tha

Feb 13, 2019 • 34:12

EBB 64 - Building trust during birth with parent Caley O’Brien

In this episode, I interview Caley O’Brien about her empowering birth experience and being one of the first parents to take the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class. Caley has been married to her husband Kent for two years, and they live in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. She is now a stay-at-home parent to her baby Solomon, and describes herself as a “crunchy hippie”. Caley and Kent took the EBB Childbirth Class with their local Instructor, Cat LaPlante.  We discuss how Caley intentionally and strat

Feb 6, 2019 • 56:25

EBB 63 - Unexpectedly Easy Birth with New Parents Nichole and Todd

In this episode, I interview Nichole Croft and Todd Jackson of New Jersey. Their first baby was born in the summer of 2018, and they were among the first parents to take the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class. They were taught by EBB Instructor Cat LaPlante, and were referred to the class by their doula after inquiring about pain management techniques.  Listen as they describe their birth experience and how they utilized what they learned in their EBB class. From understanding the basics of

Jan 30, 2019 • 28:50

EBB 62 - Facing an unplanned Cesarean with parent Michelle Wilson

In this episode, I interview Michelle Wilson, one of the first parents to take the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class. Michelle has one son, Matthew, and is a stay-at-home mom in Berea, Kentucky. Michelle and her husband Matt were very passionate about gathering as much information as possible prior to Matthew’s birth. They chose to plan a natural childbirth in a hospital setting, and Michelle labored with non-drug comfort measures for nearly 24 hours. Circumstances eventually led the baby to

Jan 23, 2019 • 38:25

EBB 61 - Using Knowledge to Navigate Birth with New Parents Annamarie and Drew

In this episode, I interview AnnaMarie and Drew Stoudenmire of Greenville, South Carolina. They are parents to Otto - their first baby - who at the time of recording was only seven weeks old. AnnaMarie and Drew took one of the first Evidence Based Birth Childbirth classes in the U.S., taught by EBB Instructor Mary Kury. They heard about the class from a nurse practitioner, who recommended Mary as a childbirth education instructor.  Listen as AnnaMarie and Drew tell their exciting water birth st

Jan 16, 2019 • 27:37

EBB 60 - Get to Know the New Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class!

In this episode, I interview EBB Instructors Cat LaPlante, Mary Kury, and Cindy Calvano about their experiences being among the first to teach the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class. Cat is a certified doula and certified childbirth educator serving the southern New Jersey and Philadelphia regions, and is also director of the EBB Instructor program. Cindy is a certified doula, doula trainer, and lactation counselor serving North and Central New Jersey. She also travels around the world to tra

Jan 9, 2019 • 38:15

EBB 59 - Diagnosing Gestational Diabetes

In this episode, we discuss the evidence on diagnosing gestational diabetes, and the use of the Glucola test. Evidence Based Birth just released a new Signature Article on this topic, and it is a subject that people are always wanting to know more about.  Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy. In a normal pregnancy, your hormones can make it harder for your body to use insulin. That means you might need up to three times more insulin to overcome the increased r

Jan 7, 2019 • 28:53

EBB 58 - Sneak Peek of EBB in 2019!

In this episode I review all the projects completed at Evidence Based Birth in 2018 - and what a year it was! From launching this podcast and an extensive series and workshop on Comfort Measures, to releasing new Signature Articles, webinars, a Higher Ed curriculum AND developing a new cutting-edge EBB childbirth class - what we accomplished in 2018 gives us incredible momentum for what we have planned in 2019! Join me for a sneak peek into what is on the horizon for the next 12 months. RESOUR

Jan 2, 2019 • 21:53

EBB 57 - Connecting the birth community in Hawai’i with Courtney Carangian

In this episode I interview Courtney Carangian, a native to the Hawai’ian island of O’ahu. Courtney is an Evidence Based Birth Instructor, and is currently undergoing the DONA certification process to be a birth and postpartum doula. A mother of two children, Courtney has been married for seven years. She serves the birth and parenting community on O’ahu with doula services, lactation education, and EBB instruction.  Courtney got involved in birth work via baby wearing. She started a business,

Dec 19, 2018 • 31:05

EBB 56 - Listening to Black Midwives: Ms. Charlotte Shilo-Goudeau

In this episode I interview Ms. Charlotte Marie Shilo-Goudeau, one of three African American women in the state of Louisiana to hold the title of Licensed Certified Professional Midwife. She is the founder of “P.Y.O.B.E. (Pick Your Own Birthing Experience) with Mama CHAR’s Birthing Service,” located in the rural area of Maringouin, LA. Ms. Charlotte has committed her life work to serving women who lack resources needed to ensure positive and healthy prenatal and perinatal outcomes. By coining a

Dec 12, 2018 • 1:07:05

EBB 55 - Advocating for Evidence Based Care with Carissa Hipsher

In this episode, I interview Carissa Hipsher, a parent who was pressured into a cesarean for breech positioning. Carissa lives with her husband and three month old baby in Columbus, Ohio, and is working on obtaining her PhD in environmental science. She had a surprise breech positioning at the end of her pregnancy, and was pressured into a cesarean very quickly. After that experience, she decided to become more involved in examining the evidence on breech positioning and its different delivery o

Dec 5, 2018 • 30:28

EBB 54 - The Wide-Reaching Effects of Birth Trauma with Krysta Dancy

In this episode I interview Krysta Dancy, licensed marriage and family therapist, certified birth doula, and Evidence Based Birth Instructor. Krysta has over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology. In her office in Roseville, CA, she provides compassionate and evidence-based care for a variety of fertility-related mental health issues, with special emphasis on trauma and birth (for both providers and patients). She also serves as Co-Director and Clinical Supervisor at The Place Within

Nov 28, 2018 • 37:41

EBB 53 - Reaching Underserved Populations with Education and Doula Support with Nubia Jones

In this episode, I interview certified birth doula, postpartum doula, parent educator and breastfeeding counselor Nubia Jones. Nubia is a mother of five, and her journey of supporting women and families began 18 years ago during the birth of her first child. She went on to become involved in her local birth community, determined to help many families have positive and peaceful births, especially in hospital settings. Now, she serves a diverse population throughout New York City. As an Evidence

Nov 21, 2018 • 30:45

EBB 52 - What role should men play in birth?

Lisa Marie Sanchez Oxenham has been a birth worker for over 25 years, serving the last 10 as a licensed midwife. She works full time with her husband, Richard, who is currently pursuing his CPM. They specialize in water birth and past trauma, and travel all over Southern California to provide in-home care. Together, they work to include the partner in birth - especially men, who are often mis-portrayed in birth environments in the media. Lisa and Richard support all birthing parties with compreh

Nov 14, 2018 • 26:47

EBB 51 - How accurate are due dates and what impact do they have?

This week, I discuss the concept of due dates - as well as the free webinar I am hosting soon, the Evidence on Induction at 39 Weeks! I want to provide an overview on this topic so you can be prepped for the webinar, which will include discussions on the controversial ARRIVE study. Tune in as we discuss what it means to be full term, the accuracy of due dates, and how they are calculated. This is important, because inductions for non-medical reasons have been rising globally in the last 30 year

Nov 7, 2018 • 19:43

EBB 50 - How does maternal age affect pregnancy and birth?

In this podcast we discuss inducing labor in someone who is 35 and older. Over time in the United States, for the past four decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of people who are giving birth for the first time at age 35 and older. Today, roughly one in ten first time mothers is now considered advanced maternal age.  We will examine the risks and the evidence for induction in this population. For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com.

Oct 31, 2018 • 12:57

EBB 49 - What are the birth implications for a suspected big baby?

This week, we talk about the evidence on induction for having a suspected big baby. I discuss the assumptions that lead to high rates of cesarean and induction for big babies, and whether the research shows these assumptions to be true. For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Ready to get involved? Check out our Professional membership (including scholarship options) and our Instructor program.

Oct 24, 2018 • 20:06

EBB 48 - Induction When Your Water Breaks at Term

This week, we cover the evidence on inducing labor versus waiting for labor to start on its own, when water has broken before the start of labor. For this podcast, we focus on when water breaks at 37 weeks of pregnancy or later. This is also known as pre-labor rupture of membranes, or PROM.  PROM is a common situation - researchers say that about one in ten pregnant people will have their water break before the onset of labor. Join me as we examine the evidence to see how pregnant people can mak

Oct 17, 2018 • 33:30

EBB 47 - Creating a Listening Birth Circle with Jenn D’Jamoos

Jenn D’Jamoos is a CAPPA-certified childbirth educator and Evidence Based Birth Instructor, human rights activist and mom of four who lives in Michigan. She founded the Livingston County Birth Circle in 2013 to serve the needs of families in her area. While the stated goal of the LCBC is to provide non-judgmental support to expectant and new families, the organization also works to elevate conversation surrounding the birth experience.  Jenn recently enrolled in White Woman School through Mother

Oct 10, 2018 • 33:30

EBB 46 - Creating a Supportive Birth Community with Kelsi Kennedy

Kelsi Kennedy is a birth doula serving women in the New York City and Westchester, NY area, and is also a grant writer for non-profit called The Birthing Circle in the greater Washington D.C. area. She has a Masters in Applied Psychology from NYU, and spent two years volunteering and interning as a data analyst for a human trafficking rescue, Restore NYC. Kelsi is also CEO & founder of a brand new ethical fashion business called rev thread.  When she first connected with The Birthing Circle she

Oct 3, 2018 • 32:32

EBB 45 - How do peanut balls support labor?

In this week's podcast I interview Cheri Grant RN, ICCE, CLC, ICD, CLD, CD BDT(DONA), known in the birth world as "the peanut ball lady.” She is the founder, chief contributor and inspiration for Premier Birth Tools. For over 42 years, she has served women as a labor and delivery nurse, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, national speaker, author, doula, and doula trainer. She has helped with well over 2,700 deliveries in the span of her career. Cheri is also the founder of Tulsa Doulas,

Sep 26, 2018 • 32:18

EBB 44 - Doula support for adolescent parents

Amber Ginn is a birth and postpartum doula in Puerto Rico. She had her first child at 15, and is dedicated to providing essential support to pregnant adolescents. Amber’s first birth was a traumatic experience, with interventions she was not educated or informed about, and she felt her concerns and questions were dismissed by her providers. She also battled postpartum depression with little support. Despite these challenges, Amber finished high school and college while caring for her son. These

Sep 19, 2018 • 26:11

EBB 43 - Interview April Oglesby

April Oglesby is a nurse and monitrice in Amarilo, Texas. She has been a nurse for 13 years, specializing in all types of care for mothers and babies. Recently, she left hospital work to start her own business, Welcome Baby! Throughout her hospital nursing career, she began to see huge deficits in the knowledge, education, empowerment and support for expecting families. She was frustrated watching patients receive care that was not evidence-based, and was often unnecessary. From that, Welcome Ba

Sep 12, 2018 • 30:33

EBB 42 - Interview Katie Rachanow

Katie Rachanow leads the Military Birth Resource Network at the largest overseas installment in Europe, and has specialized knowledge of the military birth system. Katie is a doula, yoga instructor, and Evidence Based Birth instructor practicing in Germany. She recently moved there following a two-year tour in Colorado Springs and a five-year tour in the UK.  Katie shares how having her first child in the UK launched her career as a birth worker, and how she operates exclusively in a military s

Sep 5, 2018 • 30:00

EBB 41 - Interview with Juliet Swedlund

Juliet Swedlund is the director of the Topeka Doula Project, a nonprofit offering evidence based doula support to teen mothers, incarcerated and reintegrating mothers, and low-income mothers and their families. Juliet has worked as a birth doula for four years, and has 16 years experience working in health and wellness. She achieved her DONA Birth Doula certification in 2016, and became an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor in 2018. Juliet discusses her organization’s beginnings and her inspirati

Aug 29, 2018 • 32:30

EBB 39 - Wrap Up

This wrap-up of pain management series covers the many different drug and non-drug comfort measures during labor. Learn our overall takeaway. To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Aug 15, 2018 • 30:02

EBB 38 - Breathing

Many childbirth classes teach breathing for pain relief during labor. But is there evidence that this is effective? Which breathing techniques work best? To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Aug 8, 2018 • 15:58

EBB 37 - Relaxation

Is relaxation for pain relief effective? Learn techniques that can be used during labor and find out which (if any) are supported by evidence. To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Aug 1, 2018 • 14:09

EBB 35 - Music

In this podcast, we look at the evidence for listening to music during labor. Does it help with pain relief? What is the best music for relaxation? To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jul 18, 2018 • 13:33

EBB 34 - Massage

We discuss the evidence on using massage for pain relief during labor and for pain in general. What benefits does massage provide? What types of massage might be helpful during labor? To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jul 11, 2018 • 16:19

EBB 33- What's next for EBB

In this podcast, Rebecca gives you a sneak peek into what's coming for Evidence Based Birth® in the second half of 2018 and early 2019! Learn about the Signature Articles we're creating, the workshops and classes we're creating, our upcoming speaking events, and the new website for Higher Education institutions! Resources mentioned: Comfort Measures for L & D Nurses: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/comfort-measures-for-l-d-nurses-lexington-ky-tickets-45818534470 Toronto EBB event: https://www.eve

Jul 3, 2018 • 13:36

EBB 32 - About EBB Signature Articles

In this podcast, Rebecca shares how the Evidence Based Birth® Signature Articles are created, and some important updates that were made to the Group B Strep and Erythromycin Eye Ointment article. Resources: About Signature Articles: https://ebbirth.com/about-evidence-based-birth/ Find Signature Articles: https://ebbirth.com/blog/ Become a newsletter subscriber: https://ebbirth.com Group B Strep: https://ebbirth.com/groupbstrep Eye Ointment: https://ebbirth.com/eyeointment

Jun 27, 2018 • 22:51

EBB 31 - Hypnosis

What hypnosis is and how hypnotherapy might work to provide pain relief during labor? Whether people who have used hypnosis during childbirth found it to be beneficial? What the evidence from randomized controlled trials shows about using hypnosis for pain relief during labor To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jun 20, 2018 • 26:13

EBB 30 - Fetal Monitoring

Did you know there are different ways to monitor the baby's heartbeat during labor and birth? Continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) is common but not without its drawbacks. We discuss the pros and cons of EFM and its alternative, hands-on listening with a fetal Doppler or fetal stethoscope.

Jun 13, 2018 • 26:13

EBB 29 - Sterile Water Injections

In today's podcast, we'll learn what sterile water injections are and how they might help to provide pain relief during labor. We'll discuss the evidence on their effectiveness and the latest clinical recommendations from a 2017 systematic review. To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jun 6, 2018 • 14:58

EBB 28 - Childbirth Education

This podcast covers the evidence on childbirth education for pain relief during labor. How many people take childbirth classes and what material do they cover? We discuss the challenges of studying childbirth education interventions and go over the findings from an interesting study on this topic out of Australia. To check out our Professional Membership, visit https://ebbirth.com/membership

May 30, 2018 • 18:47

EBB 27 - TENS

What is TENS and how is it used for pain relief during labor? In today's video, we'll share all about the evidence for using TENS during labor and how researchers think it might work. We'll also discuss its history, if it's linked to any adverse effects, and how you can acquire a TENS unit and learn to use it. To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ and visit EBB PDF library here:  http://evidencebasedbirthacademy.com/dashboard

May 23, 2018 • 15:24

EBB 26 - Aromatherapy

What aromatherapy is. How aromatherapy during labor might work to provide pain relief. What the evidence shows about using aromatherapy during labor for pain relief To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

May 16, 2018 • 14:05

EBB 25 - Acupuncture and acupressure

What acupuncture and acupressure are? How acupuncture and acupressure might work to provide pain relief during labor. What the evidence shows about using acupuncture and acupressure for pain relief during labor? To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit http://ebbirth.com/membership

May 9, 2018 • 11:27

EBB 24 - Behind the Scenes

In today's podcast, Rebecca shares the story of how Evidence Based Birth® went from a tiny blog to a worldwide movement. Learn what kept crashing the website, what Rebecca's famous "surprise project" was, and how we manage to fund the work that we do. Finally, get a sneak peek into Rebecca's goals and vision for the future of EBB. To register for the home birth webinar, visit https://ebbirth.com/homebirthwebinar. To check out our Professional Membership, visit https://ebbirth.com/membership

May 2, 2018 • 20:22

EBB 23 - Home Birth Midwives

In today's podcast, we talk about the types of different home birth midwives in the U.S. This podcast will prep you to attend the free public webinar all about the evidence on home birth. To register for the webinar (only available through May 8, 2018), visit https://ebbirth.com/homebirthwebinar To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ and visit EBB PDF library here:  http://evidencebasedbirthacademy.com/dashboard/pdf-library/

Apr 25, 2018 • 18:51

EBB 22 - Rise of Home Birth in the U.S.

Recently, rates of home birth have nearly doubled in the U.S., from 0.56% to 1% today. Where is this increase in home birth coming from? How many women desire home birth, and why are they interested in this option? Listen to our podcast discussing the increasing numbers, then register for our free webinar about home birth at ebbirth.com/homebirthwebinar

Apr 18, 2018 • 13:50

EBB 21 - Doula

What a birth doula is and how a doula provides pain relief during childbirth. What the evidence shows about using a doula for pain relief. If continuous support from a doula is more effective for improving some health outcomes than continuous support from hospital staff or family/friends. How to find a doula To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ Learn more about Doulas: http://ebbirth.com/doula

Apr 11, 2018 • 12:23

EBB 20 - Water immersion

What hydrotherapy is and how often it is used for pain relief during labor and birth. What studies have found about the effectiveness of water immersion during labor for pain relief. What several professional organizations recommend about the use of water immersion during labor for pain relief. To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ and check our the courses we offer:  http://evidencebasedbirthacademy.com/dashboard/course-dire

Apr 4, 2018 • 13:38

EBB 19 - Childbirth Class

Learn from the comfort of your own home Flexibility of online learning + Support of in-person connections Watch online videos of Dr. Rebecca Dekker and other professionals Learn directly from an experienced Evidence Based Birth® Instructor in your area Meet others in your community who are also preparing for childbirth Visit: http://ebbirth.com/childbirthclass To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit http://ebbirth.com/membership

Mar 28, 2018 • 18:15

EBB 18 - Painless Birth

If research evidence tells us how often painless birth occurs. How labor pain can be interpreted as positive or negative. How pain perception can be influenced by state of mind, environmental stress, and social support. About the complex relationship between pain relief and maternal satisfaction To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ and visit EBB PDF library here:  http://evidencebasedbirthacademy.com/dashboard/pdf-library/

Mar 21, 2018 • 15:14

EBB 17 - The Evidence on: Birthing Positions

How could upright birthing positions benefit mothers and babies? How common are upright birthing positions? For people without epidurals, which birthing positions are best supported by evidence? For people with epidurals, which birthing positions are best supported by evidence? Read more about The Evidence on: Birthing Positions: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-birthing-positions/ To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-an-evid

Mar 14, 2018 • 17:21

EBB 16 - Movement and Positions

Why researchers think that upright positions during labor may benefit normal, physiologic childbirth. What studies have found about the effectiveness of movement and upright positions during labor for pain relief. What several professional organizations recommend about the use of movement and upright positions during labor for pain relief  Visit our official EBB shop at: https://evidence-based-birth.myshopify.com/ To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidenceb

Mar 12, 2018 • 12:28

EBB 15 - Nitrous oxide

What nitrous oxide gas is and how it is used during labor for pain relief. What studies have found about the safety and effectiveness of nitrous oxide during labor. The potential pros and cons of using nitrous oxide gas for pain relief during labor To find out if there's a Savvy Birth Workshop near you, visit the Evidence Based Birth® Facebook page and click on "Events." You can also see if there is an Instructor near you by visiting directory.evidencebasedbirth.com

Mar 7, 2018 • 13:26

EBB 14 - Injectable Opioids

Which IV opioids during labor are most commonly used. What studies have found about the safety and effectiveness of IV opioids during labor. The potential pros and cons of using IV opioids during labor   To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-an-evidence-based-birth-instructor/

Feb 28, 2018 • 9:43

EBB 13 - Epidurals and 2nd stage

How epidurals could potentially slow the pushing phase of labor. What randomized, controlled trials and large observational studies have found about the effects of epidurals on the second stage of labor. If turning off a mother’s low-dose epidural at the start of the second stage makes a difference in labor duration or other health outcomes To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Feb 21, 2018 • 8:45

EBB 12 - Epidurals and Breastfeeding

How epidurals and spinals could potentially harm breastfeeding success. If the relationship between epidurals during labor and breastfeeding success has been studied—and what they found! Visit our official EBB shop at: https://evidence-based-birth.myshopify.com/ To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-an-evidence-based-birth-instructor/

Feb 14, 2018 • 11:30

EBB 11 - Evidence on: Waterbirth

In this episode, Rebecca talks about the updated evidence on waterbirth. You can read more at ebbirth.com/waterbirth  To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-an-evidence-based-birth-instructor/

Feb 7, 2018 • 16:31

EBB 10 - ARRIVE study

This podcast is all about the ARRIVE study, a Randomized Trial of Induction versus Expectant Management, was funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Conducted by the NICHD Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU). They meant to look at the effects of elective induction at 39 weeks To find out if there's a Savvy Birth Workshop near you, visit the Evidence Based Birth® Facebook page and click on "Events." You can also see if there is an I

Feb 5, 2018 • 25:52

EBB 9 - Epidural during Labor for Pain Management

How often epidurals during labor are used, and the difference between epidurals, spinals, and combined spinal epidurals (CSEs). The benefits of epidurals, spinals, and CSEs. The potential risks and side effects of epidurals, spinals, and CSEs for mother and baby To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jan 31, 2018 • 10:54

EBB 8 - Overview of pain management during labor

The difference between “pain” and “suffering”. The two different approaches in pain management during labor and birth—“pain relief” versus “working with pain”. Types of pain management strategies   Visit our official EBB shop at: https://evidence-based-birth.myshopify.com/

Jan 24, 2018 • 11:25

EBB 58 - Using Knowledge to Navigate Birth with New Parents Annamarie and Drew

In this episode, I interview AnnaMarie and Drew Stoudenmire of Greenville, South Carolina. They are parents to Otto - their first baby - who at the time of recording was only seven weeks old. AnnaMarie and Drew took one of the first Evidence Based Birth Childbirth classes in the U.S., taught by EBB Instructor Mary Kury. They heard about the class from a nurse practitioner, who recommended Mary as a childbirth education instructor.  Listen as AnnaMarie and Drew tell their exciting water birth st

Jan 23, 2018 • 27:22

EBB 7: Evidence on placenta encapsulation

Frequently marketed claims about placenta encapsulation How many experimental trials have ever been done with placenta encapsulation Results from the newest randomized, placebo-controlled trial on placenta encapsulation To find out if there's a Savvy Birth Workshop near you, visit the Evidence Based Birth® Facebook page and click on "Events." You can also see if there is an Instructor near you by visiting directory.evidencebasedbirth.com

Jan 12, 2018 • 8:53

EBB 5: Evidence on prenatal vaginal exams

The results from the two randomized trials on cervical checks at the end of pregnancy. The potential benefits and potential harms of prenatal cervical checks. How to handle a situation if your doctor traditionally does vaginal exams at the end of pregnancy, but you don’t want one for whatever reason To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jan 12, 2018 • 9:27

EBB 4: Waterbirth and the newborn microbiome

How much research do we have on the microbiome and waterbirth? What does “normal flora” mean, and why is it important? What does the existing research say about waterbirth and the bacteria on a baby’s skin? Is there any other research from newborn baths that we can refer to when talking about this issue?   Visit our official EBB shop at: https://evidence-based-birth.myshopify.com/

Jan 12, 2018 • 5:01

EBB 3: Why Is It So Hard to Get Evidence Based Care?

In this episode of the Evidence Based Birth® podcast, Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN, talks about why it's so difficult to find evidence based care. To find out if there's a Savvy Birth Workshop near you, visit the Evidence Based Birth® Facebook page and click on "Events." You can also see if there is an Instructor near you by visiting directory.evidencebasedbirth.com

Jan 12, 2018 • 14:42

EBB 2: What is Evidence Based Care?

In this second episode of the Evidence Based Birth® podcast, Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN, shares the true definition of evidence based care, and talks about the different kind of evidence you can read about your birth options. To learn more about the EBB Instructor program, please visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-an-evidence-based-birth-instructor/

Jan 12, 2018 • 21:08

EBB 1: Intro to Evidence Based Birth®

Welcome to the Evidence Based Birth® podcast! In this first episode, Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN, the founder of EBB, shares the story of how evidence based birth began. To learn more about her story, visit ebbirth.com/author   To learn more about the EBB Professional Membership, visit https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/

Jan 12, 2018 • 17:01