Fear Free Childbirth podcast

#Fitness #Parenting #Mental Health #Alexia Leachman #Birth #Childbirth #Childbirthwithoutfear #Fearfreechildbirth #Hypnobirthing #Motherhood #Pregnancy #Pregnant #Stress

36:27

Not many artists actually hail from Tennessee, but the scenic valleys and rolling hills of The Volunteer State are part of Dustin Lynch’s DNA. In this episode of On the Bus, Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhoffer sits down with Dustin to discuss his journey from playing fraternity parties and weddings across the southeast to being the first country artist with a club residency at the Wynn in Las Vegas. Plus, stick around for our new segment, Thunder Strike, where Troy features upcoming festival performer Riley Green’s hit song “Damn Good Day to Leave” to give you a taste of what’s to come at Country Thunder in 2025.…

Fear Free Childbirth

Series home•Feed

The Fear Free Childbirth podcast is for parents-to-be who want a positive and fear-free birth experience. Thousands of women credit the podcast with helping them have a positive birth. The show is a mix of real life positive birth stories, birthing experts sharing their wisdom and Alexia sharing how to get into a positive birthing mindset, including techniques for releasing fears. Alexia is a therapeutic coach who works with pregnant women and is the author of the book Fearless Birthing. You can get access to lots of free pregnancy and birth preparation downloads at www.fearfreechildbirth.com

100 episodes

Fear Free Childbirth

updated about a year ago

Series home•Feed

100 episodes

#Fitness #Parenting #Mental Health #Alexia Leachman #Birth #Childbirth #Childbirthwithoutfear #Fearfreechildbirth #Hypnobirthing #Motherhood #Pregnancy #Pregnant #Stress

All episodes

1
Erin’s Tokophobia Healing Journey 1:01:56

1 year ago1:01:56

1:01:56

I'm thrilled to share with you another incredible tokophobia healing journey. As the host of the Fear Free Childbirth podcast, I have had the profound privilege of connecting with many incredible women, each on her unique path to overcoming the fears and anxieties that accompany pregnancy and childbirth. Today, I want to share with you one of the most touching and inspiring stories to grace my podcast – the profound journey of Erin, a woman who bravely faced her tokophobia and emerged with newfound confidence and strength. Tokophobia, an intense fear of childbirth, is more common than many realise, and it can take an immense toll on a woman’s life. Erin's story began with the paralysing terror she felt at the thought of childbirth. This fear was so strong that it extended to an aversion to even being around pregnant women. But Erin’s resolve to conquer this fear has transformed her life in ways neither of us could have imagined when we first embarked on this journey together. Erin's Tokophobia Healing Journey In this very special episode about Erin's tokophobia healing journey, we delve deep into the layers of fear and anxiety that are all too familiar for many women. Erin first got in touch with me just under a year ago, having read my book. She had tried to tackle her fears herself, but realised that she needed a bit more support to make the kind of progress she was hoping for. It was then that she decided to sign up for my Tokophobia Support Program. This 5-week program kick-started her healing journey. Erin later joined one of my Tokophobia Healing Groups - a 5-week group program - and then she also joined my membership, the Clearance Club to help to keep her accountable for the final aspects of her healing journey. Where Erin's Fear Came From Erin has always regarded pregnancy with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. While the state of being pregnant seemed manageable — a sentiment echoed by her circle of friends — it was the prospect of childbirth that filled her with dread. Erin's fear of birth took root early in her life, stemming from a pivotal moment that etched itself into her memory, when at the tender age of eleven, Erin was in the delivery room when her stepmother gave birth. That intense experience left an indelible impression, leading to her often-repeated resolve: "Hell no." That mantra encapsulated Erin's feelings towards the daunting and raw reality of giving birth, even if the journey leading up to that point seemed far less intimidating. Erin's Tokophobia Healing Journey - How it Unfolded Erin's tokophobia healing journey was far from linear; it was a winding path filled with bumps and setbacks, as well as triumphs and insights. During our conversation, we discussed the heavy emotional burdens of trauma and its formidable impact on Erin’s personal growth. We also talked about how Erin's intuition blossomed throughout this process – it was as though she was rediscovering her inner compass, which had been stifled by fear for so long. This new connection with her intuition rippled out, improving her relationships at work and home, fostering compassion and better communication. Our conversation then flowed into the importance of compassion and forgiveness, not just in our personal lives, but how we can bring this transformative power into our workplaces as well. We mused on how personal transformation can catalyse profound shifts, creating ripples that improve our entire ecosystem of relationships, including those at work. Erin's Friends & Family Noticed the Changes Erin's closest ones, from her husband to her mother, have seen the changes in her. Her coworkers have felt the difference, remarking on her enhanced relational skills at the workplace. But the most significant change has been within Erin herself, especially about her perception of pregnancy and childbirth. Once a crippling fear, it’s now something she acknowledges but feels positive and equipped to handle, even planning a home birth while preparing herself to face any potential fears regarding hospitals. We also retraced Erin's steps to becoming pregnant — the initial wave of panic, followed by a dawning joy as she shared the news with her family and friends. Her journey traversed not just the physical realm but also the profound psychological and spiritual domains, contending with the responsibility and uncertainty that arrives with bringing a new life into the world. Resources That Helped Erin on her Healing Journey Through therapy, meditation, and reading literature by luminaries like Gabriel Mate, Erin has worked tirelessly to clear her layered traumas. This has included navigating generational traumas and learning not to identify herself by them. As she worked through them, she found herself embracing practices she once considered "woo woo" – a testament to the expansive nature of true healing. Erin’s journey, which took less than a year, has been nothing short of miraculous. It serves as a beacon of hope for all those who may still be struggling. For the listeners out there contending with tokophobia or any form of fear surrounding childbirth, Erin’s story exemplifies that healing is possible, and confronting our deepest fears can lead to a life of freedom and joy. Whether you're dealing with tokophobia like Erin, or any other fear related to childbirth, remember that it’s never too late to start your journey to healing. And as always, I encourage you all to explore the resources available here at fearfreechildbirth.com, where support and guidance await you. Until then, breathe deep, trust in your strength, and let the transformation unfold.…

1
Overcoming Birth Trauma: Heather's Journey Positive Birth 50:08

1 year ago50:08

50:08

In today's episode, I am joined by Heather to dive into her incredible journey from a fear-filled first birth to two positive and empowering experiences. Heather shares her deep emotional work in overcoming the negative feelings from her traumatic first birth and the steps she took to prepare herself mentally and emotionally for her second pregnancy. From therapy to Emotion Code, to Head Trash Clearance and hypnobirthing, Heather explores the various tools she used to transform her mindset and approach childbirth with a newfound sense of confidence. Here are some of the things we talked about; Traumatic First Birth Experience: Heather opens up about her initial birth experience, which left her feeling fearful and exhausted. She realised that her emotional baggage and negative energy had a significant impact on her birth. This realisation became the catalyst for her transformative journey towards healing and empowerment. Emotional Work and Preparation for Second Birth: Heather undertook various methods to prepare for her second birth, including therapy, Emotion Code, Head Trash Clearance, and hypnobirthing. By clearing trapped emotions and healing herself emotionally, she was able to let go of fear and create a positive birthing environment. Tuning In and Connecting with Herself: Throughout her pregnancy, Heather focused on self-care and cultivating her feminine energy. She discovered the power of connecting with her body through movements such as birth dance, a Middle Eastern practice that strengthens muscles and centres the mind. This allowed her to embrace her pregnancy and tap into her innate strength as a woman. Mindset Shift and Empowering Second Birth: Heather's mindset shift played a crucial role in her second birth experience. She approached the process with confidence, uninhibited by fear, and embraced the sensations as a natural part of birth. She utilised the tools she had acquired and received invaluable support from her doula, ultimately delivering her baby in a positive and empowering way. Postpartum Support and Integration: Heather talks about the importance of postpartum support and she recognised that her healing journey continued beyond the birth. With the love and guidance of her husband and parents, she navigated the chaotic postpartum period, and was able to balance it along with moving house and doing renovations. Through out all this, she realised she wanted to help to empower women and helping them realise the beauty and potential of birth, just as she had experienced. Heather's inspiring journey is a wonderful tale that shows us quite plainly that with the right tools, support, and a positive mindset, it is possible to have a birth experience that is both beautiful and empowering. Tune in to this episode and discover the techniques and mindset shifts that enabled Heather to go from a place of trauma and fear to being able to embrace the journey of birth with strength and empowerment. Birth has the potential to be a transformative and life-changing experience, and by preparing emotionally and mentally, you can create the empowering birth experience you want.…

1
Celeste's Journey from Tokophobia to Inner Peace 54:12

1 year ago54:12

54:12

In this episode, I sit down with the inspirational Celeste to delve deep into her transformative journey of overcoming fears and phobias related to childbirth and pregnancy. Throughout the episode, Celeste candidly shares her profound and life-altering experiences, providing invaluable insights for anyone navigating similar challenges. This episode is for you if you want to have a peep under the bonnet to better understand what it looks like EXACTLY to clear your head trash (tokophobia, anxiety or indeed anything else) using Head Trash Clearance. We get down to brass tacks and leave no stone unturned. At the heart of Celeste's journey is her struggle with tokophobia, a deep-seated fear of childbirth and pregnancy that extended beyond the realm of motherhood, infiltrating her daily life and relationships. What unfolds in this episode is her amazing journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing, as Celeste takes us through her journey of clearing the fears and anxieties that were contributing to her tokophobia and anxiety. Through a very candid conversation, Celeste shares how she initially grappled with her fear, with symptoms ranging from anxiety attacks triggered by the mere thought of pregnancy to physical manifestations of tingling in her arms and legs, burping, and spontaneous crying during her shifting process. Over the span of 6-7 transformative months, she experiences a significant shift, moving from a space of anxiety and fear to a newfound sense of peace and calm. Her journey of clearing head trash and addressing deep-seated fears takes her on a path of self-realization, lending her the clarity and insight needed to navigate her fears and emerge stronger on the other side. It's incredible to see where Celeste is today, and I hope that her journey inspires you on your healing journey.…

1
Periods & Pregnancy: Learning to love your cycle 48:48

1 year ago48:48

48:48

In today's episode, I have a thought-provoking conversation with Elizabeth Tidwell, a menstrual cycle coach, as she shares her journey of healing and embracing the power of her menstrual cycle. I wanted to talk about periods because even though they're not front and centre of the pregnancy and birth experience - they are! We obsess over when they stop - are we pregnant??? - and then we obsess over when they start again. They are a HUGE part of this. And, more importantly, I wanted to talk about them because I don't think that we appreciate our periods much. There's lots of negativity around them and so I wanted to flip the script and help you to LOVE your period and tap into their power. Here are some of the things you can hear as part of this conversation; Resolving Childhood Trauma: Elizabeth opens up about her personal experience with childhood trauma and how it impacted her menstrual cycle. Through healing this trauma, she discovered that it had a profound effect not only on her cycle but on various aspects of her life. Elizabeth believes that addressing trauma is crucial to breaking free from negative cycles and embracing our menstrual cycles as sources of strength and wisdom. Menarche Kits and Breaking the Cycle of Shame: I love that Elizabeth has created menarche kits and and creates resources for us to discuss periods with openly. Elizabeth emphasises the importance of releasing the shame and trauma surrounding puberty for the next generation. By providing education and support during this transformative phase, we can set the foundation for young girls to navigate their menstrual cycles with confidence and self-acceptance. The Connection Between the Lunar Cycle and Menstrual Cycle: Is this a myth? Maybe. We discuss the connection between the lunar cycle and the menstrual cycle. While there are different viewpoints on this connection, Elizabeth points out that light-sensitive hormones might have caused women to sync up with the moon cycle in the past. However, modern lifestyles with artificial light can disrupt hormonal rhythms. Despite the scientific explanation, Elizabeth emphasises the energetic significance of aligning with the moon cycle, giving it a sense of specialness. Understanding Menstrual Cycle Awareness: Elizabeth talks us through the concept of menstrual cycle awareness, which involves being conscious of the different phases of our cycle and how they impact our daily experiences. I struggle with this big time! Hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle lead to varying emotions and reactions. Understanding this awareness can enhance communication, help avoid conflicts, and enable us to have a better understanding of our bodies. And for those entering perimenopause - very interesting! Healing Trauma and Its Impact on Menstrual Health: Trauma, whether big or small, can have a profound impact on our menstrual cycles. Elizabeth tells us how trauma can manifest in fears and phobias related to pregnancy and birth, body image issues, and fears of losing control. By healing from trauma, we can potentially resolve related physical and emotional issues, leading to a better relationship with our bodies and our cycles. Fertility Awareness and Birth Control: Elizabeth shares insights into fertility awareness and birth control. She suggests considering fertility biomarkers rather than relying solely on apps and algorithms. We know that stress and cortisol levels can impact fertility, so stressing about trying to conceive is probably going to hinder fertility. This is why she emphasises the importance of self-care during menstruation so that we can shift our we feel and honour our bodies. I hope that listening to Elizabeth as she takes us on her transformative journey of embracing and loving her menstrual cycle can help you to learn to LOVE your periods. By addressing trauma, understanding our cycles, and cultivating self-awareness, we can unlock the immense power and wisdom that our bodies hold, and help our daughters to do the same.…

1
Solo Parenting: Steph's Choice 59:13

1 year ago59:13

59:13

In this episode, we dive into a powerful and inspiring conversation with my guest, Steph Bennet, as she shares her experience of choosing to solo parent. Steph's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of women who navigate both career success and motherhood on their own terms. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and joys of Steph's unique journey into motherhood. Steph made the decision to prioritise a career that allowed her to have control over her work without judgment. She is a strong advocate for not compromising but optimising her life to create a balanced and fear-free environment for herself and her daughter. As a managing director, Steph initially faced challenges in balancing work and parenting, but she gradually found strategies to create flexibility and adapt to hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Her story highlights the ongoing need for better support and understanding in the workplace for working mothers. Here are some of the things we chatted about... 1. The Challenges of Being a Solo Parent: Steph's journey began with a clear vision of becoming a mother, even if she couldn't find a partner. She discusses her decision to explore single parenthood and the concerns she had about the physical and emotional aspects of raising a child on her own. 2. Choosing the Path of Insemination: Steph underwent tests at a fertility clinic and discovered that IVF was not suitable for her. She decided to pursue IUI, or intrauterine insemination, as an alternative. She shares her experience of choosing a sperm donor from an online catalog based on various factors, including health information and personality traits. 3. Balancing Work and Motherhood: Steph candidly discusses the challenges and rewards of being a working mother. She emphasises the importance of setting boundaries and not overworking, while also acknowledging the lack of respect and flexibility that many working parents face in the workplace. 4. French vs. British Parenting Styles: Steph and I compare parenting styles in France and the UK. They explore the benefits of allowing children to be independent and figure things out on their own, as well as the challenges of French school holidays for working parents. 5. The Journey of Conscious Parenting: Steph highlights the importance of allowing children to make their own decisions and learn from their own mistakes. She shares her desire to give her daughter the freedom to choose her own interests and create her own path in life. Steph candidly addresses these key questions shaping her solo parenting journey: How did Steph's previous health concerns and epilepsy diagnosis affect her decision to become a solo parent? In what ways did Steph's career choice allow her to have more control over her work and spend more time with her daughter? Steph mentions the importance of not compromising but optimising her life. How does this mindset play a role in her journey as a solo parent? How does the support and childcare system in France compare to that in the UK, and what impact does it have on working mothers? What are some organisations and campaigns that are working towards supporting working moms in the workplace, and what more needs to be done? How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the experiences of pregnant women and new mothers, especially those who are solo parenting? What are some of the challenges Steph faced as a solo parent, and how did she navigate them? How did she find support and emotional connection during the early stages of parenting? Steph discusses the importance of allowing children to be independent and make their own decisions. How can parents balance setting boundaries with fostering independence in their children? Steph mentions her new podcast, "For the Love of Kids." How does her experience as a solo parent influence the topics and themes covered in her podcast? Steph's journey from considering adoption to choosing IUI as a solo parent is unique. How did she approach the process of selecting a sperm donor, and how did she envision her daughter's future relationship with her donor father? Steph's story of choosing to solo parent is an incredible testament to the power of following one's dreams and embracing the possibilities of motherhood. Her journey highlights the need for increased support for working mothers in the workplace and challenges conventional norms surrounding parenting and work-life balance.…

1
Transforming Birth Culture: Resolving Conflict in the Birth Space for Improved Maternity Care 1:11:49

1 year ago1:11:49

1:11:49

Birth is a profound and transformative experience, but unfortunately, conflicts and disagreements within the birth space can sometimes overshadow the joy and empowerment that should be at the forefront. In this episode of the Fear Free Childbirth podcast, Jenny Koslow, a perinatal educator with four decades of experience, sheds light on the issues of conflict and tension within the birth world. Understanding the Birth Space: Jenny begins by sharing her wealth of knowledge and stories gathered from birth workers around the globe. She highlights the conflicting views and struggles that exist between different professions within the birth world, such as midwives, lactation consultants, and doulas. These conflicts often arise from differing ideologies stemming from the biomedical and naturalistic sides of childbirth. From home births to highly medicalized hospital births, the spectrum of choices and opinions can be quite divisive. The Influence of Birth Settings: The conversation then delves into the impact of various birth settings. Jenny discusses how midwives typically handle vaginal births with minimal intervention, but the c-section rates in private clinics in many countries are unacceptably high. Public hospitals, where most people give birth, often face issues with support and the need for less judgment towards healthcare providers working in these systems. There is also a sense of resentment among professionals like midwives, obstetrical nurses, and doulas, especially in countries like Spain and other Latin American nations. Examining the Roles of Birth Workers: Jenny addresses the challenges within the doula movement, including the need for more professional training and regulation. While doulas carry immense emotional weight, they may not bear the same level of medical responsibility as healthcare providers. This discrepancy, coupled with differences in income and work dynamics, can sometimes lead to tension and dissatisfaction among birth workers. Finding Common Ground: Despite these conflicts, Jenny emphasises the importance of recognising the positive work being done by individuals in the system and avoiding generalisations. She highlights positive initiatives in different countries, demonstrating that change can come from a combination of different approaches rather than extreme views. The conversation explores the crucial need for effective communication, formation of personal relationships, and acknowledgement of the contributions made by individuals across the birth spectrum. Promoting Unity in the Birth Space: Positive changes often stem from top-down leadership but acknowledges that frontline caregivers need more support. The conversation explores the imbalances in authority, challenges faced by professionals within institutionalized childbirth, and the importance of respect and recognition. The episode also delves into the role of birth education, the impact of the internet on preparation, and the different priorities individuals have when it comes to their birthing experience. Jenny tackles these burning questions: How does conflict in the birth space impact the overall birthing experience for families? What are some common sources of conflict between different professions in the birth world, such as midwives, lactation consultants, and doulas? How do different birth settings, like private clinics, public hospitals, birthing centers, and home births, contribute to the conflict in the birth world? What are some potential solutions to reduce the conflict between birth professionals and improve collaboration in maternity healthcare? What role does fear play in creating conflict and backlash in the birth space? How can fear be addressed and alleviated to create a more positive birth experience? How can authorities and decision-makers in the birth industry support birth professionals and foster unity and respect among different roles? What are some potential drawbacks of the current doula movement, and how can it be improved and regulated to create a more professional environment? What can be done to bridge the gap in understanding and respect between birth professionals in the biomedical and naturalistic sides of the birth world? How can birth education and prenatal classes be improved to better prepare couples for childbirth and empower them to advocate for their own values and desires? What steps can individuals in the birth industry take to address judgment, shame, and guilt among birth workers, and promote empathy, respect, and professional ethics? By exploring the perspectives of various birth professionals and delving into the need for unity, better training, and improved communication, this episode serves as a catalyst for positive change in the pregnancy and birth industry.…

1
How Puberty Trauma Shapeshifts into Fear of Pregnancy and Body Image 53:32

1 year ago53:32

53:32

Today's episode is a deeply insightful conversation between Alexia and a previous guest, Ramona who recently shared her story of overcoming tokophobia. They share personal experiences and explore the connection between puberty trauma, body dysmorphia, and the fear of pregnancy and childbirth, known as tokophobia. In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into our own experiences during puberty, our struggles with body image, and the impact it has on our adulthood, especially as they transition from maiden to mother. Here are some of the things we touched on during this conversation; 1. Personal Growth and Mental Health Insights: Ramona shares her path to becoming a therapist, which opened her eyes to mental illnesses and disorders. She noticed patterns in her own behaviours and those of their family members, leading to a realisation about her body image and weight-related issues. 2. Perception of Body Image and Weight: Society's compliments women on their appearance and weight which reinforces the belief that they are doing well, despite engaging in disordered eating. 3. Overcoming Tokophobia: Ramona shares her struggles with tokophobia and how body image and body dysmorphia played a pivotal role. She sheds light on her journey to develop a healthier relationship with food and her body, seeking therapy and support from professionals to tackle the underlying narratives and beliefs. 4. Embracing Change: The fear of becoming pregnant and the associated changes in body and life were prominent concerns for Ramona. She reflects on her initial negative outlook and the gradual realisation that these changes were manageable and even beautiful. 5. Puberty Trauma and Tokophobia: Alexia and Ramona explore the connection between puberty trauma and tokophobia, particularly how experiences during puberty can shape a woman's perception of pregnancy and childbirth. They acknowledge the fear of losing control and feeling trapped within the process, which can lead to anxiety and fear. This episode of Fear Free Childbirth pushes the boundaries of exploration, and I invite you my listeners to reflect on your own puberty journeys and how they may affect your adult lives, including the transition to motherhood.…

1
From Phobia to Calling: From Fearful Mama to Confident Midwife 46:36

1 year ago46:36

46:36

In this episode, I have an incredible story of transformation to share with you. My guest, Jessica, was once plagued with fear when it came to pregnancy and childbirth. However, she conquered her fears and had a positive birth experience that inspired her to make a bold career change. Jessica talks about her journey from fear to becoming a midwife. It's a remarkable turnaround that showcases the power of overcoming our deepest fears and embracing new paths in life. But before we delve into Jessica's inspiring story, I want to share with you a tale that highlights what can happen if we leave our pregnancy and birth fears unchecked. Learn about the fears commonly faced by women during pregnancy, birth, and even those struggling with tokophobia. While some may assume these fears revolve around pain and tearing, they often stem from deeper conflicts and anxieties. These fears include the fear of losing control, feeling trapped or lacking choices, making the wrong decisions, and feeling weak or vulnerable. These fears are not exclusive to pregnancy and birth. They can manifest in various areas of our lives, such as feeling out of control at home or work, or even a loss of control over our own bodies. It's crucial to recognise and address these fears because they tend to permeate other aspects of our lives, affecting our overall well-being and hindering our personal growth. To illustrate this point, I recount a powerful story of a radio show presenter who, like me, experienced tokophobia. Following the loss of her baby and her subsequent aversion to getting pregnant again, she discovered that this fear had affected multiple areas of her life without her realising it. Once she identified and faced her fear head-on, she realised how it had suppressed her ability to birth anything significant in her business and personal development. The transformation she experienced after releasing this fear was nothing short of astounding. So, if you're currently grappling with fears surrounding pregnancy, birth, or any other areas in life, listen closely to Jessica's remarkable journey. Her story is a testament to the incredible power we possess within ourselves to rewrite our narratives and conquer our deepest fears. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and discover a fearless mindset with Fear Free Childbirth. In this episode, we delved into a wide array of thought-provoking questions with Jessica: Have you ever experienced any fears related to pregnancy or birth? How did you handle them? How do you think fears about pregnancy and birth can impact other aspects of a person's life? Can you think of any examples? Have you ever witnessed someone close to you struggling with fears around childbirth? How did they cope with it? Do you think understanding the root cause of a fear can help in overcoming it? Why or why not? Have you ever been inspired to make a major career change due to a life-changing event? How do you think conquering a fear can lead to personal transformation? Do you think this fear is universal? How might it manifest in different areas of life? How do you think societal expectations and judgments contribute to fears around pregnancy and birth? Do you think addressing past traumas is essential in overcoming fears? What steps do you think can be taken to raise awareness and provide support for individuals facing fears related to childbirth?…

1
Conversations with Spirit Babies 1:01:43

1 year ago1:01:43

1:01:43

In this episode, my special guest is Emma Moon, a cosmic fertility guide and a spirit baby medium. Emma's unique background includes a Bachelor of Science in nursing and expertise as an integrative health practitioner. She blends both science and spirituality in her work, supporting women through their fertility journey, pregnancy, and conscious birth. Emma's approach involves connecting with the energy and spirit of her clients, helping them navigate emotional and spiritual blocks that may affect their fertility. Through a combination of nutrition, lifestyle changes, and intuitive guidance, she provides comprehensive support for women and couples. In this episode, we delved into a wide array of thought-provoking questions with Emma. How does Emma Moon blend science and spirituality in her work as a cosmic fertility guide and spirit baby medium? What role does spirituality play in the pregnancy journey, according to Emma Moon? How did Emma's background in nursing and integrative health shape her approach to fertility and pregnancy? Can emotional and spiritual blocks affect a person's fertility? How does Emma address these challenges? Why does Emma prefer to use the term "fertility challenges" instead of "infertility"? How does Emma tap into her intuitive abilities during her work with clients? What strategies does Emma use to support and heal the body in terms of nutrition, lifestyle, herbs, and supplements How does Emma connect with a client's energy field and spirit babies to guide the conversation and healing process Has she ever considered the spiritual aspects of pregnancy and fertility? How might this perspective enhance your own experience? How can a conscious pregnancy and conscious conception positively impact a person's journey to parenthood?…

1
Measuring Healing Progress in Pregnancy and Birth 49:33

1 year ago49:33

49:33

Welcome back to Fear Free Childbirth! In today's episode, I want to delve into the fascinating concept of the Map of Consciousness. Have you ever invested time and energy into courses, therapy or retreats to bring about a change in how you feel, only to wonder if they're really making a difference? We all have, right? Today, I want share a powerful tool that you can use to measure the effectiveness of these activities in overcoming fear, anxiety, and finding calm and peace. Once I discovered this method of measuring healing progress I decided to revisit my own healing journey around overcoming tokophobia, and my pregnancy fears and anxieties; I wanted to see what it would tell me. And it's fascinating! In today's episode, we'll explore the concept of consciousness and how understanding your own state of mind can give you clues as to where you are on your healing journey. So, let's dive in and learn how to measure the effectiveness of our healing work or therapeutic methods, and ultimately, achieve fear-free childbirth. In this insightful podcast episode, I want to help you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing as we explore a series of thought-provoking questions; How do you personally measure the effectiveness of your healing work or therapeutic practices? Have you ever experienced a significant shift in your level of consciousness? If so, what factors do you believe contributed to that shift? Do you think it's important to have a tool or method to track progress in overcoming fears and anxieties? How do you distinguish between temporary feelings of happiness and true progress in your healing journey? Have you ever felt trapped in repeating negative patterns or self-destructive behaviours? How did you break free from them? What role do you think self-awareness plays in the healing journey? How has it impacted your own progress? How do you perceive the relationship between your level of consciousness and your emotional well-being? Are there any specific life events or experiences that have significantly impacted your personal growth and healing journey? These questions will guide our exploration into the realms of personal transformation, self-awareness, and the various tools and experiences that contribute to our individual healing journeys.…

1
Gen Z Anxiety and the Decision to Start a Family 47:28

1 year ago47:28

47:28

In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Lauren Cook, who will be diving into a topic that affects many parents in the modern era – anxiety in Gen Z. Dr. Cook, a therapist and author, brings her expertise and insights from her book "Generation Anxiety," which provides a guide for millennials and Gen Z to navigate an uncertain world. We'll be exploring how anxiety manifests in young people, particularly as they contemplate starting a family or becoming parents. Plus, we'll discuss strategies for overcoming fear, managing anxiety, and finding empowerment in the midst of uncertainty. During our conversation, we chat about the fears and anxieties surrounding starting a family and becoming parents, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns about climate change. Lauren offers invaluable insights on how to tackle these challenges and find a sense of community and connection even in uncertain times. If you've ever experienced anxiety, worried about starting a family, or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of Gen Z anxiety, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for an insightful and empowering conversation. Let's dive in!…

1
From Fearful to Surrogate: Susie's Story 59:42

2 years ago59:42

59:42

In today's episode, I am joined by the incredible Susie Hamilton as she shares her spine-tingling story of transformation from someone who wrestled with tokophobia, the fear of pregnancy and birth, to becoming a surrogate. When Susie discovered this podcast when she was preparing for pregnancy, she went on to use my fear clearance method to clear her fears of pregnancy and birth. This lead to an incredible transformation in her. Not only did she have two wonderful births of her own children, but she has since embarked on the surrogacy journey, and she is currently pregnant with her second surrogate baby. Susie's story exemplifies the activation of inner power, self-advocacy, and the incredible impact that facing fears can have not only during childbirth but also in other aspects of life. As we delve into her experiences, we will explore the importance of feeling comfortable, making informed decisions, advocating for oneself, and embracing the journey with all its emotions. Overcoming Fear: Susie's Transformation from Anxiety to Empowerment Pregnancy and childbirth can be daunting experiences, filled with fears and anxieties. But what if there was a way to transform that fear into empowerment? In this episode of the Fear Free Childbirth Podcast, Susie's story is a testament to the power of overcoming fear and finding strength in vulnerability. Let us dive into Susie's journey and explore the lessons we can learn from her transformation. Embracing the Fear: Susie's journey starts with her admission of being terrified of pregnancy and childbirth. Like many expectant mothers, she found solace in the Fear Free Childbirth Podcast. Through the fear clearance method that I openly share, Susie learned to confront and release her fears, allowing her to embark on a path of radical transformation. Activating Inner Power: Susie's story highlights the activation of inner power and self-advocacy in the birth context. She shares her belief in fully experiencing the moment, embracing all emotions and adrenaline that come with it. While some may prefer to be fully clothed during birth, Susie felt comfortable being naked, emphasising the importance of feeling safe and secure during such a vulnerable time. The Journey into Surrogacy: Susie's positive birth experiences inspired her to explore surrogacy, so that she could to capture the empowering feeling of pregnancy without bringing another baby home. Despite her initial uncertainties, Susie embraced the opportunity when she met the qualifications and embarked on her incredible journey as a surrogate parent. Self-Advocacy and Empowerment During Birth: One message that's clear throughout this episode is the importance of advocating for yourself during labour and delivery. From questioning the necessity of certain medical procedures to choosing different positions for labour. Susie shares how she fearlessly asserted her right to make decisions about her own body and the birth. Her experiences are a useful reminder that assertiveness and comfort are essential for a positive birth experience. Building a Supportive Community: Susie's transformation was not just personal; she also found strength and support through the Fear Free Childbirth community and by starting her own Instagram account. By connecting with others who shared similar fears, Susie was able to overcome feelings of guilt and ungratefulness for desiring a peaceful pregnancy and birth. The power of community and the ability to create lifelong connections through shared experiences can really help you on this journey to motherhood, no matter what that looks like for you. Susie's tear-jerking story from fear to empowerment is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and confronting your deepest fears.…

1
Emetophobia, Fear of Vomit and Pregnancy 28:03

2 years ago28:03

28:03

In today's episode, I am diving into a topic that affects so many people - the fear of vomit, also known as emetophobia. While it may not be the number one fear for everyone, it ranks high on the list of most common phobias. I'll explore the seriousness of this fear and its impact on those contemplating pregnancy or dealing with a fear of pregnancy or giving birth. But fear not, I'll also be sharing insights and strategies to help you overcome this fear and create a fearless mindset. So get ready to tackle emetophobia head-on in this insightful episode of Fear Free Childbirth.…

1
Your Hidden Pregnancy & Birth Traumas 25:55

2 years ago25:55

25:55

In this episode I explore hidden pregnancy and birth traumas. Discover how ancestral trauma can fuel fears and anxieties about pregnancy and birth, even if you've never been pregnant. I also share my personal healing journey, transforming my perspective on childbirth. Join me in addressing these hidden traumas for a fearless pregnancy and birth.…

1
When Postnatal meets Perimenopause, with Linda Stephens 58:38

2 years ago58:38