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In this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I’m joined by Sabryna for a powerful and emotional account of her first birth. Her story began with an itch in her third trimester and escalated into a life-threatening emergency for both her and her daughter. What unfolded was a series of missed diagnoses, medical dismissal, and a traumatic delivery that included an emergency C-section, undiagnosed preeclampsia, a NICU stay due to a rare heart condition.
With vulnerability and insight, Sabryna walks us through the heartbreak of being ignored by her care team, the fear of not knowing if her baby would survive, and the heavy mental toll that followed. She also shares the healing journey that came later, including a redemptive second birth experience and the importance of finding a provider who truly listens.
This conversation is a testament to the strength of self-advocacy and the power of feeling seen, heard, and safe in your care.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
⚠️ The early warning signs of cholestasis and why no one acted 📉 Being told to rush to the hospital and then sent home hours later 📵 Days of silence from her care team while her symptoms worsened 💔 A non-variable heart rate and an emergency C-section she never saw coming 🫀 Her daughter’s diagnosis: supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW) 🚑 A magnesium drip, sky-high blood pressure, and a post-op ambulance ride with no pain meds 🧠 The emotional aftermath: trauma, guilt, depression, and being told to “just be grateful” 💬 The healing power of trauma-informed therapy and a validating OB 🌈 A second birth that brought the closure she never thought she’d find 🗣️ Why we must keep talking about traumatic births, because they leave lasting marks
🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated with you, made you feel seen, or helped you name your own story, please share, rate, and review. Your voice matters.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 175: A Silent Sisterhood: Surviving Birth Trauma & Finding Your Voice with Kobe Campbell
25 Jun 2025
00:53:52
In this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I’m joined by licensed trauma therapist, author, and speaker Kobe Campbell for an honest, and deeply vulnerable conversation about her traumatic birth experience and the lifelong impact it’s had on her, her son, and her healing journey.
What began as a dreamy, hypno-birthing-fueled pregnancy quickly turned into a series of medical emergencies: preeclampsia, placental abruption, IUGR, a failed epidural, an emergency C-section, NICU transfers, and devastating relational trauma at the hands of dismissive and discriminatory providers. Kobe vulnerably shares the layers of grief, rage, and resilience she continues to navigate years later, along with the role EMDR, faith, and trauma-informed therapy have played in her recovery.
This conversation is a masterclass in naming the complexities of birth trauma, especially when compounded by racial bias, medical negligence, and a total lack of compassion.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
⚠️ How Kobe’s “dream birth” narrative met a brutal medical reality 📉 A shock preeclampsia diagnosis and abrupt transfer to a higher-level hospital 🫀 The missed diagnosis of her baby’s heart and liver malformations 🚨 The chaos and fear of an emergency C-section and her baby’s near-death 💉 A failed epidural, allergic reaction to morphine, and punctured dura 💬 Medical racism, microaggressions, and the emotional toll of being unheard 🧠 Why EMDR was transformative in processing birth trauma and childhood wounds 👣 The silent sisterhood of mothers still carrying what they were never allowed to name 💛 How Kobe shows up for new moms in her life now, with deep care and validation 🗣️ The cost of telling the truth about traumatic births in a world that demands gratitude
Resources & Mentions:
📘 Learn more about Kobe’s work: @kobe.campbell 📚 Trauma Support & Resources: birthtraumamama.com/resources 📖 Kobe’s book, Why Am I Like This? — A guide through faith and trauma healing
🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode moved you, please consider rating, reviewing, or sharing it. It helps other trauma survivors find the hope and validation they deserve.
Guest Bio:
Kobe Campbell is an award-winning licensed trauma therapist, bestselling author, media expert, entertainment consultant and keynote speaker. Kobe just released her first book with W Publishing of HarperCollins titled Why Am I Like This?: How to Break Cycles, Heal From Trauma, and Restore Your Faith.
With a kind, compassionate, and energetic spirit, she helps people find the truest versions of themselves under the pain that they’ve endured through therapy, intensives, speaking, retreats, and organizational training. Kobe specializes in working with clients in public-facing professions as they process their trauma in the midst of their creative work and public visibility.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
In this week’s Listener Series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Scarlett bravely shares her story a layered, and still-unfolding journey through birth trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, and complex pelvic floor injuries that continue to impact her life more than five years later.
She speaks candidly about the realities of: 🩸 Surviving a traumatic birth and emergency postpartum care ⚕️ Navigating misdiagnoses and medical dismissiveness 🏥 Undergoing reconstructive surgery, just days before COVID shut down elective procedures 💔 Living with an unresolved injury, even years later 💬 Parenting solo while healing, with her husband deployed and her newborn in tow 💡 Finding resilience, humor, and hope, even when she’s still “not fixed”
Scarlett’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is rarely linear and that you don’t have to wait until things are “resolved” to find strength, community, and joy again. Her voice offers profound validation for those still in the thick of it, especially those living with ongoing pelvic floor injuries, postpartum complications, or unrecognized trauma.
💜 Trigger Warning: This episode includes graphic details of birth trauma, hemorrhage, pelvic injury, and surgical complications. Please listen with care.
🎧 Available now wherever you get your podcasts.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
On this week's listener episode, we welcome Kayla. Kayla starts off by sharing about her preceding endometriosis and PCOS diagnoses and treatments before her and her husband, Michael, got pregnant with their daughter Ellie. They were pleasantly surprised to not need any fertility treatments or assistance getting pregnant with Kayla's diagnoses. Kayla shares about how the pregnancy progressed and the delivery experience as it took a quick turn when she needed an emergency hysterectomy. She vulnerably shares about the recovery process and healing.
What you will hear on this episode: - Endometriosis and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome diagnoses and preceding treatments - high blood pressure at end of pregnancy - induction with complications eventually led to a c-section - hemorrhage resulting in an emergency hysterectomy with one remaining ovary - recovery in the ICU - Tachycardia and Hypertension diagnoses - postpartum recovery and support
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 76: Mental Health & Birth Trauma with Amanda E. White
26 Feb 2024
01:01:32
On this week's episode, we are joined by Amanda E. White. Some of you may already follow her on Instagram at @therapyforwomen - her platform cheers on women in the mental health space. She sits down and shares as a licensed therapist and birth trauma survivor her own experiences, nuances, and advice navigating things like suicidal ideation, breastfeeding, and processing during recovery.
On this episode, you will hear: - Suicidal ideation while pregnant and postpartum - Hyperemesis Gravidarum, IUGR Diagnosis, and HELLP Syndrome - Pressure to breastfeed and lack of education on feeding options - Guilt and bonding challenges - Expectations vs. reality of birth experiences - Supportive measures for mental recovery - Advice and wisdom for those in the healing process
Guest Bio:
Amanda E. White is a licensed therapist and the creator of the popular instagram account @therapyforwomen. She is the author of the book “Not Drinking Tonight: A Guide to Creating A Sober Life You Love.” She is the founder and owner of the group therapy practice, Therapy for Women Center, based in Philadelphia serving clients across the country. In her clinical work, she specializes in working with individuals with substance use disorders and eating disorders.
People are drawn to Amanda’s unique expertise, accessible approach to healing and mental health. She has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes, Washington Post, Shape, Women’s Health Magazine, and more.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
On this week's listener episode, we welcome Alpha. She shares about her pregnancy and delivery of her son and the trauma she had to face. Alpha vulnerably shares her intense experience and how she has processed her birth not going as planned including having an emergency hysterectomy.
On this episode, you will hear: - Prodromal Labor - Complex trauma and the impact on perinatal trauma - Postpartum hypertension - Abscess after c-section resulting in sepsis - Uterine artery pseudo-aneurysm - Hemorrhage
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 74: Postpartum Anxiety and Birth Trauma
19 Feb 2024
00:36:50
On this week's episode, we are joined by Megan MacCutcheon who is a practicing LPC and author. We have a candid conversation about postpartum depression, navigating parenting information and advice, and treating postpartum anxiety.
On this episode, you will hear: - postpartum anxiety and trauma - the impact of control and perfectionism - the influence of parenting information - therapeutic approaches for postpartum anxiety - identifying trauma in postpartum anxiety - seeking help for postpartum anxiety - the role of providers in addressing birth trauma
Guest Bio:
Megan MacCutcheon is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Vienna, Virginia. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults, helping them to achieve a better quality of life by confronting issues of depression, anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. Megan is also a Certified Perinatal Mental Health clinician and specializes in helping women who are experiencing mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and following childbirth. She runs Empowering Mindful Moms, a postpartum support community, and is the co-founder of PerinatalPlace.com. For more information, please visit www.meganmaccutcheon.com or follow her on Instagram @meganmaccutcheonlpc.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 73: Twin Pregnancy & Severe Hemorrhage in the UK feat. Megan
14 Feb 2024
00:44:39
On this week's listener episode, we are joined by Megan. Megan is from Northern Ireland and shares with us her journey and the complications that arose in her pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum with her twin boys.
What you will hear on this episode: - High-risk twin pregnancy - Growth discrepancy between twins and fears of lifelong diagnoses - Emergency hemorrhage protocol - Postpartum complications and recovery - Postpartum and finding support in community
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 72: The Miscarriage Doula
12 Feb 2024
00:33:07
On this week's episode, Arden Cartrette, @themiscarriagedoula and Kayleigh have a deep dive conversation into the specific care of being a miscarriage doula. Arden shares about her own experiences of recurrent loss and the support she offers other families experiencing miscarriage and loss, especially those who go on to have subsequent pregnancies after loss.
What you will hear on this episode: - what being a miscarriage doula means and the unique space of work it is - nuances of support for miscarriage and loss - the intersection of trauma and loss - support for pregnancy after loss - advice for those experiencing recurrent loss - the benefits of EMDR and loss
Guest Bio: Arden Cartrette is a Birth & Bereavement Doula that focuses on pregnancy loss care and education. She founded The Miscarriage Doula in December 2020 following the birth of her first of two living children and after her experience with infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and navigating the fertility medical support space. You can find Arden on Instagram by following @themiscarriagedoula.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 71: Back to Back Gestational Hypertension, Preeclampsia, and C-Section feat. Alisa
08 Feb 2024
00:31:03
On this week's episode of our Listener Stories Series, Alisa joins us to share her experience. Alisa is a LCSW who worked as a social worker for the local children's hospital. She shares about her experiences with both her premature daughter and full-term son and how healing is still a journey 8 years later.
What you will hear on this episode: - Advanced maternal age - Rheumatoid arthritis in trimester one - Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia - 25-day NICU stay - Subsequent pregnancy with preeclampsia
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 70: Birth Trauma & Its Subjectivity Part 2
05 Feb 2024
00:42:10
On this week's episode, we welcome back Allison Kuhr to continue sharing her experience and healing process.
What you will hear on this episode: - Navigating trauma as a therapist - EMDR as a trauma treatment - Finding a therapist as a therapist - Allison's advice on preparing for a subsequent pregnancy after trauma - Hope in healing after trauma
Guest Bio: Allison Kuhr is a licensed professional clinical counselor based in Northwest Ohio and is passionate about creating a space to help people sit with and sort through life’s challenges in a way that feels authentic and supportive but most of all, feel guided to help reach their fullest potential.
Allison has always been a helper and feels most fulfilled when serving others.
She has spent many hours on both sides of the therapy couch, which inspired my journey to become a mental health therapist.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
On this week's listener series episode, we welcome Valerie. Valerie shares her journey with pregnancy and birth as a Type 1 Diabetic. Everything went smoothly until 2 days after discharge, when Valerie started to feel unwell. She shares how her family navigated a hospital stay postpartum and her second homecoming.
What you will hear on this episode: - Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes - Preeclampsia diagnosis at 32 weeks - Induction and vacuum birth - Postpartum readmission - Microvascular angina - Postpartum while recovering from complications
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 68: Birth Trauma & Its Subjectivity Part 1
29 Jan 2024
00:38:35
On today's episode, Allison Kuhr of Through Counseling joins us to talk about her personal experience with birth trauma and the impact it has had on all 3 of her births, as well as her expertise as a perinatal therapist. Join us next week as we continue the conversation in part 2!
On this episode, you will hear: - strange color fluids - Meconium - Nubane followed by an epidural - disappointment and unmet expectations - feeling disconnected during nursing and feeding - subsequent pregnancies after birth trauma - EMDR - precipitous birth - shoulder dystocia - extreme postpartum hemorrhage - support of a doula
Guest Bio: Allison Kuhr is a licensed professional clinical counselor based in Northwest Ohio and is passionate about creating a space to help people sit with and sort through life’s challenges in a way that feels authentic and supportive but most of all, feel guided to help reach their fullest potential.
Allison has always been a helper and feels most fulfilled when serving others.
She has spent many hours on both sides of the therapy couch, which inspired my journey to become a mental health therapist.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 165: Delayed Bonding After Birth Trauma
13 May 2025
00:29:22
In this re-release, Kayleigh revisits one of the most listened-to solo episodes of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast: a personal and validating exploration of what it means to struggle with bonding after a traumatic birth.
We’re often told that the “golden hour” will be the most magical moment of our lives, that love will overflow the second our baby is placed on our chest. But for many trauma survivors, that moment never comes. Instead, we're left navigating guilt, shame, and confusion about why bonding didn’t look the way we were told it would.
Drawing from her own experience waking up in the ICU days after birth, Kayleigh speaks honestly about what it’s like to feel disconnected from your baby, how grief and trauma interrupt bonding, and why delayed connection doesn’t make you a bad parent.
In this episode, you’ll hear: 💔 The myths of the “golden hour” and the pressure to bond immediately 🧠 How birth trauma, ICU stays, and NICU separation impact bonding 💬 The internal dialogue so many parents carry: “What’s wrong with me?” 🍼 Gentle, practical ways to support connection, when you’re ready 🧘 Why delayed bonding is common, valid, and not your fault 💜 Hope for healing and the reminder that bonding is built over time
This episode is for anyone who has ever felt alone in their struggle to connect and needs to hear that they are doing better than they think.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 67: Uterine Atony, Severe Hemmohrage, and Dialysis feat. Hannah
25 Jan 2024
00:37:53
On this week's listener episode, Hannah joins us to share her story. Hannah's starts with her pregnancy at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 and continues through her second pregnancy with her daughter in 2023.
In this episode: - Pregnancy during a pandemic - Uterine atony leading to Hemmohrage - Extended hospitalization - Postpartum Dialysis - Postpartum Depression - Subsequent pregnancy after birth trauma
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 66: Jen Hamilton: Birth Trauma & The L&D Nurse
22 Jan 2024
00:58:44
On this week's episode, we are thrilled to welcome Jen Hamilton, an L&D nurse that shares openly on TikTok and Instagram about her profession, birth trauma, her chickens, and much much more. Jen uses her platform to educate nurses and patients on labor and delivery as well as preventing and mitigating birth trauma. She is an incredible advocate and is changing the landscape of L&D nursing.
What you'll fins in this episode: - “It’s ok to be scared, because I’m not.” - Providing both truth and reassurance in L&D - The importance of first interactions in patient care - The importance of a debrief with patients - The importance of taking photos/video - Accepting accountability in birth trauma - The racist beginnings of gynecology - Birth plans and how to communicate in a collaborative way
Guest Bio: Jen Hamilton is a social media creator from North Carolina who accidentally found herself with over 3 million followers online. She is a wife, a labor & delivery nurse, and a mom and is unafraid of sharing herself authentically which has allowed her to connect with so many people online who crave real. She has been featured in the New York Times, NY Post, Daily Mail, Yahoo, The Sun, and many more. She is a board-certified labor & delivery nurse and is passionate about reducing birth trauma, reducing maternal mortality, and reducing trauma for bereaved families who lose babies perinatally. She has two indoor chickens who wear diapers, named Mayonnaise and Grits, and two little boys who love those chickens named Ellis and Luke. She is married to her college sweetheart, Brian, who is also a nurse.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 65: A New Year: Reflecting on 2023
18 Jan 2024
00:40:52
On this week's listener episode, Hannah joins us to share about her experience.
Here is what you will hear on this episode: - getting pregnant at the beginning of COVID - considered a cesarian section to avoid an emergency situation - hemorrhaging during the c-section - mass transfusion protocol - international radiologist and being in the ICU - failed kidneys and on dialysis for a couple months - post partum depression - not being able to see her son
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 64: Navigating The Holidays After Birth Trauma
29 Nov 2023
00:37:10
On this week's episode, Kayleigh talks about birth trauma and navigating the holidays.
Things you will hear on this episode: - navigating first holidays after trauma - dealing with an anniversary of trauma that is - family conversations, establishing boundaries
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 63: Compounding Complications feat. Hannah
27 Nov 2023
00:40:22
On this week's listener story, we welcome Hannah to share her story. Hannah and her wife had a fairly healthy pregnancy but she experienced what she refers to as serial complications during and after the birth of their daughter.
Things you will hear on this episode: - Induction and long labor - 3B tear due to a laceration - Struggling to bond - Breastfeeding challenges - Deep vein thrombosis - Postpartum Depression - Small bilateral pulmonary emboli - Developing mastitis and a UTI - postpartum D&C - Experiencing CDIF postpartum - Finding a birth trauma therapist
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 62: A Hope for Patient-Centered Collaborative Care with Dr. Nicole Rankins
16 Nov 2023
00:38:51
On this week's episode, Dr. Nicole Rankins joins us on the podcast! She is a board-certified OBGYN and incredible educator with her own podcast, All About Pregnancy and Birth. This episode discusses the current trends in birth education and preparation, specifically the ways this community has become polarized and approaches to bridge that gap for patient-centered collaborative care.
Here's what you will hear on this episode: - Dr. Rankins' approach to OBGYN care - History of the transition from midwifery to hospital birth care - The battle for trust in OBGYN care - Supporting families to make decisions that are best for them - The need for overall improved care in the OBGYN field *There is mention of maternal death in this episode
A board-certified, practicing OB/GYN, wife, mom, and podcast host, here to help you get calm, confident, and empowered to have the beautiful birth you deserve.
She's delivered more than 1,000 babies and have demystified childbirth for thousands more through her 5-star rated All About Pregnancy & Birth podcast (over 2 million downloads), and her online birth plan and childbirth education classes.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
On this week's episode, Nicolette joins us on the podcast to share her story. Nicolette is an L&D nurse who survived a splenic artery aneurysm rupture during the birth of her second child. She shares what it was like for her and her son to survive an often fatal complication and also how she returned to work at the exact place where her trauma occurred.
Here's what you will hear on this episode: - A healthy pregnancy turned maternal near miss - Perspective of experiencing birth trauma on the unit where you work - Experiencing an emergency C-section under general anesthesia - Struggling to bond after birth trauma - Navigating intrusive negative thoughts - Fighting for short-term disability for more time to recover - Returning to work at the place where the trauma occurred
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 60: Community Building in Motherhood
08 Nov 2023
00:49:50
This week, we are joined by Shanice and Brenda, cofounders of the motherhood community, Orbit. Shanice and Brenda bring the perfect blend of levity and support to the motherhood space, which helps create community and connection during such a vulnerable time.
Here's what you will hear on this episode: - Founding Orbit - Navigating Covid lockdown and how it impacted parenthood - Connecting as humans first - Events hosted by Orbit - Navigating birth and postpartum care as a black woman. - Advocating for yourself during birth and postpartum - Navigating mom-guilt
You can learn more about Orbit and follow along or join their community on Instagram: @becomeorbit
Guest Bios:
Shanice and Brenda are two best friends who co-founded Orbit, a space for women to connect through storytelling. Over the past year or so that has now evolved to include creating experiences in and out of the workplace for corporate partners with women in mind and creating and delivering experiences for brands. We work towards women feeling seen, heard and valued in all aspects of their lives.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
As we continue part 2 of Tracy's story, we dive into the high-risk pregnancy and delivery of her daughter.
What you will hear on this episode: - Placenta Accreta Spectrum - Navigating a subsequent birth & pregnancy after trauma and loss - The importance of a trauma-informed care team - Postpartum hospital readmission - Bonding after birth trauma
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 58: Hope For HIE
31 Oct 2023
00:40:54
On this week's episode, Betsy Pilon joins us from the Hope for HIE Foundation. Betsy and Hope For HIE have provided such impactful support and resources for thousands of families facing the diagnosis of HIE.
Here's what you will hear on this episode: - What is HIE? - Founding Hope for HIE - Betsy's birth experience and NICU journey with her son who was diagnosed with HIE - Resources provided by Hope for HIE - How to cope with an HIE diagnosis
Guest Bio:
Betsy Pilon is the Executive Director of Hope for HIE, the premiere global nonprofit patient advocacy group dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and families impacted by neonatal and pediatric-acquired Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy through awareness, education and support. Hope for HIE connects over 9,000 families, researchers, clinicians and the greater community, worldwide, through a comprehensive support network.
After her own son, Max, was born in 2012 with HIE, it was difficult to find educational resources or connections with other families. Eventually, she found a small group of families gathering on social media. Working with the existing group, she led the efforts to start the grassroots nonprofit foundation in 2013. As a result, Facebook recognized her in 2019 as one of the top community leaders on the platform for building community.
She is an accomplished speaker, writer, advocate, and connector with a background in marketing and corporate communication in healthcare, education and automotive. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Newborn Brain Society, co-chairing the Communication & Networking Committee, as well as many neonatal and neurology-related workgroups, task forces, and committees elevating the lived experiences of the HIE community through patient advocacy.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 164: Through The Eyes Of A Nurse: A Stillbirth That Changed Everything feat. Allison
08 May 2025
00:49:01
In this powerful Listener Series episode, we sit down with Allison, a dedicated labor and delivery nurse whose own experience as a health care provider turned her world upside down. As an L&D nurse who spent her days supporting others through birth, Allison never imagined she would experience trauma firsthand on the other side of the bed.
Allison's story highlights the unique challenges of health care worker trauma and the long path to reclaiming safety, identity, and healing after trauma.
In this episode, we discuss:
The emotional complexity of processing trauma in the workplace
The disconnect between clinical knowledge and lived experience
How birth trauma impacts nurses differently, and similarly, to patients
The path to mental health support and advocacy after trauma
Whether you’re a birth worker, a trauma survivor, or someone seeking to better understand the emotional layers of maternal health, this episode will leave you feeling seen, informed, and deeply moved.
💛 Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of stillbirth, birth trauma and medical emergencies. Please care for yourself while listening.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 57: Part 1: Stillbirth, Medical Trauma, & Secondary Infertility feat. Tracy
30 Oct 2023
00:26:11
Tracy joins us on the podcast to share her story in a two-part episode. In Part 1, Tracy shares the story of her stillbirth with her daughter Addison. Tracy vulnerably shares the many layers of the trauma that surrounded Addison's birth, her own near-death experience and postpartum without a living baby during the height of COVID.
Here is what you will hear on this episode: - Induction experience after discovering her - Traumatic stillbirth delivery - Excessive postpartum hemorrhage leading to DIC and 16 transfusions - Advocating for trauma-informed care - Trauma of a maternal near-miss - Experiencing emergency surgeries while conscious - Postpartum care during COVID - Secondary infertility and Asherman Syndrome
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For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 56: Trying Softer After Perinatal Trauma with Aundi Kolber
24 Oct 2023
00:52:47
On this week's episode of the podcast, Aundi Kolber, an author and a licensed therapist joins us. Aundi has a unique way of articulating comfort one can find through processing trauma.
Here's what you will hear on this episode: - Aundi's journey as a therapist - Aundi's books Try Softer and Strong Like Water - The Window of Tolerance and honoring it - What it means to survive and the purpose it can serve - Societal expectations as a mom/woman and how that impacts trauma - Learning how to honor your own experience - Complex trauma versus shock/single incidence trauma - Welcoming self-compassion and internal softness as a resource
Guest Bio:
Aundi Kolber is a licensed professional counselor (LPC), speaker, and author of the groundbreaking book Try Softer and its companion, The Try Softer Guided Journey. Aundi is the owner of Kolber Counseling, LLC, established in 2009. She has received additional training in her specialization of trauma- and body-centered therapies, including the highly researched and regarded eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Aundi is passionate about the integration of faith and psychology, and is a sought-after expert in both faith and secular settings. She regularly speaks at local and national events, and she has appeared on Good Morning America as well as podcasts such as The Lazy Geniuswith Kendra Adachi, Typology, and The Next Right Thing with Emily P. Freeman. Aundi reaches an audience numbering in the tens of thousands via email and social media. You can find her at @aundikolber on Instagram and Twitter or on her website at aundikolber.com.
As a survivor of trauma and a lifelong learner, Aundi brings hard-won knowledge around the work of change, the power of redemption, and the beauty of experiencing God with us in our pain. After years of longing to be closer to water, she and her family relocated from the majestic mountains of Colorado to the stunning lakes of Michigan. She is happily married to her best friend, Brendan, and is the proud mom of Matia and Jude.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Hannah joins us on this week's Listener Series episode to share her story. Hannah shares her journey to motherhood which began with a miscarriage that deeply impacted her experience of pregnancy and birth moving forward. Hannah then experienced a complicated subsequent pregnancy with her son that included hyperemesis gravidarum and preeclampsia. Hannah vulnerably shares her experience of obstetric violence and the impact it had on her experience of the birth of her son, as well as how she coped in postpartum.
Things you will hear on this episode: - Hyperemisis Gravidarum - switching providers - obstetric violence, assault by a provider - Preeclampsia diagnosis - hemorrhaging after delivery - holding providers accountable - Hannah's recovery process and her healing journey after her birth trauma - navigating memory loss and PTSD - the comparison of trauma
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 54: Using Your Voice: Advocacy After Birth Trauma with Momma's Voices
17 Oct 2023
00:25:04
Nicole Purnell from Momma's Voices joins us on the podcast this week. Nicole shares her birth story from 18 years ago, which served as her motivation for getting involved in maternal health advocacy. Nicole experienced Preeclampsia & HELLP syndrome which led to a placenta abruption and the stillbirth of her son at 34 weeks. Five years ago, after many years of volunteering with the Preeclampsia Foundation, Nicole left her corporate job to work for Momma's Voices.
Things you will hear in this episode: -Momma's Voices, giving survivors a voice in their experience -Connecting with others who have experienced the impact of birth trauma -Providing support work through an altruistic lens -How to get involved with Momma's Voices -Tips on how to share your story
You can learn more about Momma's Voices and how to get involved and support them by following their instagram: @mommasvoices
Guest Bio
Nicole Purnell is the Program Director at Momma's Voices, the first ever maternal health patient advocacy coalition. Nicole shares her story of preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome which resulted in a placental abruption and the stillbirth of her son at 34 weeks. This led Nicole to become a maternal health advocate and has been doing incredible work in this space for the last 15 years.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 53: Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, Fetal Surgery, And Enduring the Loss of a Twin feat. Bailee
16 Oct 2023
00:30:57
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Bailee, who experienced Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, fetal surgery, and the loss of her son, Everett.
Bailee shares the story of her twin boys Everett and Wells, who were monochorionic twins, and required fetal surgery at 21 weeks due to Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome. She delivered her twin boys just past 32 weeks and they spent several weeks in the NICU. The morning after their car seat checks, Everett's health quickly declined and he wasn’t able to recover. Everett died on July 4th, 2022. He has forever left an impact on those who loved and cared for him.
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form!
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 52: Treating Perinatal Trauma: A Candid Conversation
11 Oct 2023
00:52:56
Abigail Barth, MSW, RSW, PMH-C is a therapist with expertise and lived experience in perinatal trauma and grief. She joins Kayleigh for a very candid but deep conversation about all things perinatal trauma, including a broad overview of treatment options and what it means to be a perinatal trauma therapist with your own lived experience.
Things you will hear on this episode: -Defining and understanding narrative therapy -Defining and understanding creative arts therapies -Societal expectations and pressures related to the perinatal period. -The power of language in the perinatal space. - Providing therapeutic support to perinatal trauma survivors as a survivor yourself
Guest Bio:
Abigail Barth, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, is a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, trauma, and grief/loss. Her unique approach encourages clients to reclaim their story, and themselves through creativity and social justice.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 51: Placental Abruption, Neonatal Death, & High-Risk Pregnancy After Loss feat. Julia
08 Oct 2023
00:38:13
On this week's Listener Series episode, Julia shares about the loss of her second baby, Rosalind, as a result of placental abruption. Julia experienced a PPH and her daughter required resuscitation. After transferring to another NICU for cooling treatment, it was determined that Rosalind did not have any brain activity. She was alive for just over 21 hours.
Julia shares about the impact of Rosalind's loss, specifically on her mental health, and the challenge of navigating postpartum without her baby. Julia and her husband decided to have another child after Rosalind, and she also shares what it was like to navigate a high-risk pregnancy after loss.
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form!
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 50: The Adalyn Rose Foundation: Hope & Support After Loss
03 Oct 2023
00:54:56
The Adalyn Rose Foundation was created in 2019 on what would have been Chloe and Adam Ciferri's daughter's second birthday. Chloe was having a seemingly normal pregnancy with her daughter Adayln, until about 20 weeks. Chloe and her husband were moving into a new home when Chloe's health began to decline. Chloe was admitted to the hospital and when she asked to hear Adalyn's heartbeat, there wasn't one.
The Adalyn Rose Foundation serves families grieving the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or during infancy. They walk families through every step of life after baby loss, from the first moments and all those that follow.
Adalyn Rose Foundation is going NATIONWIDE in 2024!!
You can learn more about the Adalyn Rose Foundation and the events, fundraising and resources they provide by visiting their website: https://adalynrose.org/ You can find the Adalyn Rose Foundation on Instagram: @adalynrosefoundation
Guest Bio:
Chloe Ciferri created the Adalyn Rose Foundation with her husband in honor of their daughter, Adalyn, who they lost unexpectedly during pregnancy. She strives to create a community of support for families who have experienced the devastation of baby loss. Chloe was a Special Education teacher for many years, until resigning to work at the foundation and stay home with Addie’s brothers and sister. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Special and Elementary Education, and her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. She most recently received her certificate in Non-Profit Leadership from Lasalle University. Aside from the work she does to support baby loss families, she is also passionate about Foster Care. Chloe enjoys spending time with family and going on family adventures with Adam, TJ, Enzo and Elle.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 49: A View From Inside the NICU: A Nurse’s Perspective
27 Sep 2023
00:39:16
On this week's episode, we are joined by Nurse Tori BSN RNC-NIC. Tori is a NICU nurse who shares openly on social media. Tori went directly from graduation into a level 4 NICU and has worked in NICUs for 10 years.
Things you will hear about on this episode: - Differences between NICU levels. - The importance of getting to know your team in the NICU. - Communication in the NICU. - Personalizing your space in the NICU to help make it feel more comfortable. - Good preemie clothing brands. - Journaling to your baby . - Coping with an intense work environment. - The importance of self-care as a NICU parent.
Guest Bio:
Nurse Tori Meskin is a Registered Nurse with over 8 years of nursing experience specializing in neonatal and pediatric critical care and has served as a specialty NICU & Pediatric Critical Care trained nurse serving patients in the Los Angles and Orange County areas providing direct patient care, leadership, consultation, education and patient care management expertise for the complex neonatal & pediatric patient populations. She has worked for Children’s Hospitals and University Hospitals in Level IV NICU, Trauma I centers, and consulting centers. As a new nurse, she completed a 20-week RN Versant Residency Program. She is trained to work in specialized areas; Small Baby Unit, Body Cooling Team, & Surgical NICU (Cardiothoracic, Gastrointestinal, Neurosurgical, & Congenital anomalies etc.)
Tori graduated from The University of Arizona (beardown) with a dual major in Nursing and Psychology. Currently, Tori is obtaining a Master’s Degree in Nursing Leadership sharpening leadership skills, enhancing research expertise, driving evidence-based research forward, and becoming a true leader in this space.
You can find Nurse Tori on Instagram: @nurse.tori_
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 48: PPROM, Placental Abruption, NICU Stay, and Switching Providers feat. Ingrid
25 Sep 2023
00:31:34
On this episode, Ingrid joins us to share her birth trauma and NICU journey. Ingird experienced PPROM and placental abruption which led to an emergency c-section under GA, while also forcing her to switch providers in the midst of all this chaos. Her son spent 147 days in the NICU, 40 of those on a ventilator.
Ingrid shares about her change in identity after becoming a mom to a medically complex child and leaving her career to be a full-time care provider. Ingrid also touches on the importance of advocacy and trusting your gut when things don't feel right.
If you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form!
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 163: Not Ungrateful, Just Traumatized
06 May 2025
00:24:53
In this Mini Series episode, I dive into a nuanced conversation around gratitude practices for perinatal trauma survivors. While gratitude can be a powerful tool for healing, it often becomes complicated when paired with the experiences of trauma, grief, and loss.
Whether you’ve felt pressure to “just be grateful” or are searching for ways to reconnect with yourself and your story, this episode offers validation and actionable insight.
🔑 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
The challenges of embracing gratitude after birth trauma
Why traditional gratitude practices can feel dismissive for survivors
How to reframe gratitude to honor your trauma and truth
Making space for both/and: joy, pain, grief, and healing
Giving yourself permission to feel your full experience
Explore resources for birth trauma survivors and trauma-informed care
If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find this supportive space. 💜
Pugach CP, May CL, Wisco BE. Positive emotion in posttraumatic stress disorder: A global or context-specific problem? J Trauma Stress. 2023 Apr;36(2):444-456. doi: 10.1002/jts.22928. Epub 2023 Mar 29. PMID: 36987701; PMCID: PMC10101918.
Korem N, Duek O, Ben-Zion Z, Kaczkurkin AN, Lissek S, Orederu T, Schiller D, Harpaz-Rotem I, Levy I. Emotional numbing in PTSD is associated with lower amygdala reactivity to pain. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2022 Oct;47(11):1913-1921. doi: 10.1038/s41386-022-01405-2. Epub 2022 Aug 9. PMID: 35945274; PMCID: PMC9485255.
Litz BT, Litz BT, Gray MJ. Emotional Numbing in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Current and Future Research Directions. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry. 2002;36(2):198-204. doi:10.1046/j.1440-1614.2002.01002.x
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 47: Advocacy & Support After Infertility, Loss, HELLP & 2x NICU Stay
21 Sep 2023
00:50:56
On this episode, Ebony Ford joins us and shares her journey through infertility, loss, and birth trauma. While pregnant, Ebony was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome which put her in acute liver and kidney failure. Her traumatic, near death birth story and her daughter's NICU journey birthed a passion for advocacy and mentoring.
Kayleigh and Ebony discuss the importance of advocacy and support plans especially when considering a subsequent pregnancy and delivery after birth trauma, like Ebony experienced with her son.
Ebony Ford is a 32 year old Washington DC native. She is the proud wife of Ryan Ford, gospel artist and mother to her pride and joy, her daughter Reign Victoria. Ebony received her Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Certificate in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University and is currently pursuing her Masters degree in Forensic Psychology. She hopes that her education and personal experience will allow her to open her own practice and specialize in near death experiences, more specifically birth trauma.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 46: Monochorionic Twins & Navigating the Loss of a Twin in the NICU feat. Mollie
18 Sep 2023
00:43:20
On this week's listener episode, Mollie joins us to share her birth trauma and NICU journey. Mollie is the mother to identical twin girls who shared one placenta. From the first appointment, Mollie was considered a high risk pregnancy with the expectation to have a cesarian section and prepared to have an early arrival. The twins had a discrepancy in their size in utero.
At 25 weeks, the twins blood flow was significantly impacted from sharing one placenta. Mollie was admitted to labor and delivery, the babies were healthy but the blood flow was a continuing concern.
At 26 weeks, Mollie's water broke and she was bleeding so she was rushed into an emergent c-section. Her daughters were born (Veronica) 1lb 7oz and (Athena) 2lbs 1oz and were rushed to the NICU. Mollie shares about her struggle to bonding after birth and navigating feelings of disconnection.
Nearly two weeks after her daughters were born, their daughter Athena was in critical condition. Athena's body had started to shut down and there was nothing that could be done. The first time Mollie was able to hold Athena was in Athena's final moments. Mollie shares about what grieving a loss of a twin in the NICU is like while trying to balance taking care of the surviving twin still in the NICU.
Veronica was in the NICU for 130 days and went home with many therapies and interventions still needed.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 45: NICU - A Dual Perspective
14 Sep 2023
00:30:59
Dr. Jess Daigle, MD FAAP, joins us for a conversation on the NICU as both a pediatrician and NICU mom herself. Dr. Jess shares her journey to becoming a pediatrician in the NICU and the impact her own loss and NICU experiences had on that decision.
Things you will hear on this episode: - Care and communication to parents of NICU babies. - Building a NICU Trauma-Informed Care Program within her community. - Navigating pregnancy and birth after previous traumas. - Breastfeeding journeys after trauma.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 44: C-Section Under GA & NICU Stay Due to Severe Gestational Hypertension feat. Heather
11 Sep 2023
00:47:22
On this week's listener episode, Kayleigh is joined by Heather - who you heard from on Episode 1 of this season. Heather is The Birth Trauma Mama's project manager and shares her birth trauma experience and NICU journey.
Heather and her husband live in Arkansas and got pregnant with their daughter in January 2022. She had a healthy pregnancy up until week 32 when her blood pressure skyrocketed and had to be monitored for two weeks. Heather delivered at 34 weeks via cesarian section and the procedure didn't go as planned.
Her daughter spent 24 days in the NICU and Heather shares about the marathon they were thrown into while recovering from delivery. She also shares about the process of coming home and coming to terms with everything they had experienced.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 43: Community & Connection with Dear NICU Mama
07 Sep 2023
00:55:14
On this episode, Kayleigh is joined by Ashley and Martha of the non-profit Dear NICU Mama as we kick off NICU Awareness Month. Dear NICU Mama is a nonprofit and global community that provides immediate peer support through diverse programs and services. Founded and led by NICU mothers, they strive to be a safe, trauma-informed community where past and present NICU families know that they don’t walk alone.
Things you will hear on this episode: - Dear NICU Mama and their mission - A brief recap of both Ashley and Martha's birth and NICU stories. They each have episodes of their full journeys on their Dear NICU Mama Podcast. - Hope and it's impact in birth trauma and NICU journeys. - The power of community and connection. - The concept of lifelong healing. - Joy and grief coexisting in the same space. - Discovering the post NICU version of yourself
You can find Dear NICU Mama on Instagram and Facebook: @dearnicumama Visit their website here.
Guest Bios: Ashley Ham is married to her hottie hubs Ry, and mama to her 28 week miracle babe. Spent 87 days in the NICU and is passionate about connecting and bringing other NICU mamas together!
Martha Mink is a mom to 25 week angel baby, JP, and 28 week kiddo, JJ, who spent 47 days in the NICU. Dedicated to maternal mental health advocacy (especially NICU Mamas), infant-loss grief support, and self-compassion.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 42: Unexpected, Full Term NICU Stay Due To Meconium feat. Lindsey
31 Aug 2023
00:36:49
Welcome to the official launch of our Listener Stories series! You can find a new episode every Monday. For the month of September, we will be highlighting several NICU journeys as it's NICU Awareness Month
In this episode, we welcome Lindsey, from Arkansas. Lindsey’s story begins with her miscarriage and the anxiety that followed with her pregnancy after loss. Her second pregnancy was healthy up until delivery and therefore she was not expecting complications or the 21 day NICU stay that ensued.
Their NICU journey began when their daughter aspirated meconium during delivery. Lindsey shares her experience of pregnancy after loss as well as the challenges of postpartum recovery while in the NICU learning how to care for her daughter. Lindsey also shares her difficult experience with breastfeeding including a diagnosis of D-MER.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 41: Birth Trauma Recovery: Four Years In
31 Aug 2023
00:45:01
Welcome to SEASON TWO! We have a lot of exciting things to share with you for this season. You will hear a new voice on this episode - Heather has joined Kayleigh and The Birth Trauma Mama as a Project Manager. We start off the episode with a review of the highlights from season one and our gratitude for the support and impact of this podcast. We couldn't have done that without YOU listening!
At the end of the episode, there is an exciting reveal for this season of the podcast.
In this episode, Kayleigh and Heather talk about what it has been like for Kayleigh being four years into her birth trauma experience. Kayleigh's birth trauma and her son's birthday just so happen to line up with Birth Trauma Awareness each year.
Questions and topics you will hear answers to on this episode are: - What surprised you the most about being four years in? - Anniversaries and how they have changed year to year. - How have you handled schedules and "clock-watching" around birth trauma anniversaries? - How often do you think about your birth trauma? - How do you accept or grieve the loss of fertility? And how has that changed over time? - Thoughts on the phrase "time heals all wounds". - Navigating conversations with people who are pregnant and talking about birth. - Honoring your story - What is one thing you would tell someone in the thick of birth trauma?
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 40: Birth Trauma: A Whole Body Event
27 Jul 2023
00:48:37
Morgan Bradwell, Licensed Therapist (LICSW), joins me to talk about trauma as a whole-body event, including the role of the body and nervous system as a communicator, especially after trauma. Morgan specializes in perinatal mental health and sexual trauma. She believes we all make sense in the context of what we've been through. And I could not agree with her more. This is an information-packed episode and one you do not want to miss!
In this episode, you will hear: - Morgan's journey from cognitive to somatic-based approaches - trauma as a whole person event - the role of mindfulness and regulation in trauma healing - the role of the amygdala in our stress response - temporary stress response protocols: fight/flight/freeze/fawn - how trauma overloads the stress response system - the window of tolerance - hyper and hypo-arousal states - gentle ways to begin incorporating mindfulness into your daily life
Guest Bio:
Morgan is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker on the Alabama Gulf Coast. She is passionate about women’s wellness, trauma recovery, & perinatal mental health. Morgan is a firm believer that we all make sense in the context of what we’ve been through. As an EMDR provider, a certified perinatal mental health specialist, & a certified clinical trauma specialist with advanced training & experience in the area of sexual trauma, Morgan’s approach to individual therapy is trauma-informed & whole-person oriented. In her spare time, you can find Morgan sipping cinnamon lattes, having dance parties with her toddler, & running her psychoeducational Instagram account @the.caffeinated.therapist.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 39: Birth Trauma Awareness Week: Healing After Birth Trauma
19 Jul 2023
00:45:01
Kim Thomas, CEO of Birth Trauma Association UK, joins me to talk about Birth Trauma Awareness Week, the assumptions society places on the birthing parent and the partner in recovery and postpartum, the concept of healing through a both/and mentality, and that healing is still possible for those who have not been given the space to heal and process a birth trauma no matter how many years have passed.
In this episode you will hear: - what Birth Trauma Association UK is and how it's started and grown - BTA UK support offerings for the birth trauma community - Birth Trauma Awareness week theme of healing #helpingmeheal - healing the family unit vs. the individual - the impact of birth trauma on the family relationships - survivor/partner guilt - navigating birthdays after birth trauma - making space for healing no matter how long ago your trauma occurred
Guest Bio:
Kim Thomas is our CEO at The Birth Trauma Association UK. She is a freelance journalist specializing in healthcare, social care, and education. In 2013 she published Birth Trauma, a guide aimed at helping women experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder after a difficult birth.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 38: Sex & Intimacy After Birth Trauma
29 Jun 2023
01:11:22
Rachel Wright, LMFT, joins me to talk about the impact of birth and birth trauma on sex and intimacy. She answers all of your questions related to navigating intimacy and sex with a partner and yourself after birth trauma. This is a must-listen-to episode full of wonderful nuggets and concrete suggestions for approaching intimacy after birth trauma.
In this episode you will hear: - Communicating needs and boundaries with your partner - Approaching/initiating intimacy after birth trauma - Intimacy and pleasure outside of sex - Planning out intimacy with yourself and your partner - Body image concerns after birth trauma is it relates to intimacy - The impact of physical changes on intimacy and pleasure
Guest Bio:
Rachel Wright, MA, LMFT (she/her) is a distinguished psychotherapist and renowned speaker with expertise in modern relationships, mental health, and sex. Her mission is to help people live happier, healthier lives by providing insights and practical advice in a relatable and engaging way.
With a Master’s Degree in clinical psychology, Rachel has worked with thousands of clients worldwide, earning a reputation for her empathetic and humorous approach. Her message has resonated with audiences on stages across the globe, as well as on her podcast, The Wright Conversations - A Podcast About Sex, Relationships, & Mental Health. With over 45k downloads, the podcast has garnered widespread attention and featured interviews with experts in sex, relationships, mental health, and their intersections.
As a widely recognized mental health and relationship expert, Rachel has been featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, PIX 11 (NYC), Women’s Health (online and print), Cosmopolitan (online and print) and NBC News Radio, among others. Rachel's personal touch, sense of humor, and deep empathy make her the perfect guide for anyone seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, and sexual well-being. When she's not working, you can probably find her in her pajamas, eatin
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 162: IVF, Preeclampsia & a Failed Spinal Block with a NICU Stay feat. Megan
01 May 2025
00:39:29
In this week’s Listener Series episode, I sit down with Megan to explore the layered and emotional journey of holding both immense gratitude and deep grief. After years of infertility, a traumatic ectopic pregnancy, and two rounds of IVF, Megan finally became pregnant with her miracle baby, but her story didn’t end there.
What followed was a high-risk pregnancy marked by preeclampsia, a NICU stay, and a traumatic C-section that left Megan under general anesthesia, missing the birth of her son. In this powerful conversation, Megan shares the duality of her experience, the joy of finally becoming a parent, and the trauma of how it unfolded.
In this episode, you’ll hear about: 🩺 Megan’s IVF and infertility journey 💔 The trauma of a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy ⚠️ Developing preeclampsia and being hospitalized at 34 weeks 🩻 An emergency C-section under general anesthesia after failed spinal and ketamine 👶 Meeting her baby in the NICU for the first time from a hospital bed 🧠 Processing PTSD, flashbacks, and ongoing triggers 💬 The importance of therapy, storytelling, and self-compassion in healing 🌈 What it’s like to consider future pregnancy after trauma
Talk therapy, PTSD support, and NICU family support services
🎧 Tune in now wherever you listen to podcasts, and please subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help more families feel seen, supported, and not alone. 💜
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 37: Nobody Told Me About That: Self-Advocacy & Maternal Near Miss
22 Jun 2023
01:07:16
Casey Cattell and Dr. Ginger Breedlove, co-authers of Nobody Told Me About That: Surviving and Thriving the Early Weeks of Parenting, join me on this episode to discuss the newly released 2nd Edition of their book, as well as navigating life after birth trauma. Their 2nd Edition brings realistic examples and insight from experts. Casey and Ginger share some of their highlighted topics and the importance of advocating for yourself, your family, and your community - in that order.
On this episode, you will hear:
-The difference in maternal health care between America and other nations. -Casey's maternal near miss story including Bilateral Pulmonary Emboli and PPH. - Ginger's traumatic breastfeeding story, including how it resurfaced during her daughter-in-law's postpartum experience. -The common experience of shame and denial in asking for medical help. -The little things providers can do that play a big role in the trajectory of healing. -Highlighted topics in the 2nd Edition: bringing baby home to pets, navigating balance, and finding your postpartum voice. -Covid isolation and the impact it has on postpartum recovery. -Becoming an advocate in the birth trauma and maternal near-miss space.
Dr. Breedlove is a past president of the American College of Nurse-Midwives and has led many national initiatives to address and improve perinatal health in the United States. In 2017 she formed a consulting company Grow Midwives LLC that has expanded to include GM Billing & Recovery Services. She is a widely published author in numerous journals and publications, national speaker, and has received over $5 million dollars as principal investigator in grant-funded projects related to health care for women. In 2017 she co-founded March for Moms with Dr. Neel Shah, serving as President six years. In 2018 Dr. Breedlove edited and launched a best-selling book for new parents titled, Nobody Told Me About That! The 2nd Ed., newly titled, Nobody Told Me About That, Surviving and Thriving Through the Early Weeks of Parenting was published in April 2023.
Casey Cattell is a biochemist who shifted into freelance patient advocacy after surviving two near-misses related to her first pregnancy. She has worked alongside many organizations such as ACOG, AWHONN and serves as a member of her state’s Perinatal Quality Collaborative in addition to working alongside her local hospital. She has shared her story with many publications, including ProPublica, The New York Times and was featured on the Empowered Health Podcast. Casey facilitates an online peer
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 36: Anesthesia and Birth Trauma: Ineffective Pain Relief
08 Jun 2023
01:15:01
Dr. Vibha Mahendra, a board-certified Obstetric Anesthesiologist, joins me on this episode to discuss anesthesia options during labor and delivery and why they are sometimes ineffective, potentially leading to trauma for the patient. Dr. M also provides insight into how providers can problem-solve these pain relief issues and communicate with patients in a way that mitigates trauma. This was such an insightful conversation and I think does a great job educating the patient in a way that puts them in a better position to advocate or communicate with their support people to advocate for pain relief.
On this episode, you will hear:
-What is OB Anesthesia? -What’s in an epidural? -Differences between a spinal block and an epidural - Why are some epidurals ineffective? - What happens when there is an ineffective spinal during a c-section? - The decision to convert to general anesthesia and why some doctors delay - Is it necessary to be restrained during c-section?
Guest Bio:
Vibha Mahendra, MD is a board-certified Obstetric Anesthesiologist, public health advocate, educator, and founder of SafePartum. Dr. Mahendra is passionate about improving maternal care by directly engaging and empowering all healthcare providers who care for pregnant patients, in a way that aligns with their practice environment and profession. Her professional interests span all of high-risk pregnancy, but she especially loves Obstetric Critical Care and Cardio-Obstetrics!
Visit https://www.safepartum.com/academy for more resources on the management of high-risk conditions in pregnancy, labor & delivery, and postpartum.
Safe Partum also has an upcoming OB Critical Care & Emergencies Course! Here is a link to the registration page to learn more about and sign up for this incredible course coming in September. https://fun-acorn-864.myflodesk.com/
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.
Ep. 35: Birth Trauma: An OB/GYN's Experience
01 Jun 2023
00:53:37
Dr. Christine Noa Sterling joins me to share her unique story of birth trauma as both a survivor and physician. Dr. Sterling's story helps us understand that no matter who you are and how educated and prepared you are for birth, trauma can still happen, and it's not your fault. Dr. Sterling generously shares all three of her very different birth experiences, perfectly depicting not only the wide-ranging birth experiences but also their impacts.
Guest Bio: Dr. Christine Noa Sterling is a board-certified ObGyn, mom-of-three and founder of Sterling Parents, a membership that acts as one-stop-shop to get your pregnancy questions answered, prepare for postpartum, birth, breastfeeding and taking care of your baby, all while centering your own wellness and cultivating your unique parenting style.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.