The Breath & Birth Co Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Join Vanessa as she drops in during a Summer Break to share what she's been up to. See her present a Birth Planning seminar at Babies & Bumps in Columbus, OH on Sunday, June 8th! She'll also have a table throughout the day giving away prizes, including opportunities to win 50% off her Metamorphosis online self-paced Metamorphosis course! Also announcing Becoming, a one-day local in-person pregnancy retreat for second-and-third-trimester Mothers and Birthers. 

• 00:00 Welcome to the Breath and Birth Co Podcast
• 00:47 Personal Update: Balancing Work and Family
• 03:17 Exciting Announcements and Upcoming Events
• 05:30 Launching the 'Becoming' Pregnancy Retreat
• 08:04 Celebrating Milestones and Future Plans
• 09:19 Conclusion and Gratitude

See FULL SHOW NOTES HERE.

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Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath & Birth Co podcast, Vanessa shares her personal pregnancy and birth story in detail. Joined by HypnoBirthing® teacher and Birth Doula, Aly Romot, they reflect on Vanessa's labor experience, including her unique challenges and the importance of informed consent. They also touch on key recommendations for navigating pregnancy and birth with confidence and empowerment. Throughout the episode, they reveal the significance of choosing the right care provider and birth setting. The conversation closes on a reflective note about the transformative power of birth work and the enduring bonds formed between doulas and birthing individuals.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:47 Recap of Previous Episode
• 02:02 Arrival at the Hospital
• 03:19 Labor Progress and Monitoring
• 06:32 Decisions and Interventions
• 09:12 Oxytocin Boost and Emotional Moments
• 12:10 Pitocin and Active Labor
• 17:29 Transition and Pushing
• 25:55 Birth and Immediate Postpartum
• 28:09 Reflecting on a Difficult Moment
• 29:06 Empowering Birth Choices
• 33:09 Choosing the Right Provider
• 34:09 The Importance of Midwifery Care
• 36:02 The Placenta Experience
• 39:43 Post-Birth Reflections
• 44:28 Informed Consent and Birth Choices
• 47:42 Doula Reflections and Experiences
• 54:28 The Bond Between Doulas and Clients
• 57:33 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co podcast, Vanessa, a Certified Birth Doula and Childbirth Educator, guides listeners through a calming color meditation. This meditation is designed to bring peace, connection, and energy to expectant mothers by visualizing a chosen color. The episode begins with breathing exercises, then leads into the meditation where the color evolves through different imagery and interacts with the body. 

Why Color Visualization Can Support Your Pregnancy

Color is more than what we see, it’s what we feel. It holds energy, memory, warmth, and power. When paired with mindfulness and breath, color can become a source of grounding, healing, and intuitive connection.

In this meditation, you choose the color. The one that feels safe. The one that brings peace. The one that wraps you up in the kind of support your nervous system is craving. There’s no right answer, just trust what arrives.

What You’ll Experience in This Guided Practice

You’ll begin by settling your breath and calling to mind a color that brings comfort. Then, through a series of calming visualizations, that color becomes a floating balloon, a rhythm of pulsing light, and a shifting spectrum—each version showing you something new about how you feel and what you need.

This meditation invites you to:

•Follow the color’s expansion and rhythm

•Let it flow through your body, offering warmth and presence

•Witness its shifts from light to dark, just like the rhythms of your own emotions

•Carry its strength and softness with you into your pregnancy and birth journey

Ways to Use This Meditation

🎨   Repeat it weekly, using the same color to anchor your nervous system in familiarity and peace

🎨   Try a new color each time to explore how different energies feel in your body

🎨   Use it as a daily check-in with your baby—imagining them wrapped in the color’s embrace

🎨   Lean on it during moments of anxiety, overwhelm, or insomnia

See full SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this World Doula Week 2025 episode of the Breath and Birth co podcast, Vanessa welcomes Kelli Blinn, an experienced birth doula and childbirth educator from Columbus, Ohio. Kelli shares her journey into birth work, inspired by her childhood fascination with the pregnant body and childbirth. They discuss the differences between home births and hospital births, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, education, and personalized care in the childbirth process. Kelli highlights the significance of mental health support, the role of partners, and introduces her new self-paced online childbirth education course. The episode underscores the value of being informed and prepared, advocating for oneself, and the profound transformation that childbirth entails for both the birthing person and their partners. Tune in for a rich discussion aimed at empowering and supporting expectant families through their unique birth journeys.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Breath and Birth Co Podcast
• 00:52 Meet Kelli Blin: Experienced Doula and Educator
• 01:15 Kelli's Journey into Birth Work
• 05:00 Home Birth vs. Hospital Birth: A Doula's Perspective
• 09:39 Misconceptions About Pregnancy and Postpartum
• 18:03 The Role of Advocacy in the Perinatal Process
• 29:26 Private Educators vs. Hospital Childbirth Education
• 29:54 The Importance of Childbirth Education
• 31:19 Birth Trauma and the Role of Education
• 32:06 Empowering Birth Experiences
• 35:14 Introducing Your Birth, Your Options, Kelli Blinn’s Online Self-Paced Childbirth Education Course (available now!)
• 39:56 Practical Tips for an Empowered Birth
• 42:55 Support for Partners During Birth
• 47:12 The Role of a Doula and Partner Involvement
• 52:30 Staying Passionate and Motivated in Birth Work
• 55:50 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

See full SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth co podcast, Vanessa, a certified birth doula and childbirth educator, guides listeners through a calming meditation inspired by her recent completion of an 85-hour prenatal yoga teacher training. Vanessa shares the details of her new pregnancy retreat called 'Becoming,' aimed at fostering calm, confidence, and connection for expectant mothers. The episode includes a soothing visualization of a butterfly's metamorphosis, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journey of transformation during pregnancy.

Why This Meditation Is So Meaningful

The name Metamorphosis is more than just the title of my childbirth course, it’s the story of who I am. The word itself is tied to the butterfly, and even to my name, Vanessa, which is a genus of butterflies. It’s become a sacred metaphor in my life and work, a reminder that we are always growing, shifting, unfolding.

So in this meditation, I guide you through that same transformation from cocoon to flight as if you are the butterfly.

What You’ll Experience in This Guided Practice

🦋   Gentle breathwork to ground and center you

🦋   A cocoon visualization to connect you with your inner transformation

🦋   A slow unfolding into the image of a butterfly taking flight

🦋   Affirmations for trust, readiness, and becoming

🦋   A soft invitation to carry your wings with you into the rest of your day

This isn’t just a meditation. It’s a ceremony. A celebration of change.

A sacred honoring of the work your body and heart are doing in pregnancy.

See full SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, host Vanessa connects with Missy Gallow, a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist and Co-Owner of Misama Physical Therapy in Clintonville, OH. Missy shares her deeply personal and transformative birth stories, including her experiences with a twin birth via elective C-section and her subsequent plans for a home birth after C-section (HBAC). The discussion traverses her struggles with infertility, the intricate decision-making process around birth interventions, and the emotional and physical challenges during her lengthy labor. Missy provides insight into the importance of mental preparation, advocacy, and finding the right support system. Through her story, listeners gain valuable lessons on navigating birth choices, understanding the nuances of medical interventions, and the profound impact of postpartum care.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Breath and Birth Co. Podcast
• 00:52 Meet Missy Gallo: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
• 02:16 Missy's Twin Birth Experience
• 04:58 Preparing for a Home Birth
• 07:59 Challenges and Physical Struggles During Pregnancy
• 18:42 The Long Labor Begins
• 27:45 Deciding to Transfer to the Hospital
• 30:59 Arriving at the Hospital and Next Steps
• 38:00 Increasing Pitocin and Monitoring Progress
• 38:22 Facing the Decision for a C-Section
• 40:17 Emergency C-Section and Immediate Aftermath
• 44:19 Post-Operative Challenges and Recovery
• 46:26 Reflecting on Birth Interventions and Personal Strength
• 52:55 Processing Birth Trauma and Seeking Closure
• 57:57 Understanding Medical Procedures and Their Impact
• 01:06:59 The Importance of Advocacy and Support
• 01:10:02 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

See full SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, hospital-based birth doula and childbirth educator Vanessa leads a guided meditation designed for expectant mothers. Listeners are invited to imagine a mindful walk through a vibrant field of wildflowers, connecting with the serene energy of nature and the life growing within them. The meditation focuses on engaging all senses to foster relaxation and mindfulness, helping mothers and birthers to nurture a deep connection with their baby. 

See SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, Vanessa introduces Caroline Pitts of Peaceful Doula Care. They discuss Caroline's journey to becoming a doula, the philosophies of Lamaze, and practical advice for expecting mothers. They also address common misconceptions and the importance of postpartum preparation. Listeners are encouraged to engage with childbirth education to feel empowered and supported throughout their pregnancy and birth experiences.

00:00 Introduction to the Breath and Birth Co. Podcast

00:47 Meet Caroline Pitts: A Passionate Doula

01:19 Celebrating Milestones in Doula Work

01:52 Caroline's Journey into Birth Work

03:17 Services Offered by Peaceful Doula Care

04:19 Understanding Lamaze Philosophy

09:15 Lamaze 6 Healthy Birth Practices

10:54 The Importance of Movement During Labor

15:11 Support and Environment in Birth

18:41 Navigating Interventions and Pushing Positions

28:45 Preparing for Postpartum

32:26 Addressing Misconceptions in Birth and Postpartum

36:41 Resources and Recommendations

42:45 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

See SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, host Vanessa – a certified birth doula and childbirth educator – guides expectant mothers through a serene, nature-inspired meditation designed to foster a deep connection with their growing baby. Listeners are invited to engage all their senses on a mindful journey through a peaceful woodland trail, embracing the calming sounds, scents, and sights of nature. This episode aims to provide a sense of peace, wellbeing, and connection, encouraging mothers to nurture both their body and soul during pregnancy. Subscribe to the podcast for more meditations, insights, and inspirational birth stories.

See SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.

In this episode of the Breath and Birth Co. podcast, host Vanessa welcomes Megan Houle, a seasoned Registered Nurse, IBCLC, and Craniosacral Therapist from Little Dove, LLC. With 15 years of nursing experience and a decade as a lactation consultant, Megan shares her journey and insights into breastfeeding, including the importance of education and support systems. They discuss common misconceptions, advocate for prenatal breastfeeding consultations, and explore the impact of craniosacral therapy on lactation. Megan emphasizes personalized care, highlighting the significance of building a supportive community during pregnancy and postpartum. The episode concludes with practical tips for new families and details about Megan's upcoming breastfeeding class.

00:00 Introduction to the Breath and Birth Co. Podcast

00:47 Meet Megan: Expert in Lactation and Craniosacral Therapy

01:36 Megan's Journey into Birth Work and Lactation

03:59 Challenges and Misconceptions in Postpartum

06:12 The Importance of Advocacy in Lactation

12:42 Practical Tips for a Calm and Empowered Postpartum

18:24 Building Relationships with Prenatal Visits

19:59 The Role of Craniosacral Therapy in Lactation

23:21 Craniosacral Therapy: Benefits for Both Baby and Birther

25:03 Telehealth and In-Home Visits

25:38 Building Your Village During Pregnancy and Postpartum

27:43 Partner Support in Breastfeeding

31:16 Exploring Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding Options

35:28 Navigating Breastfeeding During Subsequent Pregnancies

41:26 Resources and Support for Breastfeeding

44:32 Challenges and Changes in Lactation Care

48:37 Passion and Motivation in Lactation Work

51:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For more information, see full SHOW NOTES HERE.

Follow me on Instagram here!

Find more information on course offerings here.
Recently pregnant? Download my FREEBIE to find your birth care provider with confidence.

If you found this episode at all helpful or encouraging, I'd be so appreciative if you could share with a friend and leave a review! It helps others like you find the show (ahhh the algorithm).

As a reminder, the content discussed on this show is not medical advice. For more information, please see Disclaimer here.