Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy

What do you get when you mix Irish twins, a surprise pregnancy, and a determined mama ready for her first home birth? A fast, powerful, and totally redemptive third birth story! 🙌 In this episode, Maren takes us through the highs, the stalls, and the five-minute pushing stage that made her say: “I’m never going back to the hospital.” She shares the mental prep that kept her grounded, how her husb...

Ever heard someone say you're “eating for two”? Or that once you’ve had a cesarean, you’ll always have to? Let’s set the record straight, friend! In this episode, I’m breaking down five of the most common pregnancy myths that are still floating around out there—and giving you the real, evidence-based truth (with a side of tough love and encouragement, of course). ✨ You don’t need to follow a...

What if breech didn’t automatically mean cesarean? In this episode, I sit down with my good friend and midwife Bonnie Baker to talk all about breech babies—how they’re born, when it’s safe, and what your options really are (especially outside of a hospital setting). Whether you’re a birth junkie or you just found out your baby is breech, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Show Notes HE...

Let’s talk about something that affects so many mamas but often gets brushed under the rug—mental health during pregnancy. In this episode, I’m getting real about SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), what they are, how common they are, the benefits and the risks (yes, for both mom and baby), and—most importantly—the wide range of options available to you. This episode came straight fro...

This week’s episode is such a treat because we’ve got a birth story—and not just any birth story—one that includes both mama and dad! Sarah and Matthew share the story of how they prepared (physically, mentally, and emotionally) to bring their baby girl into the world. Their journey is such a powerful reminder of what intentional preparation, trust, and partnership can look like. Sarah walks us th...

In this episode, we’re talking all about one of my favorite topics— freedom of movement during labor ! I’m diving into why it’s so important to listen to your body and move in ways that feel good as you work through contractions. From squatting to hands-and-knees to standing and swaying, we’ll explore how different positions can make a big difference in your comfort and your baby’s progress. Spoil...

This week, we’re celebrating 300 episodes of Pregnancy and Birth Made Easy—can you believe it?! I’m so honored to mark this milestone by sharing an incredibly raw, honest, and empowering birth story from Jaycie Hohn, one of our amazing My Essential Birth students. She walks us through her pregnancy journey, her labor experience, and the beautiful support she received from her husband. She also sha...

In today’s episode, I’m so excited to welcome Dr. Arielle Martone to the show! Arielle is a physical therapist and postpartum coach who is truly passionate about helping moms feel strong, supported, and at home in their bodies again after birth. Whether you’re freshly postpartum or it’s been years since you gave birth, this conversation is full of powerful insights and gentle reminders that healin...

In this episode, I’m chatting with the amazing Amber, who takes us through her powerful journey during her 41-week pregnancy with her third baby. She opens up about navigating a high-risk diagnosis, the ways she prepared for labor, and the challenges she overcame during birth. Amber’s story is such a beautiful reminder of the strength that comes from trusting yourself, leaning into support, and us...

In this solo episode, I’m diving into the natural rhythms of labor and how we can work with them—not against them. We’ll talk about what the stages of labor really look like, how long they typically last (because every body and every birth is different!), and what can influence how labor unfolds—like baby’s position or certain medical interventions. I’m also sharing tips for staying comfortable at...

In this episode, I’m diving into a topic that so many of you have asked about—your menstrual cycle after baby. When does it come back? Why is it irregular? What’s up with all the bleeding and hormone shifts? I’m breaking it all down for you with a gentle, supportive approach. We’ll chat about how nutrition, stress, breastfeeding, and even certain supplements can play a role in your cycle returning...

In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Caitlin Wilder, a doula who brings so much honesty and compassion to the postpartum space. We’re talking all about what it really looks like after baby arrives—normalizing the hard stuff, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and shifting the focus from baby gear to emotional and mental prep. Caitlin shares such beautiful insights on buildin...

In this episode, I have the absolute joy of chatting with Godelieve from the Netherlands about her beautiful and empowering home birth experience. She takes us through her fast-paced labor, the tools and techniques she used to stay grounded through contractions, and how preparation and support made all the difference. We also dive into what postpartum care looks like in the Netherlands—it’s so ins...

In this episode, I’m sharing eight important truths about childbirth that often get overlooked—but can make such a difference in how empowered and prepared you feel. From the fact that your water might not break on its own, to what an epidural really feels like, to knowing that you have the right to say no to any test or procedure—this is the kind of info every birthing person deserves to know. My...

In this episode, I’m so excited to introduce you to Meaghan Beames, a craniosacral therapist who brings such a gentle, knowledgeable approach to supporting both babies and mamas. We’re diving into what craniosacral therapy (CST) actually is, how it works, and the amazing ways it can help—especially with things like colic, latching challenges, and tension in both moms and little ones. Meaghan also...

In this episode, we’re shifting the way we think about contractions—because yes, they’re intense and exhausting, but they’re also incredibly purposeful. Each one is helping your cervix open and bringing your baby closer to your arms. I’ll walk you through how viewing contractions as beneficial can totally change your mindset during labor. We’ll also talk about the power of perspective, the reminde...

This week’s episode is all about the power of advocacy—trusting your voice, your instincts, and your choices during pregnancy and birth. I’m honored to share Kyla’s incredible birth story, as she opens up about welcoming her daughter at just 28 weeks. We talk about the emotional strength it took to navigate such an unexpected journey, how affirmations and breathing techniques helped her stay groun...

Stephanie King interviews Sophie Harris, a postpartum therapist, about postpartum challenges and self-care. They discuss overcoming self-neglect, emotional struggles, setting boundaries, and the importance of community support. Listeners get practical advice for better postpartum experiences. Click HERE for the Show Notes! Where to find Sophie and how to connect with her: Instagram Website 1:1 The...

Stephanie discusses the empowering journey of Liv and Matt's home birth, highlighting their experiences, challenges, and preparations. They share initial fears, the importance of supportive people, and practical advice for both moms and dads, offering insights into a calm and prepared home birth. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential Birth Postpartum Course My Essential Birt...

Stephanie discusses the importance of knowing your options of administering Vitamin K to newborns. She covers various options including injections, oral doses, and maternal supplementation, weighing their benefits and potential risks, and emphasizes the importance of informed parental choice. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential Birth Postpartum Course My Essential Birth Instagr...

The world of women's health is vast and often misunderstood, especially when it comes to fertility and menstrual cycles. But understanding these essential aspects of health can empower women to take charge of their bodies. Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, creator of Fertility Friday, gives us insights! Show Notes HERE ! Where you can find Lisa: Website Instagram Podcast Links Mentioned: My Essential Bi...

We discuss how postpartum should be mother-centered and family-focused. Dr. Kristal Lau shares insights on blending traditional and modern postpartum practices. They discuss the importance of planning for postpartum, ensuring proper nutrition and rest, and including partners in the care process. Show Notes HERE ! How to find Dr. Lau:  Instagram Postpartum 30 Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Cou...

Select someone for your birth space who makes you feel loved and protected, rather than someone you feel obligated to include. They should support your wishes without personal motives or desires, believing in and respecting your needs during this time. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential Birth Postpartum Course My Essential Birth Instagram Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW...

Stephanie encourages new mamas in this postpartum episode about what happens if your healing journey takes a turn. New moms are encouraged to take care of themselves postpartum, along with a reminder to help others once they feel well, fostering a supportive community. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential Birth Postpartum Course My Essential Birth Instagram Postpartum Support In...

Stephanie discusses the importance of communication and preparation for childbirth with guest Morgan. Morgan shares her positive birth experiences, contrasting her induced first labor with a natural second one, emphasizing the significance of supportive partners, education, and a good birth plan. Links Mentioned: My Essential Birth Course My Essential Birth Postpartum Course My Essential Birth Ins...