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Can the power of your imagination transform your childbirth experience and help in emergencies? We unravel the secrets behind guided imagery and mindfulness on The Ordinary Doula Podcast. In this episode, I reflect on the invaluable lessons from my mentor Claire, a hypnotherapist and neuro-linguist, whose insights on the power of words and mindfulness shaped my journey both personally and professionally. Learn how guided imagery, meditation, and mindfulness can connect the mind and body, offering profound relaxation and a sense of control during labor and other challenging situations. With compelling anecdotes from years as a doula, discover how these techniques can be a lifeline during intense moments.

From managing pain at a car accident scene to stabilizing someone in a severe motorcycle crash, some personal stories highlight the extraordinary use of these practices in emergency situations. We'll explore how preparation and practice can make guided imagery a powerful tool in childbirth, backed by pre-COVID-19 research on doula practices. Plus, I'll guide you through creating personalized scripts that engage all five senses, showing how listening to these scripts during sleep can prepare your subconscious mind. Whether it's intense physical discomfort or mental hurdles, find out how colors, temperature, and texture can deepen the impact of these techniques and offer much-needed relief.

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Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

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What makes for a truly remarkable birth experience? We reflect on the awe-inspiring births I've attended recently, shedding light on the crucial elements that contribute to an exceptional birth. Autonomy, reasonable labor durations, and strong support systems are just a few of the key factors we dive into, as we celebrate the resilience and strength of birthing individuals. Through a lens of respectful, patient-centered care, meeting birth goals and minimizing interventions lead to empowering and positive birth experiences.

In this episode, listen to diverse and powerful birth journeys of two mothers. One faced a prolonged labor that ended in a C-section, yet exhibited incredible resilience with the unwavering support of her partner and medical team. Another mother experienced a calm, unmedicated water birth, completely in tune with her body and surroundings. And yet another mother had a more intense but equally fulfilling water birth, achieving her desired outcome against the odds. These stories highlight the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the supportive networks that make great births possible. Tune in for valuable insights and heartfelt tales that underscore the beauty and strength inherent in every birth.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
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Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

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Have you ever wondered how deep connections can transform your childbirth experience? From the intimate bonds between the birthing person and their baby to the essential trust with medical staff and doulas, discover how each connection contributes to a positive and empowering birth journey. This episode promises insights and poignant anecdotes, including a memorable interaction that truly showcases the importance of understanding individual fears and needs.

In this episode, we underscore the necessity of spending quality time with clients to foster these crucial connections. Whether it's the professional rapport with healthcare providers or the personal support from partners, these relationships are key to navigating the birthing process. Listen in to learn about the unique challenges and joys of forming quick bonds in urgent situations and the lasting emotional connections that linger long after the birth. We emphasize choosing supportive individuals to create a nurturing and empowering birth environment, ultimately enhancing the overall childbirth experience. Don’t miss out on these heartfelt stories and practical advice designed to support you through one of life’s most transformative experiences.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

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What if you could keep your newborn awake during feeds with just a few simple techniques? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we tackle this common challenge faced by new parents. In this episode, we explore the natural sleepiness newborns experience in their first 24 hours due to the tiring birth process and drastic environmental changes. We break down how this initial phase shifts into increased hunger and frequent cluster feeding by the second day, leading to frustration for many parents. By day three, as milk production kicks in, feeding patterns start to stabilize, helping parents set more consistent expectations.


Listen to practical and effective strategies to keep your baby awake and engaged during feeding times. From the importance of skin-to-skin contact to techniques like mid-feed diaper changes, gentle stimulation through rubbing and patting, and strategic placement on flat surfaces, we cover it all. We even discuss handy tips like using a wet wipe for gentle arousal and how to manage your baby's natural tendency to doze off during feeding, whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Tune in for valuable insights that will help create a comfortable yet stimulating feeding environment, ultimately leading to longer and more satisfying sleep periods for your newborn.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

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Ever wondered how grandmothers and family members can truly make a difference during childbirth? This episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast is packed with insights and personal stories that reveal the powerful roles they play. Listen as we unpack the nuanced ways family birth culture influences perceptions and practices around childbirth. We’ll talk about the crucial importance of respecting the expectant parents' wishes and needs, acknowledging the diversity in family birth culture, and navigating the dynamics of out-of-town visits designed to provide support. You’ll discover how aligning efforts with the desires of the pregnant person and their partner can create a positive and empowering birth experience.

Navigating the landscape of childbirth and postpartum support has changed dramatically over the years, and it’s more important than ever to honor new mothers' choices. Listen to a poignant story about a friend supporting her daughter through a challenging labor and unexpected cesarean section, highlighting the need for adaptability and emotional support. We’ll delve into practical tips for offering meaningful assistance, encouraging listeners to be proactive, curious, and receptive in their supportive roles. This heartfelt episode is a reminder that by making an effort to understand and meet the needs of new parents, we can foster a nurturing and supportive community.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

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Imagine being on call 24/7 for 20 years, constantly ready to support families during one of the most significant moments of their lives. On this episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast, we pull back the curtain on the unpredictable, physically grueling, and emotionally demanding life of a doula. From the sleepless nights and disrupted personal routines to the marathon-like stamina required. Listen to candid stories and reflections on what it truly means to be perpetually available for families welcoming new life. Through all the missed meals and family events, we find a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment that makes every challenge worth it.

Explore the profound emotional and mental resilience needed in this role. Hear how to balance personal grief with professional duty. We'll navigate through the highs and lows, from the joy of birth triumphs to the heart-wrenching moments of witnessing birth trauma and medical injustices. Together, we'll uncover the intricacies of advocating for compassionate care within sometimes unwelcoming hospital systems. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the unwavering dedication required to nurture both families and oneself in the demanding world of a doula.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Send us a text

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Send us a text

Ever wondered about the often overlooked yet vital third stage of labor? Tune in as we unravel the intricacies of delivering the placenta on The Ordinary Doula Podcast. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the placenta's extraordinary role as a life-sustaining organ for the baby and the critical procedures involved in ensuring its safe delivery. We share a gripping story of a precipitous labor where a mother delivered twins at home, emphasizing the placenta's continued importance in providing oxygenated blood even post-birth.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the postpartum period immediately following childbirth. We shine a light on the vigilant work healthcare providers perform to monitor for bleeding, assess tissue damage, and manage the complete expulsion of the placenta to prevent serious complications like hemorrhaging. From historical perspectives on placenta management to the routine practice of fundal massage, Angie covers it all, highlighting the expertise required from providers and the importance of maternal awareness during this critical stage. Join us and empower yourself with knowledge about this essential aspect of childbirth.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker