Ellen's Story

Send a textEpisode 3: Ellen’s Story “There’s so much our body knows how to do, as long as we don’t get in the way of it.”In our third episode, Ellen from Vail, CO, shares how she empowered herself to overcome her fears and make a choice aligned with her values: natural childbirth.A mystery childhood illness inspired Ellen to pursue a career as a naturopathic physician. Despite pushback from family members and others, she found the courage to follow that path and establish her practice in California. Years later, when preparing for the birth of her first child, Ellen realized she carried unconscious biases against midwives that mirrored the skepticism she faced in her profession. Determined to make the right choice for herself, Ellen took on the research, built a supportive community, and prepared her body for the journey ahead. Ellen’s story reminds us that we can do hard things when we trust our instincts, build supportive communities, and live with intention.You’ll relate to Ellen’s story if you’ve ever:Pursued a career inspired by childhood challengesFaced pushback from family members when making early career decisionsBeen through a major life event that reinforced your habits and valuesConsidered alternatives to a traditional hospital birth (or simply been curious about natural childbirth) Reconsidered your body image and redefined its purpose Become a parent!Resources from the EpisodeEllen’s Website: Explore naturopathic medicine and connect with Ellen.Book an Appointment Yuka: A mobile app that lets you scan everyday cosmetic and food products to understand their ingredients and find healthier alternatives.EWG’s Skin Deep® Database: A trusted resource for checking the safety of skincare and other personal products. Pain Free Birth: An educational resource for expecting moms interested in natural childbirth (or anyone curious about working with a doula or midwife!)Holistic Hub Podcast: On Ellen and baby Freddy’s first podcast appearance,  Dr. Ellen shares her expertise on environmental toxins and physician-assisted detox.Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy MashburnBerkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet usually relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews friends about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these true stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come.Follow & SubscribeFollow us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and visit ExitingOuShare Your StoryIf you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!