Driven by Faith Doula Podcast

Not your advocate. Not your rescuer. Not your spokesperson. So what IS a doula really?In this eye-opening episode, Brittney breaks down the most common misconceptions around what doulas are supposed to be and reveals the real calling behind the sacred role of the Faith Driven Doula.💬 You'll hear the truth about how doulas were never meant to carry the burden of your outcomes and how that liberates everyone in the birth space.🕊️ The Faith Driven Doula is not a gatekeeper but a guide. Not a fighter but a mirror. Not your voice, but the one who reminds you: You already have one.If this convo stirred something in you and you’re ready to walk away from burnout and step into true Kingdom servanthood in birth work, this might be your year to become a Faith Driven Doula.Our doulas are trained to:  Launch birth businesses rooted in wisdom and worship  Equip families with truth, tools, and spiritual strength  Lead others without taking the lead from themLearn more or enroll HERE🧡 Leave a ReviewLoved this episode? Let us know by leaving a 5-star review and tagging us on Instagram @faithdrivendoula!Have a question? Ask anything; Your question may just end up a part of the next Driven by Faith PodcastConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Should I take a birth class....Especially if I already hired a doula?”This episode might just flip your expectations upside down.When we return the education, wisdom, and responsibility to the mother—guided by the Lord—we begin to see a transformation not just in birth outcomes, but in the calling of birthwork itself.You’ll Walk Away With:Clear understanding of why birth education is a must—even with a doulaA new lens on what it actually means to prepare for birth in powerThe Faith Driven Doula model that puts the responsibility back into the hands of mothers, guided by Christ—not cultureTAKE OUR FREE 2-HR BIRTH CLASS ONLINE NOW!🔥 Bonus: Ready to Hire a Doula?If you're looking for someone who will give you more than just emotional support—someone who will equip you, educate you, and empower you to take radical responsibility for your birth...👉 Hire a Faith Driven DoulaCertified as:💛 Faith-Based Doula💛 Childbirth Educator💛 Hands-On Skills PractitionerThese professionals are trained in education, physiology, and prayerful presence, ensuring you're not just supporting birth—you're partnering with God to experience it fully.Have a question? Ask anything; Your question may just end up a part of the next Driven by Faith PodcastConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most misunderstood questions in the birth world:“How can I make sure I get a vaginal birth?”For years, the reflex answer has been, “Hire a doula who will fight for you.” But what if that answer is not only outdated—but dangerously misleading?We unpack why this thinking often leads to burnout for doulas, disappointment for mothers, and detachment for partners.Most importantly, we reveal what actually works—from a place of science-backed wisdom and spiritual authority.This episode is a wake-up call to everyone who’s been looking to outsource safety in birth rather than step into it boldly.🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why the narrative of “get a doula to protect you” sets everyone up for failureThe neurophysiology of labor and how to support your nervous system through itHow partner involvement impacts oxytocin, birth outcomes, and maternal satisfactionHow to actually use a doula to empower—not override—your voicePractical and powerful tools for natural and medicated births alikeThe real role of the birth team and how to preserve self-agencyHow birth can be a space of holy surrender and miraculous alignment with the Lord📖 Scripture Anchors:“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” – Proverbs 31:25“For God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” – 2 Timothy 1:7“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2Have a question? Ask anything; Your question may just end up a part of the next Driven by Faith PodcastConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Do I Know If I’m in Labor? You’ve probably heard: “You’ll just know.”But what if no one ever taught you how to recognize the language of labor?In this episode, we go beyond the textbook “5-1-1” rule and clockable contractions to help you tune into the sacred signals your body starts whispering—often long before labor officially begins. Because the truth is: labor is a journey, not just a moment.Whether you're a mama wondering if this is it, or a doula trying to discern when to pack your bag—this episode will shift how you see the initiation into birth.We break down:🔑 The difference between prodromal, early, and active labor🔑 How emotions, nesting, tears, and needing solitude are all labor signals🔑 Why the cervix is only part of the story—and what else to look for🔑 How your jaw, posture, and breath signal labor progress🔑 The spiritual threshold many women cross before active labor begins✨ “When you listen to the whispers, you don’t have to wait for the scream.”BONUS: Doula Segment – How to Know When It’s Time to GoHave a question? Ask anything; Your question may just end up a part of the next Driven by Faith PodcastConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your body already held the secret to pain relief in labor—without the needle?In this episode, we’re diving deep into the spine’s natural epidural system - yes, your body actually has one. We explore how God designed the nervous system to release powerful natural pain-relieving hormones when certain conditions in the body are met.But here’s the twist: most women never get to experience this because of modern practices that disrupt the process before it even begins.Whether you’re a mama preparing for birth or a birth worker supporting others, this episode will help you understand:🔑 What the “internal epidural” is and how it works🔑 The specific spinal reflex zones and body systems that unlock natural pain relief🔑 Why alignment, posture, breath, and even your jaw can directly affect pain during labor🔑 How maternal positioning and movement activate the parasympathetic nervous system🔑 The spiritual posture of trust and surrender and how fear physically blocks labor hormones🔑 How to engage this built-in pathway in pregnancy so it’s ready to work during laborWe also break down the lesser-known, evidence-based risks of the medical epidural, including:🚫 Increased risk of vacuum/forceps use and cesarean🚫 Longer second stage (pushing)🚫 Higher risk of baby in non-optimal positions🚫 Disruption of the body’s natural hormone flow—especially oxytocin and endorphins🚫 Potential impact on newborn alertness and breastfeeding🚫 Higher chance of maternal fever, low blood pressure and longer hospital staysYou deserve to know both sides of the story, so you can make informed, Spirit-led choices.✨ You were designed with an internal pharmacy, a God-given response to labor pain that works when your body, mind, and spirit are supported.You don't need to fear birth; you need to understand it.ORDER your Birth Therapy Kit for 35% Off HEREConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this eye-opening episode of the Driven by Faith Doula Podcast, we’re diving deep into a conversation that could shift everything you thought you knew about preparing for birth. We're talking about Maternal Alignment; a missing link that may be quietly shaping your pregnancy symptoms, birth experience and even postpartum recovery.From round ligament pain to nausea, to that sense of something being “off” but unexplainable, what if the root cause wasn’t just hormonal, but structural? What if your body has been trying to whisper to you this whole time?Together, we explore the physical, emotional, and spiritual layers of alignment, how the way you carry your body, your breath, your surrender, your posture and your pelvis all play into how your baby navigates the womb and enters the world.Whether you’re currently expecting, supporting others as a doula, or just curious about a holistic approach to the body in pregnancy, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.Common Signs You Might Be Out of AlignmentSciatic pain or nerve tinglingConstant nausea not relieved by traditional remediesBaby consistently staying in a posterior or transverse positionDifficulty sleeping due to hip or back tensionA gut feeling that something needs to shift—even when all tests come back “normal”✨ It’s not just about structure—it’s about surrender. The way we posture our hearts often mirrors how we posture our bodies.Ready to learn more about where you stand? The Maternal Alignment Assessment is 50% OFF to our Podcast listeners! This simple, intuitive tool helps you check in and support your unique body and baby. 50% OFF COUPON: ALIGNMEConnect with Us:Faith Driven Doula, HOS & CBE Training – Raising up faith-filled birth workers globallyBECOME A HANDS ON SKILLS PRACTITIONER 📧 Email: [email protected] 📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney 📌 Facebook Groups: Faith Driven Doulas + Faith Driven Birth 📌 Doula & CBE DirectoryFREE BIRTH CLASS🎧 If this episode blessed you, please subscribe, share and leave a review. It helps us reach more women walking this sacred journey.Until next time, stay open, soft and aligned. God bless. ✨ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode of the Driven by Faith Doula Podcast, we welcome Shaunna Grant, a mother of eight and a 2024 graduate of the Faith Driven Doula Training Program. Shaunna’s story is a beautiful testament to unwavering faith, divine conviction, and the strength that comes with trusting God’s plan during birth.Join us as she shares her journey into birth work, her early experiences with freebirth, and the incredible story of freebirthing her eighth baby. Through her words, we gain insight into what it means to surrender to God’s presence in labor, navigate unexpected challenges, and cultivate a birth space filled with peace, confidence, and faith.Key Takeaways from Shaunna’s Story:✨ Trusting in Divine Guidance ✨ Embracing the Freebirth Path ✨ The Power of a Supportive Birth Environment ✨ Encouragement for Expectant Mothers Connect with Shaunna:📌 Instagram: @Birth_in_sovereignty📌 Faith Driven Doula Graduate DirectoryConnect with Us:🌿 Faith Driven Doula & CBE Training – Empowering faith-filled birth workers across the globe📧 Email: [email protected]📌 Instagram: @faithdrivendoula | @thepositivepregnancyjourney📌 Facebook Group: Faith Driven Doula📌 Doula & CBE Directory🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us continue sharing empowering birth stories and faith-driven wisdom.May you feel God’s presence in all you do. 🙏✨ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6: Savannah Brigman’s Freebirth Story – Trusting the ProcessIn this heartfelt episode of the Faith Driven Doula Podcast, Savannah Brigman, also known as The Cherokee Midwife, shares her deeply personal freebirth story. As a traditional midwife rooted in Indigenous practices, Savannah takes us through the unfiltered emotions, unexpected timing, and divine surrender that shaped her journey to birthing her child at home during a snowy, full-moon night.A word from Savannah:“Many greetings , I am Savannah Brigman! A wife , mother of 4, traditional midwife serving in autonomous wise women ways for 5 1/2 years in the Appalachian mountains. I am also a enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians , where I incorporate many traditions in my way of serving the community, as well coming from beloved tribal women. I am certified in indigenous childbirth educator, as well as in herbalism, homeopathy, placenta specialist, peer lactation consultant, TUM well womb & Fire cupping facilitator, did about 2 years prior of birth keeper/ doula role before midwifery, and just recently also finishing up a Naturopathic practitioner degree. I am blessed to be doing this soul work and continuing on the wise women ways that are missing in today’s care.”Key Takeaways from Savannah’s Story:Embracing the Unexpected: Savannah’s story reminds us that birth often unfolds in ways we cannot predict, challenging us to let go of control and trust the process.The Role of Intuition: The moment Savannah felt a mental and emotional release, her labor began—a testament to the mind-body connection in birth.The Power of Presence: From denial to acceptance, Savannah navigates the fast-paced intensity of her labor with raw honesty and unwavering faith.Surrendering to the Moment: Savannah’s story highlights the sacred act of surrender, allowing the natural process of birth to unfold without resistance and trusting in God’s perfect timing.This episode is a moving tribute to the strength and wisdom that freebirth requires, as well as the deep connection between mind, body, and spirit during labor. Savannah’s words will resonate with anyone who values autonomy and the sacred nature of birth.Connect with Savannah:Facebook: The Cherokee MidwifeInstagram: @thecherokeemidwifeConnect with us:Faith Driven Doula & CBE [email protected]://www.instagram.com/thepositivepregnancyjourneyhttps://www.instagram.com/faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook GroupDoula/CBE Directory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 5 of the Driven by Faith Doula Podcast, we dive into a vital topic for doulas and childbirth educators—understanding the different types of clients you may encounter and how to serve them in a way that aligns with your values, faith, and purpose. This episode isn’t about "selling" yourself or hustling to get clients. It’s about walking in the purpose God has called you to, recognizing who you're meant to serve, and authentically connecting with them.Through this discussion, we’ll break down five key types of clients, how to recognize their unique needs, and how to approach them with grace, faith, and professionalism.The ResearcherThe Emotional BuyerThe Value SeekerThe Referral BuyerThe Last-Minute Decision MakerQuote from this episode: "You don’t need to sell yourself. If you’re called to this work, God will align the right people to your path. Our job is to be available, to be faithful, and to serve others with grace and purpose."Takeaways:Serve, Don’t SellTailor Your Approach Trust God’s TimingWalk in PurposeConnect with Us:[email protected]://www.instagram.com/thepositivepregnancyjourneyhttps://www.instagram.com/faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook GroupDoula/CBE Directory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 4 of the Driven by Faith Doula podcast, we explore how to navigate childbirth during natural disasters or emergency situations where medical assistance may be delayed or unavailable. Expecting mothers, particularly those living in areas prone to flooding, hurricanes, or other emergencies, will find practical advice for preparation alongside spiritual guidance to stay grounded in faith through the unexpected. From creating an emergency birth kit to recognizing the warning signs when medical intervention is necessary, this episode covers vital steps to ensure a safe and empowered birth experience during challenging circumstances.Key Points:-Facing the Reality of Childbirth in a Disaster Situation-Creating Your Emergency Birth Kit-Dire Emergency Birth Plan: What to Do When Left with Nothing-Recognizing Emergency Signs When Medical Help Isn't Available -Staying Grounded in Faith -Handling Birth Emergencies When Transfer Isn’t Possible Quote from this episode: “Faith and preparation go hand-in-hand. Even in disaster situations, God has equipped you with everything you need to safely navigate childbirth. Trust in your body, your faith, and the process.”Takeaways:- Preparation Saves Lives: Having an emergency birth kit ready can make all the difference in ensuring a safer birth during natural disasters.- Faith Is Your Anchor: Lean into prayer, scripture, and trust in God’s plan to navigate the unknown. Scriptures like Proverbs 31:25 and Psalm 23:4 remind us of our inner strength.- Recognize the Signs: Knowing what to watch for during labor complications can help you take swift, effective action in the absence of immediate medical care.- Trust the Process: Even in dire circumstances, trust that your body, guided by divine design, is capable of delivering your baby. Focus on breathing and positioning to support your baby’s birth.Resources:In response to the recent hurricanes affecting the East Coast, several birthworkers and organizations are stepping up to support pregnant, birthing, and postpartum mothers.East Tennessee & Yonder Midwifery: These midwifery groups have joined forces to offer free midwifery services during this time to mothers in need. For support, reach out to them directly or through their social media channels.Sarah Eiley: Venmo @sarah-eiley-1Alexis Bell: Venmo @alexishbellThese efforts are making a direct impact on the ground, helping to ensure that birth remains as safe as possible during this challenging time. Please consider contributing to these causes or sharing these resources with those in need.Connect with Us:[email protected]://www.instagram.com/thepositivepregnancyjourneyhttps://www.instagram.com/faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook GroupDoula/CBE Directory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 3 of the Driven by Faith Podcast, we explore the often misunderstood and misdiagnosed issues of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" in childbirth. These diagnoses are some of the leading causes of cesarean sections, but they are often preventable with a deeper understanding of fetal cardinal movements, patience, and support during labor. We break down how misinterpretation of labor progression and rushing the birth process can lead to unnecessary interventions, exhaustion for the birthing mother, and avoidable complications.Through this discussion, we offer insight into how doulas and healthcare providers can better support laboring mothers by recognizing the natural phases of birth and allowing adequate time for fetal movements. Patience is key in avoiding hasty decisions and ensuring a smoother, more empowered birth experience.Key Points:The definitions of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" and how they are often overused or misapplied.Understanding the natural process of fetal cardinal movements and why rushing labor can hinder progress.How diagnosing "Failure to Progress" too early can lead to unnecessary interventions such as cesarean sections, forceps, or vacuum-assisted deliveries.The importance of recognizing the body’s need for time to allow the baby’s head and shoulders to rotate and descend naturally.Why proper positioning and patient support during labor can prevent common misdiagnoses.How doulas and birth workers can help reduce the likelihood of premature interventions by empowering the mother and advocating for a more patient approach to labor.Quote from this episode: "Mislabeling 'Failure to Progress' or 'Failure to Descend' often stems from a lack of understanding of the baby’s cardinal movements, especially with respect to the head and shoulders. Premature pulling on the baby’s head before the shoulders have rotated can lead to compaction, increasing the risk of shoulder dystocia and unnecessary interventions."Takeaways:Education is Key: Misdiagnosing “Failure to Progress” often results from a lack of understanding about the phases of labor. Parents, Providers and doulas must be educated on the natural timeline of birth to prevent unnecessary interventions.Patience Pays Off: Allowing labor to progress at its own pace often results in smoother births and fewer complications. Avoid rushing the process based on arbitrary timelines.Support the Birthing Person: Doulas play a vital role in supporting mothers through labor, informing them about the birth process while encouraging patience and non-invasive approaches through education and emotional support.Change the Narrative: Reducing the over-diagnosis of "Failure to Progress" and "Failure to Descend" requires a shift in how we view labor progression—trusting the body’s natural ability to birth & the babies role in this process, rather than adhering to rigid timelines.Connect with Us:Instagram: @thepositivepregnancyjourney and @faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook GroupDoula/CBE Directory: FDD DirectorySpecial Announcement: There’s still time to join our Fall 2024 Training Cohort, DOORS CLOSE AUGUST 25TH!Our final remote Doula/CBE training of the year starts on September 3rd, Sign up today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 2 of the Driven by Faith Podcast, we dive into a critical discussion about the role of doulas in the birth room & whether they have legal power to advocate on behalf of their client. Inspired by a recent post in an online support group, we explore the debate around whether doulas should intervene directly during medical decisions. We discuss the importance of empowering expecting families to advocate for themselves and how doulas can best support their clients while respecting their autonomy. Celeste Kraft's insightful perspective on the doula's role is highlighted, emphasizing the need for proactive preparation and the importance of respecting clients' voices.Key Points:The debate on whether doulas should intervene directly in medical decisions during birth.The importance of empowering clients to advocate for themselves.Potential pitfalls of doulas acting as saviors in the birth room.The role of proactive preparation and clear communication in ensuring a positive birth experience.The impact of activism outside the birthing room in creating systemic change.Quote from this episode:"I disagree that it's the doula's job to speak for two adults who are capable of speaking for themselves. My job is to make sure THEIR voice is heard, not my own." - Celeste KraftTakeaways:Doulas should focus on empowering their clients with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.Intervening directly can create hostility and disempower the birthing person.Activism outside the birth space is crucial for creating systemic change.Preparation and clear communication with medical staff are key to ensuring the birthing person's wishes are respected.Connect with Celeste Kraft:A Doula Trainer with Prodoula and Certified Birth, Postpartum & Infant Care DoulaWebsiteFacebookConnect with Us:Instagram: @thepositivepregnancyjourney and @faithdrivendoulaFaith Driven Doula Facebook group.Doula/CBE Directory: FDD DirectorySpecial Announcement:Last but not least, you can join our last remote doula/CBE training of the year to become a part of the Faith Driven family and offer this extraordinary support. Doors are closing soon, and class begins on September 3rd, online via Zoom. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference. Enroll in the Fall 2024 Training Cohort. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Driven by Faith Doula Podcast, where we discuss essential practices for expecting mothers as they approach the end of their pregnancy. Moving beyond the common advice, we focus on what mothers should actually be doing to prepare for a positive birth experience.Episode Highlights:Introduction:Brief overview of the common advice on engaging, cervical dilation, and consuming specific foods and drinks.Transition to the main focus: practical actions expecting mothers should take.Segment 1: Focusing on Maternal AlignmentImportance of maternal alignment for optimal fetal positioning.Practical tipsSegment 2: Rest, Nourish, Hydrate Like Prepping for a MarathonEmphasize self-care in the final weeks of pregnancy.Rest:Getting adequate sleep and rest.Listening to the body’s signals and taking breaks when needed.Nourishment:Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, proteins, calories and low carbs.Focus on foods that provide sustained energy and support overall health.Hydration:Staying well-hydrated to support bodily functions and prevent dehydration.Importance of drinking water and electrolyte-balanced fluids.Segment 3: Worship in the WaitFinding peace and mindfulness in the waiting periodWorship music, dancing, daily devotionals, scripture affirmations Meditation and prayerCreating a peaceful environment at home/in the labor spaceConnecting with a support community or faith groupExtra Tip Segment: Review Resources and Childbirth EducationImportance of being informed and prepared for childbirth.Overview of key topics:Pelvic Levels: Understanding different levels of the pelvis and their effect on labor.Fetal Navigation: Techniques to help the baby navigate through the pelvis.Pelvic Mobility: Exercises and movements to increase flexibility and ease of movement.External Hand Placement: Tips for using hands to support and guide during labor.Maternal Positions and Movements: Effective positions and movements to facilitate labor progress.Connect with Us:Instagram: @thepositivepregnancyjourney and @faithdrivendoula Faith Driven Doula Facebook group.Doula/CBE Directory: FDD DirectorySpecial Announcement:Last but not least, you can join our last remote doula/CBE training of the year to become a part of the Faith Driven family and offer this extraordinary support. Doors are closing soon, and class begins on September 3rd, online via Zoom. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference. Enroll in the Fall 2024 Training Cohort.For more information about our Faith Driven Doula Program, visit our website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.