Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm exploring one of the most misunderstood aspects of birth: why some women experience very little pain in labor while others experience a lot—and why neither experience says anything about your strength, your preparation, or your faith.As a doula, I've witnessed labor pain exist on an incredibly wide spectrum. I've supported mamas who describe contractions as intense but manageable, women who feel completely overwhelmed by early labor, and others who are genuinely shocked by how little pain they experience. And here's what I've learned: two women can prepare equally well, labor in similar environments, and deeply desire the same birth—but still experience labor very differently. That doesn't mean one did it better. It means bodies are different, and the labor story God has for each of us is beautifully unique.Whether you're preparing for birth, reflecting on a past experience, or struggling with comparison and shame—this episode is for you. My hope is that it brings relief, replaces comparison with understanding, and reminds you that your birth story stands on its own before the Lord.In this episode, I share:🌸 Why labor pain exists on such a wide spectrum (and the physical, hormonal, and emotional factors at play) 💭 How comparison sneaks in after birth—and the questions that can steal our peace ✝️ Why faith doesn't remove sensation, but it does change how we perceive it 💪 The truth about strength: why choosing pain relief is not weakness but wisdom in some circumstancesScripture Shared: "Let each one test his own work, for each will have to bear his own load." – Galatians 6:4-5 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Veronica shares the powerful story of her redemptive home birth after cesarean—and how prayer warriors, faithful preparation, and ultimate surrender to God's plan transformed her birth experience from trauma to triumph.After a 33-hour labor ending in an emergency c-section with her first, Veronica found herself pregnant again while still healing—physically and emotionally. Despite dealing with severe allergies, exhaustion from caring for a toddler, and the weight of past birth trauma, she felt God calling her toward a different path. Late into her third trimester, she made the bold decision to switch from hospital care to planning a home birth VBAC.Whether you're considering a VBAC, processing your own cesarean experience, wrestling with the decision between hospital and home birth, or simply needing encouragement that God can redeem your birth story—this episode will strengthen your faith and remind you that His plans are always greater than our own.In this episode, Veronica shares:🙏 How prayer support from family in Washington, Florida, Ukraine, and even Africa covered her birth 🏡 The moment  when she decided to pursue home birth despite her husband's initial hesitation 💪 Moving from type-A control (spreadsheets and rigid plans) to peaceful surrender 🌊 Laboring in water and experiencing the redemptive birth she prayed for ✨ How every specific prayer she made for this birth was answered by God's grace 🩺 Navigating a challenging postpartum infection with gratitude and faithScripture Shared: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." – Romans 8:28 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through the emotional stages of labor—not just what happens physically, but the powerful emotional signposts that help you and your birth team know exactly where you are in the process and how to respond with confidence instead of fear.This framework, inspired by Penny Simkin's incredible work, has transformed how I support families as a doula and childbirth educator. Understanding these emotional patterns can bring so much peace and clarity to what might otherwise feel scary or confusing—whether you're the one giving birth or supporting someone you love through labor.Whether you're pregnant and preparing for birth, planning to support your spouse/sister/friend through labor, or simply want to understand the beautiful design of the birth process, this episode will equip you with practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement for the journey ahead.In this episode, I share:🌸 How to recognize the emotional signposts of early labor (and why ignoring it might be your best strategy!) 💭 What happens emotionally during active labor and why silence doesn't mean something's wrong 🙏 Understanding transition—when "I can't do this" actually means you're almost there ✨ How the pushing stage brings renewed purpose (even through exhaustion) 💛 Practical tips for birth partners at each stage—from encouraging rest to avoiding too many questions 📖 Why wisdom for labor comes from both preparation AND prayerScripture Shared: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." – James 1:5 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them here📚 The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin 🥤 LMNT electrolyte drinks for hydration🎧 Episode 5: Learn how to fill out the Birth Preferences ChecklistIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a pregnant friend or someone preparing to support a laboring mama.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Dr. Marrow, a board-certified OBGYN and VBAC mom from Full Circle Women's Care, to discuss a topic that can feel overwhelming for many moms: what to do when your baby is breech, transverse, or in another challenging position for birth.Together we explore the timeline of when baby's position truly matters (hint: not at your 20-week scan!), natural techniques to encourage optimal positioning, and what actually happens during an ECV—the medical procedure to turn a breech baby. Dr. Marrow shares from both her professional expertise and her personal journey from a fear-filled cesarean to a redemptive VBAC, offering wisdom that blends evidence-based care with faith-centered encouragement.Whether you're currently navigating a breech presentation, curious about your options if baby isn't head-down, or simply want to be prepared with knowledge before you reach the third trimester—this conversation offers practical tools, medical insight, and the reminder that birth is beautiful regardless of the route.In this episode, we discuss: 🤰 When to actually start paying attention to baby's position (32-36 weeks) 💫 Natural techniques like Spinning Babies, the Miles Circuit, and chiropractic care 🏥 What an ECV really involves and the 50-60% success rate ✨ The rise of gentle cesareans and creating a beautiful birth experience 🙏 How to steward what you can control while surrendering outcomes to GodMentioned in this episode: 📋 Miles Circuit handout for optimal positioning👶 Spinning Babies Technique - A program designed to help create room for a breech baby to find a more optimal position✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentionedSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm addressing something I see over and over again with expecting parents—the difference between consuming birth content and actually being prepared for birth. While we have more birth information available than ever before through podcasts, social media, and online resources, so many parents still approach birth feeling anxious and unprepared.This conversation has been on my heart because I see thoughtful, intentional parents doing their best to prepare by listening to podcasts and following birth accounts on social media, yet still missing something foundational. They know a little about a lot of things, but not enough to feel truly confident when it matters most. True childbirth education builds understanding from the ground up in a way that fragmented content simply can't.Whether you're trying to decide if you need childbirth education, feeling overwhelmed by all the birth content out there, or wondering why you still feel unprepared despite consuming lots of information—this episode will bring clarity, wisdom, and practical next steps for your birth preparation journey.In this episode, I share: 📚 Why podcasts and social media alone can't replace comprehensive childbirth education 👁️ The importance of visual learning for understanding birth mechanics and positioning 🏠 How proper education creates a strong foundation vs. fragmented information ✨ Why childbirth education matters for ALL types of births (medicated, unmedicated, cesarean, VBAC) 💪 The difference between being informed and being truly prepared for birthScripture Shared: "A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense. Through knowledge, its rooms are filled with all sorts of precious riches and valuables." – Proverbs 24:3-4Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I welcome Lindsay Carter who shares her powerful first birth story—one that took unexpected turns and ultimately deepened her faith in ways she never imagined. From meticulous planning for an unmedicated birth to facing an infection, needing an epidural, and those heart-stopping moments when baby Kate wasn't breathing, Lindsay's journey beautifully illustrates what it means to surrender control to God.Lindsay came to this pregnancy armed with research, determination, and a deep desire to honor God through an unmedicated birth. But after 41.5 weeks, a slow water leak, chorioamnionitis, and contractions that came in powerful waves, she found herself surrendering her carefully laid plans. What followed was a birth experience that, while different from her vision, became a profound lesson in God's sovereignty and faithfulness.Whether you're a first-time mom wrestling with birth anxiety, someone whose birth didn't go according to plan, or you simply need encouragement that God is present even in the scariest moments—Lindsay's testimony will strengthen your faith and remind you that His plans are always good.In this episode, Lindsay shares: 🙏 How tracking temperatures and preparing extensively couldn't prepare her heart for surrender 💧 Navigating a slow water leak, infection, and the decision to get an epidural 👶 The terrifying moments when Kate wasn't responsive and how prayer carried them through ✝️ How this experience transformed her postpartum journey and deepened her gratitude 🤱 Real talk about breastfeeding struggles and the importance of supportScripture Shared: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart" – Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: 📖 Ina May's Guide to Childbirth - A powerful book to help prepare mentally✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing something that might sound contradictory at first—but it's become one of the most freeing truths I've learned: it takes work to rest. Using John Mark Comer's simple Sabbath framework from The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, I'm walking you through how to prepare for biblical rest in the midst of pregnancy, motherhood, and postpartum—even when it feels impossible.This conversation has been stirring in my heart for months as I've navigated my own pregnancy with two littles at home. Sabbath used to feel out of reach—like something only people without constantly needy littles could experience. But what I've discovered is that God designed Sabbath not as perfection, but as preparation. Just like Adam and Eve rested before they ever worked, we're invited to receive from Him first so we can pour out from a full cup, not an empty one.Whether you're in the thick of pregnancy exhaustion, preparing for postpartum, or just trying to figure out what rest even looks like with little ones underfoot—this episode is full of encouragement, practical wisdom, and a gentle invitation to stop striving and start receiving.In this episode, I share:🕊️ The two simple questions that help you determine what belongs in your Sabbath (and what doesn't) 📝 How to create a personalized Sabbath list that actually fits your season of life 👶 Why Sabbath with little kids looks completely different—and why that's okay 🛁 My own Sabbath rhythms right now (including Epsom salt baths, worship music, and family picnics in the backyard) 🤰 How to prepare for postpartum rest—and the mistakes I made with Daniel that I'm determined not to repeat ✝️ What Scripture teaches about the postpartum period as a God-designed seasonal Sabbath 💛 Why postpartum rest isn't pampering—it's stewardshipScripture Shared: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." – Matthew 11:28 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: 📕 The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear—and rest over striving—one intentional Sabbath at a time.Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm chatting with Kayla, a mama of two under two, who shares how God used her two unplanned cesareans to deepen her trust in Him as a good Father—transforming what could have been crushing disappointment into a powerful testimony of His faithfulness.Kayla's story is proof that when we trust ourselves less and trust the Lord more, He can work through any circumstance for His glory. After planning for a home birth with her first baby and ending up with 36+ hours of unmedicated labor followed by a cesarean, she found herself wrestling with grief, embarrassment, and anger. But God met her in that dark place and began teaching her what it really means to surrender control.Whether you're processing an unexpected cesarean, preparing for a VBAC attempt, or simply need encouragement that God is sovereign over your birth story—even when it doesn't go according to plan—this episode will minister deeply to your heart.In this episode, Kayla shares: 🌸 How she prepared meticulously for a home birth, only to transfer to the hospital at 41 weeks ✝️ Why she chose Scripture over hypnobirthing to prepare her heart for labor 👶 The emotional journey of grieving her "ideal" birth while celebrating a healthy baby 🙏 How her prayer shifted from "give me a VBAC" to "Lord, I want You to be glorified" 💪 What it was like attempting a VBAC after two car accidents and debilitating SI joint pain ✨ The profound spiritual growth that came through two births that "failed" by worldly standardsScripture Shared: "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." – Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sharing my go-to natural remedies for healing from colds and flu during pregnancy and breastfeeding—practical solutions that have helped me and countless clients navigate sickness without relying on medication.This cold and flu season has been particularly challenging for so many mamas in my community. When you're already pouring everything into growing or nursing a baby, getting sick can feel overwhelming—especially when you're unsure what's safe to take. After my own battle with a severe respiratory infection during my pregnancy with Daniel, I learned firsthand how important it is to have gentle, effective remedies ready.Whether you're currently fighting a cold, want to be prepared for flu season, or simply prefer natural healing methods that honor how God designed our bodies—this episode is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement for your recovery journey.In this episode, I share:💧 My hydration strategy that goes beyond "just drink water" (including my favorite electrolyte recommendation) 😴 How to actually rest when you have little ones to care for (guilt-free!) 🫖 The golden milk latte recipe my daughter now requests when she's sick 🌿 Grandma's remedies that are backed by science for sore throat relief 🙏 When to trust your mama instincts and call your provider Scripture Shared: "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." – Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: 💛 LMNT Electrolytes – My favorite natural electrolyte powder 🍲 Bare Bones Bone Broth – Individual packets perfect for quick healing 📸 Golden Milk Latte Recipe – Find the recipe on my Instagram @faithoverfearbirthdoula✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a pregnant or nursing friend who needs these remedies.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this BONUS episode, I'm sharing a heartfelt year-end reflection as we close out 2025—a year that tested my faith through trials I never saw coming, yet revealed God's faithfulness in ways I couldn't have imagined.This has been a year of unexpected challenges and profound growth. Just days after launching this podcast in April, I faced a serious mental health crisis with someone close to me, then a few months later found out I was pregnant with my third baby and experienced the darkest season of anxiety and depression I've ever walked through. Yet through it all, God has shown me that His strength is made perfect in my weakness.As I share this update, I've felt the Lord clearly calling me to embrace a slower rhythm. This means shifting the podcast to an every-other-week schedule as I learn that fruitfulness isn't always about output—sometimes it's about faithfulness in resting.Whether you're walking through your own trials, feeling called to slow down, or simply needing encouragement as we enter a new year—this episode is my heart poured out in gratitude for God's goodness and an invitation to trust Him in every season.In this episode, I share: 🙏 Why I'm choosing obedience over productivity in this new season 👶 We're so excited to welcome our son Isaac (Due in March of 2026)✨ How God used this year's trials to deepen my relationship with Him 📅 What the podcast schedule will look like moving forward 💛 A prayer of blessing over you as we step into 2026 togetherScripture Shared: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." – James 1:2-4 (ESV)"Let’s keep choosing faith over fear together in this new year!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm exploring the Christmas story through the lens of Mary's birth experience—and what it teaches us about finding God's glory when our own births don't go according to plan.This message came to me unexpectedly during a church service, when I suddenly saw Mary's story not just as a familiar Christmas narrative, but as a birth story. A messy, uncomfortable, nothing-like-she-planned birth story where God was glorified in every single moment.Whether you're creating your birth plan, wrestling with fears about things going "wrong," or reflecting on a birth that took unexpected turns—this episode will encourage your heart with the truth that God's goodness isn't dependent on your circumstances being comfortable.In this episode, I share:🌟 How Mary's birth was actually chaotic, vulnerable, and nothing like anyone would plan 🏚️ Why God chose a stable birth instead of a palace—and what that means for us ✝️ The repeated command throughout Mary's story that speaks directly to our birth fears 🙏 What "blessed is she who believes" really means for your birth journey 💞 How unexpected moments in birth can become where we encounter God most deeplyScripture Shared: "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her." – Luke 1:45Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sitting down with Jessica Ramdhany Thomas, a functional pediatric practitioner and mom of two, to uncover the surprising connection between your gut health during pregnancy and your baby's future health. We're diving deep into how the microbiome you cultivate now can impact whether your little one develops eczema, colic, food allergies—and even affect generations to come.Jessica shares her personal journey from teacher burnout to fertility breakthrough, two unexpected C-sections, and the challenges of formula feeding when breastfeeding didn't go as planned. Her story is raw, real, and full of hope for mamas who feel like they haven't done everything "perfectly."Whether you're currently pregnant, trying to conceive, or dealing with mysterious health issues in your little ones, this conversation will open your eyes to the God-designed connection between mama's gut and baby's health—and the powerful tools we now have to support both.In this episode, we discuss: 🌱 What the gut microbiome actually is and why it matters during pregnancy 🍼 How C-sections and formula feeding affect baby's microbiome (and what you can do about it) 🔬 Vaginal seeding: what it is and how to talk to your provider about it 🥦 Why elimination diets might be making things worse (and what to do instead) ✨ The four key bacterial strains every baby needs for optimal health 💊 Simple steps to support your gut health without overwhelming lifestyle changesMentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course including breastfeeding basics💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education📱 Yuka App - for scanning products and finding healthier swaps 💚 Made Wholistic - Jessica's Instagram (@madewholistic) 📧 Contact Jessica: [email protected] or book a consult here🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm walking you through your third trimester checklist—10 faith-filled steps to help you prepare practically and spiritually for your upcoming birth. Whether you're feeling the weight of that watermelon belly, googling at 2 AM, or wondering if you'll ever feel truly ready, this episode is designed to bring you peace and clarity.The third trimester can feel overwhelming with its mix of excitement, anticipation, and a never-ending to-do list. But here's what I want you to know: this isn't about doing everything in your own strength. Instead, I'm sharing how to invite the Holy Spirit into your preparations and trust that you've got this—not because you're superwoman—but because God's got you.Whether you're wondering about cervical ripening methods, when to pack your hospital bag, or how to prepare spiritually for labor, this episode covers the practical steps that matter most while keeping your heart anchored in faith.In this episode, I share: 🤱 How to prepare for breastfeeding (including finding support before baby arrives) 🌿 Natural cervical ripening methods that honor your body's design 📚 Why finishing childbirth education matters—even at 38 weeks 👥 How to finalize your birth support team with confidence ❄️ The simple postpartum prep (like padsicles) your future self will thank you forScripture Shared: "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You." – Isaiah 26:3 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🟣 Birth Ball Height - Discover the correct ball size for you height and weight📚 Episode 3 – Deep dive into Cervical Ripening Methods🤱 Episode 20 – Breastfeeding basics and what to expect💻 Episode 26 – All about virtual doula support❄️ Padsicles Blog Post – Step-by-step instructions for postpartum comfort🍲 Meal Prep Blog Post - Learn how to easily make some nourishing meals for the postpartum time🧂 LMNT - My favorite clean electrolyte drink for pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one step at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm joined by Caroline, a nurse who brings a unique perspective from caring for critically ill postpartum patients to experiencing her own two drastically different births. She openly shares how back labor, a 9-pound baby, and nearly 5 hours of pushing challenged everything she thought she knew about birth—and how God remained faithful through it all.Caroline's journey took unexpected turns: from foster parenting to biological motherhood, from an epidural birth with every complication to a fast unmedicated birth, from postpartum joy to postpartum anxiety and grief. Through losing a close friend just months after Noah's birth, she discovered what it truly means to have God as her shepherd through the darkest valleys.Whether you're facing back labor fears, processing a birth that didn't go as planned, or walking through postpartum struggles while clinging to faith—Caroline's raw honesty and trust in God's goodness will encourage your heart.In this episode, we discuss: 🌸 How being a nurse affected her birth anxiety and preparation 👶 Navigating back labor, sunny-side-up positioning, and compound presentation ✝️ The difference between holding tightly vs. loosely to birth plans💔 Processing grief and loss during postpartum while caring for two under two 🎶 Using worship music and scripture to cope through labor's intensity ⭐ Finding God's shepherding presence in both mountain-top and valley experiencesScripture Shared: "This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life." – Psalm 119:50 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm exploring what happens when our prayers for birth come from a place of control rather than surrender—and how God has been transforming my heart from anxiety to trust as I prepare for my third baby's arrival.After carrying the weight of perfectionism through my first two births, treating them like report cards of my strength and worth, I'm experiencing something radically different this pregnancy. God has been gently revealing how my determined, control-seeking nature had turned birth preparation into a crushing source of pressure rather than an opportunity for faithful stewardship.Whether you're praying for an uncomplicated birth, comparing your journey to others, or feeling the pressure to "get it right," this episode will help you identify when your prayers might be rooted in fear rather than faith—and show you how to shift toward God-glorifying trust.In this episode, I share: 🙏 Five signs your birth prayers might be coming from control rather than surrender 📖 How the parable of the talents applies to birth preparation and stewardship ✨ Why faithful preparation looks different than fearful striving 💭 Practical prayer swaps to move from anxiety to trust ✝️ How to hold birth preferences with open hands while still preparing wiselyScripture Shared: The parable of the talents from Matthew 25, focusing on being a "good and faithful servant" rather than a successful oneMentioned in this episode: 📩 Share your rewritten prayers with me on Instagram @faithoverfearbirthdoula ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth 📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode stirred your heart (even if it stung a little!), please rate, review, and share it with another mama who needs this reminder.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, remembering that our birth stories are in the hands of the One who writes only good things. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Maria Lilly, a Christian mom whose first birth experience completely transformed her life—leading her from a corporate accounting job to becoming a doula and Lamaze certified childbirth educator. Maria shares her powerful story of navigating a terrifying prenatal diagnosis, NICU stay, and ultimately discovering God's faithfulness in the most unexpected ways.When Maria was told at 35 weeks that her baby was severely growth restricted with only a 25% chance of survival, all her carefully laid birth plans seemed to crumble. But through faith, preparation, and God's grace, she experienced a redemptive hospital birth that defied medical expectations—and later learned her daughter had Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, a rare chromosomal condition.Whether you're facing pregnancy complications, wrestling with fear about your birth, or simply need encouragement that God is present even in the hardest moments—Maria's testimony will remind you that He holds every detail of your story.In this episode, we discuss: 🌸 How thorough birth preparation served Maria even in a high-risk hospital induction 💔 Processing the grief of an unexpected diagnosis while bonding with a NICU baby ✝️ Finding comfort in Mary's story as a mother who also faced extraordinary challenges 🙏 Why no birth experience is neutral and preparation matters more than you might think 👶 How God used Josephine's diagnosis to birth Maria's calling to serve other mothersScripture Shared: "This happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." – John 9:3Mentioned in this episode: 📱 Primal Pregnancy App: Maria's comprehensive birth preparation tool with labor guides, weekly pregnancy tips, and pain-reducing recipes ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a pregnant friend who needs hope.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through everything you need to know about preparing for an induction—from practical tips to spiritual encouragement—so you can approach your birth with peace and confidence, even if this wasn't your original plan.Maybe your provider has mentioned induction as a possibility, or perhaps you already have a date scheduled. Whatever emotions you're feeling—excitement, disappointment, nervousness, or fear—I want you to know that an induced birth is still a beautiful birth story where God can be glorified.In this episode, I share: 🌸 How to reframe an induction as part of God's plan for your birth story 🩺 Understanding different induction methods and what to expect with each one 🎶 Comfort measures and coping strategies specifically for induced labor 🧠 The B.R.A.I.N. acronym to help you make informed decisions about your care ✝️ Practical tips for preparing physically, mentally, and spiritually for your inductionScripture Shared: "The Lord will fight for you. You only need to be still." – Exodus 14:14"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." – Romans 8:28Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with any friends preparing for an induction.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm diving deep into a topic that's been on my heart—how you can experience professional doula support while keeping your birth intimate and private through virtual birth support. This option could be the perfect solution for mamas who are torn between wanting expert guidance and maintaining the sacred space of birth with just their husband present.After supporting many families as an in-person doula and experiencing my own intimate birth with my husband as my primary support, I've seen firsthand how powerful it can be when couples work together during labor. But I've also witnessed how having professional guidance at key moments can make all the difference. That's why I'm passionate about sharing how virtual doula support bridges this gap beautifully.Whether you're facing financial constraints, living in an area without faith-based doulas, or simply preferring a more private birth experience while still wanting expert support—this episode will show you how virtual support can transform your birth experience without compromising intimacy.In this episode, I share: 🏡 My own birth story and what I wish we'd had for guidance during critical moments 💻 Exactly what virtual doula support looks like from prenatal prep through postpartum 👫 How this model empowers husbands to be confident, capable birth partners 💰 Why virtual support costs a fraction of in-person services while still providing comprehensive care 🙏 The biblical foundation for seeking wise counsel and community support during birthScripture Shared: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10Mentioned in this episode: 📞 Free 15-Minute Discovery Call: Schedule your no-obligation consultation with me today! I would LOVE to connect with you to see how I can serve you!✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode stirred hope in your heart about having supported yet intimate birth experience, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who might be searching for this exact solution.Let’s keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Kate Smith, pelvic floor physical therapist and owner of Nurture You Pelvic Health, to discuss a topic that affects countless women but is often dismissed: severe pelvic pain during pregnancy. If you've ever been told your excruciating pain is "just part of being pregnant," this conversation will validate your experience and offer real hope.After experiencing debilitating pelvic pain during my pregnancies—pain so intense that my active labor contractions felt like nothing in comparison—I discovered the connection between hypermobility and pregnancy pain. Dr. Kate breaks down why some women are more prone to this pain and, most importantly, what can actually be done about it.Whether you're currently struggling with pelvic pain, planning for future pregnancies, or supporting someone who is, this episode provides both immediate relief strategies and long-term solutions that can transform your pregnancy experience.In this episode, we discuss: 🌸 The difference between SPD, pelvic girdle pain, and SI joint pain—and why it matters 🩺 Signs you might be hypermobile (and why that increases pregnancy pain risk) 🎯 Simple posture changes that can provide immediate relief ✝️ Why "just dealing with it" affects your mental health and quality of life 👶 How prenatal pelvic floor PT prepares you for birth AND postpartum recoveryKey Takeaways: ✨ Pain during pregnancy is common but NOT normal—and you deserve help 💛 Small movement changes now create lasting benefits for life 🙏 There's hope even if you've been dismissed by other providersMentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education✨ Follow Dr. Kate Smith on Instagram: @nurtureyou_pelvichealth and @drkatesmith_pfdoc 🏋️‍♀️ Body Ready Method Programs: Pregnancy-specific workout programs you can use from home  🎯  Schedule a free discovery call with Dr. Kate on her website www.nurtureyoupelvichealth.com🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear that her pain matters and help is available.Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through a practical, faith-filled checklist to help you prepare well during your second trimester—the sweet spot of pregnancy when energy returns and you can finally focus on nourishing your body, mind, and heart for the journey ahead.Whether you're just starting to feel like yourself again or you want to make sure you're on the right track, this episode covers seven key areas to help you steward this season with intention and grace—without perfectionistic pressure or anxiety about outcomes.From rebuilding your nutrient stores after first trimester survival mode to understanding how pelvic floor care and chiropractic adjustments can support your body's design, we're covering the practical and the spiritual side of preparing for birth.In this episode, I share:🍊 How to rebuild your body with nutrient-dense foods (including a fun fact about vitamin C and your amniotic sac!) 💧 Why electrolytes (like LMNT) are a game-changer for hydration, Braxton Hicks, and swelling 🏃‍♀️ Gentle movement ideas that support your body without exhausting it 🤰 The importance of pelvic floor PT and Webster-certified chiropractic care 👥 How to build a birth team that sees, hears, and respects you 📚 Why childbirth education helps you surrender fear and trust God's design✝️ A reminder that you're called to faithfulness—not perfection or control over outcomesScripture Shared: "Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we don't give up." – Galatians 6:9 (ESV)"Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." – 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education📖 Recommended Books: "The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin & "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskin 🏋️‍♀️ Body Ready Method Programs: Pregnancy-specific workout programs you can use from home 🧂 LMNT Electrolytes: My go-to for staying hydrated and reducing pregnancy discomforts🫖 B6 and magnesium supplements for morning sickness - Take 50mg or less of B6 1-2 times a day, and suggests this magnesium supplement.🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one faithful step at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sitting down with my dear friend Gracie Clowe—a mama who prepared her heart, mind, and body for an unmedicated birth, only to find herself on an operating table for an unplanned C-section. But that's just the beginning of her story.Gracie's journey is one of confusion, surrender, heartbreak, and ultimately, miraculous revelation. After feeling clearly called by God to pursue a natural birth, she did everything—acupuncture, an ECV, even playing music on her belly—to get her breech baby to flip. But her daughter wouldn't budge. The C-section felt like a contradiction to everything she thought God had told her to prepare for.Then, just before her daughter's first birthday, Gracie discovered she was pregnant again—only to lose the baby weeks later. What followed was a traumatic miscarriage, an emergency surgery, and a shocking medical discovery: Gracie has two fully formed uteruses. Suddenly, all the pieces came together. Her daughter never flipped because she couldn't—and the fact that she grew full-term was nothing short of a miracle.Whether you've had a birth plan fall apart, walked through pregnancy loss, or simply wrestled with God's timing and purposes, this conversation will meet you right where you are. Gracie's story is a beautiful reminder that God sees what we cannot, and His plans—even when confusing—are always for our good and His glory.In this episode, we talk about:🌸 How Gracie felt God calling her to an unmedicated birth—and what happened when it didn't go as planned 💔 Walking through miscarriage, sepsis, and the grief of losing a baby 🙏 Meeting God as Comforter in suffering and learning to trust His sovereignty 🩺 The shocking medical discovery that explained everything—and revealed God's hand in her story all along 👶 What her current pregnancy looks like and how she's surrendering week by week ✝️ The beauty of sacrificial motherhood and how it reflects the love of ChristScripture Shared: "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." – John 16:33 (NIV)Connect with Gracie: Instagram: @gracie.cloweMentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm breaking down something every pregnant mama needs to know: you always have a choice when it comes to your birth care, no matter where you're planning to deliver. We're diving deep into informed consent and informed refusal—your fundamental rights that don't disappear just because you walk into a hospital or birth center.Too often, I see birth educators and doulas painting medical staff as the enemy, creating an "us versus them" mentality that honestly breaks my heart. The truth is, your birth team wants what's best for you and your baby. Interventions have their time and place, and sometimes wisdom means choosing something that wasn't in your original plan—and that's perfectly okay.Whether you're planning a home birth, birth center delivery, or hospital birth, feeling overwhelmed by medical decisions, or simply wanting to feel more confident advocating for yourself—this episode will equip you with practical tools and biblical wisdom for navigating birth choices with peace and partnership.In this episode, I share: 🧠 The BRAIN method for making informed decisions (a framework I teach in my Online Christian Childbirth Education that works for any health decision) ⚖️ What informed consent and informed refusal really mean—and why both matter 🤝 How to work collaboratively with your birth team instead of against them 🏥 Your rights in every birth setting: home, birth center, and hospital 💭 Practical tips for advocating for yourself while building partnership ✝️ How James 1:5 fits perfectly into wise decision-making during birthScripture Shared: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." – James 1:5 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: 🎧 Episode 5 Creating Your Birth Preferences: A Step-by-Step Guide - A good overview of typical choices you’ll want to think through before birth✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode empowered you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear this message.Let's choose knowledge and collaboration over fear and opposition, one birth decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sitting down with Laura Lindahl—certified pre and postnatal coach, exercise physiologist, and Christian body image coach—to talk about something so many moms wrestle with: the pressure to "bounce back" after baby and how to approach postpartum health from a place of grace, not guilt.Laura's story will resonate with so many of us. She went from being trapped in superficial fitness obsessed with how she looked and what others thought, to experiencing a complete transformation when God called her back to her first love. Now she helps moms rebuild strength physically, emotionally, and spiritually after birth through her ministry True Strength Collective and the Strong After Birth Podcast.This conversation challenges the harmful "bounce back" culture that puts unrealistic timelines and expectations on postpartum moms. Instead, Laura shares how we can build strength from a place of acceptance rather than striving for acceptance—honoring our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit while giving ourselves the grace and time our bodies actually need to heal.Whether you're currently pregnant, in your postpartum season, or just tired of feeling like your worth is tied to how quickly you "bounce back"—this episode offers biblical truth and practical wisdom for approaching health as an act of worship, not performance.In this episode, we discuss:🌸 How Laura's fitness obsession led to burnout and distance from God—and the moment everything changed ⚖️ Why "bounce back" culture is hormonally harmful and biblically unsound for postpartum moms 💪 The difference between building strength from acceptance vs. for acceptance 🎯 Practical first steps for moms who feel stuck or disconnected from their bodies ✝️ How our identity in Christ frees us from the comparison trap and cultural pressure 🏃‍♀️ Why focusing on building muscle (not losing weight) transforms how we feel as momsScripture Shared: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." – Romans 8:1 (ESV)"Do not despise small beginnings." – Zechariah 4:10Mentioned in this episode: 💪 Laura's 3-Day Core Restore Plan: Free postpartum recovery guide with exercise demos and diastasis recti assessment 🩷 True Strength Collective: Laura's online coaching for moms 🎧 Strong After Birth Podcast: Postpartum strength training and body image encouragement✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more 💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you to see your body and health through God's eyes, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs this message.Let's reject the lies of bounce back culture and embrace the freedom found in Christ—one faithful step at a time. Go Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know about breastfeeding before your baby arrives—because preparing for this beautiful journey is just as important as preparing for birth itself. Too many mamas focus all their energy on delivery day but don't think about the feeding relationship that follows, and I don't want that to be you.Whether you're pregnant and considering breastfeeding, already planning to nurse your baby, or have had challenges in the past and want to set yourself up for success this time—this episode is packed with encouragement, practical wisdom, and the preparation tools you need.I'll be honest: breastfeeding is natural, but it's also a learned skill. And just like you wouldn't run a marathon without training, breastfeeding success really starts with education before baby arrives. But here's what I want you to know—however you choose to feed your baby, there is so much grace in that decision.In this episode, I share: 🤱 The incredible benefits of breastfeeding for both baby and mama (including some that might surprise you) 📚 Why preparation during pregnancy is the key to breastfeeding confidence 🆘 How to recognize normal challenges vs. when to seek help immediately 👥 The support system that makes all the difference in your breastfeeding journey 💰 Practical benefits you might not have considered (financial, environmental, and convenience) ✨ Resources that have helped countless families succeed in their breastfeeding goalsScripture Shared: "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has born? Though she may forget, I will not forget you." – Isaiah 49:15Mentioned in this episode: 📖 Breastfeeding Made Simple - One of my favorite breastfeeding book recommendations🤝 La Leche League - Breastfeeding support groups online and in-person✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more 💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education (includes breastfeeding basics). 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear this. Remember—you're loved, you're equipped, and you're doing an amazing job.Let's prepare well together, one feeding journey at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this vulnerable bonus episode, I'm sharing the hardest month of my third pregnancy—battling severe anxiety and depression while navigating morning sickness, parenting struggles, and feeling completely overwhelmed as a mom of two expecting her third baby.This isn't the polished, faith-filled message I usually share. This is me in the trenches, feeling like I'm failing at everything—from parenting my strong-willed four-year-old to managing daily tasks while battling mental health struggles. After going off my anxiety medication when I discovered this surprise pregnancy, I found myself in the darkest place I've been in years, wondering if I was capable of raising the children God had given me.Whether you're struggling with pregnancy anxiety, wrestling with medication decisions, or feeling like you're failing as a mom—this episode is a raw reminder that God's grace truly is sufficient in our weakest moments.In this episode, I share: 🤱 My honest struggle with anxiety, depression, and feeling like a failing mom 💊 The difficult decision to go back on medication (Zoloft) during pregnancy 🙏 How my community rallied around me in my darkest moment ✨ Finding a Christian counselor and the importance of professional support 💕 Why "people, prayers, and pills" became my lifeline through this seasonScripture Shared: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: 📖 "Jesus and Your Mental Health" - book mentioned by Rebecca Maxwell, LMFT✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, cervical ripening methods, worship playlists & more 📱 "Not By My Strength" 30-day devotional - A faith-focused devotional designed specifically for pregnancy.📚 Childbirth Education Course - Learn the stages of labor, comfort measures, and labor positions all with a faith-focus!💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education. 📸 Follow me on Instagram @faitoverfearbirthdoulaIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need to hear she's not alone in her struggles.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, even in our darkest seasons.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sharing the incredible birth journey of my very first doula client, Nicki—a foster mom of five whose three births taught her (and me!) powerful lessons about overcoming fear, trusting God's timing, and finding peace through trauma.Nicki's story begins with a terrifying first birth that left her with a fourth-degree tear, massive blood loss, and months of painful recovery. Determined never to experience that again, she felt God calling her toward natural birth—but with no roadmap and plenty of fear. That's where our paths crossed, and together we navigated two more births that were completely different from her first.From an irritable uterus that had her contracting for months, to lightning-fast labors that barely got us to the hospital in time, Nicki's journey is full of unexpected turns, divine timing, and the faithfulness of God through every contraction. Her story will encourage any mama who's walking through birth trauma, pregnancy anxiety, or simply wondering how to trust God with the unknown.Whether you're planning your first birth or your fifth, struggling with fear from a previous experience, or curious about the difference doula support can make—this episode is packed with hope, practical wisdom, and reminders that God is present in every part of your birth story.In this episode, Nicki shares: 🌸 How she moved from crippling birth fear to confident natural delivery 🩺 Navigating an irritable uterus and months of "practice" contractions🏥 The dramatic difference doula support made in her preparation and birth experience✝️ How her faith carried her through postpartum anxiety and into joy👶 Why her lightning-fast labors taught us both to trust God's perfect timing💕 Encouragement for mamas in every season—from pregnancy fears to juggling multiple littlesScripture Shared: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future." – Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more 💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education. 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhile I take a short rest during my first trimester, I’m bringing back one of the most meaningful episodes of the podcast. This conversation has resonated deeply with so many mamas, reminding us that birth and motherhood are not just physical experiences, but also powerful reflections of the gospel.If you’re longing for encouragement, or you want to see your motherhood journey through the lens of God’s sacrificial love, this replay will speak to your heart in fresh ways.In this episode I'm sharing how the profound experience of birth and motherhood reveals beautiful gospel truths that will transform how you see God's love for you.From the moment you discover you're pregnant to the intense moments of labor and the sweet surrender of holding your newborn, every stage of this journey offers glimpses into God's heart and His sacrificial love. If you've ever wondered how your experience as a mother connects to your faith, or if you're looking for deeper meaning in the beautiful chaos of pregnancy and parenting—this episode will encourage your heart in ways you weren't expecting.In this episode, I share: 🤱 How the unconditional love you feel for your unborn baby reflects God's unmerited love for you ⛪ Why Jesus chose birth language to describe salvation and what that means for mothers 💔 How the pain and sacrifice of labor mirrors Christ's sacrifice on the cross 👶 What your newborn's transformed heart teaches us about being born again spiritually ✝️ How raising children reveals both our sin nature and God's unchanging love for us 💕 Why your imperfect motherly love points to His perfect, eternal loveScripture Shared: John 3 - You must be born again1 John 4:19 - We love because He first loved usLuke 22:42 - Garden of Gethsemane prayerHebrews 12:2 - Joy set before HimJohn 16:21 - Woman in labor analogyEphesians 2:8-9 - Saved by grace through faithEzekiel 36:26 - New heartRomans 5:8 - Christ died for us while we were sinnersI close this episode by praying over you—that you would see yourself as God's beloved daughter and find fresh encouragement in how deeply, perfectly, and unconditionally He loves you through every season of motherhood.Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library; Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more 💛 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this gospel truth. Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhile I’m taking a short season of rest during my first trimester, I’m bringing back one of the most impactful and listened-to conversations we’ve had on the podcast. If you’ve ever wrestled with fear that your birth or postpartum might not go the way you hoped, or if you’ve struggled in the weeks after bringing your baby home, this replay will meet you with truth, honesty, and encouragement.In this episode I'm joined by my friend Crystal Doiron, a licensed clinical social worker and mama, as she courageously shares her story of postpartum depression and anxiety—and the hope she found on the other side.Crystal's journey began with detailed plans, a "birth binder" (not just a birth plan!), and the determination to do everything "right." But when preeclampsia led to an emergency induction, C-section, and a cascade of unexpected challenges, Crystal found herself struggling with the gap between expectation and reality.This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply encouraging. Crystal opens up about the darkest moments of her postpartum experience—including the day she realized she was having thoughts of ending her life—and how that became her wake-up call to seek help and find healing.Whether you're currently struggling with perinatal mood challenges, supporting someone who is, or want to prepare your heart for what might come—this episode offers both practical wisdom and spiritual hope.In this episode, Crystal shares:🧠 How her perfectionist, control-focused personality made her more vulnerable to postpartum depression💔 The moment her carefully planned birth completely fell apart and how that affected her emotionally 🚨 Five medical red flags that can contribute to or worsen perinatal anxiety and depression 💪 Practical steps she took toward healing: therapy, reclaiming body autonomy, and prioritizing self-care ✝️ How reconnecting with God felt like "winter fading into spring—things slowly coming back to life" 📝 The "sticky note strategy" for getting postpartum help without the awkwardness 👥 Why community and vulnerability are essential for maternal mental healthScripture Shared: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness." – Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Seven Oaks Therapy: Connect with Crystal at [email protected] 📚 Postpartum Support International: Virtual support groups and resources 💛 Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free Birth Preferences Checklist, worship playlists & more 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereRemember: struggling doesn't make you a bad mom—it makes you human, and help is available.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear Crystal's story of hope. Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhile I’m taking a short rest during my first trimester, I wanted to bring back one of the most-loved episodes of the podcast. This conversation has helped so many mamas release fear, embrace God’s design, and feel more confident heading into birth. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it again, I pray it blesses and encourages you today. In this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, we’re talking all about natural ways to help your body prepare for labor—without fear, overwhelm, or pressure to do “all the things.”Whether you’re weeks away from meeting your baby or just starting to plan for birth, understanding cervical ripening can empower you to partner with your body, honor God’s design, and prepare from a place of peace. I’m breaking down what cervical ripening actually is, why it matters, how your provider might assess your body’s readiness for labor using something called the Bishop Score, and simple, gentle things you can do to support the process naturally.If you’ve ever felt unsure about what you should be doing to get ready for birth—or wrestled with the fear of “what if my body doesn’t know what to do?”—this episode will meet you with encouragement, education, and faith.In this episode, I share:🌿 What the cervix does as you approach labor—and why ripening matters 🧠 A simple breakdown of the Bishop Score (so it actually makes sense!) 🫖 Gentle natural methods to support ripening (like red raspberry leaf tea, dates, and more) 📖 The mindset shift that frees you from control and anchors you in trust 🙏 How to pray through the waiting and release pressure to performScripture Shared:“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”— Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)A Prayer for You:I close this episode with a prayer over your heart and your pregnancy—that you would feel God’s nearness in the waiting, be free from fear, and walk in confident peace knowing He is preparing your body and writing your baby’s birth story with care and love.Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💛 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let’s keep choosing faith over fear!Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this special bonus episode, I'm sharing some big news with you—we're expecting our third baby! This surprise pregnancy has been both a tremendous blessing and a journey that's teaching me so much about rest, surrender, and where my true worth comes from.This announcement comes during a challenging first trimester filled with nausea, exhaustion, and the physical demands of being a pregnant doula. After walking through unimaginable losses with friends and battling fear about this pregnancy, hearing our baby's strong heartbeat was such a gift of peace from the Lord.But this episode isn't just about baby news—it's about the deeper lesson God is teaching me about stepping away from performance-based worth and trusting His provision. As someone who's prone to proving my value through what I do, the Lord keeps whispering "I will provide" when I start spiraling about how we'll manage three little ones.Whether you're in a season where you need to slow down, wrestling with perfectionism, or simply needing a reminder that your worth isn't tied to your productivity—this episode is full of encouragement for your heart.In this episode, I share: 🤱 Our surprise pregnancy announcement and my honest struggles with first trimester symptoms 🏥 Starting pelvic floor physical therapy early to get ahead of debilitating pelvic pain 💭 How the enemy planted fears after witnessing friends' losses, and finding peace in the Lord✝️ Learning to rest instead of perform, and trusting God's provision over my own efforts 🏠 Our plans for another home birth with a completely different heart posture this time 📻 Why I'm taking a 4-week podcast break to practice the rest and boundaries I preachScripture Shared: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." – Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, cervical ripening methods, worship playlists & more 📱 "Not By My Strength" 30-day devotional - A faith-focused devotional designed specifically for pregnancy.📚 Childbirth Education Course – Learn the stages of labor, comfort measures, and labor positions all with a faith-focus!💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education. 📸 Follow me on Instagram @faitoverfearbirthdoula📅 New episodes return September 9th, 2025 with a wild birth story from my very first doula client!If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear that her worth isn't tied to her productivity.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one surrender at a time.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through everything you need to know for a confident, faith-filled first trimester—from the moment you see that positive test to building the foundation for your entire pregnancy journey.Whether you're holding a pregnancy test with shaking hands, feeling overwhelmed by all the decisions ahead, or wanting to honor God through this long awaited season, this episode will equip you with both practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement for the weeks ahead.This isn't just another pregnancy to-do list. It's a grace-filled guide that helps you navigate early pregnancy without fear, make provider decisions with confidence, and find rest in God's perfect plan for you and your baby—even when morning sickness has you feeling anything but peaceful.In this episode, I share:🙏 How to celebrate and pray over your pregnancy as an act of worship (whether this pregnancy was planned or not)👥 Wise guidelines for deciding who to tell and when—protecting your heart in the process 🏥 How to choose the right provider and birth setting that aligns with your values 🍎 Nutrition foundations and prenatal vitamin recommendations that actually make a difference 😴 Gentle, grace-filled strategies for managing morning sickness and soul-crushing fatigue 💪 How to build a support system and ask for help without feeling like you're failing ✝️ Biblical encouragement for surrendering control and trusting God's sovereignty over your pregnancyScripture Shared: "Behold, I am doing a new thing. I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." – Isaiah 43:19 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Your go-to collection of faith-based birth prep tools, including "Top 10 Questions to Ask a Prospective Provider" handout.📚 Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols - The ultimate evidence-based nutrition guide.📖 The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin - A comprehensive guide for your support person (partner, mom, or friend) with practical tips for emotional and physical support.🎧 Listen to Episode 13 - I have a deep dive on the pros and cons of each birth setting.📊 Birth Setting Quiz - Not sure if hospital, birth center, or home birth is right for you? Take this simple quiz. 💊 FullWell Fertility Prenatal Multivitamin - The prenatal that actually meets your nutritional needs during pregnancy.📱 "Not By My Strength" 30-day devotional - A faith-focused devotional designed specifically for pregnancy.🫖 B6 and magnesium supplements for morning sickness - Take 50mg or less of B6 1-2 times a day, and suggests this magnesium supplement.💛 Work with Me 1:1 - Personalized pregnancy and birth support that integrates faith and evidence-based care, including virtual coaching, doula support, and comprehensive childbirth education. 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, pleSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm sitting down with Dr. Victoria Adeeb, a pelvic floor therapist and founder of Better Body Rehab in Jacksonville Beach, to talk about something every mom needs to hear—that caring for your body isn't selfish, it's sacred kingdom work.Victoria specializes in women's health and has such a heart for helping mamas feel confident in their bodies before, during, and after pregnancy. As a soon-to-be first time mama herself, she brings both clinical expertise and personal experience to our conversation about pelvic floor health, self-care, and what it truly means to steward the body God gave you.If you've ever been told that leaking, painful intercourse, or pelvic discomfort is "just part of being a mom"—or if you've felt guilty about taking time to care for yourself—this episode will challenge those lies and remind you that you deserve so much better.In this episode, we discuss:🌸 What the pelvic floor actually is and signs of dysfunction every woman should know🩺 Why "just do your kegels" advice can actually make some problems worse✝️ How motherhood is kingdom work and why self-care isn't selfish but sacred💪 Real stories of moms reclaiming strength and confidence in their bodies👶 Victoria's upcoming early postpartum program for moms in weeks 0-6Scripture Shared:"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord." – Colossians 3:23Mentioned in this episode:✨ Better Women’s Health - $50 discount on first visit when you mention this episode✝️ The Jesus Storybook Bible - Add this incredible book to your registry📚 Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support, Birth Coaching & Childbirth Education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message. Read the full show notes here!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm walking you through one of the most important decisions you'll make during pregnancy—choosing your birth setting. Whether you're considering a hospital birth, birth center, or home birth, each option comes with different levels of support, intervention, comfort, and control, and there's no "right" answer—just the one that's right for you and your baby.I'll be honest—when I was pregnant with my first, I didn't even realize I had options beyond my OB-GYN's office. But as I started researching and praying about what kind of birth experience I truly wanted, I discovered a whole world of possibilities that I wish I had known about earlier.Whether you're just starting to consider your options, feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, or even in your final weeks wondering if it's too late to make a change—this episode is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and most importantly, help you discern where God is leading you for your birth.In this episode, I share: 🏥 The honest pros and cons of hospital births—from immediate medical access to potential intervention cascades 🏡 Why birth centers offer a sweet middle ground between medical care and home-like comfort 🌸 The unique benefits and considerations of home birth, including my own experience with Daniel 💰 How to navigate insurance coverage and financial considerations for each setting ✝️ How to tune into the Holy Spirit's leading when making this deeply personal decisionScripture Shared: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: 📊 Birth Setting Quiz: Take the quiz to help determine which setting aligns with your values and desires 📞 Schedule a Private Coaching Call: Get personalized guidance for your birth preferences and options📚 Christian Mama Birth Prep Library; Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Christian Childbirth Education🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereRemember, mama—this isn't about what setting sounds most impressive. It's about what aligns with your body, your baby, and where you feel God is calling you to give birth. You are not alone in this decision, and He will equip you wherever He's leading you.If this episode gave you clarity, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might be weighing these same decisions.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth decision at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and the birth settings quiz!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by Katie Prizzia, a faith-filled mama of three, as she shares her incredible testimony of three completely different birth experiences—and how each one revealed God's faithfulness in unexpected ways.Katie's journey took her from an overwhelming premature birth with her first baby, to a faster but still medicated delivery with her second, and finally to the unmedicated birth she felt called to pursue with her third. But this wasn't just about achieving a "natural birth"—it was about learning to surrender her body, her fears, and her expectations to the Lord through every contraction, every unexpected turn, and every moment of doubt.After facing perinatal anxiety for the first time in her third pregnancy and wrestling with family members who questioned her desire for an unmedicated birth, Katie discovered what it truly means to present your body as a living sacrifice to God. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter how your birth unfolds, God is present in every detail.Whether you're preparing for your first birth, healing from a difficult experience, or wrestling with anxiety about what's ahead—Katie's testimony will encourage your heart and remind you that God's plan is perfect, even when it looks nothing like what we expected.In this episode, Katie shares: 🌸 How her traumatic first birth (a 34-week preemie NICU stay) taught her there was so much more to learn 🩺 Why she chose to decline certain interventions and went to the Lord more for her second pregnancy 🎶 The daily journaling, worship, and scripture that sustained her through pregnancy anxiety ✝️ How Romans 12:1 became her anchor verse: "Present your body as a living sacrifice" 👶 The lightning-fast unmedicated birth that required her to literally trust God  completely 🙏 Why her mom went from saying "you don't get a medal" to helping fund doula supportScripture Shared: "I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is true worship." – Romans 12:1 (NIV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library; Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more 💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Christian Childbirth Education📚 Childbirth Education Course – Learn the stages of labor, comfort measures, and labor positions🤰 Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin✝️ Redeeming Childbirth by Angie Tolpin🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear Katie's powerful testimony.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!"Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm walking you through everything you actually need to pack for your hospital stay—not too much, not too little, but just right for your comfort and your baby's first precious days.If you're staring at your hospital bag wondering if you're doing this whole thing right, you're in exactly the right place. This isn't just another generic packing list—it's about preparing your heart and your bag so you can approach birth with confidence instead of anxiety.Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, whether you're feeling overwhelmed by all the "must-have" lists online, or you simply want to feel prepared and peaceful—this episode will help you pack with intention and walk into your birth experience feeling ready.In this episode, I share:🎒 The comfort items that will actually make a difference in your recovery (not just what everyone says to bring)🤱 Essential breastfeeding supplies and what you can skip to avoid overpacking🍼 What to pack for baby—and why less is more💤 Sleep and rest essentials that help you get actual rest in the hospital🧴 Personal care items you'll actually use (including the one thing that saves labor breathing!)👨 Your partner's packing list so he's comfortable during your potentially multi-day stay⏰ When to start packing (hint: 34-36 weeks is the sweet spot)✝️ Why this is about preparation, not perfection—and trusting God's plan for your birthMentioned in this episode:✨ FREE Hospital Bag Packing Checklist inside the Christian Mama Birth Prep Library💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Christian Childbirth Education🥤LMNT Electrolytes – Clean electrolyte drink mix🍫 RX Bars – Healthy, non-perishable snacks👶 Velcro Swaddles – The kind we loved with our kids🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode helped you feel more prepared and confident, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mama who needs to hear this.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one well-packed hospital bag at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm joined by Jamie Ortiz, a pediatric sleep coach, military spouse, and mama of two who shares her powerful journey through pregnancy loss, high-risk births, and finding God's faithfulness in the midst of heartbreak.Jamie's motherhood story began with devastating loss—giving birth prematurely to her baby at 22 weeks while her husband was deployed overseas. But even in that unimaginable grief, God was preparing her heart with Scripture and dreams, showing her His character before the storm hit. Her subsequent pregnancies brought month-long hospitalizations and emergency deliveries—none of which looked like the plan she had envisioned.Through it all, Jamie discovered that God's sovereignty doesn't diminish in our suffering—it sustains us through it. Her story is a beautiful testament to trusting the Lord's plan even when it looks nothing like what we expected, and how He can use our deepest pain to serve others in their greatest need.Whether you're walking through pregnancy loss, navigating high-risk pregnancies, or feeling overwhelmed by sleepless nights with your little one—this episode offers hope, practical wisdom, and a fresh reminder that God sees you in every season.In this episode, Jamie shares: 🕊️ How God prepared her heart for loss through Scripture and dreams during her first pregnancy 💔 The raw reality of losing a baby at 22 weeks and grieving while trusting God's goodness 🏥 Navigating subsequent high-risk pregnancies, hospitalizations, and deployments 👶 Her journey from sleep-deprived mama to certified pediatric sleep consultant 💤 Practical encouragement for nursing moms struggling with sleep associations ✝️ Why introducing bottles early creates healthier family dynamics and stronger marriages 🤱 The importance of considering your whole family—not just baby—in sleep decisionsScripture Shared: "He is the Lord. Let him do what is good in his eyes." – 1 Samuel 3:18Mentioned in this episode:📸 Jamie's Instagram: @littleonessleepsociety🌙 Pediatric sleep coaching for families with children up to age 6, including neurodivergent support: learn more at littleonessleepsociety.com💖 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library; Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear Jamie's story of faith over fear.Let's keep choosing trust over control, one story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!"Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m walking you through one of the most common questions expectant mamas ask: “Am I in labor?” Whether you’re experiencing your first round of practice contractions or wondering if this is finally the real deal, this episode will help you discern the signs with confidence and peace.As you approach your due date, it’s natural to analyze every sensation and wonder if labor is beginning. But those Braxton Hicks contractions can be so convincing! After experiencing this uncertainty myself—I want to equip you with the knowledge and faith-filled perspective you need to navigate this waiting season.Whether you’re a first-time mama feeling overwhelmed by all the “what ifs” or an experienced mom who needs a refresher on labor signs, this episode offers practical wisdom rooted in trusting God’s perfect timing for your birth story.In this episode, I share:🤔The difference between possible, preliminary, and positive signs of labor🫖What to do (and what NOT to do) when you start experiencing these signs🛁 Comfort measures and relaxation techniques to practice during early labor📞 How to discern when it’s time to call your provider or head to your birthplace✝️ Faith-filled encouragement for trusting your body and God’s timingScripture Shared:“But I trust in you, Lord. I say, you are my God. My times are in your hands.” – Psalm 31:14-15Mentioned in this episode:✨ “Am I in Labor? Discerning the Signs” Free Handout – Grab this companion resource in the Christian Mama Birth Prep Library🤰 LMNT Electrolytes – My favorite clean electrolyte supplement for pregnancy📚 Childbirth Education Course – Learn comfort measures and labor techniques💛 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode helped clarify the signs of labor for you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mama who might be wondering the same thing.Let’s keep choosing faith over fear as we trust God’s timing for our babies’ arrivals. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentionedSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm sitting down with Emily Whalen (@nurtured_little_nest)—a sweet mama, content creator, and someone I had the honor of serving as her doula. Emily's story is one of transformation: from mental health struggles and medication concerns to discovering the power of mindset in birth, and ultimately experiencing an unmedicated delivery that deepened her understanding of God's love.This isn't just a birth story—it's a testimony of how God uses motherhood to sanctify us, stretch our faith, and reveal His heart in ways we never expected. Emily shares openly about navigating bipolar disorder and OCD during early marriage, the surprise of getting pregnant while on medication, and how reading one powerful book completely shifted her perspective on birth.Whether you're considering an unmedicated birth, struggling with pregnancy fears, or simply needing encouragement that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for good—this episode is full of hope for your heart and practical wisdom for your journey.In this episode, Emily shares: 📖 How one book (Ina May's Guide to Childbirth) transformed her entire birth plan🧠 The power of mindset and why "what you say out loud matters" became her motto 🎶 How worship music carried her through labor's most intense moments 👶 The dramatic moment her sunny-side-up baby needed help "with directions" ✝️ How becoming a mother gave her a deeper understanding of God's sacrificial love 🏠 Why she's planning a birth center or home birth for baby #2Emily beautifully connects the immediate, overwhelming love she felt for her newborn to understanding God's heart toward us—giving us a glimpse of divine love through motherhood.Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin🍎 Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols 📲 Follow Emily: @nurtured_little_nest on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube 💛 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear Emily's powerful story.Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentionedSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm sharing how the profound experience of birth and motherhood reveals beautiful gospel truths that will transform how you see God's love for you.From the moment you discover you're pregnant to the intense moments of labor and the sweet surrender of holding your newborn, every stage of this journey offers glimpses into God's heart and His sacrificial love. If you've ever wondered how your experience as a mother connects to your faith, or if you're looking for deeper meaning in the beautiful chaos of pregnancy and parenting—this episode will encourage your heart in ways you weren't expecting.In this episode, I share: 🤱 How the unconditional love you feel for your unborn baby reflects God's unmerited love for you ⛪ Why Jesus chose birth language to describe salvation and what that means for mothers 💔 How the pain and sacrifice of labor mirrors Christ's sacrifice on the cross 👶 What your newborn's transformed heart teaches us about being born again spiritually ✝️ How raising children reveals both our sin nature and God's unchanging love for us 💕 Why your imperfect motherly love points to His perfect, eternal loveScripture Shared: John 3 - You must be born again1 John 4:19 - We love because He first loved usLuke 22:42 - Garden of Gethsemane prayerHebrews 12:2 - Joy set before HimJohn 16:21 - Woman in labor analogyEphesians 2:8-9 - Saved by grace through faithEzekiel 36:26 - New heartRomans 5:8 - Christ died for us while we were sinnersI close this episode by praying over you—that you would see yourself as God's beloved daughter and find fresh encouragement in how deeply, perfectly, and unconditionally He loves you through every season of motherhood.Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library; Free birth prep tools, worship playlist & more 💛 Work with Me 1:1 – Doula Support & Coaching: Explore birth support and childbirth education for your pregnancy and birth journey🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this gospel truth. Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I'm joined by my friend Crystal Doiron, a licensed clinical social worker and mama, as she courageously shares her story of postpartum depression and anxiety—and the hope she found on the other side.Crystal's journey began with detailed plans, a "birth binder" (not just a birth plan!), and the determination to do everything "right." But when preeclampsia led to an emergency induction, C-section, and a cascade of unexpected challenges, Crystal found herself struggling with the gap between expectation and reality.This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply encouraging. Crystal opens up about the darkest moments of her postpartum experience—including the day she realized she was having thoughts of ending her life—and how that became her wake-up call to seek help and find healing.Whether you're currently struggling with perinatal mood challenges, supporting someone who is, or want to prepare your heart for what might come—this episode offers both practical wisdom and spiritual hope.In this episode, Crystal shares:🧠 How her perfectionist, control-focused personality made her more vulnerable to postpartum depression💔 The moment her carefully planned birth completely fell apart and how that affected her emotionally 🚨 Five medical red flags that can contribute to or worsen perinatal anxiety and depression 💪 Practical steps she took toward healing: therapy, reclaiming body autonomy, and prioritizing self-care ✝️ How reconnecting with God felt like "winter fading into spring—things slowly coming back to life" 📝 The "sticky note strategy" for getting postpartum help without the awkwardness 👥 Why community and vulnerability are essential for maternal mental healthScripture Shared: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness." – Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Seven Oaks Therapy: Connect with Crystal at [email protected] 📚 Postpartum Support International: Virtual support groups and resources 💛 Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free Birth Preferences Checklist, worship playlists & more 🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereRemember: struggling doesn't make you a bad mom—it makes you human, and help is available.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a mama who needs to hear Crystal's story of hope. Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I'm sharing a practical but powerful tool for your birth journey—creating effective birth preferences that serve as a communication tool for your entire birth team. Rather than focusing on controlling every aspect of birth, this approach creates clarity and unity while honoring God's ultimate plan. Whether you're preparing for your first birth, hoping to have more input in your birth experience, or simply wanting to feel more prepared, this step-by-step guide will help you approach birth with both wisdom and surrender.In this episode, I share:📋 Why I prefer "birth preferences" over "birth plans" and the biblical wisdom behind this mindset ✔️ Essential categories to consider from before labor begins through postpartum care 🎶 Practical comfort measures including my favorite essential oils and music recommendations 🗣️ How to communicate your preferences clearly while still holding them with open hands 👶 Personal stories and lessons from my own births with Ellie and DanielScripture Shared: "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." – Proverbs 19:21Mentioned in this episode: 📚 Christian Mama Birth Prep Library: Free Birth Preferences Checklist, worship playlists & more 🟢 Birth Ball Sizing Guide: Check out my Instagram post about proper birth ball sizing✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education: Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let's keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m joined by my very first guest—Sarah Salain, a registered nurse, Christian holistic health coach, and new mama—who shares her powerful story of waiting, surrender, and God’s faithfulness.After years of hormonal challenges and praying for a baby, Sarah found herself walking through a long and painful season of infertility. As a health coach supporting other women through fertility struggles, her own waiting felt especially heavy—until God moved in a way only He could.In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, Sarah shares:🌱 What it was like to walk through infertility while helping others heal ✝️ How the Lord clearly led her to wait—despite pressure to pursue fertility treatments🤰 The joy and gratitude she experienced throughout pregnancy🕯️ Her powerful, faith-centered hospital birth and the moment her life verse came to life💛 The raw realities of postpartum, surrendering expectations, and finding purpose in motherhood🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereScripture Shared: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” – Romans 8:18 (NIV) (Spoiler: Her baby was born at 8:18 PM 🕯️)Mentioned in this episode: ✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library – Free tools & worship playlists to help you prepare with peace 💛 Explore Doula Support & Childbirth Education – Virtual and in-person care for faith-led births 🌿 Connect with Sarah – Learn more about her work through Simply Sarah Healing🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let’s keep choosing faith over fear—one birth story at a time.👉 Visit the full blog post for show notes, transcript, and links to everything mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, we’re talking all about natural ways to help your body prepare for labor—without fear, overwhelm, or pressure to do “all the things.”Whether you’re weeks away from meeting your baby or just starting to plan for birth, understanding cervical ripening can empower you to partner with your body, honor God’s design, and prepare from a place of peace. I’m breaking down what cervical ripening actually is, why it matters, how your provider might assess your body’s readiness for labor using something called the Bishop Score, and simple, gentle things you can do to support the process naturally.If you’ve ever felt unsure about what you should be doing to get ready for birth—or wrestled with the fear of “what if my body doesn’t know what to do?”—this episode will meet you with encouragement, education, and faith.In this episode, I share:🌿 What the cervix does as you approach labor—and why ripening matters 🧠 A simple breakdown of the Bishop Score (so it actually makes sense!) 🫖 Gentle natural methods to support ripening (like red raspberry leaf tea, dates, and more) 📖 The mindset shift that frees you from control and anchors you in trust 🙏 How to pray through the waiting and release pressure to performScripture Shared:“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let’s keep choosing faith over fear!Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m sharing the full story of my second birth—Daniel’s peaceful home birth—and how it stretched my faith, challenged my need for control, and ultimately led me to experience more joy and surrender than I thought possible.This pregnancy and birth journey was different from my first. After delivering my daughter unmedicated in a hospital, I found myself being called toward a new kind of birth experience. But that shift came with fear, hesitation, and daily moments of surrender—especially after walking through another miscarriage scare and months of intense early labor symptoms.Whether you’re considering a home birth, wrestling with “what if” scenarios, or simply needing a fresh reminder that God is with you in your birth story—this episode is full of encouragement for your heart, mind, and spirit.In this episode, I share:🌸 How we decided to switch from hospital care to planning a home birth🩺 Navigating another miscarriage scare and trusting God’s provision for our pregnancy🎶 How worship music and prayer helped me through labor’s most intense moments✝️ The mindset shifts that helped me surrender fear and embrace faithful preparation👶 Sweet, unexpected moments that made Daniel’s birth even more joyful than I imaginedScripture Shared:"When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world." – John 16:21 (ESV)Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let’s keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time.Go here for the full blog post, show notes, and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this very first episode of Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of the most transformative days of my life—the birth of my daughter, Ellie.From navigating unexpected complications early in pregnancy to giving birth unmedicated in a hospital setting, this episode is full of the real, raw, faith-filled moments that shaped me as a woman and called me into the sacred work of serving other mamas.You’ll hear how I coped with a subchorionic hematoma, managed intense pelvic pain, and prepared for birth with a mix of evidence-based tools and spiritual practices. You’ll also get a glimpse of the worship-filled atmosphere during labor, how “The Blessing” became my birth anthem, and the exact moment I realized God was calling me to become a doula and childbirth educator.Whether you’re newly pregnant, preparing for birth, or just curious how God shows up in the labor room—this episode will inspire you to surrender fear, embrace faithful preparation, and trust in His beautiful design for birth.In this episode, I share:🤍 My journey through early pregnancy fears and how God met me with faith🩺 Navigating a subchorionic hematoma and pelvic pain related to hypermobility🌿 The natural comfort measures that supported me through unmedicated labor🙏 Experiencing God’s peace and tangible presence in the delivery room✨ The exact moment I knew I was being called to become a doula and childbirth educatorScripture Shared: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9Mentioned in this episode:✨ Christian Mama Birth Prep Library - Free birth prep tools, worship playlists & more💕 Work with Me 1:1 – Virtual Doula Support & Schedule a Private Coaching Call✝️ Online Christian Childbirth Education - Explore my complete birth preparation self-paced course🎧 Episode 26: Learn more about virtual birth support with me🎴 NEW Christian Birth Affirmation Cards: You can now purchase them hereIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Let’s keep choosing faith over fear, one birth story at a time. Go here for the full episode show notes and all resources mentioned!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Faith Over Fear: The Christian Pregnancy & Birth Podcast!In this short trailer episode, I’m sharing the heart behind the podcast and why I believe Christian mamas need a space like this now more than ever.You’ll hear what to expect from each episode, the mission driving this podcast, and how we’ll walk through pregnancy, birth, and early motherhood together—with our eyes fixed on Jesus, not fear.This is more than just a birth podcast. It’s a gospel-centered invitation to trust God more deeply in one of the most powerful seasons of your life.💛 Visit faithoverfearbirth.com to access my free Christian Mama Birth Prep Library and learn how I can support you with virtual or in-person doula care.🎧 Be sure to subscribe and follow the show on your favorite platform—so you never miss an episode of encouragement, truth, and peace-filled preparation.Let’s begin—choosing faith over fear, one step at a time.Support the show