In this epsiode, Oni Blecher speaks with Amanda Banks, co creator and producer of the new film Born at Home. Empowered by the homebirth of her second child in 2020, Amanda, together with long term dear friend Eleanor, set out to create a film exploring Homebirth in QLD. Amanda is mother of two children, both born at home. She has always had a passion for health which led her to works as an Acupuncturist in Brisbane, supporting families through fertility, pregnancy and beyond for over 8 years. Amanda was the former Convenor for Homebirth QLD for 2.5 years until mid 2023 and worked as a maternity consumer representative on the QLD Normal Birth Strategy.Supporting women has always been a passion of hers and after absorbing current research on the mainstream maternity system working with Homebirth QLD, she was driven to advocate for evidence based maternity care, women’s rights and access to safe birthing options and education. Amanda believes in the physiological process of birth, that birth is a rite of passage and a positive, supported birth experience can create a mother who feels confident in herself and in her parenting journey, amongst many other beneficial maternal and infant outcomes. We hope you enjoy this conversation and learning more about the film ! To check out more details and the upcoming film screenings, look at the links below ! https://www.bornathomefilm.com.auhttps://au.demand.film/born-at-home/

In this interview, Oni Blecher interviews Dr Michelle Gerbi. With a background as a chiropractor, perinatal health coach, functional medicine provider, certified perinatal health coach, postpartum corrective exercise specialist, and international board-certified lactation consultant, Michelle has had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the challenges, questions, and triumphs that come with being a mom. With over 17 years of experience focusing on postpartum women, Dr. Michelle Gerbi has helped thousands of moms overcome the most common and challenging issues that come with motherhood. In this episode, they discuss many topics but provide a special focus on breastfeeding, tongue tie, and the culture of under prepared postpartum. Michelle shares her extensive professional experince as well as her own personal birthing and breastfeeding journey. Enjoy this conversation and find Michelle through the links below. Instagram: @postpartummotheringmentorWebsite: www.drgerbi.com

Public Service Announcement: Would you like to support us ? We are raising money for our NFP and podcast to obtain an office space and podcast recording studio for 2024. Our goal is $10, 000 AUD and any donation big or small is helpful ! If you're interested in supporting us, please email us at hello@pbbmedia.org for more information. If you're not familiar, Check out our work at pbbmedia.org In this interview, Oni Blecher interviews Dr. Howard Chilton has been a neonatologist (a baby’s physician) for over 45 years. He was born in York, England and studied at St Mary’s Hospital Medical School in London. After wonderful years in London in the swinging sixties he graduated then interned at Addington Hospital on the beach in Durban, South Africa. Following this, he was accepted for a Senior House Physician appointment in Neonatal Medicine at Harari Hospital in then, Salisbury Rhodesia, now, Harare, Zimbabwe). After more training, Howard eventually obtained paediatric appointments at the Hammersmith Hospital and the Westminster Children’s Hospital, then, after obtaining his MRCP (UK) degree, the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford where he also did a short fellowship. He then became a SHO at the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, London in the Department of Respiratory Medicine. He did a mandatory Neonatal Fellowship in the US at Denver Children’s Hospital which included two years in a centre of excellence in high tech neonatology including doing neonatal ground and air retrievals, really taught him how to look after the sickest, smallest babies.Before starting this fellowship though, he had a long stopover in Sydney doing locum Respiratory and Paediatric jobs, to check out job prospects. During one job at Prince Henry Hospital he met a beautiful nursing sister called Tamara.At the end of the fellowship, Howard was appointed as the Director of Newborn Services at the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney, where he held this position for over twenty years, resigning in 1999 to concentrate on clinical work and parent education. Apart from looking after babies and their parents, Howard now spends a lot of his time talking: to parent groups, or to conferences in Australia and overseas, and to media outlets about ‘responsive parenting’ and the myriad issues which arise for parents when they take their new baby home. He believes knowledge of the biology of the baby can help parents understand and meet their baby’s needs and enables them to relax and enjoy the wonderful experience of parenting.He married Tamara soon after arriving back in Sydney from the USA and she remains the light of his life. They have two daughters, Georgina and Isabella and five grandchildren ! all under 5 years of age. Find out more about Dr. Chilton, including his well renowned books at babydoc.com.au

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Tahnee Taylor. Tahnee is a yoga teacher with a deep and resonant love of Yin Yoga and how it meets the alchemical magic of Taoism. She is also a practitioner of Chi Nei Tsang, which is a Taoist abdominal massage and she is a passionate advocate for the inherent shamanic wisdom of the body - hers, yours, ours. She is the mama of two home-birthed babies and co-parent of SuperFeast, the Taoist tonic herb company founded by her husband, Mason. Tahnee co-hosts the SuperFeast podcast and educates around yoga, Taoism, health and motherhood.In this interview, Tahnee shares how her deep experience and resonance with yin and Taoist principles and the intersection between them has influenced her motherhing and her interaction with her many roles as a woman and human. Enjoy this interview. Find Tahnee here:@tahneeyogatahneetaylor.com

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Ruth Schubert. Ruth is a physiotherapist for 20 years. She Schubert is inspired to help her clients lead a beautiful life. She believes in building resilience through developing a strong body and calm mind. Throughout her career, Ruth realised her passion in caring for women, and her own pregnancy and recovery found her fascinated with Women’s Pelvic Health. She has a specialist interest in pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction and working with pre and post-natal women. She has undertaken extensive post-graduate training in the treatment of Women’s pelvic health and has completed a professional certificate in pelvic organ Prolapse management through UniSa and Pinc cancer rehabilitation certification. Along with her extensive clinical knowledge, Ruth takes a holistic approach to assessing and treating her patients, incorporating education, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise and mindfulness. Her unique ability to treat the internal and external pelvic structures has led to outstanding results and a loyal client base.Find Ruth here: @exhale_physiotherapywww.exhalephysio.com.auFind PBB Media here @pbb_media www.pbbmedia.org

In today's episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Natalie Woods. Natalie Woods is a twin mother to two boys, River and Jarrah. She lives in the Northern Rivers with her partner Dan. She’s also a writer and community builder, which has led her to think deeply about the storytelling that is available for parents of multiples and also the importance of finding a community of parents who share similar experiences to your own. Enjoy this conversation Find Nat here: @nat.woods_Sign petition here:https://equalityformultiples.good.do/HELPNOW/MULTIPLES-NEED-SUPPORT/

In this interview, Oni speaks with local father Nyck Jeanes. Nyck is also a musician, producer, independent journalist, and as one close friend describes him; a social engineer; he’s out to help change the way we relate to one another, understand the world around us and live our lives.This interview was recorded nearly two years ago and with floods, and other events, it is only now we are airing it.PBB met Nyck in his former role as the president of BayFM, our local community radio station; the very place that Pregnancy, Birth, and Beyond started so many years ago. Nyck has always been a truth seeker who comes from a place of an eternal wonder like an inquisitive child but with wise and sharp intellect to investigate and articulate the wonder. He is a friend of many and has been a backbone for so many in the community.Nyck has a big heart, and enthusiasm to tell the story. In this interview, his story is a rich and deep story that includes a pivotal moment in his life; the birth and death of his first child. Nyck generously and wisely shares this story with us decades later. It includes the story of an inquest and the braveness of acting in a painful and challenging time.Oni was honoured to sit and witness Nyck talk as a father, after us sitting next to him at the radio station for many years as our show used to air just after his finished. It was only years later, after a spontaneous conversation at a cafe did Oni realise what Nyck had gone through as a father. Thank you Nyck and we hope you appreciate this conversation. Please see below for details of helplines if you or your loved ones need helpOrganisations for support: (via www.iamstillborn.com)Sands – Sands provides support, information and education to anyone affected by the death of a baby before, during or shortly after birth. They have helplines you can call up and they also have face to face events. There is lots of info on their website. http://www.sands.org.au/Bears of Hope – Bears Of Hope Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support provides leading support and exceptional care for families who experience the loss of their baby. Bears of Hope has a great Facebook group for grieving parents. There is also one group set up just for Dads. http://www.bearsofhope.org.au/The Stillbirth Foundation Australia is the only Australian charity dedicated to stillbirth research. We are 100 percent community funded. It was launched by Emma McLeod in October 2005 after Olivia, Emma’s second child and first daughter, died unexpectedly in utero and was born still on 31 July 2002. They have a birth remembrance on their website for all the babies gone too soon. They also have information for parents who are dealing with their grief. http://stillbirthfoundation.org.au/

Robin Grille Is a psychotherapist, psychologist, author, mentor, speaker, and educator. His work seeks to restore relationships to their natural flow and balance: include family relationships, partnerships, workplace relationships, and relationship to self. His work enlivens relationship to vocation, to community, and to the natural world that surrounds and nourishes us. Robin speaks at international conferences, on a range of themes presented in his books. He conducts international trainings for psychotherapists, and for parents and offers private psychotherapy/counselling/coaching sessions.Robin was born in Uruguay to migrant parents. Spanish was his first language, French his second and Romanian his third language before coming to Australia when he was 10 years old. So far he has written and published; 'Heart to Heart Parenting', 'Parenting for a Peaceful World', and a chapter in a book called 'Social Ecology, Applying Ecological Understanding to our Lives and our Planet'. We hope you enjoy this conversation.Find Robin at https://www.robingrille.com or @robingrille

This episode is a conversation between Oni Blecher and Jacqui Lewis. Jacqui Lewis is a meditation teacher, mentor, an author of four books, a Tedx Speaker, and hosts leadership programs globally. She co-founded The Broad Place, a global school sharing ancient knowledge and modern neuroscience, tools and experiences for higher grade living with Arran Russell. She focuses on philosophy and tools for greater clarity, creativity and consciousness and bringing a grounded, innovative and resilient approach into the lives of her students and clients. A student of Eastern wisdom, neuroscience and psychology, she continues to study and integrate these teachings into her work.In this interview, Jacqui shares her diverse and personal experience as a mother, including motherhood and work, creativity, and tuning in to your own wisdom in a world saturated with information. We also discuss Jacqui’s book ‘Mothers Mind Cleanse’ and hear about her own impetus and writing process. Enjoy this conversation To tune into Jacqui's work, head to:https://thebroadplace.com.auInstagram: @thebroadplace

In this episode, Oni Blecher brings you an interview with menstrual educator Samantha Neal.Samantha has been working for over six years, contributing to the field of menstruation by way of workshops, comprehensive online education programs, private mentorship and circle facilitation. Samantha is within a new wave of menstrual educators, approaching the field slowly and carefully with the utmost sanctity and respect; researching and writing while based in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, Australia.She has worked with all ages, supported thousands of women and girls in their understanding and integration of menstrual awareness. Her widely loved online course, the Cyclical Living Immersion, has been received and celebrated by participants from around the world. Most recently, she has started an online container called ‘Altered’, a 4 week course exploring the liminal dimensions of menstruation. She is always tending budding projects as well as serving weekly tea ceremonies, continuing her deep studies and exploring under the guidance of her mentors Dr. Lara Owen and Moana Pearl.This interview is full of deep explorations around relationship; with self, with cycles, and with those who teach us. Enjoy ! To connect or work with Sam, have a look at her website: https://samantha-neal.comOr her Instagram:@samanthaneal_

In this Episode, Oni Blecher interviews Jane Hardwicke Collings. Jane has spent decades in the realms of birth education and ther wider work of reconnecting women with their sacred rites of passage. Jane started and runs the School of Shamanic Woman Craft and the Charity organisation Hygieia Health; revolutionising maternity care in Australia to minimise and prevent birth related trauma.Jane has many gifts of wisdom from her decades of experience in regards to birthing well. Not only is Jane and her school a wellspring of knowledge but she is a keen collaborator and her generosity to other groups and organisatins including ours is a testament to her ability to evolve our field and work together for a better future.Below are links to the Northern Rivers based events mentioned in Jane's interview. FREE birth trauma event:https://janehardwickecollings.com/events/red-thread-birth-trauma-a-conversation-with-jane-hardwicke-collings-rhea-dempsey/ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/birth-trauma-awareness-event-tickets-623425651907 Red Thread Birth Trauma - A Conversation with Jane Hardwicke Collings and Rhea Dempsey

Dione from Make a Change on BayFM interviews Rhea Dempsey and Sally Cusack on birth trauma and related events coming up in the region for #birthtraumaawarenessweek 16 - 22 July 2023.Rhea Dempsey, childbirth educator, counsellor and author, will be in conversation with Jerusha Sutton from the Birth Time documentary team on Thursday 13 July 2023 at 6:30 - 8:30pm at Vali Byron.Bookings can be made through PBB Media here or here.Rhea will be visiting this region from Melbourne to also present at this Birth Trauma Awareness Event at Lennox Head on 18 July 2023.https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/birth-trauma-awareness-event-tickets-623425651907Aired on bayfm.org on 5 July 2023.Copyright Dione Green, Make a Change 2023

In Today's episode, Oni Blecher will be interviewing Tane Luna, A Spanish obstetrician that is working as the head os Obstetrics at Lismore Base Hospital. Tane has had vast experience working in many models of care, including a period of time with Medicins Sans Frontiers in Africa and the Middle East. She shares her views and experience of Obstetrics as an evolving profession. Please excuse the ambient sound on the recording as we had to meet and record in a public place. Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Media, our development team and contributors pay our respects to indigenous elders past, present and emerging. This interview was recorded and edited on Bundjalung land. We acknowledge that we live, work, and benefit from these unceded lands. PBB Media as a NFP organisation is fully volunteer run. We are grateful for our loyal and long-lasting listener ship and believe the content we share around Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum, and parenting is vital for healthier communities. Leave us a comment or a review, or send on our episodes to anyone you think would benefit. We also have a backlog of 100s of rich and varied episodes. Have a look! On July 18th, Tane and a group of other practitioners and clinicians specialising in birth and postpartum will be running a free event to raise awareness around birth trauma. I will pop the details about this below in our show notes. Enjoy this interview ! https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/birth-trauma-awareness-event-tickets-623425651907

This epsiode is a conversation between Annalee Atia and Alysha-leigh Fameli. Alysha-leigh is PhD student/Registered Psychologist University of Sydney. Alicia-leigh has already undertaken important research to recognise childbirth related PTSD and it's impact on the early mother-infant relationship. She has also worked on a study titled ‘Assessment of childbirth-related post traumatic stress disorder in Australian mothers: Psychometric properties of the City Birth Trauma Scale’. As part of her new and current research, she is seeking the participation of mothers with infants aged 0-6 months for participation in a clinical interview, observation and online survey. If this is you, check out our links below to see how you can be involved. Your experiences matter and recording them safely and officially helps to prevent future harm and creates the space for others to have their experiences validated. As you may know, the rates of PTSD in childbirth are growing. These statistics are ones that us here at PBB Media are not okay with. We will also leave some mental health resources below. If you are feeling like you need mental health support in relation to your birth or postpartum, know that you are not alone. Mental health support for expecting and new parents:https://forwhenhelpline.org.au / Call 1300 24 23 22 National Helpline on 1300 24 23 22 is now live between 9.00am-4.30pm – Monday to Friday.Call ForWhen helpline, which is a national service and you can look up your area and link you in to support close to you 1300 24 23 22, forwhenhelpline.org.au To be involved in Alysha-leigh's study:To support and participate in this vital research (for this project, anyone with babies 6 months and younger), you can reach her here:afam4556@uni.sydney.edu.au and www.australianbirthstudy.comUpcoming free Birth Trauma event in Lismore:https://www.instagram.com/p/CsDxQZTru4I/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

In this episode, host Rose Ricketson talks with community development worker Holly, about her experience with IVF in Australia. Holly shares a very personal IVF journey that impacted every corner of her life, shedding light upon a very common experience, so we can each have more awareness of what the IVF is like for the women and couples in our communities, and how we could better support them through it all. We also explore the issues related to the IVF industry and the inequality of access, and look at ways we can help amplify the stories of people navigating this journey. Holly Rankin Smith is a community development worker with a passion for advocacy, activism and social change. With over 15 years experience in the sector, she has worked on projects addressing a range of social challenges from isolated elderly in aged care to at to at risk rural youth. She is also a marriage and funeral celebrant and is fascinated by the ceremonies and rituals through life and death. Holly is passionate about shifting the stigma around IVF since her experience of 3 years trying to conceive with a very broad diagnosis of 'unexplained infertility'. A light through this dark experience was stories and connections with other women experiencing infertility, but this seemed hard to find which is strange when it's experienced by 1 in 6 Australian couples. Holly hopes by sharing her story she can help people who are experiencing infertility feel less alone and help give context for those who know someone going through it.Contact: @hollyrsIt Starts With The Egg - The book Holly referenced https://www.amazon.com.au/Starts-Egg-Second-Naturally-Miscarriage-ebook/dp/B07NJ85ZFJ

Rose Ricketson talks with Hazel Keedle, PhD, Lecturer of Midwifery at Western Sydney University and author of her recently released book Birth after Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth. They discuss her research and findings around VBAC in Australia, as well as her work in midwifery. Hazel has more than two decades of experience as a clinician in nursing and midwifery, educator and researcher. Hazel’s research interests are vaginal birth after caesarean, birth trauma and maternity experiences explored primarily using feminist mixed methodologies. Hazel's work is recognised nationally and internationally, with more than50 conference and seminar presentations including 15 as an invited speaker. Hazel has a developing publication track record as an early career researcher, with 15 peer reviewed publications and a best selling book for women based on her PhD findings, Birth after Caesarean, your journey to a better birth.Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hazelkeedle (this has all the links to my papers, events, etc)Instagram: @hazelkeedleFacebook: @VBACmattersTwitter: @HazelKeedleBook on Amazon.com.au: https://tinyurl.com/2jmrfb9p

It would be reasonable to assume that the care one provides is the care one would be happy to receive. But this is not what new research reveals. Today on Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Annalee Atia speaks with Sharon Stoliar - researcher, academic, midwife and Mother. Sharon received her Bachelor of Nursing in 2006 and Graduate Diploma in Midwifery in 2008 from UTS. She later obtained a Master of Public Health and Master of International Public Health from UNSW. Her recently published research around maternity care providers choices in childbirth, sparked some curious public debate around the ethics, equity and the quality of maternity care in Australia. Guest: Sharon StoliarProduced and presented by Annalee AtiaRecorded on Bundjalung Country on August 13th, 2022Links:> Sharon's website plus pre order Sharon's new book Scars of Gold - www.sharonstoliar.com> A national survey of Australian midwives’ birth choices and outcomes - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S187151922200302X?dgcid=author> Insider knowledge as a double-edged sword: an integrative review of midwives’ personal childbearing experiences - https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-022-04962-yThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media Incorporated.All rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at the Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, neighboring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

Today our host Rose is chatting with Catherine Bell about the need for better maternity care for rural women, consent and communication in maternity care, the need for rural midwives and policy change, and more. Catherine Bell is the Birth Cartographer and creator of The Birth Map, an innovative approach to birth preparation. She is undertaking her PhD to evaluate the potential of The Birth Map in facilitating communication and decision making in maternity services.As a community activator, she is not afraid to volunteer to ensure the future is one of compassion and connectedness. She sits on the board of Maternal Health Matters, is the ACT President of Maternity Choices Australia, treasurer for Braidwood Youth Performing Arts Association and a committee member for the Braidwood Community Association. She is also a Director of Tender Funerals Canberra Region, a not-for-profit, community-led approach to funeral care, seeking to establish.You can find her at www.birthmap.life IG @birthmapping and FB/TheBirthMapHttps://chf.org.au/social-prescribingTo our wonderful listeners. We love hearing from you and receiving your notes, questions and ideas.. how do you feel about this episode?If you have any questions/comments at any time about this, other interviews or our work at PBB Media, get in touch. You can email us through hello@pbbmedia.org or catch us on socials @pbb_media.

Today's episode is with Klyne Love, who shares generously about her experience with single motherhood throughout floods, housing crises and a lot of grief. Despite being a heavy topic, Klyne has a spirit of hope and optimism and holds a beautiful vision of a more mother-centred world, reflected in the work she does with mothers. Single motherhood has taught Klyne so much about herself, about care, community, wellbeing and complex social and cultural issues relating to how we look after each other, and how we don't. Klyne's story is so important, for all of us who wish to know how to support single mother's better, and for single mothers to know they are not alone in many of the common struggles faced when mothering without support. Klyne is a radical advocate for Mother-centred care and feminine embodiment. She works in postpartum education and care, having completed trainings with Julia Jones from Newborn Mothers, Sophie Ward Koren from Milk & Seed and Rachelle Garcia Seliga from Innate Traditions. She is also a Qoya teacher and ultimately these two threads weave together as sacred spaces for women to connect deeply to themselves and access their intuitive Knowing and self-healing. At the core of her work is a burning passion for a collective returning to community and thriving life (not just survival).She runs both in-person and online workshops. Connect with her here. https://www.klyne.love/about-4Instagram: @ klyne.loveWebsite: www.klyne.loveIf you loved this episode, please leave us a review or get in touch with us! @pbb_media

Jerusha Sutton is a doula, birth videographer, actor, and recently, one of the faces behind the documentary 'Birth Time'.In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Jerusha about life since Birth Time; what's happening in the Birth Time movement and where key researchers are at with the aligning Birth Experiences Study.Enjoy this conversation and find Jerusha through@jerushasutton www.jerushasutton.com.au@birthtimeworldwww.birthtime.world

Welcome to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond! Today we bring you a special podcast recorded in May 2020 for World Maternal Mental Health day. Birth Trauma Awareness week 2022 just concluded with a powerful theme this year on Birth Injuries. Our panel discussion raising awareness of maternal mental and other health issues with experts and mothers is as timely and relevant as ever. We hope you enjoy todays long form discussion. For questions and comments on this podcast email us at hello@pbbmedia.orgOur live-stream event took place on Wednesday 6th May and was streamed through Facebook live via Maternal Mental Health Matters. The focus for the panel discussion is celebrating mothers and marking World Maternal Mental Health Day in a positive way (prevention, solutions-based approach, support etc) - a panel of experts, practitioners and mothers coming together to discuss the latest in maternal health and wellbeing.Maternal Mental Health Panellists:* Dr Oscar Serrallach - Integrative Doctor with a special interest in maternal health and postnatal wellbeing. Dr Serrallach was the first to recognise something he termed Postnatal Depletion. The Postnatal Depletion Cure is his first book.
* Callie Brown - Mother, Coach, writer, speaker and life enthusiast.
* Dr Sophie Brock- Sociologist, mother, and founder of The Good Enough Mother: a podcast and platform for mothering discussion and resources. Sophie is also AMIRCI President.
* Alecia Stains - Mother, Maternity Advocate, Director of Maternity Consumer Network and Hypnobirthing Educator.
* Mary Kirk - Midwife and maternity advocate. Mary is Vice-President of International Confederation of Midwives and founder of Safe Motherhood For All - First Baby Campaign Inc.
* Ella Noah Bnacroft, proud bundjalung woman, artist, published author, mentor, consultant and founder of “The Returning Indigenous Corporation”. The Returning is an Indigenous charity that brings health and wellness through a nature based approach and connection back to country led by Indigenous facilitators
* Kirilly Dawn, Barkindji woman, doula and embodiment practitioner. Kirily is also a Development Director at PBB Media Incorporated. 
The panel is hosted by Sally Cusack from our acclaimed Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond podcastProduced and directed by Annalee Atia, co-founder and Development Director at PBB Media Incorporated.This panel discussion was recorded on Gadigal lands on Wednesday, 6 May 2020 
This event is brought to you by four major Australian nonprofits: Maternity Choices Australia, Safe Motherhood for All, Maternity Consumer Network and PBB Media Incorporated.#maternalmhmatters #birthtraumaawarenessweek

Dr Ella Kurz is a midwife from Ngunnawal Country in the ACT.Today we chat through her work in maternal and child health research at the University of Canberra, as well the term 'parturescence' she coined in her PhD to refer to the opportunities for transformation made possible through childbirth. Ella was awarded the Stephen Parker medal for outstanding thesis for this work. She recently co-edited the anthology What We Carry: Poetry on Childbearing (Recent Work Press, 2021) and authored My Mother is a Midwife. What We Carry: www.amazon.com.au/What-We-Carry-Poetry-Childbearing/dp/0645009091www.ellakurz.com

Allison Davis joins us today from New Mexico, USA. Allison is a counsellor, educator and researcher of maternal mental health. Today we discuss the ecological domain of matrescence - learning to approach the challenges and struggles with a viewpoint of growth and transformation. We look at how our evolution can mirror the evolutionary processes of nature and how we can align ourselves with nature's desire for growth. Allison's work focuses on the development of mothers' psycho-ecological growth in matrescence, aiming to reframe eco-related distress as resilience, and offering a path through the mental health dangers of idealised 'green motherhood' towards lifestyles that are psychologically healthy, and ecologically sustainable. Through articulation and application of an ecofeminist-informed developmental approach, she fosters ecological thinking and contact with nature for psychotherapeutic healing and growth.She works in private practice at Mother Nature Therapy, teaches in the Master of Counseling program at Alliant International University, and researches in the Maternal Psychology Lab at Teachers College, Columbia University. Links:https://www.instagram.com/dr.allisondavis/https://www.instagram.com/mothernaturetherapy/https://www.mothernaturetherapy.com/climate-circles

Today's guest is Sarah Smits, who joins us from Lake Atitlan in Guatemala where she is learning traditional Mayan practices. Sarah is a home birth midwife, lactation consultant and body worker who incorporates her experience of travelling the world and learning about traditional midwifery practices, to provide holistic care to women and families, whilst supporting other birth workers on the path of reclaiming birthing wisdom as women’s wisdom.Today we discuss home birth midwifery practice, traditional approaches to maternal care, self-responsibility, community care, postpartum wellbeing and more. W: www.downtobirthmidwifery.comInstagram @down_to_birth_midwiferyDetails for The Midwife Project Guatemaya Website: www.midwifeproject.netGo fund me: www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-midwife-project-guatemayaTo our wonderful listeners.We love hearing from you and receiving your notes, questions and ideas.. how do you feel about this episode? If you have any questions/comments at any time about this, other interviews or our work at PBB Media, get in touch. You can email us through hello@pbbmedia.org or catch us on socials @pbb_media.

Hi out there to our listeners, its Annalee. It is Tuesday, 8th of March in 2022. We are bringing you a special bulletin on the catastrophic flooding in Northern NSW, Australia. In the early hours of Monday 27th February, a little over a week ago, heavy rains causing what was already severe flooding, took a fast turn and created what has been deemed by some scientists as a ‘rain bomb’. The scenes across Northern NSW have been nothing short of harrowing and the community response as a result a powerful reminder of immense good that is available within us all. I'm catching up with PBB’s Oni Blecher who’s on the ground in Mullumbimby, one of the region’s badly hit towns. We address the current needs in the community, what our organisation is doing to support families and lessons for the wider community. MUSIC:The music you will hear on this podcast is by local Artist and song- weaver Olivia Rosebery, her potent song REMEMBER echoing a message of hope for everyone in need during these trying times. Find Olivia on socials @olivia.rosebery.music and www.oliviarosebery.comDONATEPregnancy, Birth and Beyond Fundraiser for Northern Rivers Birthing Families https://gofund.me/777ad721EPISODE INFORMATION:Guest: Oni Blecher. Oni is a PBB Media Producer and Creator, Craniosacral, Arvigo, Visceral + Myofascial release practitioner and Poet @thetempleofwords and Village keeper @@earthedtobirth. Find Oni @oni_keeperofthehearthGet in touch and info about The Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Community Hub www.pbbmedia.org / hello@pbbmedia.org SEEK/GIVE support at Northern Rivers Community Volunteer Directory NRVD.ORGGuardian Article Anatomy of a ‘rain bomb’: scientists strive to understand phenomenon that caused Australia’s east coast floods https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/mar/05/anatomy-of-a-rain-bomb-scientists-study-phenomenon-2022-australia-east-coast-floodsMore links coming soon. Produced by Annalee Atia for PBB Media. All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgThis episode was recorded on Gadigal lands and Bundjalung Country.Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at the Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, neighboring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

Lissie Turner is our guest today on Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond. Lissie is a mother, blended family parent, foster carer, grandmother and an accomplished radio host and producer in the music industry. She is the creator of several renowned Yoga and wellbeing programs and spaces including The Yoga Shack along with her Husband Shane, both of whom avid surfers. Lissie is also a fellow Vagina (as we are lovingly called by the producer of the Vagina Conversations, Zenith Virago) and is working on her next piece for the show, which we touch on too in our conversation. It’s been a while that we have wanted to interview Lissie for the show, she is a wonderful female role model in our community with a colourful past and a powerful salubrious journey of redemption. As women do, we gathered and circled and touched on several themes from this evocative journey. You can find Lissie on on the Living Harmoniously Podcast and through the links below. Show Links:https://www.lissieturner.com/IG @lissieturnerTo our wonderful listeners.We love hearing from you and receiving your notes, questions and ideas.. how do you feel about this topic? Have you had a similar experience or would like to share your insights?If you have any questions/comments at any time about this, other interviews or our work at PBB Media, get in touch. You can email us through hello@pbbmedia.org or catch us on socials @pbb_media. Guest/Interviewee: Lissie TurnerRecorded January 2022Produced and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.orgThis episode was recorded on Bundjalung Country.Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at the Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, neighboring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

Midwifery in Private Practice, Mothers & Babies 2021, March of Midwives and deskilling in Maternity CareIn this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we catch up with privately practicing Australian Midwives Astra Joynt and Sunae Reilly. We chat deskilling in midwifery and the maternity care profession, the latest Mothers and Babies report from the Australian Institute of Health Welfare, March of the Midwives in the UK, vexatious reporting in Midwifery and what it takes to be a Jedi Midwife in today’s healthcare landscape. We also touched on Homebirth, vaginal birth of twins, breech birth and being prepared for childbirth. About our guests:Sunae Reilly is a private midwife living and working in the Northern Rivers of NSW on the land of the Bundjalung people of the Bundjalung Nation. She finds great joy in seeing women and birthing people find their inner strength and power in pregnancy and birth and supporting them in their transition to parenthood. Sunae is available for antenatal, labour and birth, and postnatal care between Byron Bay and Grafton. You can find her at Artemis Midwifery. www.artemismidwifery.com.au and @artemismidwifery on InstagramSince 2008 Astra Joynt (Endorsed Midwife) has worked in a variety of settings in both large urban and small regional hospitals, in the community and at home. She passionately believes in maternity care that puts the needs and desires of the woman and her family at the centre of the experience, and that building a trusting relationship is the best way to achieve this. Astra offers Medicare rebatable antenatal & postnatal care to all women, regardless of planned place to birth, with bulk-billing available. Home-birth packages also available. To discuss how Astra can work with you email astra.joynt@gmail.comReferenced during the interview:>> Dr Denis Walsh: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/news/expertiseguide/health-sciences/dr-denis-walsh-.aspx>> Australia's Mothers and Babies Report December 2021: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mothers-babies/australias-mothers-babies/contents/about>> Dr Neel Shah interview: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/dr-neel-shah-csection>> Dr Stu (Stuart James Fischbein, MD): http://www.birthinginstincts.com/>> Dr Andrew Bisits: https://wch.med.unsw.edu.au/people/associate-professor-andrew-bisitsTo our dear listeners!We'd love to hear from you - how do you feel about deskilling in maternity care? Have you had an experience where you were unable to access appropriate maternity healthcare because of deskilling or a lack of those services in your area (such as publicly funded homebirth or Midwifery continuity models)? And if you have any questions/comments at any time about this, other interviews or our work at PBB Media, get in touch. You can shoot us a line at hello@pbbmedia.org or catch us on socials @pbb_media ! Guests: Astra Joynt and Sunae ReillyProduced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgThis episode was recorded on Gadigal Lands (Sydney). Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, neighboring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

This is a special edition interview coming from the SheBirths podcast ! In this conversation, Annalee Atia from Maternity Choices Australia and PBB Media speaks with Nadine Richardson about how adverse times can further inspire us to commit to being responsible in advocating for our choices in Pregnancy, Birth, and Beyond. This is not a 'how to' guide, rather a reminder of human rights in healthcare settings, specifically in the pregnancy, birth, and parenting realms. These times are confusing for most. Our value systems are swimming hard to keep up with variations of instruction and direction. What does this mean for birth ? Our Birth rights are never in lock down. Thank you for your support. Please feel free to leave reviews, feedback, or to simply get in touch with the team. We love hearing from you. Enjoy this conversation !

During this pandemic, there has been a huge increase in the demand for home birth in Australia and private practicing midwives are being flooded with calls from women and birthing people looking to birth outside of the hospital system. However, the regulations and education pathways for private practice midwifery are yet to change, and issues around accessibility and affordability remain. So how did we get here? When the research continues to show that home birth is the safest option for birth place, and continuous midwifery care the safest model, how do we need to revolutionise maternity care in this country to truly meet the needs of all birthing people?In this episode Kirilly Dawn is joined by Dr Melanie Jackson as we unravel some of these questions and take a deep look into the history of home birth, where we are today, and where we need to go. Dr Melanie Jackson is a private midwife living in the Blue Mountains in Sydney who has been attending women giving birth at home for 13 years, and has two homebirthed children herself. Melanie has completed a PhD called ‘Birthing outside the system’ and she also works as a midwifery researcher at western Sydney university. You can find out more about Melanie and the mentorship she offers for midwives wanting to enter private practice at www.melaniethemidwife.com, her YouTube channel Melanie the Midwife, and on IG and Facebook @melaniethemidwife

In this episode, Oni Blecher interviews Eva Rose. Eva Rose is an internationally renowned Norwegian birth photographer, videographer, documentary filmmaker, doula, and by virtue of all of these things; an activist for many birth issues. Eva is a third generation photographer, and in 1999, when she was 19, Eva Rose started her career in birth photography for a magazine called ‘Pregnancy’. Eva has wholly dedicated her life to being with birth. She’s been showing the wider public the intimacies of birth for over 20 years, and through the beauty of this exposure, has normalised many parts of the huge moving picture of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. With her decades of experience, Eva has seen all kinds of birthing experiences. Now she has a huge instagram following with her grateful followers vouching that her photographs and stories create accessible education. Eva and her partner’s video ‘The Birth of Purdie’ has had 1.9 million views and counting. In her work, Eva frequently sheds light on birth related things people don’t usually talk about; including practices of clinicians, cross cultural ways of birthing, early birth, still birth, and sharing a plethora of various birth stories from her followers. Last year, Eva and her partner OJ started filming a birth around the world documentary until their filming was cut short by COVID. Now, she is doing other very inspiring things in her home country of Norway. I have been following Eva for a long time now, and was so excited to speak with her. She is passionate and the fire lit inside of her is warm and illuminating. I hope you enjoy this conversation. If you haven’t already, check out Eva’s instagram and her incredible birth photos. Find Eva at @evarosebirth evarose.carrd.co/ and Youtube: Eva Rose Birth

It’s 21st May, 2021 and some months back I caught up with Tori Heath, mother of four with a background in psychology, who has worked in child protection and executive recruitment. We meet to recount the story of her first birth experience. At the time, Tori was a young, fit and healthy pregnant woman, growing up in outback Australia on a 14,000 acre farm, heading to girl’s boarding school in Sydney for high schooling. She later stays on in Sydney for University, eventually meeting her husband and then becoming pregnant with her first child. Tori is a resilient woman by all accounts. A well educated woman, she was relatively well informed and chose a continuity model of care for her maternity care along with other support. Options that at the time, and even now, are available to few women in Australia. Even with all that, Tori’s experience of childbirth was traumatic. Tori’s family nearly lost her and her baby. Now mother of four, a clear picture emerges from her first birthing experience - unnecessary interventions from ill-informed policies and those being imposed on her and her body at the wrong time, leading to grave lasting harm that lives on today. The price of this harm being paid by mother, child, family and the wider community - but with very little awareness from the medical systems involved.Meconium present during the last leg of labour engaged a policy that failed to protect from harm and directly caused further harm to mother and baby.Follow the link to Dr Rachel Reed’s blog post to find out more about meconium during labour: https://midwifethinking.com/2015/01/14/the-curse-of-meconium-stained-liquor/This podcast was recorded on Bundjalung Country, an area encompassing Byron Bay and surrounding flatlands, hills and rivers. We pay our respect to elders past, present and those emerging and deeply acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land whose cultures and customs have nurtured and continue to nurture this land and waters for over 60,000 years and upon which we now work and live. We recognise that the sovereignty of the pre-colonial peoples of these lands was never ceded and that recognition of culture, connection to land and waters and the sovereignty of all indigenous peoples across Australia is a matter of current and vital importance.First published on Speaker on 21st May, 2021.Guest: Tori HeathProduced and presented by Annalee AtiaOriginal Music by Romy Agam Romhttps://www.romyagamrom.comAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

If you are someone that understands how important maternity care and the perinatal period are for mother, baby, family and community health and wellbeing, tune in today to learn about vital new research into mothers experiences of maternity healthcare and childbirth in Australia and find out how you can support the study reach more people and become an even more powerful force in improving experiences and healthcare.Today on Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, Oni Blecher speaks with Dr Hazel Keedle researcher at Western Sydney University and Annalee Atia, National President of Maternity Choices Australia and co-founder of our very own PBB Media about a critically important new study looking into the birth and perinatal care experiences of mothers in Australia. The Birth Experience Study (BESt) can be completed here, only complete this questionnaire if you are Australian and have given birth in Australia in the past five years: https://surveyswesternsydney.au1.qualtrics.com/CP/File.php?F=F_3FeQerXzd8yoeI6To donate and support the study head to the Community Funding Campaign: https://gofund.me/c92a1829Maternity Choices Australia: www.maternitychoices.orgGuests:Dr Hazel KeedleAnnalee AtiaProduced & Edited by Oni Blecher and Annalee AtiaPresented by Oni BlecherThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Budjalung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

In March 2021 Totonaca Indigenous birth companions Montse Olmos and Mayte Acolt started a petition titled 'Removing Rebozo Teachings From Doula Trainings'. It was a call to the international birth community and large training organisations, to stop their participation in the cultural appropriation and misuse of the sacred textile, the Rebozo.In this conversation Montse and Mayte generously share on the cultural use, meaning and place of the Rebozo in their Indigenous communities and in traditional midwifery practices in Mexico, and how this knowledge is traditionally passed down. They share why they started this petition, and why proper training with Indigenous birthworkers is necessary for the Rebozo to be used safely and with respect, acknowledging it as an intervention. They also speak to being in relationship with the communities we learn from, the importance of accountability, how birth work and anti racism work go hand in hand, and give us points for necessary pause and reflection.Montse Olmos and Mayte Acolt are Totonaca Indigenous birth companions and migrants in the United States. Mayte is a traditional Sobadora since age seven, taught by her grandmother. Montse was raised by her family elders who practiced herbal medicine, Sobadas and energetic healing. They host "What You Didn't Know About the Rebozo" together and share about the history of the Rebozo from an Indigenous perspective, while connecting it to the work of anti-racism, Indigenous liberation and becoming an accomplice to historically oppressed communities. Mayte and Montse began a movement in March 2021 to remove Rebozo birth techniques from Doula Training Organization in the U.S., as a result of the excessive and inappropriate use of this sacred textile amongst Doulas and Midwives. They conduct this work with genuine concern for the commercialization and dilution of the Rebozo and propose that extensive mentorship and hands-on learning from expert Elders is necessary in order to practice Rebozo body-work in an ethical way.Link to the petition titled "Removing Rebozo Teachings from Doula Trainings"http://chng.it/K5NyHqD4XDMontse and Mayte also host a bi-weekly workshop about cultural appropriation of the Rebozo titled "What You Didn't Know About the Rebozo". Any information regarding the workshop can be found on Montse's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/montsedoulaYou can follow Montse and Mayte on Instagram here:Montse Olmos @mujer_dela_tierraMayte Acolt @maytethewombdoula

In this conversation, Oni Blecher speaks with Dylan Smith. Dylan Smith is a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and holistic health educator based in Sydney, Australia, where he runs and operates the Vital Veda clinic for patients and for those who love to nourish themselves with precious herbal elixirs.Aimed at uncovering the root cause of ailments, Dylan shares wisdom through podcasts, teaching programs and travels the world to teach patients to effortlessly integrate foundational techniques into their daily life so they can thrive.Regularly travelling to India to train with an internationally renowned family of Ayurvedic doctors, Dylan is devoted to learning, sharing and radiating this ancient knowledge for everyone to utilise and enjoy, to experience total wellness and bliss. Dylan has a passion for treating, a Passion for Education, and a for Herbs and Nature.Staying and learning from his Guru (teacher) in India for 6 month periods started a beautiful and purposeful learning teaching relationship. revolutionised Dylan’s Ayurvedic practice and increased the effectiveness and success rates of his treatments and prescriptions profoundly.Since then until today, Dylan continues to travel back and forth to the Raju Clinic in India to work and receive advanced teachings and initiations.In this conversation, Oni chats to Dylan about health pertaining to the menstrual, pre conception, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum health. We also speak more broadly about Ayurvedic wisdom through the nature of the doshas and the masculine and feminine and how finding balance can positively effect partnership and parenthood. At the end, Dylan lists some of his generous free resources for these periods of life. Enjoy this conversation ! And please leave reviews and feedback to help us produce more of what you need !

PBB Special Bulletin/Interview with Alecia Staines, Director of Maternity Consumer NetworkIf you are tuning in from Australia, this is an important message to women, people, families and community members accessing maternity healthcare services. A federal election is coming up and your voice is needed in improving maternity care! Welcome to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, I’m Annalee Atia with a special News Bulletin for Australians listeners today, Tuesday 30th March. I’m speaking with Alecia Staines, Director of one of our largest maternity consumer advocacy organisations - Maternity Consumer Network, she is also the host and creator of the podcast ‘Birth - the forgotten Feminist Issue’ (check it out, its excellent), a Hypnobirthing teacher and mother of five. We caught up last night after one of Alecia’s classes to discuss our upcoming Federal elections in Australia and how we can use the opportunities federal elections bring about to improve maternity health care services. Some of you might know that I am also the National President of Maternity Choices Australia, our longest standing maternity advocacy organisation and this is the first time I have had the pleasure of interviewing Alecia, after many years of crossing paths through our work. Join us for a fast-paced and illuminating discussion on how you can participate in improving maternity healthcare services in your area, and why its so important that you do! Share this interview with friends and family, write to your local MP and keep us posted about your progress! All the details are in the show notes following. WHAT YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE MATERNITY SERVICES: Get in touch with your local federal MP and candidates and let them know that maternity care matters to you! HOW TO DO IT:Look up the Federal PM for your electorate (your town/where you live is located within a specific electorate). You will also want to look up the candidates for this seat for the three major parties. Email them with your personal note and attach the Brief (see below) if applicable. You can request a meeting with them to ensure they understand just how important these issues are. In your email and within the brief, add your name, contact number and postal address (this will ensure a reply). Follow up with a phone call to your MP.->> Keep up posted about your progress! Email hello@pbbmedia.org or management@maternitychoices.org.au you can also let us know via socials! Use the hashtag #BetterMaternity2021 and we will find you on FB, IG, Twitter etc!WHO CAN DO IT?Anyone who cares about our Australian maternity healthcare services, especially health consumers (people who access healthcare services) and support people. THE BRIEF / AKA what to ask your elected federal MP's and candidates to commit to this coming election (you can also find this online at www.maternotyconsumernetwork.org.au under campaigns):Background:Current maternity spending by government is about $7 billion per year. The current birth rate is around 300,000 births per year. Outcomes:Despite having such high financial input, outcomes are relatively poor:* 1/3 women have birth trauma. 2/3 of this is due to disrespectful treatment* Only 8% of women can access continuity of midwifery carer- the best type of maternity care* Caesarean rate 36% - more than double the recommended rate by WHO* 43% of low risk women having their labour induced. Many are reporting not having informed consent. * 11-fold variance in 3rd/4th degree tears * Preterm birth rate of aboriginal babies is between 2 and 7 times that of non-indigenous babies. Solutions (what to ask your MP to lobby for)1. Increase continuity of midwifery carer to:-Reduce unnecessary intervention -reduce preterm birth rate for Aboriginal women and babies-increase breastfeeding rates-reduce birth trauma and PNDAThis is outlined in the 2019 National Strategy for Australian Maternity Services. The Federal Government provides continuity of midwifery carer to women via private midwives. 2. Bundled Funding as suggested by IHPA in 2017, national strategy in 2019 and MBS review of Participating Midwives report in 20193. Published data on hospital and clinician outcomes including: Patient Reported Experience Measure and Patient Reported Outcome Measures. Woman Centred Care:To ensure regular monitoring and evaluation of the National Strategy for Australian Maternity Services, consumers need to be involved through consultation and decision-making processes. Contact: Add your personal details here!For more information about this brief and if you need any support with the process, you can get in touch with Alecia directly:Alecia Staines, Director Maternity Consumer NetworkPhone/text: 0401033348 Email: management@maternityconsumernetwork.org.auShow Links: Maternity Consumer Network - https://www.maternityconsumernetwork.org.au/usPodcast: Birth - The Forgotten Feminist Issue with Alecia Staineshttps://open.spotify.com/show/6bHPMCtZ7B3GhafyYotbL0?si=N_iPY5LUSTinTIK_l3DmhwContinuity of Midwifery Carer:https://www.midwives.org.au/midwifery-continuity-careWoman-Centred Care - the new Australian Strategic Directions for Maternity Care (yet to be fully implemented and requires constant nudging to move forward in each state): https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/woman-centred-care-strategic-directions-for-australian-maternity-servicesPrecolonial history of Gadigal people: https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/getmedia/e32ae90a-e730-4c28-82c4-4b17e9e3c5e1/Appendix_S_-_Pre-colonial_Archaeology_report_Val_Attenbrow.pdf.aspxThis podcast was recorded on Gadigal clan lands, an area encompassing the Centennial, Queen’s and Moore Parklands. I pay my respects to elders past, present and those emerging and deeply acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land whose cultures and customs have nurtured and continue to nurture this land and waters for over 60,000 years and upon which we now work and live. I recognise that the sovereignty of the pre-colonial peoples of these lands was never ceded and that recognition of culture, connection to land and waters and the sovereignty of all indigenous peoples across Australia is a matter of current and vital importance.Recorded on 29th March, 2021Guest: Alecia StainesAlecia is a mother-of-5, maternity reform lobbyist, Director of Maternity Consumer Network, former classroom teacher turned birth nerd and lives in Noosa, Queensland. She's received all her maternity care through continuity of midwifery carer in a range of settings- hospital, birth centre and home. She passionate about politics, birth and feminism and ensure women have access to care that supports their needs, allows them to make informed decisions and autonomy in how and where they birth.>> hashtag #BetterMaternity2021Produced and presented by Annalee AtiaAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

In this podcast episode, Oni Blecher speaks to Rhea Dempsey about her recent book launch of 'Beyond the Birth Plan, Getting Real About Pain and Power'. Rhea Demspsey is a childbirth educator, counsellor, doula trainer, and birth attendant, having attended more than one thousand births in hospitals and home settings over the past 30 years.Rhea runs birth preparation workshops, pre-natal classes, personal birth counselling sessions and speaks in presentations and seminars around Australia and internationallyRhea’s passion is to educate women about the impact of our birth culture on the outcome of our births. Instead of fear, she wants birthing women and birthing people to go into their labour with confidence in their body and their support people, and the knowledge that will give them the best possibility of natural physiological birth.Rhea has written two books ! Her first, the popular ‘Birth With Confidence: Savvy choices for normal birth’ and now her recently released second book ‘Beyond the Birth Plan: getting real about pain and power’. I consider both of these books must reads for any person interested in birth, whether that be birth attendants, midwives, pregnant women or people, birthing partners, fathers, parents, or anyone curious to understand the impact on the intersection between our social attitudes and birth. This is a longer form interview but anyone that knows Rhea’s legacy in the national and international birth world knows that any time hearing Rhea’s insights and wisdom is valuable and necessary. Feel free to listen in segments. At the end of the podcast, Rhea takes us through the chapter structure of her new book and outlines some of the content and what to expect. Enjoy this conversation and please leave your reviews and feedback.

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Etienne Peirsman. Etienne is a biology and physical education teacher who has been involved with emotional training, encounter work, primal healing and meditation since 1974. He began teaching craniosacral in 1991, and founded several craniosacral institutes in Belgium and the Netherlands. He is the founder and director of PCSA (Peirsman CranioSacral Academy) in both the Netherlands and New Mexico. He is also the originator of the CranioSacral Professional Organization in Holland which began as a result of his students becoming professionals. As a result, he has a grandfather status in that organisation and is an honorary member of The Dutch CranioSacral Practitioner Association. Additionally, Etienne has taught craniosacral at the New Mexico Academy of Healing Arts for nearly a decade.  As a meditator of over 40 years, Etienne Peirsman has developed a unique teaching style that adds an extraordinarily compassionate and meditative depth to the methods used by the Upledger Institute and combines a practical, no-nonsense approach with the biodynamic style. Etienne has been teaching for nearly thirty years, bringing his life experience to the classroom. He has schools in Belgium, the Netherlands, New Mexico, Washington, and Hong Kong. Additionally, he guest teaches wherever there is interest. He, along with his late wife Neeto, is author of the book Craniosacral Therapy for Babies and Small Children, which has been translated into 7 languages. Etienne's specialty is the expression of the Heart, the long tide, and their connection to meditation and enlightenment. Etienne says, “Drop the word therapy. It is not part of who and what we are. Face it, you are perfect and your heart is perfect”. Enjoy this conversation !

Nicole Moore, founder of Nappy Free and Birth Into Being Australia, speaks about her passion for nappy free or elimination communication for babies.Recorded by Sally Cusack in March 2019.Presented by Kirilly Dawn at 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 24 June 2019.Guest: Nicole Moorehttps://www.nappyfree.com.au/Copyright 2021 PBB MediaAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode, Kirilly speaks with Rärriwuy Hick, Yolngu woman, actress, artist, storyteller and the founder of Our Kids Belong With Family - a campaign which she started on 13th February 2017, after her nephews were forcibly removed by Territory Families without following their own kinship protocols or notifying immediate family.In this episode we speak of themes of child removal, the Stolen Generation, the NT Intervention, abuse and violence by the colonial state. Please listen with care, as these topics and parts of the conversation may be distressing.We want to acknowledge and pay our respects to the people of the Stolen Generation, to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have themselves, their ancestors, and their Country, been affected by the Stolen Generation, and to those who are being impacted today by forced child removals by the state. We hope this story offers some healing to you, to know that you aren't alone and that the episode may offer some tips from Rärriwuy as you continue to fight the system - a fight we wish you did not have to endure.Our Kids Belong With Family is a four year global campaign that aims to raise awareness on the international human rights abuse of Indigenous Children and their families navigating the trauma of child removal by the Australian nation state.In this powerful and intimate conversation, Rärriwuy shares her story of the heartache, trauma and triumph in her journey to get her kids back. We ask that you listen with respect to her and her family and their privacy. Rärriwuy has also written about the campaign and her journey to create change and accountability for the Australia nation state which has historically and systematically forcibly removed Indigenous children since colonisation began. https://meanjin.com.au/blog/our-kids-belong-with-family/You can support Our Kids Belong With Family by posting an image of yourself to social media, holding a piece of paper with "#OurKidsBelongWithFamily" and please use the hashtag and tag the instagram account @ourkidsbelongwithfamily on the 13th of Feb.You can also donate to the new Go Fund Me campaign for Our Kids Belong With Family, which is raising money to help those families and children who have suffered from being forcibly removed to heal.https://www.gofundme.com/f/rarriwuy-hick-our-kids-belong-with-familyRESOURCES AND INFORMATIONFor those wanting to learn more about the Stolen Generation, and the Australian Government's policies and history of state enforced child removal, please visit:https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/education/track-history-timeline-stolen-generationsGrandmother's Against Removal:https://www.facebook.com/GMAR.GrandmothersAgainstRemovals/https://aftertheapology.com/ - important film to watchID Know Yourself: Mentoring and support for children who have experienced out of home carehttps://idknowyourself.com/

In this interview, Oni Blecher speaks with Jin Ong. Jin Ong is an Osteopath, Psychosomatic Therapist, Personal & Practitioner Coach. Jin lives and works with her partner and children in the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka, New Zealand. In the recent years, Jin has moved from practicing solely as an osteopathic practitioner toward training individuals and practitioners on psychosomatics. Psychosomatic awareness is based from the theory that your stored emotions may result in adverse physical and psychological outcomes. With an ever broadening awareness around trauma resulting in physical outcomes or the memory of trauma being encoded in the viscera such as elaborated upon in Bessel Van Der Kolk’s book ‘The Body Keeps The Score’. Jin’s work focusses upon the link between the emotional and the physical and in this interview, we look at how that link can effect our way of looking at our body’s functionality, particularly in the pre conception, conception, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum stages of life. On the About page of Jin’s website; theartoflisteningtoyourbody.com, there is a short interview with Jin introducing herself and the work that she does. To receive a direct introduction from her, I recommend having a listen. A part of mine and Jin’s conversation covers infant loss, abortion and miscarriage. If these topics are sensitive or triggering for you or those around you, please listen with care. Enjoy this conversation ! 


What does birth sovereignty, and decolonising the maternity care system, look and feel like? How does the current patriarchal birth culture impact First Nations women and marginalised communities? How can we re-imagine a birth culture that centres and supports women and birthing people? And how can we all embody the change we wish to see?This episode is a recording of a live panel on 'Birth Sovereignty' by PBB and hosted at the Returning on Bundjalung Country in November 2020. PBB presenter, Barkindji woman Kirilly Dawn, speaks with four incredible birth keepers, mothers and change makers: Bronwyn Bancroft, Angela Coe, Mei Lai Swan and Aimee Aroha, who explore birth sovereignty, the context of modern birth culture through a decolonial lense, and share their stories , experiences and their visions for change. Panel members include: Bronwyn Bancroft, Bundjalung elder, artist, mother and sovereign birth advocate; Angela Coe, Wiradjuri midwife and founder of @birthingourway Mei Lai Swan, co-founder of Birth for Humankind and Yoga for Humankindand Aimee Aroha, Maori Australian birth keeper and transpersonal therapist. Each of these women share their knowledge and perspective on what decolonising the dominant birth culture and maternity care system looks & feels like, and offer their vision for change.This panel was recorded at The Returning, and Aboriginal owned and run not for profit wellbeing event that occurs twice a year on Bundjalung Country. Over 75% of tickets for this event are exchange or scholarship, for Indigenous women, single mothers, refugees and women in need, with the ethos that no woman is left behind, opening up cultural and healing spaces for all in the community. To learn more visit www.thereturningthegathering.comThe songs of kookaburras, cicadas, other winged ones and bubs and children can be heard in this episode as they added to the soundscape of the event on the day (and contributed to the panel in their own way).To connect with panel members:Bronwyn Bancroft, Bundjalung artist and elder: www.bronwynbancroft.comAngela Coe, Wiradjuri Midwife: @birthingourway on InstagramMei Lai Swan, co-founder of Birth for Humankind: www.birthforhumankind.orgAimee Aroha, birthkeeper and transpersonal therapist: www.www.thestonedchrysalis.com or @ripsnorter on instagramOrganisations mentioned in this episode are:Waminda South Coast: Birthing on Country - Best start to life — Wamindahttp://www.waminda.org.au and their Go Fund Me: https://au.gofundme.com/f/birthing-on-countrySisters Inside: https://www.sistersinside.com.auAnd their Go Fund Me: https://au.gofundme.com/f/bfvnvt-freethepeople

“If your c-section is high that means that you’re not supporting people in labour, that’s just a fact.” - Dr Neel ShahA cesarean section, or c-section is the most performed major surgery on the planet, it is also the most controversial. In the many years since they have been introduced, mortality and morbidity rates - the rates which this intervention has been introduced to lower, have increased and women are more likely to die in childbirth in this generation, than their mothers. Today on the show we bring you the insights and experience of Dr Neel Shah, Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Biology at Harvard Medical School. Listed among the “40 smartest people in health care” Dr Shah has written more than 50 peer-reviewed academic papers and contributed to four books, including as senior author of Understanding Value-Based Healthcare (McGraw-Hill). We talk equity and safety in maternity healthcare and reducing the C-section rate. Some alarming stats alongside lots of hope are in the pot today, grab your notebook and writing apparatus and enjoy the powerful slow cooked gen.“.. that means, in 2021, the biggest risk factor for a mother anywhere in the world to get a c-section, is not her personal risks or her personal preferences but which hospital she goes to”“The wellbeing of mothers is the bellwether for the wellbeing of all of us”“If mothers are unwell, society is unwell”. - Dr Neel ShahDr. Neel Shah, MD, MPP, FACOG, is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Biology at Harvard Medical School, and Director of the Delivery Decisions Initiative at Harvard’s Ariadne Labs. As an obstetrician-gynaecologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Dr. Shah cares for patients at critical life moments that range from childbirth to primary care to surgery. As a scientist and social entrepreneur, he is a globally recognised expert in designing solutions that improve health care.Dr. Shah is also founder of Costs of Care, an NGO that curates insights from clinicians and patients to help delivery systems provide better care. In 2017, he co-founded the March for Moms Association, a coalition of more than 20 leading organisations, to increase public and private investment in the wellbeing of mothers. Dr. Shah currently serves on national advisory boards of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Office of Women’s Health Research at the National Institutes of Health.Show links:Find more about Dr Shah here: https://scholar.harvard.edu/shah/home & https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/neel-shah/Harvard's Ariadne Labs: https://www.ariadnelabs.org/about-us/March for Mums: https://marchformoms.orgExpecting More: https://www.expectingmore.orgWe'd love to hear from you, if you have any questions/comments about this, other interviews or our work at PBB Media, shoot us a line at hello@pbbmedia.org.Guest: Dr Neel ShahProduced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Hugh Milne. Hugh Milne is a third-generation Scottish osteopath and now craniosacral teacher and educator through his self-founded education body, ‘Milne Institute’. He spends most of professional time teaching visionary craniosacral work internationally. He was born in 1948 and received his professional training at the British College of Naturopathy and Osteopathy in London after which going on to receive a rich and colourful variation of experiences and education in the healing arts. Hugh has written three books; Volume 1 and 2 of The Heart of Listening, and ‘Baghwan, The God That Failed’, about his decade of living and serving in close proximity to Bagwhan, where he continued to learn more about the body and the human capacity for extra sensory abilities and healing. In 1988, Hugh moved to Big Sur in California and now lives in Ashland, Oregon with his partner, and teaches his 7 levels of craniosacral work internationally. This was a special interview for Oni Blecher as it was Hugh that introduced her to what some would call body work, and since 2012, she has completed all of her training with Milne through Milne Institute as well as assisting him and his teachers. Oni says; "The foundations of this visionary work always underpins my understanding of the human experience, as well as allowed me to deeply understand the psychospiritual and psychophysiological nature of birth and early life. Lucky enough to be able to work with pregnant and postpartum mothers, babies, and children, I understand the sometimes hard to explain value of this work and am very grateful to Hugh for coming on the show and explaining from his deep experiential well, what he sees this value as". Enjoy this conversation. If you have feedback or would like to leave a rating for our podcast, this is greatly appreciated and helps us understand your needs around our information sharing.

Around the country and indeed around the world hustling and cajoling, therein the complex webs of healthcare and community lie dedicated individuals and organisations working tirelessly to improve services. There always have been and I suspect, there always will be. When it comes to maternity care it’s no different. Primarily comprised of women and also some men, the improvement maternity services require For this episode of the Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond show, Annalee caught up with the remarkable Helena Mooney, a Sydney resident and long-time maternity consumer advocate. They discuss what health advocacy looks like and the many challenges volunteers face in advocating for better and more meaningful maternity services.From learning new terminology and jargon across several professional areas (such as research, government, health services, specific to maternity care, policy making, medico-legal, insurance etc etc) to finding your voice and calling out the many agendas that too often trump what the patient really needs in the moment to making sure that consumer engagement isn’t left within the bandwidth of tokenism as improvement in experience and outcome are only possible with meaningful engagement coupled with robust policies based in evidence based care and most importantly with effective accountability measures in place at every level. Further information about Helena and her work is available at https://parentingwithplay.com.auWe'd love to hear from you, if you have any questions/comments about this or other interview or our work at PBB Media, shoot us a line at hello@pbbmedia.org.Produced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks to Muse Lokajickova. Muse practices revolutionary care for the generative systems also known as evolutionary gynaecology. Muse has 15 years of hands-on practice weaving tools from western herbalism, indigenous medicine, and classical Chinese medicine. Her practice is built on her unique methods of uterine repositioning, internal pelvic floor manual therapy and holistic gynaecological care that follows the guiding force of the heart and nervous system. Through her work, Muse has helped a lot of women both get pregnant and have healthy pregnancies and births! Not only working in the pregnancy, birth, and beyond realms; muse assists and encourages people have a better connection and relationship with their pelvic anatomy including important physiological and anatomical understanding. Folks can work with Muse via distance consultations and her Sovereign Vagina Masterclass Series, a cannon of tangible tools for pelvic health, understanding gynecology as "gaiacology," and making gynecology an amazing medicine that is OURS.You can find Muse through muse@medicineofthefeminine.com@medicineofthefemininewww.medicineofthefeminine.comThanks for joining us ! I hope you liked this conversation. All feedback and ratings welcome and appreciated.

Fiona Katauskas is a cartoonist, illustrator, and author of “The Amazing True Stories of How Babies Are Made’, a children’s book about conception, and childbirth that is relevant to our current social word. Fiona once studied politics at the Australian National University, and travelled extensively, working in overseas aid and human rights. After that, she became a full time cartoonist, with work appearing in a wide range of publications, like Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, The Australian, The Australian Financial Review, The Bulletin, The Chaser, Eureka Street and New Matilda; not to mention other events and anthologies. Fiona has illustrated many books for just about every publisher, designed cards for the Ink Group and t-shirts for Mambo.Fiona loves how cartoonists are able to take all their experiences, beliefs, bile and passion, wrap them up in a metaphor and get inky fingers in the process and while having fun. In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with Fiona about her book ‘The Amazing True Story of How Babies are Made’. We really speak about sex education for young people, appropriate messaging in education tools and resources, and how this education can imprint and shape not only our attitudes toward sex but also our relationships with our bodies. Enjoy this conversation and check out the animation of The Amazing True Story of How Babies Are Made through www.amazingbabies.tv or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldXBfTkM5Iw&feature=emb_logoFind Fiona through Email: fkatauskas@iprimus.com.au or on Twitter @fionakatauskas or through her website www.fionakatauskas.com

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond, Annalee Atia speaks with Dr Rachel Reed about the history and her story of midwifery and its evolution to the modern day midwife, UK & Australian differences in practice and care both in Midwifery and maternity care and the call for midwives to reclaim their expertise and rights of protection. “Instead of locating all of the risks in the women and all our job is to identify how wrong her body is and to fix it, how about looking at what we’re doing and how that may or may not influence how her body functions and her experience of birth.”Dr Rachel Reed is a midwife, academic, author, and international speaker who focuses on childbirth physiology, midwifery practice, and women’s rights (and rites). She has provided midwifery care for many women and has attended births in a wide range of settings and circumstances. Rachel is the author of the award-winning blog MidwifeThinking and the co-host of The Midwives' Cauldron podcast. She has published widely in journals and magazines, and her first book Why Induction Matters is a popular resource for women and care providers. Her most recent book Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage: weaving ancient wisdom with modern knowledge will be published early 2021. Her blog MidwifeThinking has been accessed by over 5 million readers from every country in the world. It currently has over 10,000 subscribers and around 1000 visitors per day; and is archived by Pandora (National Library of Australia and Partners). Posts have been translated into a number of languages including French, Russian, German and Spanish; and a number of posts have been published in magazines.In 2019 MidwifeThinking was awarded the International Maternity Expo – Practice Innovation Award for an ‘outstanding contribution to maternity and midwifery services’.Access MidwifeThinking here: https://midwifethinking.comFurther information about Rachel and her work is available at www.rachel-reed.websiteWe'd love to hear from you, if you have any questions about this interview or our work at PBB Media, shoot us a line at hello@pbbmedia.org.Produced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

Nidala Barker is Djugan woman from the Kimberley in Western Australia. She is a musician, storyteller, environmental activist, social justice warrior, and all around an insightful and deep feeling and thinking woman. In this episode, Nidala speaks to Indigenous ways of learning, of time and space and ways of connection, and the importance representation. We speak about the importance of truth telling in Australia’s history and education, and the responsibility we all have on these lands to connect to country and each other. Nidala guides us through the ways she imagines moving towards reconciliation, healing and collaborative communities can happen.

In this episode, Oni Blecher plays a recording of Gaby Tudor interviewing Mayan Midwives from Guatemala. We are so happy to respectfully share their Indigenous wisdom with you in this special edition podcast with PBB foreign correspondent Gaby. Here is a note from Gaby about her experience with Doña Dominga and Mariu Gobbato:"My journey to Lake Atitlan began in Australia with my desire to learn more about practices that heal your womb. I had heard about womb massage in post-partum while working as doula and was interested in this work. This led me to an internet search of Mayan abdominal massage in Guatemala, which led me to Mariu’s course in Lake Atitlan.Arriving to the high lake surrounded by volcanoes, I wasn’t sure what I completely expected from the Mayan abdominal course. My rational mind led me to believe that I would learn a marketable skill that I could use to deepen my practice with women. It wasn’t until the candles were lit in the Mayan cross; which give thanks to each type of corn, as well as the land, sky and with Doña Dominga giving thanks to her nahuals, that I realised I was doing some deep healing. It was during Doña Dominga's humble thanksgiving to the gods of the Mayan calendar for her gifts, that I knew that these teachings went deeper than just skills... they brought me to a place of ancestral knowing. Doña Dominga and other indigenous midwives still actively use the Mayan calendar and honour the days nahuals with candles and copal. Mariu, the organiser and facilitator of this training was the magic that wove it all together seamlessly. She has worked with Doña Dominga for several years, learning the diverse herbs and flowers used for making balms for massage and mastering the techniques of womb massage. This work is intuitive but also takes practice and guidance to initiate channels of healing to open. Mariu and Doña Dominga’s integrative work, allows you to feel held in learning the Indigenous ways as well as the usage for our modern world. This work is a homage to ways of the past but  also to empower a future generation of healers, creating a bridge between ancestral knowledge and future generations. Mariu Eugenia Gobbato is a massage therapist and midwifery apprentice. She has been working with Doña Dominga, a Mayan midwife in San Marcos la laguna in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. Doña Dominga is a Mayan midwife with over 30 years of experience attending births in her rural community in the Guatemalan highlands.Recently, large rains and floods have caused a landslide in San Marcos, Lake Atitlan and this has destroyed several houses near Doña Dominga’s home. This destruction has also caused disruption to their midwifery services. Please consider donating to PayPal at mayamassageguatemala@gmail.com or visiting Sobada Maya Abdominal Massage on Facebook to see how you can help. Thank you,Gaby Tudor,Zipolite, Oxaca, Mexico"Thank you Gaby for this episode and Doña Dominga and Mariu Gobatto for generously sharing your midwifery wisdom. Enjoy this episode !  

During this episode, Oni Blecher speaks to Sarah Blandiargo about her nineteen-year career in childcare and nannying. Sarah runs Move Make classes, where she combines her heart-based kids yoga classes with meditation and creative craft and play. Since COVID, Sarah has also started her Move Make classes over Zoom, Australia wide. Sarah is inspired by and has researched child psychologists and pioneers in aspects of how we see minding, communicating, and interacting with children; including Magda Gerba and Janet Lansbury. In this episode, we cover so many interesting topics including Sarah’s own wealth of experience as a nanny, how we value and respect childcare socially, how that can shift individually and collectively, and new ways of looking forward to shifts in holistic childcare. Enjoy this conversation.

Obstetricians and Normal Childbirth.Normalising a deviation from normal, in any field, directs the baseline off track, misleads us as to what normal is and sets us on a course that becomes very difficult to correct the further down the track we go. When we normalise trauma, we no longer see it. When we normalise bad behaviour, it becomes less apparent and when we normalise a deviation from normal physiology it confuses everyone involved. So what happens when we normalise deviating from normal physiology? When practices such as routine episiotomy (or when the vulva leading to the vaginal passageway is cut open because of a belief that that the tissues cannot or will not expand by themselves), routine induction of labour (thats when a person giving birth, overwhelmingly women, are told that their bodies will be better off being forced to go into labour rather than initiating the process of physiological labour itself), when in Australia one third of babies are born through major abdominal surgery and in some hospitals in Brazil there is an 85% cesarean section rate? What happens when a deviation from the normal physiological process of childbirth - that’s when a complex living organism separates itself from another complex living organism which has been growing inside it for ten months, what happens when this occurs? Well, we don’t know the full extent of the impacts of these deviations individually or as a whole, short term and long term. But what we do know is that much unnecessary suffering occurs along the way, for everyone involved. Even, for those that are not aware of it. In my interview with Dr Fischbein he discusses his incredible journey into becoming LA’s ONLY homebirth Obstetrician and how in a country that is leading in mechanical, managed and assisted childbirth, he practices good old fashioned sticking to the blueprint. If you have any questions about this interview or our work at PBB Media, shoot us a line at hello@pbbmedia.org.Some fun facts:> In the Netherland over 15% of babies are born at home.> In Australia 98% of women labour and birth in the hospital, 1.5% in a birth centre or on the side of the road and 0.5% at home. > In Brazil, some hospitals have an 85% Cesarean Section rate.> If you live in America or the UK and you are a black woman you are five times more likely to die during or not long after childbirth. > The US has a 31% C section rate, Australia has 34% rate (that's 1 in3!). New Zealand babies are 1 in 4 with a 25.9% rate. > 1 in 3 women in the Australia and the UK will have their labour induced.> Induction of labour for selected women giving birth for the first time in Australia in 2017 - 43.1%> 78% of Australian mothers who gave birth in 2016 had pain relief. That’s almost 4 out of 5 women. 36% of these were epidurals. > The C section rate in Finland, Iceland and Norway stay steady at around 15% (with increasing age of pregnant mothers, diabetes and other diseases). “You would never do to another mammal what you do to a human female.. no other mammal would labour like that, they would get up and run away”.Find Dr Stu here: www.birthinginstincts.comLinksWHO Statement on Cesarean Section rates: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/161442/WHO_RHR_15.02_eng.pdf;jsessionid=FE71548F72C15166C4C9D770D1F41C11?sequence=1C Section Rates around the world (article, Belly Belly): https://www.bellybelly.com.au/birth/highest-c-section-rates-by-country/AIHW (Australian statistics on healthcare) Core Maternity Indicators: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mothers-babies/ncmi-data-visualisations/contents/summaryInduction of Labour - Dr Rachel Reed (book, further links to articles and statistics): https://midwifethinking.com/2018/10/05/why-induction-matters-book-release/Produced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial.

In this episode, Oni speaks to Laura Latina. Laura is a midwife originally from Italy. She graduated as a Midwife in 2008. Her curiosity and inspiration for the world took her to travel around the world to meet many women and know different cultures. Laura spent a few years in Africa working as a midwife in birth centres or villages and then went on to graduate with a Master Degree in London in Reproductive Health in 2014 while she was working as a caseloading midwife for 4 years. In 2015 she went to Afghanistan to work as midwifery manager for a hospital providing care for 20.000 women a year. In 2016, she moved to Sydney where she started work as women's health advisor for the NGO - Medecins sans frontieres/doctors without borders. Laura aims to give technical support to maternity hospitals and to improve midwifery care. She is passionate about supporting women in their journeys as women, to assist them in learning more and learning what is important to them. "Everyone is unique and I am fascinated by what people learn and what people bring to this world. I love providing continuity of care in my work as a midwife. To work deeply with women and to bring their inner power, connecting with their body wisdom. In the job I am doing now I am focusing on quality of care (specifically midwifery) including improving teamwork and learning culture in the hospital system."Enjoy this podcast.

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks to Madi Luschwitz about her triplet pregnancy, birth, and postnatal period. Madi, an artist, and her partner Nic, a movement and life coach based in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, got quite the surprise when finding out that their first pregnancy was triplets ! Young and healthy, Madi and Nic expected to conceive their first baby. They conceived more than they expected and now have three 1-year-old boys; Woody, River, and Tiger. Madi explores her journey as a mother in this beautiful and raw interview and we are lucky enough to hear her birth story. Madi talks about choosing her maternity health provider/s and the multi-layered experience of navigating a first pregnancy carrying triplets. Enjoy this conversation.

Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2020 runs from 7-13th September. Throughout the week, tune in to insightful, thought-provoking and deeply honouring stories and discussions with people who have experienced birth trauma, clinicians and researchers in this area and maternity advocates working to change the system. In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with founder of Birthing Dads founder Steven Kennedy. After a traumatic birth experience and subsequent postpartum depression, Steven explored and investigated his own experience and the wider culture's attitudes toward fathers and birth partners within the pregnancy, birth and postpartum realms. Through his journey proessing his own trauma, Steven now seeks to support men, birth partners and birth support in educating and preparing themselves for pregnancy, birth and beyond ! In this interview, Steven shares personally from his experience and speaks about the more vulnerable and tender times during his early parenting journey. Steven also shares his visions for the future and his work in changing a dysfunctional system.

Maternal Mental Health Matters talks Birth Trauma with mother of two Kristyn Begnall. DEAR LISTENER, PROCEED WITH CAUTION (TRAUMA TRIGGER WARNING): in this episode we speak with Australian mother of two Kristyn about her traumatic birthing experience. The content may be upsetting for some - please proceed with caution. Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2020 runs from 7-13th September. Throughout the week, tune in to insightful, thought-provoking and deeply honouring stories and discussions with people who have experienced birth trauma, clinicians and researchers in this area and maternity advocates working to change the system.If you or anyone you know needs or wants support you can connect with these resources:www.birthtalk.orgwww.panda.org.auhttps://headtohealth.gov.auLifeline (crisis support) 13 11 14Original score 'Opening' by Romy Agam Rom from her album of the same title.Produced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial. This special series on Birth Trauma is hosted by Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond and brought to you by Maternal Mental Health Matters Australia, a collaboration between four peak Australian consumer advocacy groups: Safe Motherhood For All, Maternity Choices Australia, Maternity Consumer Network & PBB MediaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Maternal Mental Health Matters talks Birth Trauma with Dr Sarah Buckley.Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2020 runs from 7-13th September. Throughout the week, tune in to insightful, thought-provoking and deeply honouring stories and discussions with people who have experienced birth trauma, clinicians and researchers in this area and maternity advocates working to change the system.Sally speaks with Dr Sarah Buckley about the hormones of birth and how we can maximise them for the most efficient (and maybe even enjoyable) birth. The key to this is to feel private, safe and unobserved, then we instinctively release the right cocktail hormones at the right time.Dr Sarah Buckley on the hormones of birth. Dr Buckley is a GP/family physician with qualifications in GP-obstetrics and family planning. She is the mother of four home-born children, and is also a PhD candidate at the University of Queensland,, where her research is focused on oxytocin and the autonomic nervous system in labour and birth, and the impacts of interventions. She is the author of the groundbreaking report Hormonal Physiology of Childbearing, which you can download for free at sarahbuckley.com. She is also the author of Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering.Dr Buckley can be found at:www.sarahbuckley.comProduced and presented by Sally CusackGuest: Dr Sarah BuckleyOriginal score by Romy Agam Rom - 'Openings'Copyright 2020 PBB Media and Sally CusackAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

This week is Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2020, where we are working with other maternity health advocacy groups to raise awareness around traumatic birth and the wider implications for inadequate care throughout the pregnancy, birth and postnatal periods of life. Here, Oni Blecher speaks to Rhea Dempsey; esteemed and highly sought after childbirth educator, counsellor, speaker, author and birth attendant with experience at over one thousand births. She is respected, both in Australia and internationally, as an insightful thinker and presenter on the topic of working with pain- both physical and psychological- in childbirth, and the implications of this for normal physiological birth and postnatal wellbeing. Here, Rhea explores, within the context of her work, how we can move forward in a culture that normalises traumatic birth.

Maternal Mental Health Matters talks Birth Trauma with Professor Jenny Gamble. Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2020 runs from 7-13th September. Throughout the week, tune in to insightful, thought-provoking and deeply honouring stories and discussions with people who have experienced birth trauma, clinicians and researchers in this area and maternity advocates working to change the system.Professor Jenny Gamble is Head of Midwifery at Griffith University (Australia) and Director of the Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative. She speaks to the coontributing factors to psychological trauma in childbirth, women and birthing pooled reporting that their birth was traumatic and the development of trauma symptoms. Professor Gamble also looks at helpful early responses and supportive preventive practices.Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative:https://www.transformingmaternity.org.auProduced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial. This special series on Birth Trauma is hosted by Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond and brought to you by Maternal Mental Health Matters Australia, a collaboration between four peak Australian consumer advocacy groups: Safe Motherhood For All, Maternity Choices Australia, Maternity Consumer Network & PBB MediaThe Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

We're discussing working through big feelings surrounding racism and discrimination, being a woman and the power we have in our hands in this moment, being with what is, not what should be.Vanessa Alexandra Wood a local to the Northern Rivers, born to a Peruvian Mother and Argentine Father on the border of NSW & VIC in Albury/Wodonga. As a child and young woman growing up in a predominantly white Australian culture Vanessa experiences various forms of discrimination and racism and holds these experiences tight to herself, often locked away. As an adult, mother and practitioner she revisits these big feelings and gives them room, air and space to be felt, honoured and when needed, worked through. Vanessa is the mother of two creative and beautiful young boys and life partner to Chris. Ten years a Naturopath, Vanessa now cooks and nourishes residents in rehabilitation and recovery from addiction and mental health conditions. Vanessa’s connection to Pachamama has always been the pillar in her life and the guiding force behind her work in the shamanic realms of women’s health and beyond. Today's guest: Vanessa Alexandra WoodProduced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaPregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial. The Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Dr Bronwyn Bancroft is a Bundjalung woman and elder, an acclaimed artist and mother to three children, Jack, Ella and Rubyrose. In this episode, Bronwyn shares her experiences giving birth at home in the 1980’s with her oldest two children, and her third vaginal birth at a birth centre at 42 years.Bronwyn’s story dives into the way that she found and embodied the strength and courage to birth in the way that was right for her, and speaks to the importance of women reclaiming our sovereignty over our bodies and births for the betterment of society at large.A powerful storyteller and courageous woman, Bronwyn’s words are medicine to those seeking to find, as Bronwyn puts it, the most courageous person inside ourselves, to help us birth the way we envision it.Bronwyn has also written and/ or illustrated over 41 children’s books. Those listening in NSW who have given birth recently might recognise Bronwyn’s books ABC and 123 which NSW hospitals give to new mums and bubs to take home. We’re so grateful to Bronwyn for sharing her story, her medicine, and her wisdom with us, and for those of you who are familiar with her art, to hear her powerful words as a sovereign woman who fights and advocates tirelessly for the sovereignty of us all.Find out more about Bronwyn's work at www.bronwynbancroft.com

Hazel Keedle is a midwifery researcher and lecturer at Western Sydney University and a PhD candidate. Hazel has worked in midwifery group practices, an aboriginal medical service, a variety of hospital settings and as a privately practising midwife in both city and regional locations.  Hazels passion for VBAC followed her own experience of having a VBAC with her daughter in 2008 and since then has published research on women's experience of having a homebirth after caesarean and on her PhD work exploring women’s experiences of planning a VBAC in Australia.Links discussed during this podcast:1. VBAC Matters page (lots of info & videos): https://www.facebook.com/VBACmatters2. Hazel's Research, Women’s experiences of planning a vaginal birth after caesarean in different models of maternity care in Australia: https://bit.ly/3aB353jHazel is also involved in a new survey exploring the experiences of Australian childbearing women in relation to the COVID19 pandemic, you can take the survey here: https://bit.ly/3h5XDrXToday's guest: Hazel KeedleProduced, edited and presented by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial. The Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider nonprofit community media and journalism project, PBB Media.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode, Oni Blecher speaks with 'Get Promoted Life'; a high level performance and life coach, specialising in optimising the relationship with self and others. This includes effective communication and how to connect more thoroughly and respectfully with self and others. She works with people of all ages but has a special ability and affinity with working with children, allowing and encouraging various ways of communication. During this conversation, we cover many topics, but most importantly how parents can help support their children in connecting with themselves and communicating their needs and desires effectively. We also speak about how parents can support their own learning experiences communicating with their children and the web-like symbiosis of families. Enjoy this conversation.

What does it mean to have an embodied pregnancy and birth experience? How can we tap into, and move forward, from our inner knowing? And how can we reclaim the sacredness of birth?In this episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond, Kirilly Dawn speaks with Maha Al Musa - internationally acclaimed independant childbirth educator and fierce advocate for centering the sacredness of birth in maternity care.Maha is a mother of three children, and is the founder of EmbodyBirth, and author of 'Dance of the Womb: The Essential Guide to Belly Dance for Pregnancy and Birth'. She birthed her third child, daughter Aminah in a home water lotus birth, at 46 years old, and breastfed her until she self weened at 8.5 years, when Maha was 54.5 years old. As such, Maha is an advocate for extended breastfeeding, home birth, and women being the authorities and experts in what is right for them and their babies.You can find out more about Maha at www.mahaalmusa.com or Instagram @maha_al_musaThe EmbodyBirth program: https://sales.mahaalmusa.com/embodybirth

Sally speaks with Paulette Bray-Narai, a certified Nonviolent Communication (NVC) instructor about how we can reframe the challenges we find in life through the practice of NVC.NVC was developed by Dr Marshall Rosenberg in the US in the 1960's and has been used since that time to bring groups with vastly opposing views together to form peaceful agreements. The NVC process has 4 main steps:1. When faced with a situation, observe what is happening objectively.2. Sense your feelings in response to the situation.3. Connect your feelings with a need.4. Make a request (of yourself or the other person), without having attachment to your particular request.This process is described in full in Dr Rosenberg's book "Non-Violent Communication".In this podcast we examine some common statements that can lead to disagreement, and then reframe these statements using NVC. Through this process we come to see how judgements in the use of certain words close down curiosity and open-minded discussion, and how by contrast the NVC process keeps seemingly opposing parties engaged with finding solutions.Also mentioned is the work of US based NVC trainer, Miki Kashtan who can be found at www.thefearlessheart.org.Paulette can be found at:www.expresspeace.comandwww.byronbayhealthycommunication.com.au/Produced and presented by Sally CusackGuest: Paulette Bray-NaraiCopyright 2020 PBB Media and Sally CusackAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode, Oni Blecher interviews Sali McIntyre. Sali is an Australian midwife, antenatal educator at Tweed hospital, Arvigo practitioner and teacher, and mother of four adult children, all born at home. Sali founded and runs 'Heart and Soul of Wellness', a wellness centre in Murwillumbah and has just released her first book; a comprehensive guide and to and history of Yoni or vaginal steaming. Oni and Sali had this conversation during the first COVID lockdown in NSW. Since then, her book, 'Womb Medicine, The Art of Yoni Steaming for Women’s Health' has been released. Sali is an elder woman, passionate about re earthing feminine ancient wisdom and integrating it into our society and through attitudes toward motherhood and womanhood. Enjoy this conversation and find out more of Sali and her offerings through heartandsoulofwellness.com.au

Today on the show we are speaking with Dr Belinda Barnett. Dr Barnett is a maternal health researcher, psychologist and community advocate for the protection of mothers’ human rights.Belinda recently completed a PhD at the University of Queensland, her thesis titled “Becoming a mother and mattering in early 21st century Australia”.Confired on March 27th, 'Becoming a mother and mattering in early 21st century Australia: An exploration of women's perinatal transitions and equity in wellbeing' looks at the value of mothers in our society. We discussed her personal and professional experiences that led her her current work, her research and a recent submissions to the QLD human rights commission. Information mentioned in this podcast:1. Application of the Human Rights Act of Queensland to the provision of public maternity services in Queensland Policy brief for the Queensland Human Rights Commission2. Maternal health brief for meetings with Queensland Health Minister, Queensland Shadow Health Minister, State Members of Parliament and candidates for October 2020 Queensland election.Both can be found here - http://www.maternitychoices.org.au/campaigns--projects.html3. Belinda's thesis - Becoming a mother and mattering in early 21st century Australia: An exploration of women's perinatal transitions and equity in wellbeing can be found through the University of Queensland e-library (no gateway): https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:f2faaceToday's guest: Dr Belinda BarnettProduced, edited and presented by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond comes to you from Bundjalung Country at Cavanbah or Byron Bay and we acknowledge with respect and reverence the Arakwal people of the Bunjulung nation, neighbouring clans and people for caring for this country since time immemorial. The Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond show is part of a wider community media and journalism project.All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Oni Blecher speaks to Naturopath and soon-to-be mother, Layla Metcafle about her observations of often mysterious and misunderstood condition Endometriosis. Layla shares from her well experienced professional vantage point and from her own personal seven year journey with Endometriosis. In March, the Australian government invested approximately nine million dollars in funding toward research of Endometriosis. As more women speak out about their pain, the less we will collectively normalise painful symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. The recognition of and research into women's health and related dysfunction and disease is integral in changing how we priotisise and see women thrive as pillars of society. Enjoy this great conversation with practicing naturopath Layla Metcalfe !

In 2018 the Australian Human Rights Commission stated that the trend towards incarceration saw a 77% increase of women in prison, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women making up the majority of this increase. Indigenous women and girls are the fastest growing group of people being incarcerated in 'Australia'. Approximately 90% of women in prison are mothers, and the majority of these mothers are single parents. Statistics also stated that almost 1 in 50 women reported being pregnant while in prison.In this episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond, presenter Kirilly Dawn speaks with Debbie Kilroy OAM, founder of Sisters Inside, about the targeted impact of the Prison Industrial Complex on mothers, women and girls. Debbie is one of Australia’s leading advocates for protecting the human rights of women and children through decarceration - the process of moving away from using prisons and other systems of social control in response to crime and social issues. In this conversation, Debbie discusses why she is a prison abolitionist, why she started Sisters Inside after her own experience of prison, and the justice a world without prisons would provide. She unravels the racial capitalist system which is responsible for the alarmingly yet strategically high incarceration rates of women, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls. We also speak about reproductive justice, maternity care inside, and the realities many women face when being pregnant and birthing in prison. And lastly Debbie speaks to the Free Her campaign run by Sisters Inside, which has now raised over a million dollars to pay off the fines of women in Western Australia who are being incarcerated for poverty, many of whom are Aboriginal women.
Debbie Kilroy OAMDebbie’s passion for justice is the result of her personal experience of the criminal (in)justice system and an unwavering belief that prison represents a failure of justice. During her time in prison, Debbie worked hard for a degree in Social Work and took on the huge task of turning her life around. Since then, she has qualified as a Gestalt Therapist and Legal Practitioner, and has completed a Graduate Diploma of Forensic Mental Health.After her release in 1992, Debbie established Sisters Inside, which advocates for the human rights of women in the criminal justice system and responds to gaps in the services available to them. Sisters Inside has won international recognition for its work and its unique structure which ensures it is driven by women with lived prison experience.In 2003, Debbie was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to the community for working with women in prison. She was also awarded the Australian Human Rights Medal in 2004 and a Churchill Fellowship to explore decarceration strategies and programs internationally in 2014. In 2017, Debbie was appointed to the Queensland Government Sentencing Advisory Council. Debbie was admitted to the legal profession by the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2007 – a rare achievement for someone with serious convictions. She now has her own law firm and (in addition to her work as CEO of Sisters Inside) is one of Queensland’s leading criminal solicitors.To read more about Debbie and her work at Sisters Inside visit:www.sistersinside.com.auTo donate to Sister's Inside 'Free Her' campaign assisting women in Western Australia visit:https://www.gofundme.com/f/bfvnvt-freethepeople

This is a special edition of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond that commemorates our last broadcast after 9 years and 9 months of continuous weekly shows from 99.9 BayFM in Byron Bay. HOWEVER! Our weekly podcasts will continue each and every week.Catch some of the history from our current and previous team in this episode. This is a cut down version from our Facebook Live event recorded on 27 June 2020, which you can view here:https://www.facebook.com/PregnancyBirthAndBeyondRadio/videos/2440410122918294/More about the history of PBB Media can be found at: https://www.pbbmedia.org/our-history.htmlEpisodes mentioned:Paul Crebar on becoming a father: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/paul-crebar-on-expectant-fatherhoodhttps://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/paul-crebar-on-becoming-a-fatherSean's show on male privilege: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/pbb05022018lukeaddinsallmalepriviledge-1Caroline's show with Anna Watts on the chakras of birth: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/the-chakras-of-pregnancy-and-birth-with-Dr Oscar on the peak of postnatal depletion being 5 years after birth: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/dr-oscar-serrallach-on-postnatal-depletiSean's first interview with Sally: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/the-missing-link-in-birth-preparation_1You can find Paulie Glow's song Obstacles Make me Grow on Spotify and at https://luminousyouth.com/paulie_glow/Aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on 29 June 2020.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack and Annalee Atia for PBB MediaPBB Team/Guests: Oni Blecher, Kirilly Dawn, Taneal Cadou-Blake, Sean Tonnet, Caroline Cowley, Dr Oscar Serrallach, Anna Watts, Paul Crebar/Paulie Glow.Copyright 2020 PBB Media and Sally CusackAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

Hello dears! Annalee here.. Today's episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond is all about optimising natural vaginal childbirth, I am so happy to be having Anna the Spiritual Midwife on the show today. Anna is a midwife and childbirth educator who is passionate about helping women optimise their chances of having natural vaginal childbirth. She runs online courses and in person support groups and one on one sessions in the northern rivers of NSW and hosts the wonderful podcast The Natural Birth Podcast sharing empowering birth stories from women around the world. We're going discuss how to optimise your chances of having a physiological vaginal birth and the importance of listening to positive natural birth stories during your pregnancy and changing the birth narrative.Find out more about Anna's work and access the special discount for Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond listeners (25% off online programs, use code: EMPOWEREDBIRTH) here - www.thespiritualmidwife.netListen to The Natural Birth Podcast here - www.anchor.fm/thenaturalbirthpodcastToday's guest: Anna SangeetProduced, edited and presented by Annalee AtiaAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.orgPS - if you would like to send us questions or comments, share your story with us and our listeners, apply to become a PBBM contributor or just say hello, send us an email via hello@pbbmedia.org. If you loved the show, don't forget to like/follow us on socials and most importantly rate/review the podcast on iTunes (this helps others find us more easily!). Love to you all out there wherever you are, stay safe and take care. The PBB Media team.

In this show Sally speaks with mother, doula, author and maternity services advocate, Catherine Bell, about the importance of thoroughly exploring your options for life after birth, the postnatal period and having a clear plan in place. As Catherine says "birth is just the beginning" - the beginning of a marathon in the first weeks, months and years of your baby's life, and like all marathons, preparation is necessary to get the most out of this time.References:Catherine is the author of The Birth Map, a guide for parents preparing for birth and postnatal life: www.bellabirth.org."Matrescence" - the time of "mother-becoming" (Dana Raphael) - https://www.pbbmedia.org/matrescence.htmlSafe co-sleeping guidelines - important to set up for this even if you don't intend co-sleeping, as there are very high chances it could happen inadvertently, so you want to make sure it's safe (ie, NOT on the couch): https://cosleeping.nd.edu/Safe Motherhood for All (check out their First Baby Campaign): https://www.safemotherhoodforall.org.au/White Ribbon Alliance for reproductive, maternal and newborn health and rights.: https://www.whiteribbonalliance.org/Anxiety and Depression support: www.panda.org.au, www.beyondblue.org.au, Lifeline: 13 11 14First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on 25 May 2020.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack for PBB MediaGuest: Catherine Bell, www.bellabirth.orgCopyright 2020 PBB Media and Sally CusackAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

Oni Blecher interviews Dani Wolff about her experience in learning and teaching food growing, earth building, and creating intentional community through earth nurturing principles. Having recently become a mother herself, Dani talks about how to apply community to Motherhood and Motherhood to the community. She also gives some practical advice for food growing through these shifting times.

Oni Blecher interviews Steven Kennedy about his work with Birthing Dads and inquires into Steven's birth story. Steven speaks to preparing fathers for birth and the postnatal period. He speaks about how fathers and male birth support are the 'sleeping giants' of the birth world and if fathers are more prepared, they could assist and take extra weight and responsibility off midwives. When Steven suffered depression and trauma after the birth of his son in 2017 he turned to academic literature to research the experiences of expectant fathers at birth. He discovered a grim picture of modern society’s relationship with childbirth. A common theme was the suggestion that care providers prepare expectant fathers to better support themselves and their families in the perinatal period.  Steven knew he had to act when further exploration revealed the research was being ignored. See more at birthingdads.org

This episode is in two parts:Firstly Sally speaks with Moran Liviani, mother of 3 girls and doula based in Brisbane. Moran talks about the trends she's noticing with her clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. She says all of her clients would choose homebirth, if they could afford it. And that these are families who would have never considered homebirth before but they have now come to see birthing in hospital as dangerous and birthing at home safer. She also discusses the significant drop in inductions of labour.A recent Lancet study on the safety of homebirth for low risk women: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100319Moran and her work as a doula and childbirth educator can be found at: www.2life.com.au.In the second half, Nicola Liebke, mother of 3 boys and one step-daughter, teacher, postnatal doula and parent group leader shares why she believes self-care for mothers is so important during this time where so many find themselves teaching their kids at home while also balancing their work and other commitments. Nicola also shares her top 5 tips for self-care for mothers during this time: physical care, creative care, nature care, mind care and joining a women's circle.Nicola can be found at www.moonhutmamas.com where she facilitates online women's circles.Thank you Moran and Nicola!First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on 27 April 2020.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack for PBB MediaGuests: Moran Liviani, www.2life.com.au and Nicola Liebke, www.moonhutmamas.comCopyright 2020 PBB Media and Sally CusackAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org

Hello there wonderful people, its Annalee from PBB, in this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond I am chatting with Dr Igor Tabrizian from the Byron Bay Health Lodge (in Australia). The Health Lodge takes a modern and advanced approach to medicine and healthcare and provides meaningful continuity of care to its patients. Practitioners come with a holistic whole-person attitude to healthcare and work together as a team. Clients can access the care, experience and support of Integrative General Practitioners, Naturopaths, Psychologists, Acupuncturists, Physiotherapists, Health Coaches and more, all in one place. If needed the team of care providers work together to support the one patient, pooling valuable insights and solutions together. Dr Igor Tabrizian is an integrative GP with a Functional Medicine approach. Working in hospital medicine for 14 years and then going into combined private and general practice specialising in nutritional medicine. He looks ay at inflammation, genetics, cytokines (inflammatory messages), gut microbiome, neurotransmitters, mineral and toxic metal levels, inflammatory markers, family history and life story when treating patients. He then prioritises which issues to remedy first and works through the solution(s) as needed. Dr Tabrizian specialises in supporting patients with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), child behavioural issues, pre-conception nutrition, auto-immune disorders and inflammation. We discussed pre conception nutrition and why it is so important for both partners and especially the mother to be well prepared and healthy before becoming pregnant, we touched of course on Covid-19 and unpacked some of the common childhood disorders and how many of these can be related to nutrition and inflammation. I had a wonderful time chatting with Dr Tabrizian and I am looking forward to picking his brain again in the future! If you want to find out more about this episode and others like it, check out our website pbbmedia.org and we would love to hear from you! Did you enjoy this episode, have any comments, would love for us to cover a specific topic? Let us know through hello@pbbmedia.org or through our socials on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, search for PBB Media. More info about Dr Tabrizian and the Health Lodge can be found here www.thehealthlodge.com.auPre-recorded the week before and aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on April 14th, 2020.Produced, edited and presented by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Dr Igor TabrizianAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org+This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Oni Blecher interviews dynamic couple Laura and Russell Brand on the importance of play, creativity and making a fun mess while also discussing the deeper topics of birth politics, making conscious informed decisions for birth, parenting philosophy and teamwork within the pregnancy, birth and postnatal periods.

Oni Blecher interviews Dr. Greg Emerson on his wealth of experience as an emergency medicine specialist come integrative doctor. He discusses building immunity, viral combative measures and how these measures affect healthy fetal growth, birth and resilient postnatal outcomes. Greg looks to a brighter social and integrative healthy future.

Jane Hardwicke Collings is fiercely rallying the birth community, as well as the community at large, to come together during this time of crisis to enact real and radical change in the care birthing women are receiving during the Coronavirus pandemic. Jane speaks of the impact the crisis is having on birthing women and mother-babies, and how we must come together now to provide better birthing options in response to what women are seeking at this time. Together with a group of women, Jane has founded Hygieia Health, a not for profit dedicated to making such changes. They recently surveyed over 800 women and found that 80% are re-assessing their birth and maternity care options in the middle of this pandemic. Jane shares how we as a community must come together to adapt to meet the needs of women and babies, and the impact that this pandemic will have if we don't - particularly on mothers mental health.Jane is the founder of The School of Shamanic Womancraft, has been a home birth midwife for over thirty years. and can be found at www.janehardwickecollings.comThis interview was recorded on Bundjalung country on Thursday 2 April, which must be acknowledged as much is changing daily during this pandemic. In adherence to social distancing, this interview was recorded virtually, and due to the current demand on these services, there are a few glitches and technical difficulties which we apologise for.Contact information for this episode:Mamatoto Support for Birth in Crisis Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/205614144006691/Hygieia Health: hygieia.health.2020@gmail.comJane Hardwicke Collings: jane@schoolofshamanicwomancraft.comKirilly Dawn: kirilly@pbbmedia.org

Oni Blecher speaks to Helena Norberg-Hodge about her work in bringing Ancient wisdom into our future projections by moving away from globalised capital into more localised economies and how this effects mothering, family and village living

As the reality of the extent of the impact of COVID-19 is sinking in, we’re seeing our lives change in ways we never thought would happen. Many schools are closing down their campuses and reverting to online learning, or preparing to do so. So almost overnight we have seen a massive shift of our school age children to homeschooling. There’s a lot for the kids and especially their parents to navigate in this terrain while parents work out how they can continue their own work/study commitments while having the kids at home.In this show Sally talks with a very experienced homeschooling mum who has always worked at home as well.Avalon Darnesh is a mother in a blended family with her partner Brett and together they have five children aged 7 to 17. Avalon also has a free offering she created five years ago about how parents can get their own goals met while your kids are at home: https://www.blossomingwoman.com.au/blog/get-shit-done Also mentioned is Motherhood Mentor, Marion Rose: www.marionrose.net.First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on 30 March 2020.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack for PBB MediaGuest: Avalon Darnesh www.blossomingwoman.com.auAll rights reserved.www.pbbmedia.org+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Circus aerialist and mother Moira Campbell shares with Sally her unique life journey full of vital lessons, from joining the circus, to meeting her husband Alex, packing up their life in London and moving to Byron Bay, healing from chronic illness and raising her 11 year old daughter. Moira's biggest lesson yet: that her body has an innate ability to heal itself.So much in this conversation! Enjoy.Moira can be found at: ascensionbyronbay.com.auProduced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 30 January 2019.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2020www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Farah Cleret, mother of two, Functional Nutritionist and recently diagnosed with cervical cancer. Post treatment, Farah went into medically induced menopause. Farah has a Degree and honours from Manchester University in Philosophy and Psychology and trained in Nutrition at the Institute of Optimum Nutrition in London, UK qualifying in 2002. She spent many years in private clinics and also at Higher Nature, a well known and highly respected UK supplement company advising clients on Nutritional Protocols, designing Practitioner Education Modules and contributing to the development of new products and formulas.You can find out more about Farah and her work on www.farahcleret.netYou are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond - Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes, Spotify and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on February 17th, 2020.Produced and presented by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Farah ClaretAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Sheree Stewart is an Aboriginal speaker, midwife, doula, published author, transpersonal art therapist and now a hot air balloon pilot! She is also a mother to six children and is the manager of the Koori Maternity Service at Sunshine Hospital in Melbourne. Sally was lucky enough to speak with her recently about her work advocating for the best possible maternity care for Aboriginal families, in the lead up to her appearance at the Doula Conference in Melbourne later this month.References:Galingera Maternity Service, Sunshine Hospital, Melbourne Vic:http://www.westernhealth.org.au/Services/Womens_and_Children/MaternityServices/Pages/Options-for-pregnancy-care.aspxwww.shereestewart.com.auMe and White Supremacy www.laylafsaad.comProduced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 09/03/2020.+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Sean Tonnet, Psychologist, father and contributor for Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond speaks to his experience as a father so far with deep psychological insight. Sean was once the prime ministers bodyguard before moving from the city to the Northern Rivers twenty years ago. This move offered him a journey of self discovery and an introduction to mindful relationship with self and eventually with children. Sean has an 11 year old and a 13 year old.Produced and presented by Oni BlecherCopyright PBB Media and Oni Blecher 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia in December 2019.+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

For more than two decades Dr Robin DiAngelo, a white mother, childbirth educator turned racial and social justice educator and author of White Fragility from Seattle, Washington in the US has been examining how from her birth onwards, she subconsciously played a role in perpetuating racial inequality in her society. When she stepped into a new job in the mid ‘90’s she embarked on a massive learning journey to discover that she, as a vegetarian, yoga practising, liberal minded femininist, had a lot to learn. In this show we will be examining the most fundamental of our social fractures, racism, racial inequality, your role in it, and what you can do as a parent or someone who spends time with children can do about it.Note: Robin participated in this interview from her home in Seattle, Washington and acknowledged the traditional owners of that land, the Duwamish people. She pays rent to the Duwamish people under this scheme: https://www.realrentduwamish.org/References:www.robindiangelo.comMe and White Supremacy www.laylafsaad.comIbram X Kendi, PhD: https://www.ibramxkendi.com/ Racial bias in pain assessment and treatment recommendations, and false beliefs about biological differences between blacks and whiteshttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27044069Bias at the intersection of race and gender: Evidence from preschool‐aged children https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/desc.12788 Resources for parents and more: https://robindiangelo.com/resources/Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 03/02/2020.+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Zenith Virago is a woman grounded in the gifts of understanding the nuances of humanity and the basic need for people to mark important times in their lives with sacredness. Zenith serves those traveling through birth, marriage and death. Highly respected for her guidance and presence in the Byron Shire and beyond, Zenith is a jewel, a wealth of embodied knowledge and deep reverence for the human experience. Zenith is the founder, EO and Deathwalker Trainer for the Natural Death Care Centre, a Byron Bay based charity. Zenith is also the creator of The Vagina Conversations, a performance of local women expressing empowered vagina stories. 
Today, I look forward to speaking with Zenith about the relationship between birth and death. With one of her roles as a deathwalker, Zenith is attuned to the transition between living in this physical body and ‘the other side’. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we speak and listen on particularly on the 26th and 27th of January, a day of mourning.Interviewed guest: Zenith ViragoProduced and presented by Oni BlecherCopyright PBB Media, Oni Blecher and Zenith Virago 2020First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 27th January 2020.This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.www.pbbmedia.org

Dr Danielle Arabena is a mother, General Practitioner, Shamanic Healer and Doula of Torres Strait Islander descent. In this interview with Kirilly Dawn, Dr Danielle speaks about her journey as a Healer, from navigating the medical field, to ultimately reclaiming her magic and becoming a Doula. Danielle also speaks about her long career working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health care, and shares her advice on how we can all reclaim our magic, bringing our whole selves with us into the workplace and world around us.Produced and presented by Kirilly DawnCopyright PBB Media and Kirilly Dawn 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 20/01/2020.+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

If we raise two genetically identical individuals in exactly the same way will they turn out to have similar personalities? Craig Jones speaks with Sally about his experiences as a father of twin girls and a third daughter and what he's learned about "nature vs nurture". He also shares some of his family's dynamics, the challenges, how they cope, and what insights he would share, if he could, with his pre-father self.In the last part of the show midwife Dr Robyn Thompson explains how best to support mothers immediately after birth and in the weeks after.Our thanks to Craig Jones (www.moogoo.com.au) and Dr Robyn Thompson (www.thethompsonmethod.com)Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2020www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 6 January 2020.+++++++++++This episode is sponsored by MooGoo Skin Care. www.moogoo.com.au.For a limited time our listeners can get a 15% discount on online purchases by quoting the code PBBPODCAST.

Oni Blecher interviews Mason and Tahnee from tonic and medicinal mushroom company Superfeast speak to reproductive and preconception health as well as their own enlightenments and lessons from their journeys in parenthood. With their wealth of knowledge from Taoist, yogic and TCM streams, Mason and Tahnee generously give us their advice on how to be in optimal reproductive health.

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Dr Melanie Jackson, also lovingly known as Melanie the Midwife. We're discussing the latest in Australian Homebirth Research, Continuity of Maternity Care and also, why women choose to birth outside the system. Find out more about Dr Jackson's work at www.melaniethemidwife.com and on YouTube under - Melanie The Midwife. The Maternal and perinatal outcomes by planned place of birth in Australia 2000 – 2012: a linked population data study can be found here https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/10/e029192You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on November 4th, 2019.Produced and hosted by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Dr Melanie JacksonAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Very excited to have super dad and wellness guru Horst Tomsan from Knox and Aya join our presenter Sean Tonnet on this podcast. With summer on our doorstep, there is never a better time to think about our health and well-being. Obesity now impacts around 25% of adults and children adversely affecting so many areas of our lives. This program will be packed with ideas for granddads, dads and dads-to-be to keep themselves active and vital - envigorating their roles as parents, partners and carers - modeling health and wellbeing to kids. Download or stream now!

Oni Blecher speaks with Moana Pearl, a multi modal transformational facilitator who and has been involved in sacred women’s business and women’s spirituality for more than 25 years. Moana helps us understand the individual and collective rite of peri menopausal, menopausal and post menopausal stages of life.Find Moana on https://sacredwisewoman.com.au/about-moana-pearl/First aired on 99.9 BayFM, Byron Bay Australia on 28 October 2019.++++++Copyright PBB Media 2019Produced and presented by Oni Blecher

Jessie Harrold is a doula, coach, women’s mentor, author of the recent book Project Body Love and her upcoming title, MotherSHIFT. Jessie’s work centres around supporting women to connect with themselves, their community and the earth during radical life transformation and modern-day rites of passage. She serves women and mothers one-to-one as a doula and life coach, teaches two online programs, reWILD and MotherSHIFT, and leads wilderness quests and pregnancy retreats. She lives in a tiny oceanside cottage in Atlantic Canada, where she writes, works, mothers her two children, and tends to her many gardens.Oni Blecher presents this episode in which Jessie speaks with PBB presenter Kirilly Dawn. Jessie discusses the immense transition that is motherhood, what it takes to ease that transition and the support required for it. She also covers the themes of matrescence and patrescence.www.jessieharrold.comFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 14 October 2019.Produced and presented by Oni BlecherCopyright PBB Media, Kirilly Dawn and Oni Blecher 2019. www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Jane Hanckel, a long standing passionate social entrepreneur. Jane has had a passion for childhood education and supporting the health of families and communities that started early on in her own life and that has evolved with her as she traveled the world, studied, worked and raised a family of her own.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia in 2019.Produced and hosted by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Jane HanckelAll rights reserved. www.inspirededucation.com.auhttps://www.pozible.com/project/meaningful-values-the-inspired-appwww.pbbmedia.org

The transition to fatherhood is a physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual journey. It has the capacity to transform men and have an impact on their lives and their future in many ways. It challenges men to redefine themselves as individuals, partners, lovers and friends and define themselves, for the first time, as fathers. There is no doubt that the The role of fathers has changed over the years and continues to evolve. On this show PBB special guest Simon Hall, a highly experienced and regarded Child and Family worker, brings his specialised work with dads and dads-to-be onto the airwaves​, sharing his wisdom and experience with presenter Sean Tonnet.

Sally speaks with biologist and infant sleep expert Dr Katharina Wulff about huge variations in infant sleep, cultural expectations we have regarding infant sleep, and how accepting the immense variability in their sleep and instead learning about their needs helps babies' brains develop. The interview concludes with Katharina sharing her concerns about sleep for children and teens, and how to support teens moving into their adult years. As a biologist Katharina applied her scientific knowledge, as well as her own intuition, to each stage of raising her son. Their family is now living in northern Sweden and Katharina's son, Jann Billker, now 15, spends as much time as he can in Swedish Lapland a further 6 hours north. There Jann is working with the Alaskan Husky dogs at Lapland Wilderness Tours where he is also honing his skills as a photographer and of course learning another language. Who knows where this unique collection of life experiences will take him! https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Katharina_Wulffhttp://www.laplandwildernesstours.com/Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019www.pbbmedia.orgOur thanks to Dr Katharina Wulff.First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 26 August 2019.

Today, babies are born with around 200 chemicals in their umbilical chord*. That's a shocking figure and is providing just some insight into the harsh impact that plastics and pollutants are having on our future generations. It's also one of the reasons Georgia Lawson co-founded The Clean Collective with friend Charlie Thompson. These women are on a journey to demystify the chemicals and toxins found in our pregnancy, baby care, and everyday household products, so that we can make simplified, informed and conscious choices for our families' health.Tune in to this episode to hear Kirilly chat with Georgia about why toxin-free products matter, the nasties to look out for, and how we can take small steps today to make this a simple and gentle practice in our lives.The Clean Collective have offered a discount code of 15% for listeners of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond, valid until October 31. Use the code: BEYOND15 The discount applies to every full priced item, other than gift cards.* Study by The Environmental Working Group

Over 30% of pregnant parents have their labours synthetically induced and that number is rising steadily each year. Induction of labour is used for situations such as a diagnosis of gestational diabetes, suspected big babies, over-due pregnancies and growth restricted babies.As the rate of this intervention increases, Dr Rachel Reed, midwife and academic from the Univ. of the Sunshine Coast believes it is worth some close examination to make sure we're getting the best possible outcomes from it. Rachel discusses the risks, how it works, what can help a woman's decision making process and how she can 'own' her induction should she choose it.Rachel has recently published a book "Why Induction Matters".Interview recorded on 24 July 2019.Rachel also mentions the UK's NICE Guidelines on how women should be informed of the risks of induction, which is a useful guidance for any family and health service to follow. https://pathways.nice.org.uk/pathways/induction-of-labourWe also hear briefly from Dr Sarah Buckley about the physiology required for induction to work (recorded at the Midwifery Today conference 2014).Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019www.pbbmedia.orgOur thanks to Dr Rachel Reed and Dr Sarah BuckleyFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 29 July 2019.

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and beyond Oni Blecher speaks with parents Jeremy and Hana pregnant for the third time, this time round with twins. Hear about their previous birth experiences, their current maternity care and their hopes, desires and intentions for the future. All Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond podcast are now ACM CPD (Australian College of Midwives Continuing Professional Development) recognised.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond, Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet to inform and inspire! Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay, broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network and podcast via iTunes, Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia in 2019.Hosted by Oni BlecherGuests: Jeremy & HanaProduced and edited by Annalee Atia for PBB Media All rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Sally speaks with Anika Ebner and Gabby LeBrun from the Byron Writers Festival about the kids' programming, and the inspiration for parents there as well. Authors mentioned include Zanni Louise, Clementine Ford, Alison Lester, John Flanagan, David Gillespie, Gabbie Stroud.First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on 22 July 2019.Produced and hosted by Sally Cusack for PBB Media www.pbbmedia.orgwww.byronwritersfestival.com

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and beyond Annalee Atia speaks with New South Wales mother of four Tamara Fenwick as she reflects back on her four very different birthing experiences. From hospital birth to birthing in an ambulance and then onto home birth. All Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond podcast are now ACM CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points recognised.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia in 2019.Produced and hosted by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Tamara FenwickAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, host Kirilly Dawn chats with craniosacral therapist and birth attendant Oni Blecher, on the relationship of the body, mind and spirit during pregnancy and birth.

"To do death well, we need to live well", Zenith Virago. A rich discussion on death and dying and living well with Zenith Virago for most family and community members. In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Annalee Atia speaks with Zenith Virago about the relevance of setting a place for death at your table and being an elder in your community. Death is an eventual part of life for all of us and like many other aspects of life, we have the choice to either integrate it into or seperate it from - our everyday reality. This grounding and honest conversation is great for most family members from 14yo and above - parents listen in first to determine if suitable for your children and circumstances and wonderful for all of us whether we have been touched by death or not. Find out more about Zenith's work here: www.naturaldeathcarecentre.orgAll Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond podcast are now ACM CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points recognised.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on April 22nd, 2019.Produced and hosted by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Zenith ViragoAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Most mothers have experienced exhaustion, pain, forgetfulness, indecision, low energy levels, moodiness, or some form of baby brain. And it's no wonder: The process of growing a baby depletes a mother's body in substantial ways. As a result, a woman can suffer from the effects of post natal depletion for many years. For dads, it can be a minefield of uncertainty and misunderstanding. Supporting woman and families with recovery from post natal depletion is the life work of our special guest Dr Oscar Serrallach. Dr Serrallach was first to recognise something he termed Post-Natal Depletion, describing the broader clinical pattern of many women presenting with these symptoms after having children. He has since dedicated his work towards researching this condition and applying the practice of Functional Medicine to help his clients with their recovery. On this show, Dr Oscar and Sean Tonnet will nut through some of the most significant facts and actions Dads can make in supporting themselves, their woman and their children around this essential topic.First aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 3rd June 2019.Produced and presented by Sean TonnetCopyright 2019 PBB Media and Sean Tonnetwww.pbbmedia.org

Ella Noah Bancroft is a Bundjalung woman, artist, storyteller, teacher, connection coach and mentor. A poetic feminist and social entrepreneur, Ella’s passion in protecting the Earth fuel her many projects. She is the founder of non-profit sustainable clothing brand Yhi Creation, and she’s also the powerful force behind local women’s gathering - The Returning – a full day event focusing on deepening our connection to the Earth, ourselves and each other. She is passionate about re-wilding the world and the feminine force, and is a certified yoga and tantra practitioner.Find out more about Ella Noah Bancroft at www.yhicreation.com and www.thereturning.com.auFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 15 April 2019Copyright PBB Media, Kirilly Dawn and Ella Noah Bancroftwww.pbbmedia.org

Emma McLaughlin is a mother and naturopath who specialises in women's health, with her own lived experience of struggling in the postnatal years with depletion when her children were young. In this show she speaks with host Kimberley about how naturopathy can complement allopathic efforts to enhance health and actually achieve optimal, thriving health status, rather than just surviving. Emma McLaughlin is a Naturopath from the Health Lodge, Byron Bay.www.thehealthlodge.com.au+++++++++First aired on 8 April 2019 on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia.Copyright PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschus 2019Produced and presented by Kimberley Lipschuswww.pbbmedia.orgwww.kimberleylipschus.com

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Kerrie Adams, Advocate for women’s choices in birth and for physiological birth. Midwife for the past 13 years, 11 of them in Australia and mostly Sydney based. Kerrie has a varied career which has includes midwifery group practice and ward management. Originally from the UK, Kerrie is a mother to 2 boys a 3yo & 6mths old.She currently writes a blog about the realities of working in the system as a midwife. This highlights how midwives ‘show up’ in practice and how that impacts birth outcomes for women and babies. You can find her at kerrieadams.com.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. First aired live on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on April 1st, 2019.Produced and hosted by Annalee Atia for PBB Media Guest: Kerrie AdamsAll rights reserved. www.pbbmedia.org

Lily Isobella is a mother of 3 and has worked for the past two decades to reverse the amount of violence in our society. Through her career and life experience she has come to see that the key to changing this situation is speaking frankly about sexuality, consent and bodily sovereignty with our kids from the earliest age. Lily is the founder of the One a Day Project and Courageous Conversations.Lily Isobella: www.lilyisobella.com.au+++++Produced and presented by Kimberley Lipschus.Copyright PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschus 2019www.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 25 March 2019

The mind-body connection has been proven in just the last few decades, yet Ayurveda, the system of treating illness and optimising health from India, based all of its understanding of the body and the mind from this connection. Christina Covington is a certified Ayurvedic consultant and certified intern with Dr Vasant Lad in India. She is also a mother to two children, now 22 and 16 and passionate about bringing Ayurveda’s wisdom to women’s health, in particular the stages of menses, birth and menopause.Our guest: Christina Covington, Founder Embodyed Ayurvedahttps://www.embodyedayurveda.com/Produced and presented by Kimberley LipschusCopyright PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschus 2019First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay 4 March 2019

Did you know that Vasectomies are coming back into vogue? After reaching a high of nearly 29,000 in 1997, numbers dropped dramatically throughout the 2000s​. However, in the past four years, they have risen again to close to 1990 levels. In this episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond, Sean Tonnet will be talking with Dr. David Kerle, Urologist and surgeon with over 30 years experience performing vasectomies. From men's attitudes on contraception to sexual function, join David and Sean as they discuss all the important aspects of male contraception. A not to be missed show on how men can understand more on an important area of family life.First aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 11th March 2019.Produced and presented by Sean TonnetCopyright 2019 PBB Media and Sean Tonnetwww.pbbmedia.org

Happy International Women's Day! This episode explores the available models of maternity care to expectant parents, and whether the most widely available models are in fact the safest.We speak with Professor Stephen Robson, obstetrician and Secretary of the Australian Medical Association about this statement by the AMA and the evidence to support it.https://ama.com.au/media/maternity-services-must-be-obstetric-ledAlso discussed is the current national review into maternity services; https://consultations.health.gov.au/office-of-the-chief-nursing-and-midwifery-officer/national-strategic-approach-to-maternity-services-1/supporting_documents/Strategic%20Directions%20for%20Maternity%20Services%20Consultation%20Paper%20DRAFT.pdfWe also speak with epidemiologist Michal Schiff about the evidence cited by the AMA and which forms of maternity care are recommended by the World Health Organisation and why. (The recommendations are for midwifery-led continuity of care.)Finally we speak with a mother, Agy, who gave birth in a large teaching hospital in Australia in late 2017 about her experience of GP-shared care with her local hospital and how she in fact lacked continuity of care during the crucial periods of her labour and birth.YOU CAN HAVE YOUR SAY on maternity services by writing to federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt and find out more here: http://www.pbbmedia.org/maternity-advocacy.htmlREFERENCES:- National Strategic Approach to Maternity Services Consultation round 2 (NSAMS) https://consultations.health.gov.au/office-of-the-chief-nursing-and-midwifery-officer/national-strategic-approach-to-maternity-services-1/supporting_documents/Strategic%20Directions%20for%20Maternity%20Services%20Consultation%20Paper%20DRAFT.pdf- WHO research referred to by Prof Robson cited by NSAMS is listed on p31 of this document: https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/anc-positive-pregnancy-experience/en/- AMA press release: Maternity Services must be Obstetric-Ledhttps://ama.com.au/media/maternity-services-must-be-obstetric-led- Cochrane Review: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD004667.pub5- "Mater study"https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1471-0528.14903- "Mercy study"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25832990Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019www.pbbmedia.orgOur thanks to Agy, Prof. Stephen Robson and Michal Schiff.First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 25 February 2019.

Accessing maternity care in Australia can be a complex and confusing experience for many women. Our system is fragmented and offers various care options to various people, with some women having more options than others and many women not having enough information about their care options to begin with. We look at the positive experience of one young mother, accessing a continuity model of care and hear from her about her experiences of motherhood, creating community and the power that kind and caring support networks afford during this momentous time in a family’s life. In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Serina Crinis.You are tuned to Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond. Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions & New Ideas meet. Our show is coming to you from the studios of BayFM in Byron Bay and is broadcasting across Australia on the Community Radio Network, you can find us on iTunes and Spreaker and through your favourite podcast providers. Do you have a story you would like to share with us on this topic? Email us at hello@pbbmedia.org Find Serina at www.serinacrinis.comFor more information about our ADD YOUR VOICE campaign head to www.pbbmedia.Produced and Presented by Annalee AtiaCopyright PBB Media and Annalee Atia 2019

We cover two topics that even in this day and age are still so hidden away - menstruation - and the time of life when menstruation draws to a close, perimenopause. Half of our population goes through this process, but when you find yourself at the threshold of this rite of passage it’s like you’re feeling your way in the dark. We all - men included - need more knowledge about this phase of life and its massive unspoken impact on us. Ana Davis author of ‘Moving with the Moon: Yoga, Movement and Meditation for Every Phase of your Menstrual Cycle’ shares her experiences and knowledge in this show. www.movingwiththemoon.comAna also cites "The Optimized Woman" by author Miranda Gray. http://www.mirandagray.co.uk++++++++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 11 February 2019.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019www.pbbmedia.org

This episode we have a birth story for you. Being a Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show, we don't actually have a lot of birth stories on the show, so this is a real treat. There is a wide range of birth stories from horror stories to empowerment stories and everything in-between. And than within each birth story there are a number of versions, there is the medical story, the social story, the close friend story, the couples story, the baby's story, the personal story and what I find most interesting is the story beneath the story. Our guest is Jazzie and Lessie (Jazzie's mum, and now a grandmother). Jazzie's pregnancy might have begun like many other first time parents. Jazzie had what is refereed to as low risk pregnancy. Meaning she had no health considerations that could potentially negativity impact on her labour or baby. However sometimes the unexpected happens. This episode we hear not only about Jazzie breech vaginal birth in hospital but also about her decision making, the kind of care she received, what helped and what didn't and more here on Pregnancy Birth and Beyond media. How common is the breech position?Breech position, which is bottom first, accounts for 3% to 4% of term pregnancies.Breech positioning is more common in preterm babies with 25% in breech position at 28 weeks, The majority of breech babies born in western industrialised cultures including Australia are born by elective or planned Cesarean. If your baby is breech, what choices do you have: Every situation is different, some breech births are more favorable to a vaginal birth than others. You get to decide what is best for you and your baby. Your options are: planned caesarean section attempt vaginal birth There are studies on breech birth, for example Term Breech Trial and the Pre-MODA study which both had some different concluding results. So a breech birth presents with potential risks for the baby, this could be the type of breech, or other identified risk factors for example intrauterine growth restriction, which is a very small baby for its gestational age and parents genetic disposition. And further to the safety of vaginal breech birth is the competency of the care provider. When a healthcare provider is skilled at breech birth it is, according to Pre-MODA study, just as safe to have a vaginal breech birth as it is to have a C/S and you also have to consider the long term health implications and not just the short term. So in a short term, you could view a planned c/s as less risk adverse for the baby as in it is planned, relatively quick and hyper managed . however, the longterm health of the children born via c/s is not fully understood yet, and studies coming out are concluding mode of birth does have an impact on the health of babies and children, meaning vaginal birth overall, population based have greater health benefits for both baby and mother. C/S babies have increased need of stays in NICU, increased difficulty with early breastfeeding, less diversity in the babies microbiome, Plus all the psycho-social aspects of wellbeing to consider. In preparing for this episode I found a great resource for parents who baby is in breech position after 36 weeks. Go to www.breechbirth.net it is AU and NZ based site. www.sarawickham.com has a number of articles on breech birth, including on the Term Breech Trial, and also on c/s. Www.midwifethinking.com and www.evidencedbasedbirth.comProduced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin 2019www.pbbmedia.org

The Strength in Vulnerability: For too long Men - fathers, sons, and brothers - have learned that it's better to suppress than express. Emotions, especially vulnerable ones, have been tightly wrapped up in our high-vis shirts as ‘too weak, too feminine or too sensitive’. In this weeks Pregnancy Birth and Beyond episode, join me Sean Tonnet, as I deconstruct the myth of vulnerability with my special guest Peter Chowan. Peter has worked as a Psychologist for more than 30 years. with extensive experience with men’s mental health and as a consultant to the World Health Organisation, UNFPA and UNESCO in more than a dozen countries.Together we will reflect on our experience of working with men and, as men, explore the notion that vulnerability takes courage and bravery. A strength essential for our children in a new worldFirst aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 4th February 2019.Produced and presented by Sean TonnetCopyright 2019 PBB Media and Sean Tonnetwww.pbbmedia.org

Author Pam Leo inspired parents from around the world with her incitation: “Let's raise children who won't have to recover from their childhoods.”With one in 5 Australian adults experiencing depression at some point in their lives, and suicide now being the highest cause of death in young people, healing from our personal trauma and averting it from occurring in the generations behind us is arguably the most important challenge for our times. In this episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we will be exploring if healing and averting trauma is really possible and if so, how we go about it. Our guest Mee Hee Douglas has dedicated much of her adult life to understanding the influence her early experiences has had on her, leading to specialising in psychoanalytic psychotherapy for children, couples and families.Mee Hee shares with us how our early experiences impact our adult lives as parents, and that is possible to heal. She also explains the primary task of parents to help our children 'digest' their traumatic experiences and integrate them into their experiences. Through Mee Hee we actually learn how being the "good enough mother" is actually exactly how we should be with our children, as they need some experiences of manageable frustration with the world, combined with knowing we are there to support.Mee Hee Douglas is a psychoanalytic psychotherapist based in Bangalow, NSW. You can find her at www.meeheedouglas.com.References: Tavistok Clinic series: "Your child at xxx (1, 2, etc)"Finding Your Way with Your Baby: The emotional life of parents and babies by Dilys DawsDr Donald Winnecot - "the good enough mother"other info: www.letsgrowkids.org, Dr Allan SchoreFirst aired live at 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia 28 January 2019Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019Presented and produced by Sally Cusack

This episode we feature an talk on Embodied Feminine Leadership with Lisa Fitzpatrick. This is a timely episode, 2018 was a big year for woman claiming their voice, speaking up to injustices that have been cast upon them for decades. We saw the rise of the Me Too movement which started more than a decade ago, We saw the courageous Christine Ford speak out against sexual assault. We celebrated a 100 years of women being able to vote, We saw NZ prime mister Jacinda Ardern make history taking her baby to the United Nations assembly meeting - a prime example of Embodied feminine leadership. And while this episode focuses the lens on woman, there are some phenomenal men and gender fluid people out there standing and supporting woman and fighting hard for the betterment of us all. So who is Lisa Fitzpatrick? Lisa is the go-to spiritual business coach for high-achieving, soulful, entrepreneurial leaders and coaches who have a powerful message. She is a specialist in embodied feminine leadership, mindfulness in leadership, women’s physiology for empowerment and sustainable business practices. Lisa believes that when women tap into their feminine wisdom and embody full, mindful presence, the feminine shift restores balance and equality and helps to heal our troubled world.Lisa is a certified coach, experienced keynote speaker, best-selling author, yoga teacher, workshop facilitator, physiotherapist and mother. She lives in a subtropical paradise near Byron Bay.Producer and host: Lara Martin Guest: Lisa Fitzpatrick lisafitzpatrick.com.au Copy right: PBBmedia, Lara Martin

In this episode we speak with Rachana Shivam, mother, grandmother, pioneering childbirth educator and advocate for families, doula, primal healing practitioner, principal of the International College of Spiritual Midwifery and author of the leading text on lotus birth, the practice of leaving the umbilical cord intact.Rachana first became a mother in the mid ‘70s during the winds of change for birth in Australia. As you will hear from Rachana it was a very charged and hopeful time for those advocating for families in birth. Unfortunately Rachana still sees a lot of parallels with how birth is managed even 40 years later, but during her lengthy and sustained journey she and her colleagues have paved the way for a lot of what we now take for granted in birth, all of which was thought to be crazy at the time: Waterbirth, self-hypnosis and breathing methods for pain management during labour, preparing for birth by examining our own births through rebirthing, Leboyer birth where the focus is on supporting the mother/baby dyad’s process rather than intervening in it. Rachana shares her experiences of birth and early years of childbirth advocacy.Other references: - Rachana Shivam - www.lotusbirth.net- Prophylactic method for pain relief, also known as the Lamaze Method.- Dr Graham Farrant, http://www.primal-page.com/gfobit.htm- Dr Frederick Leboyer, author of Birth Without Violence- Arthur Janov “Primal Therapy” “The Feeling Child” http://www.primaltherapy.com- Association For Prenatal And Perinatal Psychology And Health https://birthpsychology.com/- Another link of interest: "Don’t Cut Baby’s Cord - We Can Be Much Kinder" https://vimeo.com/21315581A warning if you have children listening, there is brief mention of the old practice of operating on children without anaesthesia (at approx 13’30”), and experiencing orgasm in birth at approx 22’20”.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack 2019Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2019www.pbbmedia.org

On this episode, our presenter and PBB dad, Sean Tonnet, will play part 2 of his special feature interview with his 90-year-old father Lex. In this instalment, Lex discusses an emerging spirituality that helped him mature and grow as a man and reflects on the importance of a safe and secure family culture that absolutely matches the contemporary evidence of attachment theory on raising healthy children.  At the end of the program, he discusses one thing that he feels men need to sustain them in their parenting and masculinity. Full of insightful learnings from a community elder on a life of fathering, masculinity and growing old, this show contrasts similarities and differences in parenting and being a man across generations. A thoughtful, honest discussion between father and son not to be missed!Note: Apologies for some audio 'hiss' during parts of the podcast.Resources Mentioned in Podcast:1. Family Media Plan - www.healthychildren.org/english/media/Pages/default.aspx2. Brenne Brown on Vulnerability - www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability3. Conversations with your dad - www.manhood.com.au/manhoodFirst aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 31st December 2018.Produced and presented by Sean TonnetCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Sean Tonnetwww.pbbmedia.org

A new year's gift to Mothers everywhere.In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, we are speaking with Dr Marion Rose, passionate about supporting mothers and babies, Marion’s unique methods have helped thousands of families in feeling more connected, compassionate, present and loving in their relationships. Supporting women to reconnect with their true loving nature as a mother and supporting mothers in helping their child stay connected with their connected, compassionate and cooperative self form the bedrock of her work. Marion has a 30 year background in developmental psychology and psychospiritual psychotherapy, with a Ph.D. from Cambridge University. She has been a University Research Fellow in infant development and has taught The Therapeutic Relationship to M.A. students.Through her work, she has been supporting mothers with pregnancy, birth and parenting since 2001, becoming an Aware Parenting Instructor in 2005. Marion has two children a 16 year old daughter and an 11 year old son and is a sister mother to two beautiful twins.First aired on 99.9BayFM in Byron Bay, Australia on December 17th, 2018.Produced and presented by Annalee Atia with Guest Dr Marion Rose.For more information about Marion's work head to www.marionrose.netPBB Media Contemporary Conversations where Stories, Science, Traditions and New Ideas meet.www.pbbmedia.orgCopyright PBB Media, Annalee Atia and Dr Marion Rose 2018

For many families, time spent together in the festive season can actually trigger old patterns of behaviour that lead to stress and discomfort. These old patterns are seen by some as manifestations of the “shadows” in our personality, and that if left unexamined can lead to repeated stress. Sally speaks with Dr John Travis in this show about how looking into our shadows we receive the opportunity to transform ourselves and our relationships.Dr John Travis's previous interview from 2018: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/dr-john-travis-on-transforming-relationsSome resources mentioned: A popular one in this area is NVC - Non-violent Communication developed by Marshall Rosenberg.Byron Katie - turning the judgements you have for your family onto yourselfThe Mankind Project helps men deal with their shadows. There a similar program for women,Susan Campbell author of The 5 Minute Relationship Repair offers tools for eating your shadow.Lifeline.org.au and Beyondblue.org.au and PANDA.org.au. Lifeline ph: 13 11 14 ++++++++++First aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 10 December 2018.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond we speak with Angel Temple, a New Zealand trained midwife with postgraduate education in Gender studies. Practising in Australia for the past two years as a remote rural midwife Angel is in a unique position to see the differences between the two systems of maternity care. We know from the latest research from around the world that this model of care provides the best outcomes for mothers and babies. Right now, less than 8% of women in Australia have access to this model.The systems and policies that make up our maternity healthcare are currently, being reviewed and many of the stakeholders are adding in their advice, experience and opinions on where Maternity should be headed. As consumers, we sit at the heart of the discussion, it is after all, us that foots the bill and us that is affected in the short and long-term from the care we receive or don't receive.Add your voice to the conversation by making it clear to our healthcare services and the Australian government that you want access to universal, Quality, Midwife-Led, Continuity of Care nearby where you live - https://bit.ly/2GgUCXyJoin us for a lively discussion on where we are at and some of the challenges we have in moving forward. For more information about PBB Media and our work, head to www.pbbmedia.orgProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia.Copyright PBB Media and Annalee Atia 2018www,pbbmedia.org

Exploring healthy masculinity and aware fathering has always led this presenter, with curiosity, back to his own dad.  Like many men, wanting to understand more about their dad is an important space for understanding their own masculinty and in becoming a father.  Today's episode, ‘My Dad & I’, offers a glimpse through the eyes of the presenters 90 year old father, Lex Tonnet, into life during the 1930, 40’s and 50’s.  It highlights the contrast between his generation and a contemporary one, with a lens on masculinity and fatherhood, exploring the significance of connection, emotions and community. This interview is also a pretty goods yarn, so we hope you enjoy Pregancy Birth and Beyond's latest episode.First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on Monday 26 November 2018.Copyright PBB Media and Sean Tonnet 2018www.pbbmedia.org

Special festive season episode in response to issue raised by Shari Lyon Hypnobirthing educator from Gold Coast, Qld.Guests:Shari Lyon, Belly 2 Birth HypnobirthingProfessor John Newnham, The Whole Nine MonthsDr Sarah Buckley (recorded at the Midwifery Today Conference in 2014)References: Why Induction Matters by Dr Rachel ReedFurther help:12 Questions to ask your Ob from birthsavvy.com.auInduction Matters with Dr Rachel Reed: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/induction-matters-with-dr-rachel-reedA Baby on the Way, in particular episode 3: www.pbbmedia.org/ababyontheway.htmlPodcast with Dr Sarah Buckley: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/iwd2015-drsarahbuckley-birth-hormonesUsing "chance" rather than "risk" can also remove the fear from decision making: https://www.birthsavvy.com.au/stillbirth-risk/Producer and presenter: Sally CusackCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

Esther Perez and Adrienne Megan Lester speak with Sally about the benefits of infant massage and baby wearing - for bonding, enhancing communication and optimising infant development. Also discussed is guidelines for finding a safe carrier for your baby. Did you know there are no safety standards for baby carriers in Australia? You can still get a safe and optimal carrier, but it is important to seek guidance for this, and not from a retailer. Adrienne explains in this episode.References:INFANT MASSAGE - * Vimala McClure https://www.iaim.net/vimala-mcclure-the-early-years-part-1-of-7/* http://babyinmind.org.au* Esther Perez: eperezcapebyronmedical.com.auBABY WEARING - * Adrienne Megan Lester: babysteps2betterhealth.com.au* babywearing information sources:Australia:Babywearing Consultations – NON-SALES ADVICEhttps://babysteps2betterhealth.com.au/babywearing.htmlThe Babywearing Practice (stocking ONLY standardised carriers & wraps)http://thebabywearingpractice.com.auBrooke Maree – qualified independent consultant/retail stockist (most appear to be standardised, please check with her if purchasing)https://brookemaree.com.auManduca – only carrier sold in Australian shops that meets international safety standards to Adrienne's knowledgehttps://manduca.com.au/pages/about-manduca-carriers-and-slingsUKNew Parent Supporthttps://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Messager%20Babywearing%20slings%20pull%20out_0.pdfSchool of Babywearinghttp://www.schoolofbabywearing.com/babywearing/babywearing-guide/European safety standards:https://www.en-standard.eu/csn-en-13209-2-child-use-and-care-articles-baby-carriers-safety-requirements-and-test-methods-part-2-soft-carrier-2/++++++++++First aired on 99.9 Bay FM in Byron Bay on 19 November 2018.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

This episode we take you on a journey through studying midwifery to graduation with newly graduated midwife Rosie. We hear first hand what it is like to be a student midwife, your options to becoming a midwife in Australia and much more. Aired live on 99.9 BayFm, Byron Bay, November 12th 2018. Host and producer Lara Martin Copyright PBB Media, Lara Martin. 2018

Recognising, responding to and repairing postpartum and antenatal depression and anxiety in dads.Pregnancy and the first year of parenthood is an exciting time that also brings many new challenges and responsibilities. It is now recognised that around 1 in 20 men experience depression during pregnancy (antenatal) and up to 1 in 10 new dads struggle with depression following the birth of their baby (postnatal).  Anxiety is just as common, and many men experience anxiety and depression at the same time (sourced from PANDA.org.au). It’s these facts that inspired my guest, Dr Matthew Roberts in his work with men experiencing perinatal and antenatal, anxiety and depression. Though initiatives such as Town hall Dads and My Doctors Handwriting, Matthew is connecting fathers, building awareness and redefining the landscape for new parents. A warning to listeners that this interview discusses mental health topics that may cause distress to some listeners, If you need support or your worried about someone you love, reach out to:IF YOU NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE, CALL:Lifeline on 13 11 14PANDA on 1300 726 306MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36++++List of references (eg book titles/websites mentioned)1. Town Hall Dads https://townhalldads.com2. My Doctors Handwrittinghttps://mydoctorshandwriting.com3. PANDAhttps://www.panda.org.au4. The Dad Factor - Richard Fletcherhttps://www.booktopia.com.au/the-dad-factor-richard-fletcher/prod9781921462139.html?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8f_eBRDcARIsAEKwRGd7EKm0SJdfUyk6WiirkJ7noWvBcPJMzxoiLwAHlEG_L2lJCWhueacaAumiEALw_wcB5. Dad Group Incorporated https://dadsgroup.org6. Man- Up Documentary http://manup.org.auDaniel Stern: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Stern_(psychologist)++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM on 5 November 2018Copyright PBB Media and Sean Tonnet 2018

More than one third of Australian birthing parents undergo a caesarean section for the birth of their babies, and most of those happen to first time parents. So what are the options for future pregnancies? Is a second caesarean the only way, or are there risks with that too? How risky is vaginal birth after caesarean? Sally speaks with midwife and Griffith Univ PhD student Bethan Townsend about Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), the risks and recommendations to help achieve it.Kimberley Lipschus also shares her experience of VBAC pregnancy and birth.Thank you to Kimberley and Bethan for this episode!First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 5 November 2018.Produced and Presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2018 Sally Cusack, PBB Mediawww.pbbmedia.orgPHOTO CREDIT: Rana Rankin, Breathe Photography, shared with permission. NOTE: This is NOT Kimberley.

As a midwife, Angela Fitzgerald found she wanted to honour women’s birthing stories more than on the day they give birth. Now working in private practice with women who struggle with their own births, Angela finds the way we birth is not only the way we live, but is tied in to the way we were birthed. In this conversation with Kimberley, Angela describes her journey to relinquishing her beloved job as a midwife, to her practice of working with women in the Northern Rivers, Australia.Guest is Angela Fitzgerald. Website https://birthyourtruth.com/ First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 22 October 2018Copyright PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschus 2018www.pbbmedia.orgwww.kimberleylipschus.com++++++If you would like to support our volunteer-run and not for profit project, head over to www.patreon.com/pbbmedia and you can pledge as little as $2 per month.Or you can review us on iTunes or at Facebook: Pregnancy Birth and Beyond MediaThank you for your support!

Are you a doula (birth companion)? Being a doula isn't all roses and babies, sometimes it is tough and burnout can be frequent. This episode of PBB I ask Anna Watts, Celebration of Birth Doula Academy founder and trainer, the top questions asked by doulas. Take a listen for more on getting started as a doula, to the perils of burnout and what you can do about it. Guest is Anna Watts. Website www.celebrationofbirth.com Doula Conference Retreat: www.doulaconference.com.auFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 15th of October 2018Copyright PBB Media and Lara Martin 2018www.pbbmedia.org++++++If you would like to support our volunteer-run and not for profit project, head over to www.patreon.com/pbbmedia and you can pledge as little as $2 per month.Or you can review us on iTunes or at Facebook: Pregnancy Birth and Beyond MediaThank you for your support!

Mistaking Postnatal Depression for Borderline Personality Disorder - It's more common than you might think.Borderline Personality disorder comes with a lot of stigma. Yet Dr Anne Sved-WIlliams began to see themes from many of the new mothers who were coming into her treatment centre for Post Natal Depression and Anxiety and a bell went off. Together with a team from Helen Mayo House in South Australia, they looked closer and discovered many of the mothers showed traits of this mental illness which was being misdiagnosed as Post Natal Depression. After a number of years they developed a program for women that has just run it’s pilot program to outstanding success. Here Kimberley Lipschus finds out more from our guest Dr Anne Sved Williams.REFERENCES.For more information on Dr Anne Sved-William’s book, Meltdown Moments, go to:https://wchfoundation.org.au/meltdownmoments/ Fore more about Helen Mayo House generally:http://www.wch.sa.gov.au/services/az/divisions/mentalhealth/helenmayo/index.html Although MI-DBT is a research-based group, there is more information to be found here. http://bpdsa.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Central-Adelaide-1.pdf If you feel this conversation has triggered something for you, please contact PBB media directly and we’ll endeavour to find you a therapist near you.You can also contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.+++++++++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 8 October 2018Copyright PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschus 2018www.pbbmedia.orgwww.kimberleylipschus.com++++++If you would like to support our volunteer-run and not for profit project, head over to www.patreon.com/pbbmedia and you can pledge as little as $2 per month.Or you can review us on iTunes or at Facebook: Pregnancy Birth and Beyond MediaThank you for your support!

A two part episode starting with an interview with ABC Radio broadcaster Eddie Ayers about what he recommends to parents who think they may have a transgender child (one suggestion is to give the child an instrument and indulge in the healing power of music), as well as language re. being transgender. Followed by an interview with former President of the Human Rights Commission of Australia about our women's rights in birth and their need for greater confidence in this arena.REFERENCES:* Gopi Lev in https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/our-first-show-on-gender-sexual-diversit, in particular from about 18 mins in.* http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/our-first-show-on-gender-sexual-diversity++++* Bri Lee is author of Eggshell Skull * More on informed consent at: - Episode 3: "Informed Consent: Your rights in birth" at http://www.pbbmedia.org/ababyontheway.html - Our free 4 part podcast series "A Close Look at Informed Consent" featuring Dr Bec Jenkinson, available on signup to our newsletter at www.pbbmedia.orgThanks to the Byron Writers' Festival for the opportunity to speak with Eddie Ayers and Gillian Triggs.Producer and presenter: Sally CusackCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Sally CusackFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 1 October 2018.

Parenting wisdom of ancient and contemporary therapeutic story telling.Susan Perrow is an author, story teller, trainer and parent educator. Her first book ‘Healing Stories for Challenging Behaviours’ has been translated into over 10 languages. Her recent interview on PBB radio was an inspirational program full of magic, metaphor and muses exploring the use of ancient myth, traditional folk tales and contemporary life in helping parents to raise children. Through Susan’s passion and the wisdom of her story making listeners will be left in no doubt about the power of story to heal and transform lives. "When i first experienced the power of story telling as 'healing' I felt as though a light had illuminated the dark" (Susan Perrow, 2008). List of references (eg book titles/websites mentioned)1. Healing Stories for Challenging Behaviours - Susan Perrowhttps://www.amazon.com/Healing-Stories-Challenging-Behaviour-Perrow/dp/1903458781 2. A-Z Collection of Behaviour Tales - Susan Perrowhttps://www.bookdepository.com/Z-Collection-Behaviour-Tales-Susan-Perrow/97819073598663. Susan Perrowhttp://susanperrow.com4. Jenny Cargill-Stronghttps://storytree.com.auFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 24 September 2018.Producer and Presenter: Sean TonnetCopyright 2018 PBB Media, Sean Tonnet+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++

Mandala Diehl, director of Federal Community Childrens Centre believes children thrive with a strong identity. And the key is nature. She runs her children’s centre with this ethos and has created a Living Bush-tucker Classroom which bridges a gap between original inhabitants of our great country and the newer ones.First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 10 September 2018.Producer and presenter: Kimberley Lipschus - www.kimberleylipschus.comReferences: http://federalccc.com.au/ and https://www.byron4kids.com.au/bush-tucker-garden/One of our interviews with Robin Grille who Mandala mentions during the interview.https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/robin-grille-on-the-link-between-healthyPresenter and producer: Kimberley LipschusCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschuswww.pbbmedia.org+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond, in honour of world Gratitude Day, Friday September 21, 2018, we are discussing Gratitude, Gathering and the power of storing positive experiences in building true resilience, a more positive outlook on life and a whole suite of additional benefits! Dr Lauren Tober, a Clinical Psychologist, Life Coach and Yoga Teacher based in the Byron Shire is with us in the studio, she is the founder of acclaimed photographic happiness project Capturing Gratitude and runs a heart-centred practice in Mullumbimby - the Centre for Mind Body Wellness, where a gorgeous array of practitioners supports individuals in the local community to lead a life of wholeness, happiness, health and authenticity.Produced and presented by Annalee AtiaGuest, Dr Lauren Toberfor more information head to:www.pbbmedia.orgwww.laurentober.comwww.capturinggratitude.comCopyright PBB Media, Annalee Atia 2018. All rights reserved.

Misa Alexander’s son Hugo is on the autism spectrum. After noticing his behaviour in public setting him apart from other children, she set out to educate kids how to include those who are different- into their play and their lives. She is the illustrator of the book, Fergus and Delilah and is an inclusion advocate for all children. Celebrating difference is the key.References: http://fergus-delilah.com/First aired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 27 August 2018.Copyright 2018 PBB Media and Kimberley Lipschuswww.pbbmedia.orgPresenter and producer: Kimberley Lipschus+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++

Sally speaks with Krishna Reville, mother of two boys, about her lessons learned from both of her births that were vastly different to the natural, uncomplicated births she had dreamed of. She also speaks about the importance of being aware of all types of births that can happen, to cope better if plans change suddenly. She also highlights the importance of ensuring the stories pregnant women hear are from people who have had the chance to process their experiences and articulate their lessons learned.References: "A Life's Work", Rachel CuskMore info on "matrescence": http://www.pbbmedia.org/matrescence.htmlSupport for birth trauma: www.panda.org.au, www.birthtalk.orgRelated blogpost: http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/surviving-nicu-by-krishna-revilleFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 3 September 2018.Copyright 2018 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.orgPresenter and producer: Sally Cusack+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++

Annie Bryant is a storyteller on a quest. She wants to understand her place in this ancient land, Australia, as a white woman. Her songs and stories are stunning. This is her story.Producer and presenter: Kimberley Lipschus. (www.kimberleylipschus.com)Annie Bryant: www.talesandsongs.comCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Kimberley LipschusFirst aired on BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 9 July 2018.www.pbbmedia.+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++

Tuning into Kids and Teens: The essential guide for parents, to emotional and relationship bonds with children.The importance of emotional competence for children and parents is highlighted in this powerful interview with Dr Christiane Kehoe. Not only is there undeniable evidence (gathered from the existing Tuning into Kids and Teens programs) on the outcomes around children and parents relationships, and emotional wellness, Christiane and the Mindful team are building and delivering a suite of programs that support families and communities internationally and across Australia. Discover the 5 emotional coaching steps essential for every parent and absorb contemporary ideas on how we feel, respond and parent. This interview is not to be missed!Producer and presenter: Sean TonnetGuest:Dr Christiane Kehoe, University of MelbourneList of references (eg book titles/websites mentioned)Mindfulhttp://www.mindful.org.au2. Tuning into Kidshttp://www.tuningintokids.org.au3. Resourcing Parentshttp://www.resourcingparents.nsw.gov.au4. Interrelatehttp://www.interrelate.org.auCopyright PBB Media and Sean Tonnet 2018www.pbbmedia.org+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 13 August 2018.

Karin Gisler shares her perspectives on menstruation, a process that visits women for about 1/7th of her life during her fertile years.For about 4 days in every month across approximately 40 years women menstruate. That’s around 1/7th of every woman’s life through those years. Yet for most women, they cover up the process and 'soldier on' with all their usual commitments, in spite of their body wanting to rest and take time out.Karin Gisler shares her perspectives about the importance of paying respect to this process, and in doing so, develop an understanding of the inner workings of a woman's body each month. For Karin, her menstrual cycle is an invaluable "health barometer". Karin also sees the importance of fathers and male partners taking the time to learn more about the menstrual cycle and how it impacts relationships. Finally she shares tips for families who are preparing for a daughter who is approaching menarche.More to explore in Karin's blog post here: http://www.primalwisdom.com.au/blog/the-hidden-gifts-of-menstruation+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to www.weleda.com.au.+++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 13 August 2018.Presenter and producer: Sally CusackGuest: Karin Lucia Gisler - www.primalwisdom.com.auCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018www.pbbmedia.org

On this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond a conversation with Astra Joynt, a privately praticing midwife in NSW, Australia. We discuss the work that is midwifery and the endevours of midwives in becoming autonomous practitioners in their field. It is also World Breastfeeding Week and we touch on this in our news segment at the end.Produced & Presented by Annalee AtiaGuest: Astra JoyntGet in touch with Astra here: http://www.byronbaymidwife.servicesMore info at pbbmedia.orgAll rights reserved.First aired on BayFM Byron Bay on 6 August 2018.+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to weleda.com.au.+++++

Family Constellation therapy is world renowned- in Europe and in Brazil in particular. It mitigates healing in a way that often talk therapy often cannot. In this episode Kimberley speaks with Jen Henderson to find out more. www.family-constellations.orgwww.constellationflow.comwww.mariadolenc.com.au+++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to weleda.com.au.+++++First aired on 99.9 BayFM in Byron Bay on Monday 30 August 2018.Copyright 2018 Kimberley Lipschus and PBB MediaPhoto by Ferenc Horvath on Unsplash

A dog can be a wonderful addition to a family - a child can hold extremely deep feelings for for their dog that they’ll always remember. And with 4.8 million pet dogs in Australia, there's a lot of opportunities for that to happen. Yet many dogs are in fact anxious and don't like much human interaction, and many of us don't understand the basics of dog behaviour, putting us, in particular our kids, at risk of being bitten. Sally speaks with nationally accredited canine trainer, Anna Tasker. As a mother of two boys, Anna is keen to instill an awareness of social responsibility in the next generation of dog owners. Anna also shares her insights into dog behaviour so we can improve our relationship with this most loyal of human friends.After listening to this episode, you may have a better understanding of how the dog in this photo will be feeling. (Note the closed mouth, wide eyes, leaning slightly away from the child...).www.pawpower.com.auAnna also mentions the Story Dogs programme for kids learning to read: storydogs.org.auProducer and presenter Sally CusackCopyright: PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 23 July 2018.Image by Picsea from Unsplash.com.Further reading/viewing:https://ppgaustralia.net.au/DominanceTheoryPositionStatementhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDDZ17DImoohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46ND3suK1y8

Rhea Dempsey is one Australia’s best known childbirth educators and author of "Birth with Confidence, Savvy choices for normal birth". Now writing her second book, she is also a speaker, counselor and birth attendant at more than 1000 births in her 40 year career. She is also mother to three adult daughters, and a grandmother.Rhea is an independent and straight talking voice who speaks plainly to expectant couples about what to expect in terms of the physiological process - she doesn’t pull punches in saying it’s generally a painful experience, but hastens to explain the hormonal systems that have a pain relieving effect. She also spells out the realities of birthing in our health system and how to work with that system to get optimal results from it.Rhea Dempsey: www.birthingwisdom.com.auRhea referenced Dr Sarah Buckley's research: https://sarahbuckley.com/hormonal-physiology-of-childbearing-report/++++This episode is proudly sponsored by WELEDA Australia.FOR A LIMITED TIME Australian audiences are entitled to a 20% discount on any online orders over $29.95 when they quote the promotional code of NATURAL. Head to weleda.com.au.++++Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018www.pbbmedia.org

Jane Hanckel is a mother, author and co-founder of Inspired Education about how we as parents can foster our children's development to meet the immense challenges of our times. Jane quotes the World Economic Forum's (2016) findings that the qualities we need to nurture in our children are creativity, collaboration and emotional intelligence and that the current education system does not do that. Instead, there are things we as parents can do at home to keep these innate aspects of our humanity alive, through unstructured play, time in nature, nourishing food and family relationships. Jane also cites research that has found that our investment in time and energy in fostering these qualities sets our children's health up for life. Jane Hanckel, co-founder: www.inspirededucation.com.auPresenter: Sally CusackFirst aired on BayFM Byron Bay on 2 July 2018.Copyright: PBB Media, Sally Cusack 2018References:* Bruno Bettelheim "The Good Enough Parent"* Fewer Toys Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29190457* Gonski Report (importance of tailoring education to individuals): https://www.education.gov.au/review-achieve-educational-excellence-australian-schools* NASA study by George Land and Beth Jarman about the impacts of education on our creativity: https://research-repository.griffith.edu.au/bitstream/handle/10072/7880/33187_1.pdf?sequenceOther references: * Nancy Carlsson-Paige "Taking Back Childhood"* Professor James Heckman on importance of support for children and their parents in the early years for lifelong health: https://heckmanequation.org/resource/research-summary-abecedarian-health/* Nature Play NSW, Qld and other Australian statesImage: Greg Rakozy on Unsplash.com

Today we are discussing the vital support continuity with a known birth worker can afford women during pregnancy, childbirth and especially postnatally. We have beautiful guest Nathalie Solis with us, Nathalie, recently returned from Germany is a birth doula and cultural anthropologist with a German-Guatemalan background. She has worked in Berlin, for the past 5 years accompanying women at a variety of births including births at home, at birth centres and in hospitals. She has worked with over 50 families from various cultural backgrounds accompanying their journeys before, during and after birth over a period of up to twelve months. Since 2017 she has been nased in our beautiful Byron Shire, in Bangalow, with her son and her husband. Currently contributing to a new childbirth education course with renowned French obstetrician and natural birth pioneer Dr. Michel Odent, Nathalie is committed to providing emotional, educational and practical one-on-one support to birthing families. She is passionate about offering non-judgmental, evidence-based, continuous care so that mothers feel heard, respected and cared for at all times. Produced and Hosted by: Annalee AtiaInterviewee: Nathalie SolisCopyright - 2018:PBB Media Annalee AtiaNathalie SolisLinks:www.thebyrondoula.comwww.pbbmedia.org

When you become a parent there is a shift in identity that occurs, pre-birth expectations drop away as reality kicks in. Life that perhaps was once goal orientated or career focus shifts as life with a baby forces a new daily rhythm, a slowing down, surrendering and letting go for a new way of being in the world. My guest Kari Azuma, leadership development coach and mother, from Santa Barbara, California joins us in a conversation about her transition to motherhood, birth as an opportunity for introspection and personal evolution and finding your passion and power as a mother. This episode focuses the lens on motherhood, my guest Kari specially works with mothers. Yet, what ever gender you identify as this episode speaks to all parents in the transition that occurs with the birth of a new family member.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright 2018 PBB Media and Lara Martinwww.pbbmedia.com

Dr Oscar Serralach speaks about the little recognised phase of life called "Matrescence". This period is the stage of becoming a mother and like adolescence the person undergoing it cannot go back to their former life. Also like adolescence, it needs support, but as it lacks even a widely known name, few women get the support they need to take up the full opportunities this transition brings. Oscar also speaks about the syndrome of Postnatal Depletion that develops as a result of unsupported matrescence.References:www.oscarserrallach.comwww.pbbmedia.org/matrescence-support.htmlmatrescence.comOur blogpost on this episode with more references:http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/were-you-supported-during-your-matrescenceProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018www.pbbmedia.org

Gareth Vanderhope, two times British Academy Award winner in Sound Design, Author, Health Educator and Dad speaks on the importance of nature, reading and sound for children's wellbeing. It has been well researched that children need nature for their senses; for learning and creativity, for empathy and resilience. This natural world is enhanced through the use of sound and stories in our lives, where reading plays such an important role in the lives of our children, families and communities. Gareth is just about to publish his first junior fiction adventure novel, laced with these themes. Join me - your host Sean Tonnet - as Gareth and I weave the love of adventuring, the joy of growing up and the dizzing heights of fathering, into a compelling story for a lifetime.www.garethvanderhope.comFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 4 June 2018.Copyright PBB Media and Sean Tonnet 2018

Becoming a grandmother is its own rite of passage from motherhood to grandmotherhood, yet this transition is seldom discussed and not always smooth. It can bring up unresolved aspects of a woman's relationship with her adult children, and herself. However as Raine Sharpe, grandmother for 20 years says, it also presents an enormous opportunity for personal growth that can be brought into the new relationships she must navigate - with herself, her children, the family circle, and wider society. This in turn brings a grandmother into a fuller, more realised version of herself with wisdom we can all benefit from.Kath Hellmann and Linda Collerson also share their new experiences of grandmotherhood. Kath is an expectant grandmother, pondering her upcoming transition, and Linda is a brand new grandmother, whose early experiences have not been quite what she anticipated.Raine Sharpe is writing a book on Becoming a Grandmother. If you would like to participate or would like more information, email: raines@australis.net Presenter: Sally CusackFirst aired on BayFM Byron Bay on 14 May 2018.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018

Are you a healthcare services consumer? Specifically - have you accessed any form of maternity healthcare services in the last few years? On Friday May 25th 2018, Sally Cusack & I spent the day up at Tweed Heads, attending a Consultation workshop as part of the governments plans to develop a National Strategic Approach to Maternity Services. The consultation was hosted by the Australian Health Ministers Advisory Council (AHMAC). The expected outcome for the NSAMS project is a document to guide national maternity services policy.Along with about 20 other people we debated and discussed, listened and contributed to the conversation. What should maternity services look like in the future? What are the main frameworks and who are the key stakeholders? What’s missing from the current system and how do we go about attaining a system that delivers better outcomes for mothers, their babies, their families and those that work within these systems?I have the beautiful Sally Cusack in the studio, join us as we discuss all this and more on this special episode of Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond.Further reading on overdiagnosis raised by Sally: https://www.smh.com.au/healthcare/overdiagnosis-is-harming-patients-and-action-is-required-says-chief-medical-officer-20181014-p509jx.htmlProduced and presented by Annalee AtiaCopyright PBB Media and Annalee Atia 2018.www.pbbmedia.org

Liz Ellis is arguably Australia’s most well-loved netball athlete. She played for Australia 122 times and captained the national netball team for four years; she won two world championships and two commonwealth games. But for Liz, having children came with five years of fertility challenges. She has written a guide to shine the light for others, "If at First you don't Conceive". Listen to our interview with her here.(NB Please be aware that there is some background noise of Liz's young child, however subtle).First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 21 May 2018.Copyright PBB Media, Kimberley Lipschus 2018

Eat whole foods, fruit and vegetables, get rest and get in touch with your body. Not what you’d expect from a naturopath? Well Kim Piper, aka Kim the Naturopath has a lot to say about well being and about hormones and this is a vital part. Hormones - we all have them, and fertility, pregnancy and post natal/partum are key times for learning to manage them for optimum health. Check out some of her wisdom in this episode. References: http://kimthenaturopath.com/Presenter: Kimberley LipschusCopyrightPBB Media 2018, Kimberley LipschusFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on 16 April 2018.Image credit: Katie Smith on unsplash.com

The difficult plebiscite process for same sex marriage in 2017 highlighted the enormous discrimination and ignorance faced by same sex couples.  These challenges are often accentuated for same sex couples when they decide to start a family.   In this program, we’ll explore the landscape of same sex parenting with renowned local psychotherapist and educator, Monique Rutherford.  From starting a family, raising children and affirming relationship, same sex couples do this all on the backdrop of an often discriminative, heteronormative culture.  Host Sean Tonnet speaks with Monique Rutherford about her lived and professional experience of the issues of same sex parenting.References:www.moniquerutherford.com.auFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on Monday 30 April 2018.Copyright Sean TonnetPBB Media 2018Other references:Interrelatewww.interrelate.org.auCircle of Security www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/

Mothers in Business - the first years is the topic of our show today, we are excited to have two gorgeous mothers from our local community here in the Northern Rivers of NSW, Meggie Danielson & Alona Rosenberg of WeMove studio in Mullumbimby and many more adventures! We are looking into the life of mothers over a series of 6 shows in the coming year and this episode here is our first. We wanted to look at the joys and challenges of being a mother and small business owner servicing the local community. We’re also in the business of celebrating women and acknowledging the unique needs & desires mothers have for themselves, their families and communities here at PBB. Wonderful today, both our guests migrated to Australia and have chosen our beautiful shire as the place to raise their children.This episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond podcast was produced, written and presented by Annalee Atia. It first aired Live on 99.9 BayFM (Byron Bay, Australia) on Monday 23rd April, 2018. Interviewees: Meggie Danielson & Alona Rosenberg Copyright PBB Media, Annalee Atia 2018

Our guest Vanessa Wood is mother to two beautiful boys, she is a practicing Naturopath of 10 years, and a shamanic craftswoman who oversees and participates in several Women’s circles and has been a magnificent flash-mob 80’s dancer with the famed Cassettes. There has been a resurgence of women’s agency and the value of women individually and as part of society. We have been watching as this unfolds, unfurls and sometimes becomes undone. We have been watching it in the media, around the world in different countries and in our own lives, with our women friends, women in our family and women around us in the community. We have been watching it unravel with in us, too. It can feel uncomfortable, empowering, inspiring dangerous.. Women have been silent in so many many ways for so many centuries. In fact, Dr Amanda Furman who wrote and presented a groundbreaking 4-part series on the history of women called - The Ascent of Woman delves deeply into the place of women in society over the course of written history. She argues that the status of women is a barometer of a society’s tolerance, fairness and openness and that for the most part over the past 10,000 years women have been oppressed, denied basic freedoms and considered a means to an end. In this episode we are talking about Women and the value of sitting together in Circle.We have been watching as the movement of Feminism evolves and matures to become one that recognises women for their own capacities, rather than merely hoping for women to receive the same ‘deal’ that men have. Sitting in Circle with other women supports us to recognise where we are at, where we have been and where we are headed. It affords us the much needed support and empowerment and sustains us along the journey. It helps set us free from self judgement and fosters in us, compassion for others. For many women the practice of gathering has stayed alive and strong throughout history, and for some, it is a new concept, one they are rediscovering.Join us is celebrating this beautiful tradition!More information and to get in touch with Vanessa, visit - www.pbbmedia.orgCopyrightPBB MediaProducer/Host: Annalee AtiaInterviewee: Vanessa WoodMusic bite on this podcast: Habanot Nechama / Lovers

Through his own experiences as a father, Dr John (Jack) Travis came to see how the normalised disconnection and separation of babies from their parents (eg through forced sleep schedules, isolation in cots) rather than recognising a baby's needs for closeness has created generations of families that struggle to keep together. Jack calls a father's negative reactions after the arrival of a baby "Male Postpartum Abandonment Syndrome" and shares many ideas and resources for healing.NOTE: Guest mic issues are fixed in 2nd half of this episode.Interviewers: Sean Tonnet, Sally CusackDr John Travis:* Connected Couples, Thriving Families: www.connectedandthriving.org* Alliance for Transforming the Lives of Children, www.aTLC.org* Meryn Callander, "Why Dads Leave", www.whydadsleave.com * John Travis, "MPAS In a Nutshell", www.tinyurl.com/MPASNutshellResources recommended by Jack:* Jed Diamond, "The Irritable Male Syndrome" , www.theirritablemale.com* James Prescott's Somato-Sensory Affectional Deprivational Syndrome (SSAD) (caused by not treating babies like mammals), www.tinyurl.com/jwtPrescott* School of Life videos by Alain de Botton: https://www.youtube.com/user/schooloflifechannel/videos, "Why you'll marry the wrong person" https://tinyurl.com/whyNYT or https://tinyurl.com/whySMH* Jean Liedloff, "The Continuum Concept", www.tinyurl.com/Callander* Elly Taylor, "Becoming Us", www.ellytaylor.com* Mankind Project www.mkpau.org* Byron Katie www.byronkatie.com* Susan Campbell and John Grey "The 5 Minute Relationship Repair" www.tinyurl.com/Campbell5Min"Honesty Salons" www.susancampbell.comhttps://healingcouplesretreats.com/five-minute-relationship-repair/ - Honesty Salon* Pam Leo, "Connection Parenting" ("Let's raise children who don't have to recover from their childhood") www.connectionparenting.com* Shadow Work: www.scottjeffrey.com/shadow-workFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on Monday 2 April 2018.Copyright 2018 PBB Media, Sally Cusack, Sean Tonnet

The power imbalances in today's masculinity overwhelmingly impact women, but they also fail boys and men in so many ways, leading to intractable loneliness and 'wordless rage', as described by author Tim Winton. Tim's latest book The Shepherd's Hut traces the change the main character young Jaxie makes as he breaks away from toxicity to something different by being exposed to different ways to being a man. Tim's hope for all boys and men is they too can break away and find their way to peace, which for him was found in surfing, relationships and learning to express himself. Interviewed by Luke Addinsall and Sally Cusack.Copyright 2018PBB Media, Sally CusackCredits:Guest: Tim Winton, Author of The Shepherd's HutProducer: Sally CusackCo-interviewer: Luke AddinsallOther references:* Dr John Travis, co-founder of the Alliance for the Transforming the Lives of Children* David Leser, journalist "Men, Women and the Whole Damn Thing" https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/the-great-sexual-reckoning-how-did-we-get-here--and-what-happens-now-20180124-h0npcc.html* Jackson Katz, www.jacksonkatz.comLuke Addinsall also features in this podcast on male privilege: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/pbb05022018lukeaddinsallmalepriviledge-1First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 26 March 2018. Interview recorded at BayFM on 20 March 2018.

De-stigmatising mental health and supporting stronger familiesThe celebrations and challenges of raising children can be a rich, diverse journey for all of us. Even when we are feeling mentally strong, there are moments when life, relationships and parenting is a bumpy road. For 1 in 10 people, living with a personality disorder and parenting can add a tremendous strain to our family experiences and bonds. An umbrella term for more commonly referred to conditions like borderline, narcissism, obsessive compulsive, avoidant and schizotypal, personality disorder can cause significant distress and impairment for the person and families. In this episode, I'll be traversing the mindscape of personality disorders, wellness, parenting and relationships with Dr Michelle Townsend; a Research Fellow at the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute and Project Air Strategy for Personality Disorders at the University of Wollongong. Shining a light on a rarely recognised area of parenting, this show will help de-myth the stigma around mental health, whilst providing strategies and support for those living with a personality disorder.24 Hour support for mental illness is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14.Presenter and producer: Sean TonnetCopyright PBB Media 2018, Sean TonnetFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 19 March 2018Link to Project Air and Dr Michelle Townsend: www.projectairstrategy.org

This episode we feature life on the front lines of midwifery. My guest Ti Harrison has been a midwife for the past 27 years and has worked across all models of care and around the world. Ti recently performed at the Vagina Conversations 2018, Byron Bay. Ti shares her monologue and we discuss further different aspects of this well crafted written piece. Warning some aspects of this episodes contains sensitive content. We are talking about women's bodies and in-particular about women's vaginas. Topics: Vagina Birth trauma Consent Vagina examinations MidwiferyProducer & host: Lara MartinGuest: Ti Harrison

Many parents or carers of teens and tweens are painfully aware how quickly their young child who bounded with energy, confidence and enthusiasm can flip. Like a switch has been clicked their child suddenly is unrecognisable. Dr Arne Rubinstein is an expert on adolescent development and passionate advocate for supporting young people to transition to young men, with a toolbox of skills. Interviewee: Dr Arne Rubinstein, Founder, The Making of Menand The Rites of Passage Institutethemakingofmen.com/Copyright 2018PBB Media, Kimberley Lipschuswww.kimberleylipschus.comFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on 26 February 2018.

Author Isobelle Carmody shares her experiences of imbuing her journey as a mother with creativity, bringing her daughter Adelaide every step of the way. Isobelle relished the time she had during Adelaide's childhood to re-explore the world through a child’s eyes, allowing her to access ever more characters and worlds to write about.Presenter and Producer: Sally CusackCopyright 2018 PBB Media, Sally CusackFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM on 5 March 2018.www.isobellecarmody.net"The Ice Maze" Music by adelaidethegirl on Soundcloud

A pregnant person or couple have many expectations about their birth, their baby, and parenthood. They dream into what it will be like to give birth, what they’re baby will be like, and what parenthood will turn into for them. In this episode Kimberley Lipschus chats with new parents Sophie Eadie and Chris Magick, and with baby Harlow. What was the reality of life with a baby, versus their expectations before giving birth? Copyright 2018 PBB Media, Kimberley Lipschuskimberleylipschus.comFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM in February 2018Photo by jens johnsson on Unsplash

In this episode we meet Kate Speedy, who embarked on a massive journey of transformation when she discovered her father was to transition to being female. This was 20 years ago when Kate was just 19, and living in a world that held very different views to the one now where we are all transitioning to greater understanding of the diversity of gender identity.More information, go to: http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/my-father-helenand: http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/our-first-show-on-gender-sexual-diversityPhoto by paul morris on UnsplashCopyright 2018 Kimberley LipschusPBB MediaPresenter and producer: Kimberley Lipschuswww.kimberleylipschus.com

Grace Lee shares her three very different birth stories in three different countries, from caesarean section to VBAC to water birth in home-like setting. Grace's husband Ritchie is a student midwife, having made a huge career change a couple of years ago out of the US Navy. You can hear my first interview with Ritchie here: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/ritchie-student-midwifeAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 28 August 2017 and the Community Radio Network on 1 September 2017.Presenter: Sally CusackThanks to the Lee Family for so generously sharing their experiences.Further information and references:Specialised counselling to recover from birth trauma: www.birthtalk.orghttp://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/grace-unleashedhttp://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000012.pub4/abstract (Impacts of environment on birth)

“Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.”― Jack KerouacThis episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we climb that mountain with our guest Taneal Cadou-blake who has recently returned to her home town of Byron Bay in Australia, after three and a half years of travel and living abroad with her family. Taneal, her husband Lalo and their four youngest children packed up all their belongings, took the plunge and set off abroad on a family adventure. Topics covered: Travel with family; Home school; Living minimally; Shoe string budget travel. Host: Lara Martin and Sally Cusack.

Sally speaks with Chris Teale, Craniosacral therapist (and physiotherapist) about the osteopathic therapy known as craniosacral therapy (CST), how it works physically, and how it also takes into account a person's emotional state. CST does not involve hard manipulations of bone structures, it focuses on the fluid structures in the spinal column and surrounding the brain, as well as the positioning of the cranial plates. Patients report an extreme relaxation response to this treatment, but it can lead to emotional releases that result in physical realignment and healing.We can benefit from CST at any age, as our cranial plates never fuse, but babies and pregnant and birthing parents in particular can benefit in many was such as turning breech babies and babies with colic and reflux.We also hear from Kimberley Lipschus about her extensive experience with using CST for many issues, such as fertility, pregnancy discomfort and positioning of the foetus for birth, as well as post birth recovery and even ADHD.NOTE: Anatomical training (such as physiotherapy) is not mandatory for therapists to call themselves Craniosacral therapists. One way to find a craniosacral therapist with anatomical training is to visit the Upledger Institute of Australia. CST differs to the chiropractic technique of Craniopathy.Copyright 2018PBB Media, Sally CusackPresenter and producer: Sally CusackGuests: Chris Teale, http://www.christealephysiotherapy.com/, andKimberley Lipschus, kimberleylipschus.comFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 12 February 2018.Image credit: http://www.christealephysiotherapy.com/

From birth, many boys are taught that to be a man you have to be competitive and emotionally tough and that vulnerability is a women's domain. How we socialise our children around privilege and entitlement impacts our society tremendously. Even in the most emotionally resourced families, boys and girls often see gender inequality constantly feeding into their subconscious through media, movies and books. This is the basis for what is referred to as male privilege. In this episode, we explore what it mean to be raising children in this culture. Sean Tonnet speaks with Luke Addinsall: therapist, consultant, facilitator and specialist in Mens Issues, whose work with men and families is changing our view on Masculinity and fathering.List of references (eg book titles/websites mentioned) 1. Manhood - Steve Biddulph https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/the-new-manhood/id1293479152?mt=2 2. Tony Porter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=td1PbsV6B80 3. Jackson Katz https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTvSfeCRxe8First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 5 February 2018.Presenter: Sean TonnetCopyright PBB Media 2018Image credit: Liane Metzler on unsplash.com

Many women do not receive appropriate care when in labour, making birth more difficult and painful. They then rarely get the opportunity afterwards to debrief with their carer about the events. This can lead to misunderstandings that they can pass onto pregnant women, in turn making them frightened and more likely to experience a difficult birth. Prof. Hannah Dahlen interprets some birth stories to help dispel some common myths on birth. References: * Birthtalk.org* Positivebirthmovement.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM on 22 January 2018Presenter: Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media 2018Sally Cusack

“we are living on this planet as if we had another one to go to” Terri Swearingen If we all make small changes, big things can happen. This episode our guest Jannine shares with us ways families can make small yet meaningful change for both greater quality of life and for the betterment of our planet. Raising kids is, lets face it, a huge ecological footprint on the planet, but it doesn't have to be all bad. With your purchasing power and a minimalist approach to parenting life with little ones can be earth friendly. We will be going over simple and practical changes you can start making today. My guest is Jannine Barron founder of Natures Child, a progressive earth based business for the past 18 years. Jannine is a self described entrepreneur activist and mother of two.++++++++++Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright 2017 PBB Media and Lara Martin

“The future will belong to the nature-smart—those individuals, families, businesses, and political leaders who develop a deeper understanding of the transformative power of the natural world and who balance the virtual with the real. The more high-tech we become, the more nature we need.” - Richard Louv, author "The Last Child in the Woods".Sally's interview with Rohan Stewart from Brunswick Bush School (www.brunsbushschool.com.au) about the importance of nature connection and the weekly opportunity their school provides for children in the community to develop a closer connection with their natural environment, as well as bush survival skills.Refs: Jon Young, "The Coyote's Guide to Connecting with Nature"Richard Louv, "The Last Child in the Woods"Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 26 October 2015Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015.www.pbbmedia.org

Tune in to hear about Bumi Sehat and Robin Lim's book 'Placenta the Forgotten Chakra'. Aired live on bayfm 99.9 Byron Bay Community radio station in 2013.Produced and Presented by Taneal BlakeCopyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013www,pbbmedia.orgReproduced by Lara Martin for BayFM and CRN broadcast in January 2018

Sally's interview with Dr Lawrence Cohen, parent, child psychologist and author of titles including "Playful Parenting" and "The Opposite of Worry" on:* how the playful parenting approach helps children work through their anxieties and fears, * the main challenges for kids and parents today and more.First broadcast on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 26 September 2016 and the Community Radio Network (Australia) on 29 December 2017.More info on Dr L Cohen here: http://playfulparenting.com/Dr Cohen's major influences include:Patti Wipfler: http://www.handinhandparenting.org/and Michael White: http://dulwichcentre.com.au/michael-white-archive/Additional interview content available through our Patreon account at: https://www.patreon.com/pbbmedia"How parents can get the support they need to be the parents they want to be through listening partnerships."Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2017www.pbbmedia.org

In honour of Christmas day 2013 on the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond show we featured the visionary story of Mary birthing Jesus. An untold story of Christmas spoken and written by Taneal Blake. BayFM presenter introducing and closing the episode is Ros Elliot.First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Christmas Day 2013.Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

As a society, which upholds love, belonging and family, available foster carers areshamefully low. Yet there are multitudes of ways to foster a young person,including respite foster care. Respite foster care is on the discussion table in thisfascinating episode.Produced by Kimberley LipschusPresenter: Kimberley LipschusGuest: ChelseaLinks:http://canifoster.com.au/ orwww.pbbmedia.orgCopyright PBB Media 2017

By 2030, depression will be the biggest mental health issue on the planet and currently is costing us billions of dollars a year. In this episode we look at emotional health in families and why families are our greatest asset in early prevention of mental health. Our guest, Garry Thomson, CEO of Uplifting Australia, is passionate about supporting families to raise, kind, emotional healthy and successful human being. Discussing the ‘four components’ to emotional wellbeing in families, Garry tells us the reasons why this skill set in a child is as important as teaching them to read and write. He talks from the heart of his own experiences in being parented, becoming a father, and being a man and discussing the invaluable work being done by Uplifting Australia.This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond was aired live on BayFm 99.9 on 4th December, 2017Guest: Garry ThomsonHost: Sean Tonnet

Is radical self-love the missing key in birth preparation? Our guest Virginia Bobro, has been working with pregnant families and new parents for over 22 years and is a mother of three university aged children. This episode we dig deeper into wholehearted birth preparation. While being informed and knowledgeable on what to expect during labour and birth is important, it isn't all there is when it comes to preparing for your birthing time. Self-love is a path of self inquiry, one that takes the seeker to a whole new level of understanding and personal growth, no matter how a birth unfolds.This episode of Pregnancy Birth and beyond was aired live on 99.9 Bay Fm on 27th of November 2017. Guest: Virginia Bobro Host: Lara Martin

Even though the camera was invented over 130 years ago, only in the last 20-30 years has the camera made its way into the birth room, and most of those images were captured by amateurs. But in the last few years we have seen an explosion of professional taken photos, and shared widely on social media. What is motivating families to invite birth photographers into such an intimate occasion? Is seeing these images changing how we view birth?Sally speaks with birth photographer Alex Warland and four mothers who have used professional photographers at their births: Luna, Rhiannon, Anita and Varesha.For more info and to see the photos the women mention, go to: http://www.pbbmedia.org/ne-plus-ultra/capturing-the-momentReferences:www.zandrawarland.com.au"The Art of Birth" film by Shea CapliceImage from Zandra Warland PhotographyFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on 20 November 2017.Copyright PBB Media 2017Presenter: Sally Cusack

Looking at the Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual aspects of preparing for childbirth, with Anna Watts. Founder of Celebration of Birth Doula Academy, Anna Watts, is affectionately known as the 'Wise Woman of Doulas' or 'Mama Doula', she has been guiding women and their partners through the journey of pregnancy and birth for over 28 years. Anna believes in honouring and celebrating birth as a ‘rite of passage’ for mother, father and baby, supporting empowered birthing choices and strengthening the spiritual connection in pregnancy and birth.The Celebration of Birth Doula Academy teaches from a holistic perspective, including educational, creative, experiential and spiritual. If you are looking for Doula Training that offers personal as well as professional learning and growth, with on-going mentoring and guidance as you launch your doula career please visit the following pages for more information - Sacred Birth Doula Training and Sacred Beginnings Post-natal Training.Produced by Annalee AtiaPresenter: Annalee AtiaGuest: Anna WattsLinks:https://celebrationofbirth.comwww.pbbmedia.orgCredits:Fields of Gold by Sting

For people listening in today or if you have friends or family with unresolved birth trauma, no matter how long ago, there are birth trauma specific resources such as birthtalk.org, birthing from within, and PANDA.org.au which are dedicate to supporting women, birthers and thier families.Our guest today is Milli Hill, founder of the Positve Birth Movement, Milli set up the Positive Birth Movement from her living room in 2012, motivated by both her own birth experiences, and her growing frustration whenever she heard the words, "They didn't let me" in a birth story. She has since gone on to become a well recognised voice for women in the birth world, writing extensively in the mainstream press (BestDaily, Telegraph, Guardian) and apearing at various confrences and talks. She has three small children and lives in Somerset.The positive birth movement is a grass roots movement, spreading positivity about childbirth via a global network of free Positive Birth groups, linked up by social media.What began in 2012 as one small meeting in the living room of writer and campaigner Milli Hill, is now a global network of over 450 'real life' groups, with a massive social media presence too.And they just keep on growing. They think this is because they break down the walls that the so-called 'birth wars' try to build between women. They don't hold any one kind of birth up above another. They are just concerned with every woman getting the best possible birth experience, for her, on that day.About Milli:Milli Hill is the Founder and Director of the positive birth movement. Milli set up the Positive Birth Movement in 2013 and has since run it from her laptop whilst her three small children sit on her arms. She is passionate about positive birth as a human right for all women and campaigns and speaks on this issue in the media and at high profile conferences and events. She is a Columnist for Telegraph Women and the author of The Positive Birth Book. Milli lives in Somerset and is happy to be contacted on 077 391 391 15 or via info@positivebirthmovement.org.Links:www.pbbmedia.orghttp://www.positivebirthmovement.orgCopyrightProducer/Host: Annalee AtiaInterviewee: Milli HillMusic: Deva Premal and Miten, 'Ida Were Were' (African folk song)

Profile of an activist, volunteer and mother - Nicqui Yazdi. Sally's conversation with Nicqui covers broad terrain from how she came to train as a mental health counsellor, setting up youth support programmes, in particular Byron Schoolies Hub, the lesson she learned from Richard Branson, and the gratitude she feels for all her years of giving, as it has given her so much healing in return. Nicqui has an unwavering belief in service and that "everyone has something to give".More on Nicqui's work at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjoSmCLqpwIWARNING: This episode mentions suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, go to the following resources:* Mental Health First Aid Australia: www.mhfa.com.au* Beyond Blue: Ph 1300 22 4636, www.beyondblue.org.au* Lifeline: Ph 13 11 14Presenter: Sally CusackCopyright Pregnancy Birth and Beyond Media 2017First aired from 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on Monday 30 October 2017.

From the throes of sleep deprivation to driving our children from one activity to the next, parenthood can wreak havoc on our usual schedule. As such, parenting and exercise are not usually words you see in the same sentence. Our needs will often come second to those of your children and fitness and health can become a much more difficult task. Understandably, this cost can be detrimental to our overall health, but also to our our capacity to parent effectively. In this episode we talk with Horst Tomsan; father, husband and health professional about parenting, exercise, food and well-being.Horst speaks from the heart in exploring the importance of setting up a family culture that recognises the importance of healthy lifestyles in parenting.This episodes guests: Horst Tomsan, owner of Knox & Aya Vegan Ice Creams www.knoxandaya.com Producer and show hosts: Lara Martin and Sean Tonnet broadcast on the 23rd of Octoer, 2017 from the studio's of 99.9 Bay Fm, from the heart of Byron Bay, Australia.

Fertility challenges can take many forms. Women may have experienced miscarriages, inability to fall pregnant, chemical pregnancies, or more. This has a huge impact on not only women but those who are close to them. In this episode of PBB we delve into the impacts of fertility challenges on relationships. Kimberley Lipschus gleans the wisdom from Sharon Covington, psychotherapist and clinical social worker with over forty years experience supporting women, men and couples in fertility counselling. First aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 16 October 2017SHARON’S ARTICLE LINKShttp://www.covingtontherapy.com/resources/articles/SHARON http://www.covingtontherapy.comEnding music credit: Calm of Night, Neil CrossPhoto credit: Photo by Farica Yang on Unsplash

In this episode we will be looking at the links between our family kitchen and food sustainability. How and where our food comes from, the impact we are having on the food chain and how coming back to our roots, to a deepoer connection with food, can do a world of good for ourselves, our families, communities and the world around us.Our geust is Eva Perroni, Eva is a freelance researcher-writer who uses food as a window to explore social, environmental, cultural and spiritual matters. She holds an MA in Development Studies from the University of Melbourne and has written for prominent thought-leaders in the food justice and sustainable farming sectors. She absolutely loves to cook and finds nothing more pleasurable than sharing good food and wine with others. Mother and PBB team member Meggie Danielson also features in pasrts of the interview.www.pbbmedia.orghttps://foodtank.com/news/author/eva-perroni/Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, Eva Peroni, PBB Media

Breastfeeding, a biological norm, while natural is a learnt skill for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding is for many an intrinsic part of the parenting journey, yet it can be full of tears and also full of joy. With all the conflicting advice and messages new parents receive not to mention the newness of parenting a baby, getting off to a good start can be challenging. However, when it comes to breastfeeding there are a few essentials to know. This episode we discuss ins and outs of breastfeeding 101. Also featured in this episode: - Breastfeeding in public - Breastfeeding into early childhood- WHO recommendations on breastfeeding - The marketing of artificial milk substitutes (formula) - Australian Breastfeeding Association Our guest is Samaya Askill mother of 3, who had breastfeed for 12 years and was a breastfeeding counsellor for 8 years. Hosts: Lara Martin and Kimberly Lipschus. aired live on 9th of Oct 17. Resources for this episode: www.breastfeeding.asn.au https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mothers-babies/2010-australian-national-infant-feeding-survey/contents/table-of-contentshttp://www.who.int/nutrition/topics/infantfeeding_recommendation/en/

The first minutes, hours and days with a newborn baby are crucial for setting up the best possible adjustment to life outside the womb, learning to breastfeed and recovery for mother and baby. This is best achieved through supporting new parents to be the main ones handling the new baby. We hear from Dr Robyn Thompson, midwife and breastfeeding researcher, on why it is so important for handling of a new baby by others is best kept to a minimum if all is well - even hospital staff. New parents need lots of quiet time to adjust to their lives as parents, to recover from birth and to support the baby's own process of learning to breastfeed.We also hear from a mother of two children who knew instinctively the importance of minimising lots of outside contact during the early weeks and as a consequence, her babies were very calm. However, not everyone understood her intentions, but she held her ground on this. She calls for extended family and friends to respect new parents' choices to keep life quiet and simple in the early weeks. If new parents aren't explicit in their wish for this, it is worth asking if that is what they would like and how you can support them.This information is to support expectant parents and help prevent issues arising postnatally. Birth and breastfeeding takes its own path and can have unexpected turns. There are specialised services for parents to discuss their births, no matter how long ago, including: www.birthtalk.org, consiousbirth.com, birthingfromwithin.comCredits: - Dr Robyn Thompson, www.breastfeedingconsultant.com- special thanks to Petria, mother, for sharing her personal storiesReferences:Dr Robyn Thompson - http://www.breastfeedingconsultant.com/single-post/2017/09/02/The-First-Breastfeed​The Birth Pause: thebirthpause.com​Dr Nils Bergman: http://thebirthpause.com/tag/skin-to-skinSarah Blaffer Hrdy, Mother Nature (1999) Babies Celebrated: “ For species such as primates, the mother IS the environment.” ​​Microbirth Movie: microbirth.comProducer: Sally Cusackcopyright www.pbbmedia.org2017First broadcast on 99.9 BayFM, Byron Bay, Australia on 25 September 2017.

When a baby is born, a new family unit is also birthed. There is a lot to learn, and to adjust to. While life goes on around you, for a new parent or parents, their world with a newborn shrinks. It becomes their entire universe. This episode we talk with Natasha Marchand and Bianca Sprague, founders of Bebo Mia on what to expect and how to prepare, antenatally, for the postpartum journey ahead. If you would like support for yourself or your partner during this time, visit us at PBBmedia.org for the blog post that will go with this episode with links to support services. Bianca and Natasha have created a postpartum plan work book to allow parents to be to go through all the things we have talked in this episode and more. This is a freebie gift so parents to be can feel as prepared as you can be for the incredible amazing roller coaster ride of the baby moon time, Download at beboMia.com/postpartumplanThis episodes guests: Natasha Marchand and Bianca Sprague founders of bebomia www.bebomia.com Producer and show hosts: Lara Martin and Kimberly Lipschus broadcast on the 11th of September, 2017 from the studio's of 99.9 Bay Fm, from the heart of Byron Bay, Australia.

Our Australian Healthcare system is considered to be one of the best in the world, it came shy just after the U.K. Second best. Countries that provide their citizens with universal healthcare not surprisingly, sit at the top of the list. The USA with its failing and ailing system came at the 11th hour, just making it. Our Aussie system offers generally really good healthcare to all Australians.That being said; there are a few factors that hinder our wonderful health care system. Around the world Healthcare is going through major transformations and new models of Medicine are emerging. Tune-in to find out how medicine emerging is changing the landscape of healthcare and how we fare here in Australia. Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia.Go to our website for citations, links and the full article www.pbbmedia.org

This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we are talking about raising kids who care for the earth, sustainability and farm life. Our guest is Annie Bryant, storyteller and musician. Annie lives on a hubby scale farm on the far south coast of Australia with her family. Annie's stories and music for children are inspired by nature and the rhythms of life. Annie's son Jonahki also join to accompany Annie for a live song. We also have some great ways you can incorporate environmental sustainability into your family life. Environmental Sustainability and sustainable growth is development that meets current demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs and enjoy the earth. This definition of sustainability comes from the Brundtland Report in 1987, setting the standard for sustainable development. Produced and hosted by Lara Martin and Gaby Tudor Guest: Annie Bryant www.talesandsongs.com visit us at www.PBBmedia.org

Were talking about blended families, parenting and fatherhood in this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond. Our guest Erik Adams is a father, long-time practitioner and supporter of the healing and wellness movement and local to the northern rivers in NSW, Australia. Erik ran Funkey Forest for many years, a well known Byron Shire retreat centre and later on managing the Mullulmbimby hub of Santos Organics, the shires respected food & lifestyle nerve centre. He currently runs a successful Wellness Centre in downtown Brunswick Heads and navigating But what of the times when you are not defined by work or purpose, rather just by being. Erik speaks of the impact of the labels we ourselves use and the value society puts on them, the difficulties many men face in becoming fathers and being in relationship and what happens when relationships break down.. what happens when you break down?Moving from being a couple with a child, to then being single then to being in relationship again with a partner who also has children and meanwhile your first ex is getting together with another and having babies.. Blended families can be complex at best, intriguing and sometimes downright fun. We discuss all this and more in this episode of Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond.Links:http://www.puravidawellness.com.auwww.annaleeatia.comwww.pbbmedia.orgCredits (music snippets):Salif Kaita, YamoreGeorge Harrison, Sat SingingCopyright:PBB Media 2017Annalee Atia

According to the Relationship Research Institute in Seattle, approx two thirds of couples find their relationship has suffered within three years of the birth of a child. Within five years of the birth of a first child, 13 percent of married couples divorce. This rate goes up to 39% for defacto couples 5 years after the child’s birth.*Surely there’s some preparation couples can do, rather than adjusting their relationship on the run after baby arrives.In this episode we meet Tondi Gilfillan and Sean Tonnet, relationship counsellors from Interrelate Family Centres, and discuss the importance of preparing our relationship during pregnancy for the enormous challenges. We explore how to build 'relationship scaffolding' and understand 'your dance as a couple'. A key tip is to discuss expectations you have about your new lives together, for example who will care for the baby and how.Further reading:"Becoming Us" by Elly Taylorwww.interrelate.org.au* https://www.babble.com/relationships/breaking-up-after-baby/Closing music: "Natural Selections" by SampologyAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 7 August 2017.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media Sally Cusack 2017

Since the invention of the mobile phone nearly 30 years ago, we have seen an explosion of wireless technologies come into our lives. Now, almost everyone has a mobile phones, children included, WiFi throughout our homes, smart meters, and now with 5G mobile technology on its way we'll find ourselves surrounded more than ever before with electromagnetic radiation (EMR) or electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs).But is it safe? Our babies and children are being exposed in a way we never were. Will we live to regret our love affair with mobile technology?In this episode Sally shares her experience with EMR exposure and how to protect herself. She speaks with naturopath and author Sherrill Sellman about how EMR impacts the body and how we can protect ourselves.The main take-home lessons for me? * Use your mobile phone on speaker mode, or use plug-in ear phones. Do not hold it to your head or carry it on your body, especially pregnant bodies.* Turn your mobile phone onto "Airplane" mode when in the care and if you give it to your child to play with.* Turn your wifi off at night.* Get rid of your cordless phone. These things emit incredibly high levels of EMFs.* Cover your smart meters with covers you can buy, or make your own (see Youtube for examples :)* Don't use your laptop on your lap. Type from a separate keyboard/mouse rather than directly onto your laptop when you can.Broadcast on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on Monday 31 July 2017.Sherrill Sellman: www.whatwomenmustknow.comSherrill's podcasts: http://prn.fm/category/archives/what-women-must-know/Other resources mentioned:* EMF Researchers: Professor Emeritus Martin Pall, Dr Erica Mallory Blythe, Dr Devra Davis.* Free information on EMR/EMFs: www.emraware.com* ABC TV Catalyst episode of "Wi-fried": http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s4411611.htm* https://www.bellybelly.com.au/baby/can-wifi-affect-your-baby-during-pregnancy-or-after/* https://www.bellybelly.com.au/pregnancy/ultrasounds-pregnancy-risks-benefits/* WHO's listing of EMFs as Class 2B possible carcinogen: http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/* Example skeptic site: http://www.emfandhealth.com/* Building biologists offer services for assessing the EMR in your home, such as www.healthylivingspaces.com.au (I can't vouch for this service as I haven't used it.)* One of the technologies available to assist the body's reaction to EMR is Magnetic Resonance Effect Technology (MRET). (I can't vouch for this either.)Happy researching! Let us know what you find at our Facebook page or hello@pbbmedia.org.Produced and presented by: Sally Cusack 2017Copyright Sally Cusack and PBB Media 2017

This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we delve into the world of children's stories and more specifically about violence and scary themes in books. Is there any value to violence in stories for children, is scare fest for the sake of entertainment potentially harming children?In this episode we interview three guests, psychologist & author Robin Grille, children story teller and singer song writer Annie Bryant and luminous youth founder Erica Nettle Chick. Connect with this episodes guests go to: Robin Grille - www.hearttoheartparenting.orgAnnie Bryant - www.talesandsongs.comErica Nettle Chick - www.luminousyouth.comProduced by Lara Martin for Pregnancy birth and Beyond Media To check out our suggested children's reading list go to pbbmedia.org

Jayne Alder, midwife, mother and grandmother, speaks about the three main issues new mother struggle with:sleeping, feeding and thinking they have to be super mum.But it really does take a village to raise a child, especially a new baby. New mothers are making the biggest transition of their lives and they deserve lots of support. Don't shy from asking for help. You are not meant to do it on your own. And you won't struggle as much with your baby being unsettled, not having enough milk or not getting enough sleep.And remember: "You are doing a wonderful job. You know what to do. Your baby wants you to be his mother." - Jayne Alder.www.jaynealder.comProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2017.www.pbbmedia.org

We all want a healthy baby, there's no question of that, but Sally believes there are underlying beliefs to the common phrase "As long as the baby is healthy" that deserve closer examination. Are we giving up elements of birth that are more important than we realise when we say this?Sally has identified 6 underlying beliefs to the statement "As long as the baby is healthy". The first three underlying beliefs were covered in Part 1:http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/as-long-as-the-baby-is-healthy-part-1In this episode, part 2, Sally covers the following underlying beliefs:* “Birth is dangerous and needs to be managed medically. Positive births are due to luck.”* “Labour and birth are simply painful, pointless torture."* “My experience is irrelevant and people who seek a positive experience are selfish and exposing the baby to risk.”SPEAKERSDr Kirsten Small, obstetrician and PhD candidateProfessor Alec Welsh, University of NSW and obstetrician at Royal Hospital for Women, Sydney Dr Sarah Buckley, GP, author and researcher on physiological birthFURTHER READING* Dignity in Birth Survey: Safe Motherhood for Allhttp://www.safemotherhoodforall.org.au/news/only-58-of-australian-women-have-the-birth-they-want/* Film: "Microbirth": importance of labour and birth http://microbirth.com/INFORMATION AND SUPPORT:* PANDA National Helpline (Perinatal Anxiety Depression Awareness)Mon to Fri, 10am - 5pm AEST1300 726 306* Birth Talk: Resources for healing from birthwww.birthtalk.org/* Conscious Birth: Birth Story Healing, no matter how long agowww.consciousbirth.com/birth-story-healing/* Birth choices advice and advocacy: Maternity Choices Australiawww.maternitychoices.org.au and FacebookREFERENCES* https://theconversation.com/factcheck-is-suicide-one-of-the-leading-causes-of-maternal-death-in-australia-65336* http://www.bellybelly.com.au/birth/why-is-the-fear-of-birth-rising/* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_infant_mortality_rate* http://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/mortality-risk* https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Standard2_Oct_2012_WEB.pdf* “The Global Numbers and Costs of Additionally Needed and Unnecessary Caesarean Sections Performed per Year: Overuse as a Barrier to Universal Coverage” World Health Organisation 2010* https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-017-1343-3 (meaning of labour pain)cochrane.org/CD004667/PREG_midwife-led-continuity-models-care-compared-other-models-care-women-during-pregnancy-birth-and-early * Homer, CSE, MJA 205 (8) j 17 October 2016 "Models of maternity care: evidence formidwifery continuity of care"* http://www.peptonicmedical.se/about-peptonic/kerstin-uvnas-moberg/ (oxytocin research and impacts of pain medication on oxytocin production)* http://www.bellybelly.com.au/birth/why-is-the-fear-of-birth-rising/* https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22734617 (fear of childbirth and duration of labour)* http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/bmjopen/3/11/e004047.full.pdf (links between fear of birth and depression)* https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18771508 (maternal response to own baby cry affected by c/s delivery* https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2819576/ (postpartum depression impacts on infants)* https://theconversation.com/birth-intervention-and-harm-more-likely-in-private-hospitals-26801* http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000012.pub4/abstract (Impacts of environment on birth)* http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0030399210000654 (impact of colour and design of environment)* Prof. Maralyn Foureur research into environment: https://www.uts.edu.au/staff/maralyn.foureurhttp://www.midwiferyjournal.com/article/S0266-6138(14)00198-3/pdf++++++++++Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2017 PBB Media and Sally Cusack

When you want something, that for many is fundamental to their human existence, a biological drive, to carry a baby and nurture a baby... to raise a family, it can be emotionally devastating for a couple or individual when despite all the attempts, falling pregnant or keeping a pregnancy just isn't happening. One in six couples in Australia and NZ experience infertility. The infertility lies equally with both men and women 40% each, 10% in both partners and the other 10% is unknown. Age does play a role in fertility issues, couples in their 20's have a 25% chance of falling pregnant whereas one in three women over the age of 35 experience infertility issues and once she reaches 40, women have only a 5% chance of falling pregnant with regular sexual activity. This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we shine a light on the often silent yet emmotionally painful topic of infertility, from the personal account of my guest to her professional insights working with women and families experiencing the grief of not falling pregnant when wanting a baby. My guest for this episode is Kimberly Lipschus who is a women's wellbeing and fertility psychotherapist. Producer Lara Martin Guest Kimberly Lipschus www.kimberleylipschus.com

Are you a good enough parent? With all the demands and expectations of raising babies and children in the modern world, from programs offering promises for creating 'super babies' as early as starting in the womb, the pressure to be the perfect parent and have the perfect child is all too prevalent. When a parent inevitably fails in this perfection have they doomed their child for life? If the child's birth wasn't the most peaceful entrance into the world or early separation occurred has the mother, or parent already failed their baby setting a imprint of irreversible damage of a broken bond OR is it that the good enough parent actually is all you need to be to raise adaptive and resilient adults. This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond we explore how early experiences during the pre and perinatal period impact on how a person develops. Our guest for this episode is Dr Holly Goldberg. Holly is a specialist in pre and peri Natal psychology and has been working with childbearing families for the past 20 years. Holly resides in California in the USA with her family. Host: Lara Martin Guest: Dr. Holly Goldberg www.floweressenceapothecary.com

Biotoxins can be produced by the body in response to all sorts of allergens, such as dust and mould.Reine DuBois, naturopath from The Health Lodge, Byron Bay, speaks with Sally about biotoxins, what stimulates them being made by the body, the impacts of them, and how to heal from them. Your suspected tick-borne illness could in fact be inflammation caused by biotoxins produced by your body in response to mould. Water damaged homes have a lot to answer for, and the mould that lives in them must be removed in order for the biotoxins in your body to disappear.Reine cites the work of Drs Ritchie Shoemaker of survivemold.com and Christabelle Yeoh.www.thehealthlodge.com.auMusic: "Call on the Rain" by Elijah RayProduced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2018www.pbbmedia.org

Moving from a disease management based model of care and toward a patient-centred model of care Functional Medicine is able to treat disease at its root cause, rather than merely managing symptoms. Integrative Medicine is practiced by many practitioners around the world who hold a core understanding of treating the whole person, not just their diagnosis. Lets take a peek at these models and our existing model of healthcare, both globally and here in Australia.Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia 2017Copyright PBB Media Annalee Atia 2017Welcome to this Special Feature episode of pregnancy birth and beyond; The Changing landscape of Medicine around the world and how Australian physicians and consumers are inspired to ask better questions about our healthcare system. I have been facinated by and folowing Funcitonal Medicine for the past four years since i first heard about it and recently had the opportunity to meet with one of its biggest internatioanl advocates, James Maskell. This fascination has opened the door to a wider discussion about healthcare. Medicine and science are evolving at a breakneck speed and yet chronic disease is on the rise, global antimicrobial resistance threatens to destroy some of scinece’s most notable achievements and the cost of healthcare in an ailing and aging society may very well be digging us all into a early grave.The two part article features several passionate trailblazing figures in the move towards changing the way healthcare is delivered, both globally and locally. The first part looks at some of the overarching issues within the current medical system and the new emerging model of care seeking to correct and create significant primary healthcare reform around the world. In the second part we take a cloer look at Functional Medicine and what we can all do to create better outcomes for ourselves as cnsumers and practitioners. We hear from James, an international speaker, founder of Functional Forum and The Evolution of Medicine and author of a compelling book with the same title. We also tap into the wisdom of Dr Penny Caldicott, President of the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association and founder and director of Invitation to Health. Championing Integrative Medicine, Penny walks among those leading a new era in Australian healthcare. Reine duBois, Clinical Director of the Health Lodge in Byron Bay also features discussing her passion, experience and how she makes it work in her practice. I also speak to Sally Cusack who is NSW Branch President of Maternity Choices Australia and has significant experience navigating the Australian healthcare system and understanding the unique needs of healthcare consumers. There will be a few sound bites form the AIMA conference in Sydney; Functional Medicine and the Micropractice.Interviewees in this article:Dr Penny Caldicott, BMed, FRACGP -Director of AIMA & founding member of Invitation to Health​Reine duBois-Clinical Director at the Health LodgeJames Maskell-Founder of Functional Forum-Evolution of Medicine -Author of the Evolution of Medicine ​Sally Cusack-NSW President Maternity Choices Australia, Australia’s peak maternity consumer representing body More information at www.pbbmedia.org

Robin Grille speaks on the era of adolescence, the unique challenges for not only our adolescents in their transformation, but also for us as their parents and guides. Our adolescents can press our buttons, bring out stress and fear in us, but this can have the effect of pushing them away from us, unable to hear. And in this space, we find ourselves also unable to learn from them. Instead, Robin Grille poses the idea that we can use this period to enquire deeply into what triggers our responses to our adolescents. It is possible that our negative reactions are linked to our 'unfinished business' from our younger years. Perhaps by revisiting this period, our kids help finally grow us up.Music: "Natural Selections" by SampologyPresented by Sally Cusack, first aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 5 June 2017.

Does sharing birth stories actually benefit those preparing for their birthing time? I ask Pam England, "isn't it a good thing to share positive birth stories?" You maybe surprised to hear what Pam says. This episode features sharing our birth stories, and in-particular listening to positive birth stories as a form of birth preparation. My guest for this episode is Pam England, Pam lives in Albuquerque New Mexico USA, author of Birthing From Within, Labyrinth of Birth and her latest released book Ancient Maps for Modern Birth. Pam also is the founder of Birth Story Medicine a unique approach to emotional healing after or witnessing a difficult child birth experience. Pam was a certified nurse midwife for 18 years, practicing both within hospital and home settings, she also has a masters in counselling. Pam England - www.sevengatesmedia.com & www.birthingfromwithin.comProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2018 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Gender 101 with Gopi LevGopi Lev is a queer femme based in the Northern Rivers. Passionate about intersectional feminism, art and the pursuit of justice and equity for all, she is PBB Media’s consultant on sexual and gender diversity and assists in making the space and content more inclusive for all.We are talking Gender & Sexual diversity on the show today. In a Time Magazine issue titled He or She, how a new generation is redefining the meaning of gender, we get a glimpse into the fluid and evolving world of gender and sexual self and societal definition. Infinite identities is the title of the ‘accruing’ article in this issue. It is a fascinating read. Around the same time, National Geographic put our their gender issue - GENDER revolution with a full (to date) Glossary of terms, the various studies available on gender and a quick guide to helping families discuss gender. The spectrum upon which sexuality & gender are defined is fascinating and comprehensive. More importantly, understanding it, is the doorway for more compassion and less judgement and our newest generation is leading the way. For links & resources and info about our speaker today, head to our website www.pbbmedia.orgCreditsHost: Annalee Atia, www.annaleeatia.comGuest: Gopi LevMusic: The song snippets played on today’s shows are from two artists - 'Habanot Nechama' from their songs So Far and Flowers and, Amir Paiss with the track Handgun Menagen OtiCopyright: PBB Media, Annalee Atia, Gopi Lev 2017

At the 2009 Peace Conference in Canada, the Dalai Lama said ‘The world will be saved by the Western Woman’.In towns and suburbs around Australia, we're seeing our birth services being saved by women. We have world class policies and research for providing the highest standard of maternity care, but health services are slow to implement them. Birth services are being closed in regional and rural areas, or not delivering continuity of care, the safest form of care.So, when faced with the removal of these birth choices, these women step from their lives as mothers of young children, right out into the arena of activism, often for the first time in their lives.Drafting letters, forming community groups, organising rallies, painting placards, attending meetings with health service officials, and more, is asked of them to bring about change. It's never easy, but without their efforts, change for the better would simply never happen.The women we hear from in this episode are:- Rachel Bryant behind the campaign that saved the Murwillumbah Birth Centre- Samantha Wibberley, part of the group who is working to save the midwifery group practice (MGP, ie continuity of care programme) at Tamworth Hospital- Helena Mooney, leading the community action to ensure woman-centred care like MGP is available on the Northern Beaches of SydneyNational health and quality standard, Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers now obliges all health services to engage with their communities in the planning, implementation and review of their service.We also hear from Melissa Fox, CEO of Health Consumers Queensland on consumer engagement, why it's important and what can be achieved with it.Consumer groups like Maternity Choices Australia are available to support anyone wanting to see better birth choices in their region.With sincere thanks to all our contributors in this episode.References:Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers:https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Standard2_Oct_2012_WEB.pdf41% of maternity services closed from 1992-2011: Kildea, S, et al https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25845486Websites:www.maternitychoices.org.auwww.hcq.org.auFacebook groups:Friends of Murwillumbah Birth CentreFriends of Tamworth Maternity ServicesFriends of NB Maternity ServicesAired on 99.9 BayFm on Monday 15 May 2017.Presented by Sally Cusack

When you are pregnant, for most parents to be it is a time of great joy, anticipation, hopes and dreams of having a baby, and raising a family. However, in Australia about 1 in a 120 babies will be born still or die within the first month of life. It is a heartbreaking and tragic to have birthed a baby, become a parent yet be empty handed, no baby arms. This episode we feature When a baby dies; being with death and grief. We will be hearing about ways you can support friends and family members who are experiencing the loss of their baby, the healing journey or becoming whole again, how to be with the grief and loss of other's or your own. We also feature the the stories of three different parents sharing their experience of neonatal loss. My guest for this episode features Denise Love, founder of Life Options and women’s health Cambodia, where Denise spends much of the year working with birthing mothers and Traditional Birth attendants to bring about safer healthier mothers and babies. Denise also provides doula, death doula and other birth related trainings across Australia. We also have three short stories from parents who have walked the long hard unyielding road of neonatal death. Aired live April 2017, from the heart of Byron Bay 99.9 Fm community radio. Host: Lara Martin Special thanks toDenise Love - www.deniselove.net Stephanie. Susanne and David Monteith - Grace in Action, I pause spoken word. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dFD7mqqkPRE&t=21sIf you are experiencing distress from the loss of a miscarriage, stillbirth or newborn death Sands has a 24/ 7 bereavement support line. www.sands.org.au/local-group-supportmusic - Timshel by Mumford and Sons, Angel by Sarah Mclachlan.

Paul Crebar, Production Manager from Renewfest.org.au (6-7 May 2017), among many other things, speaks about the potential for parenting as an investment in our future, rather than purely work. Paul quotes Dr Marion Rose: "Responding promptly to their physical needs and treating their bodies with love and respect means that they learn to respond promptly to their physical needs and treat their body with love and respect, and that loving respect then gets generalised so that they also treat other people’s bodies and the physical world with love and respect too."And discusses the work of Robin Grille, author of "Parenting for a Peaceful World" and "Heart to Heart Parenting".Paul would like to see a society that supports parents to spend the time needed with their children to raise them to secure and happy individuals, ready to support others, and the planet.Other references:* John Abbott from the 21st learning initiative: http://www.21learn.org* The Dunedin Study: http://dunedinstudy.otago.ac.nz/View documentary at: http://www.sbs.com.au/topics/science/humans/article/2016/05/24/exceptional-scientific-study-thats-been-going-over-40-years* John Campbell: "Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only doors."* Renewfest.org.au* Luminousyouth.comAired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 24 April 2017. Presented by Sally Cusack.

This episode features 'Midwife; being with woman'. In Australia a baby is born every 2 minutes. Midwives, are in ways the unsung hero's of maternity healthcare. They often work long hours, caring for women and babies during a critical and vulnerable time in a woman’s and families life. Featured is are extracts from: Professor Iain Graham, Dean and head of health at Southern Cross University. Suzanne Weir, who is a midwife of over 20 years in various models of care shares 'reflections of a midwife in home birth practice'. Bronwyn Moir independent home birth midwifeand Amana who works in a busy hospital on shift as a midwife. Aired live on 99.9 Bay Fm and broadcasts across Australia on the Community Radio Network. Your hosts for this episode: Lara Martin and co presenter Sunae Reilly. Song credit: Maryen Cairns - Home Birth Fran Colin - Hospital Songarticle referenced: http://thespinoff.co.nz/parenting/03-04-2017/midwives-in-their-own-words-we-are-only-human/Show producer: Lara Martin and Sunae Ri

This episode features an interview with Pam England, author, midwife, artist and founder of Birthing From Within. Her first book Birthing From Within An Extra Ordinary Guide to Childbirth Preparation released in 1998 has sold over a 1 million copies. Pam's newly released book is called Ancient Maps for Modern Birth. One of the themes in this new book explores the Hero's Journey as a map for childbirth preparation. In this interview we ask Pam 'What is Birth as a Hero's Journey?' Aired live on 99.9 BayFm April 2017. Host: Lara Martin Guest: Pam England www.sevengatesmedia.com www.birthingfromwithin.com

Christine Berry, mum to three boys, speaks of her experience in bringing mindfulness into her life as a single parent and to support her during the teen parenting years.Christine Berry: www.alifesublime.com.auChristine references this video by Dan Siegel about the brains of teenagers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLULtUPyhogPresented by Sally Cusack.Aired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 3 April 2017 Byron Bay Australia.

The evidence is in, the policies exist yet 92% of Australian women do not have the best form of maternity care - continuity of woman-centred care near where they live. Instead they must make do with fragmented care with a string of unknown clinicians, even though continuity of care has been proven to give the best outcomes to mothers and babies. The benefits are many, but the biggest one is that your baby is more likely to survive pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period if you have continuity of woman-centred care.Since 2010 Australian has had a national plan to improve maternity services, but delivery of our health services is so inefficient it has been largely ignored all that time.The good news is that national Standard 2: Partnering with Consumers requires all health services to partner with women and families in designing and delivering health services.Yay! We have a role to play and a job to do. Find out about this story peppered with passionate characters, and what you can do in this podcast.With thanks to interviewees:Professor Caroline Homer, President of the Australian College of MidwivesBruce Teakle, maternity services consumer advocateLeah Hardiman, President, Maternity Choices AustraliaSheryl Sidery, independent midwifeTiff, continuity of care motherOther acknowledgements:* My son saying "Daddy caught the baby!" at his sister's birth in 2008. Heart-felt thanks from our family to midwife Jacqui Wood who held our hands along the journey.* Homebirth rally sound effects from "Melbourne Homebirth Rally 4th August 2009"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhfSJlWbMaU* "I love being a midwife" sung by midwifery students at BRAC University, Bangladesh at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F319Z8ujBDUReferences:* http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/maternityservicesplan* www.maternitychoices.org.au* And the new draft framework is just out this week! Check it out and have your say here:https://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/gi/consultation/3805/view.htmlYou can also contact us or Maternity Choices Australia to help understand it!! :)* Standard 2: Partnering with Consumershttps://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Standard2_Oct_2012_WEB.pdf* Barnett, B "The Personal is Political..." http://www.maternitychoices.org.au/national-maternity-services-plan.html* 30% of women tokophobic: (http://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1471-2393-14-275)* Aust Senate-maternity service delivery not sustainable: Aust Senate, 1999 Rocking the Cradle: Federal Senate Inquiry into Childbirth Procedures. AGPS, Canberra* 1 in 7 women with PNDA: www.panda.org.au* 41% of maternity units closed 1994-2011: Kildea, S, et al, "Babies born before arrival to hospital and maternity unit closures in Queensland and Australia" accessed from http://www.womenandbirth.org/article/S1871-5192(15)00039-6/fulltext* Est. of 8% of women receiving cont. of care: Dawson K, et al. Implementing caseload midwifery: Exploring the views of maternity managers in Australia – A national cross-sectional survey. Women Birth (2015), http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2015.10.010* Cochrane review "Midwife-led continuity models of care compared with other models of care for women during pregnancy, birth and early parenting" http://www.cochrane.org/CD004667/PREG_midwife-led-continuity-models-care-compared-other-models-care-women-during-pregnancy-birth-and-earlyCopyright 2017 PBB Media, Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.orgProducer and presenter: Sally Cusack

We all want a healthy baby, there's no question of that, but Sally believes there are underlying beliefs to the common phrase "As long as the baby is healthy" that deserve closer examination. Are we giving up elements of birth that are more important than we realise when we say this?Sally has identified 6 underlying beliefs to the statement "As long as the baby is healthy", but there are bound to be more. These are:1. “I am not qualified. Someone else needs to manage my birth.”2. “My rights and my health and safety are subordinate to my baby’s. I must comply with my carer’s treatment.”3. “The hospital/my maternity carer wants the same outcome as me.”4. “Birth is dangerous and needs to be managed medically. Positive births are due to luck.”5. “Labour and birth are simply painful, pointless torture. My partner has only a limited ability to support the process.”6. “My experience is irrelevant and women who seek a positive experience are selfish and exposing the baby to risk.”CLARIFICATION: At 1'16" insert "normal risk" to read "Over 90% of 'normal risk' Australian women go into labour with no pre-existing conditions"In Part 1 of this 2 part series, Sally covers underlying beliefs 1-3, which focus on women's rights in childbirth and informed consent. In Part 2 Sally covers beliefs 4-6, which relate to the physical aspects of the birth process: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/as-long-as-the-baby-is-healthy-part-2Speakers:Bashi Hazard, Human Rights Lawyer, www.humanrightsinchildbirth.orgBec Jenkinson, Univ. Queensland PhD candidate and maternity services consumer advocateReferences:* https://ama.com.au/position-statement/maternal-decision-making-2013* Intervention rates: http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129547757* Australia's Mothers and Babies Report 2014: http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129557657* Rebecca Schiller, “Why Human Rights in Childbirth Matter”, Pinter and Martin, 2016 (https://www.capersbookstore.com.au/product/whyhumanrightsinchildbirthmatter/)* https://theconversation.com/episiotomy-during-childbirth-not-just-a-little-snip-36062* Ann Catchlove "Yes I can, No I won't", Birth Matters 14/2 Autumn 2010* "Rates of obstetric intervention... among low risk women in public and private hospitals" http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/4/5/e004551* http://www.panda.org.au/news/412-research-reveals-the-alarming-economic-cost-of-postnatal-depression-* "Birth control: to what extent do women report being informed and involved in decisions about pregnancy and birth procedures? "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3923734/Further reading of interest:* Kruske, S, Young, K, Jenkinson, B, Catchlove, A "Maternity care providers' perceptions of women's autonomy and the law" BMC, Pregnancy and Childbirth 2013, 13:84* www.birthbythenumbers.orgInformation and Support Services:* PANDA National HelplineMon to Fri, 10am - 5pm AEST1300 726 306* www.maternitychoices.org.au* Safe Motherhood for All* www.humanrightsinchildbirth.org* www.birthrights.org.uk* www.panda.org.auCredits: Interviews with Bashi Hazard and Bec Jenkinson (part) recorded at International Normal Labour and Birth Conference, Sydney, 2016. Thank you to Prof. Hannah Dahlen for this opportunity.Produced and Presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2017www,pbbmedia.org

Raising teen girls can be a little hairy at times, and a little bit scary too... but not to fear, this episode we'll be giving you the low down on parenting teen girls. From body image and self esteem, to dating and 'the sex talk' to teen girls finding their own scene of self and more right here on Pregnancy Birth and Beyond Radio. Make sure you catch the last 10minutes of the show in which Tamar Ben-Hur performs her piece from the Vagina Conversations titled 'In Relationship' not to be missed with the opening line "my vagina had a near death experience" Special thank you to our guests for this episodeGabrielle Goldklang www.girlwisdom.net Tamar Ben-Hur www.tamarbenhur.comProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2017 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Breasts we all have them. But what if your breast(s) were trying to kill you and then you went on to nourish your baby. This episode – Healing through breastfeeding: Two mother's from across the globe share their unique story's from overwhelming circumstances to reclaiming back their body and breasts. From Breast Cancer to Breastfeeding. This episode also features the highly acclaimed author, lactation consultant and mother of 3 Meg Nagle known more famously as the Milk Meg who shares with us the in's and out's of breastfeeding that all mothers, fathers can benefit from knowing. Special thank you to this episodes guests: Meg Nagle www.themilkmeg.comDr Holly Goldberg. www.floweressenceapothecary.comand mother Karlee. Reference: www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/breast-cancer-in-young-women/www.bayfm.org photo credit: Kate Murray Photography. Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2017 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with mother, yoga teacher and speaker Lissie Turner on the opportunities for personal growth that parenting presents us, particularly when raising teens and step parenting.www.lissieturner.comhttp://www.theyogashack.com.au/http://yogatherapyaustralia.com/dr-n-chandrasekaran-mbbs-dr-nc/Aired on 99.9BayFM Byron Bay on 6 February 2017.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2017.www.pbbmedia.org

Lisa Fitzpatrick on the Embodied Feminine Leadership Experience series part one. - What is feminine leadership and how do we embody this. Written by Lisa Fitzpatrick www.lisafitzpatrick.com.auProduced by Lara Martin for Pregnancy Birth & Beyond Radio

Over 80% of women can expect to give birth normally, given the right support - continuity of care that is founded on the understanding that birth is usually a normal process. Midwifery group practices in local hospitals are one way to give that support. We hear two women's stories from the Byron Community Birthing Service in Byron Bay Australia.Thank you to Candice and Tiffany for sharing your stories.Speakers: * Mothers, Candice and Tiffany, * the late Dr Marsden Wagner, Perinatologist and World Health Organisation’s Director of Women's and Children's Health for 15 years* Dr Alec Welsh is a Professor of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, at the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney* Sally Tracy, Professor of Midwifery at the University of Sydney and the Royal Hospital for WomenReferences:* “Models of maternity care: evidence for midwifery continuity of care”, Homer, CSE MJA 205 (8) j 17 October 2016* The late Dr Marsden Wagner speaking with Diana Paul about normal birth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm8ErQxTFyo* Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Australia’s mothers and babies 2013* “The Global Numbers and Costs of Additionally Needed and Unnecessary Caesarean Sections Performed per Year: Overuse as a Barrier to Universal Coverage” World Health Organisation 2010* ACOG Jan. 2017 recommendations re. cont. of care: http://www.medpagetoday.com/OBGYN/Pregnancy/62745* “Caseload midwifery compared to standard or private obstetric care for first time mothers in a public teaching hospital in Australia: a cross sectional study of cost and birth outcomes”, Tracy et al, Biomed Central Pregnancy and Birth* Cochrane review: (Hodnett, et al, "Continuous support for women during childbirth” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23857334)* Health services globally are headed towards bankruptcy by 2030: STEFAN ELBE, Professor of International Relations, University of Sussex and Director of Centre for Global Health Policy* Maternity Choices Australia: www.maternitychoices.org.auAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 30 January 2017.Photo credit: Byron Community Birthing Service Midwives by Humans of Byron BayProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2017.www.pbbmedia.org

"I think I had the sense, at the time, that my body didn't work and I wanted to feel like it did work. At the time, I didn't realise all the ways my body was working for me" Nikki Shaheed reflecting back on her birth experiences. This episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond is an interview with parents Nikki and Tariq Shaheed on the births of their three children, in particular their VBAC, Vaginal Birth After Caesarean. For the birth of their first baby, Nikki and Tariq had planned and prepared for a natural birth at their local hospital. Things didn't go as they had hoped for. Take a listen to hear their story and insights from unplanned caesarean birth to VBAC and home birth VBAC #2. Nikki Shaheed is a doula, Birthing From Within mentor and provides Birthing From Within Birth Story Healing and a mother of three. Key words: VBAC Birth story healing Episode references: bfwsa.com, Nikki Shaheed's website. BirthingFromWithin.com Midwifethinking.com Raisingchildren.net.au Sarahbuckley.comDr Michel Oden't 'The Caesarean'Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2017 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

You’re with Annalee Atia and my delicious interview with Dr Saida Desilets, which I was honored to record during her weekend workshop in the Byron Hills in 2016, is coming up.I am excited to share this next interview with you.. its hard to explain with words (and it will become clear during the interview why that is), but a woman like Saida cannot be defined by words, or pictures or an online video. A person like Saida can only be experienced. Part Doctor part Animal, Saida’s brain & body work in unison, swiftly piercing through any doubt or resistance you may be experiencing in the moment. Connecting You, with Now.Wow! Sounds outrageous? It is. Women like K.C. Baker, Dr Christiane Northrope & Regena Tomashauer (Mama Gena) and many more all hold Dr Desilets in high regard in the world of Women's Health & Wellbeing. Tune-in to find out why!Links:www.saidadesilets.comwww.pbbmedia.orghttps://www.facebook.com/JadeGoddessByronBay/

Interview with expectant mums Hayley and Emma about their birthing choices and information about the benefits of continuity of midwifery led care for pregnancy and birth.References: Wiysonge CS. Midwife-led versus other models of care for childbearing women: RHL commentary (last revised: 1 September 2009). The WHO Reproductive Health Library; Geneva: World Health OrganizationDr Sarah Buckley: http://sarahbuckley.com/pain-in-labour-your-hormones-are-your-helpershttp://sarahbuckley.com/blog/hormonal-physiology-of-childbearing-reportPrivate midwives' listings: www.midwivesaustralia.com.auBirth choices and maternity services advocacy: www.maternitychoices.org.auAustralian College of Midwiveshttps://www.midwives.org.au/know-your-midwife-benefitsAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 26 December 2016.Host: Sally Cusack

Sally's full interview with Dr Howard Chilton, Neonatal Paediatrician and author of "Baby on Board" and "Your Cherished Baby" about the needs of newborn babies, social expectations of how they 'should' sleep, attuning to your baby, how babies teach us what they need, their need to be breastfed to sleep and lots of cuddling and holding, that there are no rules when caring for babies as each one is so different, but so able to communicate what they need if we watch and learn from them, 'colic', how our attentiveness to them sets them up for life and so much more.Essential listening for all families welcoming a new baby.www.babydoc.com.auBooks: "Baby on Board" and "Your Cherished Baby"Ref: Professor Kerstin Uvnas Moberg - oxytocin researchhttp://www.peptonicmedical.se/about-peptonic/kerstin-uvnas-moberg/Aired on BayFM Byron Bay 19 December 2016.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016Shorter version for the national broadcast on the Community Radio Network here: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/dr-howard-chilton-on-the-needs-of-newbor_1

From Couple to Parent (in the Blink of a Baby’s Eye)Getting to Know the new ‘us’Our guest for this episode of the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond Radio is Kimberly Lipschus, founder of Fertile Minds. ABOUT KIMBERLEY IN A NUTSHELLKimberleyLipschus is a Women’s Wellbeing & Fertility Psychotherapist. Kimberly specialises in reproductive and maternal mental health, fertility challenges, pregnancy loss, still birth, assisted reproduction, pregnancy-to-birth support, birth trauma, post natal challenges as well as adjustments to life with a new baby. She works with women, men, couples and new families.In much of her work Kimberley pays particular attention to relationship transitions during these times, because if one person struggles, so does the family unit. And this ripples out to the whole of the community. She is writing a book on fertility due out in 2017. To connect with Kimberly go to fertileminds.com.au Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2016. PBBmedia.org

Sally's interview with Erica Nettle-Chik, mother of 4 and founder of the "Luminous Youth Village". www.luminousyouth.comReferences: Susun Weed, "Wise Woman's Herbal for the Childbearing Year", www.susunweed.comPodcast with Susun: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/susun-weed-on-herbal-wisdom-and-the-wisePodcast with husband, Paul, about her postnatal period: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/paul-crebar-on-becoming-a-father"Ringing Cedars" series of books"Hold Onto Your Kids" Dr Gabor Mate, Gordon Neufeldwww.mamabake.com: Group, big batch baking for mothersOne final tip we forgot to mention on air for powerful post-birth healing - consuming the placenta...Produced and Presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www,pbbmedia.org

This episode of Pregnancy Birth & Beyond we have guest Fleassy Malay in the studio talking women and mothers claiming their voice through the art of spoken word. We also get hear a live spoken word poem by Fleassy, 'When Men Birth.'"Fleassy Malay is an Internationally renowned, evocative and powerful spoken word artist from the UK. Now based in Melbourne, Australia, she runs one of Melbourne’s most successful Spoken Word events, Mother Tongue." Episode host: Lara Martinw. fleassymalay.comw. pbbmedia.org

We don’t often hear the word abortion in our daily conversation. It’s a topic that is private, still controversial & often laden with emotional turmoil. But not always.Women know amongst themselves that there are very few of them that have not experienced it themselves or know of a close friend that hasn’t.There is a general lack of support and difficulty in asking & receiving support when it comes to abortion. In this episode of the pregnancy, Birth & Beyond show we discussed the immensely important topic of abortion, its impact & the relevance of support. Our guests are Lisa Fitzpatrick, writer, speaker, women’s leadership coach and so much more! you can find out more about lis’s work in the world on her website: lisafitzpatrick.com.au and Angela Fitzgerald, midwife, speaker, also an amazing writer & championing the popular healing after birth program at Birth Your Truth. Find out more about Angela and her work at: birthyourtruth.com.Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Spiritual Healer, Childbirth Educator, Doula Trainer and Intrepid World Traveller Anna Watts shares with us her wisdom around the Chakras for Pregnancy and Birth. Anna also describes her experience visiting the D'a'Luz Holistic Midwifery School in Spain, and some reflections on the legacy of witch burning across Europe. Fascinating Episode.Produced and presented by Caroline Cowley.Copyright PBB Media and Caroline Cowley 2016

Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Awareness Week is held over one week each November. One in 7 women and one in 10 men suffer from this condition.This episode explains the symptoms, resources for help, and discusses how trauma from birth can be one of the causes. Tips for how to heal, and how to help someone you know with perinatal depression or anxiety are also given.Aired on Monday 14 November 2016 on BayFM and Friday 18 November 2016 on the national Community Radio Network.Produced by Sally Cusack with the assistance of the Community Broadcasting Foundation.Important contacts for support:Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia: 1300 726 306Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636www.birthtalk.orgEpisode notes:www.panda.org.auwww.beyondblue.org.auwww.birthtalk.orgUK survey regarding rates of birth trauma and its impacts on women: http://www.birthrights.org.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Birthrights-Dignity-Survey.pdfwww.safemotherhoodforall.org.auSpeakers - * Sheena Byrom, OBE, midwife and midwifery consultant from the UK, www.sheenabyrom.com* Bashi Kumar Hazard, lawyer and board member of Human Rights in Childbirth: www.humanrightsinchildbirth.org* Professor of Midwifery Soo Downe, University of Central Lancashire, UK. Refs: The Lancet: Maternal Health 2016 Series* Professor of Community Health Sciences Eugene Declerq, University of Boston, US: www.birthbythenumbers.orgWith thanks to Professor Hannah Dahlen and the International Normal Labour and Birth Conference October 2016 for enabling me to conduct these interviews.Image: www.panda.org.au

In this episode of Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond we speak with Julia Rossmanith, a practitioner of The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy® and Holistic Pelvic Care™, both healthcare systems designed to support women's health through pelvic health & regeneration.Starting as an impassioned teacher of Anatomy & Physiology at university she became passionate and focused on all the dimensions of health and healing. Alongside the above credentials she is also an advanced practitioner of Australian Bush Flower Essences, has a Certificate IV in Kinesiology and trained in the practice of Hawaiian Lomi Lomi. A mother of four beautiful children she is dedicated to women's health & wellbeing through the application of all these modalities. In this episode we focus on Pelvic Health Care for Women & discuss a little of her own unique birthing journey with her four children, having had 2 Cesareans, a VBAC & a Natural Home Birth.For further information about Julia's work visit: http://www.thenurturedwomb.com.auPregnancy, Birth & Beyond Media: www.pbbmedia.orgProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

The placenta, your baby's first mother, this amazing organ is responsible for keeping your baby well nourished. The placenta during pregnancy sits along the uterine wall receiving all the necessary nutrients and oxygen from the mothers blood flowing pass at specific exchange sites, it also acts as a filter to rid any nasties before transporting the baby's now nutrient and oxygen rich blood to the baby via the umbilical cord. This live to air on 99.9 Bay Fm episode of Pregnancy Birth and Beyond is all about this amazing organ that sustains the life of the unborn child, yet its purpose does not end there at the birth of the placenta... Have you ever felt a scene of lacking purpose, not being grounded, or knowing where you belong... perhaps the answer is in how your placenta was discarded or revered. We also share the history of eating placenta, placenta encapsulation, traditional rituals and modern things that you can do with your babies placenta. Special thanks to our guests: Jodi Selander of placenta Benefits Kirrah Holborn of Placenta WisdomTanner BlakeProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Paul, 12 months after his initial interview when he was expecting the birth of his child. http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/paul-crebar-on-expectant-fatherhoodNow, we hear about the reality of birth and fatherhood after his daughter's birth.Books mentioned: "Birth Without Violence" by Frederick Leboyer and "Raising Our Children, Raising Ourselves" by Naomi Aldort.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia 24 October 2016.www.luminousyouth.com++++++++++Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2016 PBB Media and Sally Cusack

Sally and Erica Nettle-Chick's interview with Susun Weed about herbs for healing and health, the wise woman's way, plant consciousness and so much more!www.susunweed.comhttp://goddess.net.au/wp/susun-weed-in-australia/Susun will be visiting Australia in November 2016.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay 17 October 2016Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Avalon Darnesh founder of Blossoming Woman shares her insights and knowledge on reclaiming yourself as a mother and whole woman. Here Avalon shares with us, ways you can easily bring self care into your life, lead the way with communication in your relationship, how sexuality and motherhood can coexist and much more. Fathers, if you are tuning in, lucky you, you get to hear some of the challenges that mothers face as they find a new way of being after children enter the family.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Trust. Trust in your body, trust in birth... there are many positive birth affirmations around trusting your body but what does it really mean to trust within? On today’s show I interviewed Holly Goldberg, who lives in California, USA, with her partner and daughter. Holly also holds a PhD in Perinatal Psychology and is a flower essence counselor and alchemist. This is Holly's story, candid and real; her story of trusting within despite the unexpected curve balls life can throw. There are many layers to the story. There are the events taking place and the story beneath the story. While the events of this story may differ or perhaps mirror events in your life, the story beneath is one most of us, if not all of us can relate. In ways the undercurrent of this story shared today is coded into our very DNA. It is a story of a Hero's Journey or more correctly a Heroine’s Journey. And finally, this is a story of healing spiritually and physically from the inside out. Live to air September 2016 from Bay Fm 99.9 from the heart of Byron Bay with Lara Martin.Key themes: breast cancer, caesarian birth, trust in body. 

Sally's interview with midwife Libby O'Donnell from The Lismore Birth House on post term pregnancy, induction, weighing up the risks and benefits, alternatives to induction and the importance of have a due period, (ie 38-42 weeks) rather than a due date (see NSW Health policy below).Related links:* "Recommendation:Expectant mothers should be informed that there is only a 35% chance that they will actually go into labour during the week of their estimated date of birth (+/-3 days). Maternal anxiety may be alleviated if a range of dates (for example 38+0- 42+0 weeks) is substituted for a specific date of delivery, with the optimal time for birth being approximately 40+0 weeks gestation."Management of Pregnancy Beyond 41 Weeks: http://www1.health.nsw.gov.au/PDS/pages/doc.aspx?dn=GL2014_015* General overview of post term and inductionhttps://midwifethinking.com/2016/07/13/induction-of-labour-balancing-risks/* A woman's uterus is only receptive to synthetic oxytocin hormones right at the very end of her pregnancy when she has sufficient oxytocin receptors to respond to it.http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/dr-sarah-buckley-on-the-hormones-ofbirth* "Induction of labour carries inherent risk and must be exercised with caution. There needs to be clear benefits for the mother and/or the fetus. ""Health care professionals offering induction of labour must: • provide the woman with adequate time to discuss the information with her partner/support person before coming to a decision; • encourage the woman to access a variety of sources of information; • invite the woman to ask questions, and encourage her to think about her options; and• support the woman in whatever decision she makes. "http://www1.health.nsw.gov.au/pds/ActivePDSDocuments/PD2011_075.pdf(Further info on informed consent: https://ama.com.au/ausmed/respect-informed-choices-pregnant-women-doctors-toldAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 22 August 2016Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

What does it take to live a life less ordinary... On the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond Radio show we share the story of the Lauducci family of five aboard their sailboat the Shawnigan. A Family Afloat set sail about a year ago, we hear of their adventure afloat with mum Josie, dad Christian and one of 3 kids, Nina 13. “People say that what we’re all seeking is a meaning for life. I don’t think that’s what we’re really seeking. I think that what we’re seeking is an experience of being alive, so that our life experiences on the purely physical plane will have resonances with our own innermost being and reality, so that we actually feel the rapture of being alive.” Joseph Campbell.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Angela Fitzgerald and local mum Kate about the power of sharing birth stories for healing from birth. Includes brief recording with Jane Hardwicke Collings about how our behavioural patterns influence our births and how questioning what role we may be playing in the outcome.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 18 July 2016.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Annie Bryant is a storyteller and songwriter who loves nothing more than to transform the joy, laughter, growls and tears of her own family life into tales and songs for children.Annie brings a contemporary twist to the ancient art of storytelling with a combination of mostly original folktales and fairytales woven together with her own enchanting voice and sing-along folk songs. http://www.talesandsongs.com++++++++++Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin

Sally's interview with Tami Lynn Kent, mother of 3 boys, physiotherapist and author of 3 books about bringing spiritual awareness to women's pelvic region, for health, happiness and interconnectedness.www.wildfeminine.comAired on BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 27 June 2016.++++++++++Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2016 PBB Media and Sally Cusack

In this episode, Caroline talks to Wise Medicine Woman Jacinta McEwan from Mullum Herbals / Om Healing about the Ayurvedic Approach to Pregnancy, Birth, and Post-Natal Wellness. This juicy little episode is packed full of amazing pearls of common sense wisdom for anyone - but especially for anyone who is pregnant, planning to conceive, or in the post-natal phase after giving birth.Produced and Presented by Caroline CowleyCopyright PBB Media and Caroline Cowley 2016www,pbbmedia.org

Caroline interviews Localisation Pioneer and Founder of localfutures.org Helena Norberg Hodge, about her life's work based on her many decades working with the people of Ladakh, Northern India, and on how we can be inspired by this ancient culture, here in the West in terms of Economic Development. In particular, we consider the assumption that "growth is good" and we talk about the Interconnectedness of Living Things at the heart of all our Happiness.

Caroline interviews psychotherapist Tamar Ben Hur on the question of whether self actualisation for women is attainable inside a long term monogamous relationship. We explore the road map for navigating through what can be some extremely rocky and unpredictable terrain, we ask what men AND women really want, we consider the importance for a woman of being able to truly receive, and we compare the art of feminine vitality to making kombucha! Don't miss it!

Hope Medford is a mother, musician and visual artist involved in the healing arts, sustainability education and community health. She has been the percussionist for the tribal roots rock band, Medicine for the People since 2008. Hope has trained and worked as a midwife and doula, assisting over 400 births in the US, Africa, and Indonesia. She created a natural birth support curriculum which she taught in the US, Brazil and Peru. She is a board member of ‘Honour the Earth’, an indigenous environmental justice project.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Interview with mumpreneur Baylee founder of the Mama + Me. The Mama + Me blossomed out of my frustrations of trying to raise two children and also thrive as a budding entrepreneur in Byron Bay. I knew I was not alone in my plight for having both a successful business and happy children, so I decided to take it upon myself to make it easier for other Mamas in my situation. Hence, Mama + Me was born; a community of like-minded, passionate mums who support each other, challenge each other, and share resources.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Interview with Ingrid Pullen, photographer, mother and accidental breastfeeding advocate. Ingrid shares with us her passion and life through the camera lens. Including her mega 70 mama breastfeeding photo shoot, tips for taking your own home pics, the 2 seconds of her breastfeeding her 22 month old son captured on national TV that raised a storm.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Join us for an interview with radical unschooling mama Dayna Martin. Dayna has been inspiring families for over a decade through sharing her experiences of natural learning, natural birth and attachment parenting. She is an activist, educator and author of, Radical Unschooling: A Revolution Has Begun, and her newest book, Radical Birth, due in 2016.Guest: Dana Martin Presenter and Producer: Lara Martin Date: 2016

Sally's interview with Robin Grille, psychologist, author and speaker at the upcoming Healthy Birth Healthy Earth Conference in September 2016 at Findhorn, Scotland.Robin speaks about how a gentle birth and peaceful childhood creates a population who wants to preserve the natural environment.Robin also speaks about what he calls the 'neuro-social evolution' that has happened in recent generations and its impacts. This will be one of his topics at the Healthy Birth Healthy Earth Conference.Aired on BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on 13 June 2016.www.hbhe.cowww.our-emotional-health.com"Parenting for Peaceful World" and "Heart to Heart Parenting" by Robin GrilleProduced and Presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www,pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Ti Harrison and Cathy Adams from the Northern New South Wales Local Health District about the birth service at Mullumbimby which moved to Byron Central Hospital in June 2016.http://nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/about/hospitals/byron-central-hospital/birthing-suite/Aired on BayFM on 2 May 2016.Photo credit: Souls of Byron BayProduced and Presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www,pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Oscar Serrallach about post natal depletion, the social causes, the classic signs, and tips for recovery.www.oscarserrallach.comAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 23 May 2016.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016.www.pbbmedia.org

We are excited to have the beautiful women behind the recently revealed Willow Magazine, a new one of a kind interactive and digital magazine, created to provide support, love and empowerment to help women transition into motherhood with ease. With the delightful focus on gentle birthing and conscious parenting, they fit right in, here on Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond ☺ Sandra Colley & Fiona Olsen two of the three women behind this project will share their excitement, joys & challenges of getting such a mammoth production up off the ground and share why they are so passionate about providing a wealth of information for the parent looking to lead by the heart.Willow Magazinewww.willowmagazine.orgRobin Lim's Bumi Sehat Foundationhttp://www.bumisehatfoundation.orgProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media, Willow Magazine

Our gusts today, Turiya & Rupda will be talking with us about Somatic Experiencing or SE as its known in the field. The deep understandings and insights of Dr Peter A Levine around the nervous system and healing from Trauma have opened up a new world in the way we approach Trauma and the effectiveness of his methods are astounding. Find out how simple non-invasive somatic (body) work can help you effectively heal trauma through the Nervous System.Astounding & insightful work - a must hear for parents & community members as we discuss healing trauma (birth trauma, trauma in children etc.) for all family members. To find out more about Turiya Hanover & Rupda's work go to:http://www.divinemeetings.comFor more about Dr Peter Levine's work go to:http://www.traumahealing.org/peter-a-levine-phd.phpProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Sally's interview with Gaby Tudor and Ineka Morrosini about being student midwives, what brought them to study midwifery, their understanding of birth, and the Southern Cross University's Midwifery Students' Society Conference on 5 May International Day of the Midwife.https://www.facebook.com/events/1539679542992347/Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2017 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

Caroline Cowley speaks with Ana Davis from Bliss Baby Yoga about her new book "Moving with the Moon: Nurturing Yoga, Movement and Meditation for every phase of your Menstrual Cycle"; about why women need their own more feminine approach to yoga to and about the science and spirituality of being in touch with the cycles of the moon.

Sequoia Krop from Within Woman talks about travel, birth, sisterhood, and her life's calling towards Shamanic Womancraft, as well as the Red Tent Ceremony and other sacred offerings to the women of the Byron Shire. For more info www.withinwoman.com.au

Sally's interview with local mum Ynte Kylstra on her major influences in womanhood, birth and into motherhood, including "Spiritual Midwifery" by Ina May Gaskin, Attachment Parenting by Dr William Sears, how she makes major decisions for her family, how The Flight of the Conchords helped her birth, influences of feminism on her ideas about motherhood :) and soooo much more!!Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 28 March 2016.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2016 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

Lara's interview with Hope Medford; mother, midwife, solo artist, percussionist for Medicine for the People. Hope shares with us her her wisdom on birthing, the sacred feminine, her art, her music and how women can reconnect with the feminine through the drum.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2016 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Linda Bates is a fourth-generation Master Herbalist and Medicine Woman. "plants that heal and how to use them, medicine from the garden and from the wild, plant alchemy, body alchemy, magic, love and wisdom from the earth" - are all her domain.From a long line of women healers and of Romani Gypsy origins via England, now calling calling Australia home, she embodies the traditional wisdom of natural home-keeping and natural health-care for the family. The vital knowledge of medicine from the earth is being kept by the very few and Linda is certainly one of these.As well as lecturing at Nature Care and the Australasian College of Natural Therapies, Linda is regularly invited to speak at Findhorn in Scotland and many other locations around the world. Linda has been teaching Herbal Medicine at its purest form. Fraging for wild herb in your environment; making tinctures and lineaments from fresh organic, wild herbs; Potency and correct dosage; and above all honouring the amazing power of herbs to support the body in its healing process.Most Herbalists and Naturopaths today receive their herbs directly from the manufacturer, dry & in sealed pre-packaged boxes. They simply dispense a product often without cultivating a connection with the herbs themselves.Linda believes that "A herbalist needs to take herbs and grow herbs and learn to love herbs. To familiarise all levels of your awareness with the vibrations and potential of the plants. To study herbal medicine is often only a feeding of the mind with information. It is the whole body which works with healing and so the whole body must be taught in appropriate ways what the plants are for. Grow them, feel them, smell them, nurture them, love them, thank them, pick them, eat them, drink them, thank them again.""I am a traditional, wholistic herbalist. That is, I believe our bodies are self healing and that I am a therapist professionally trained to prescribe and dispense the plant medicines (as powerful tincture mixes) needed for the healing process; to interrupt the state of deficiency, imbalance or dis-ease and restore harmony and function."For more about Linda's work & to find out about upcoming workshops & classes visit:http://lindabatesherbalmedicine.comProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media, Linda Bates

Annalee and Sally speaking about the fundraiser evening for our radio show and for BayFM, why we are wanting to raise funds for the show and how our radio show project is structured.Arabian Nights Fundraiser: Honouring Birthworkers, Honouring the FeminineSaturday 5 March 2016Drill Hall, Mullumbimby6:30-9pmMin rec. age: 14 years$20 tickets at door, or at Santoswww.facebook.com/events/766385813466293/Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay 29 February 2016Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Sally's interview with midwife Angela Fitzgerald about the issues women face in birth.Aired on 99.9 BayFM in Byron Bay on 29 February 2016.//angelafitzgerald.wordpress.com/Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright 2016 PBB Media and Sally Cusackwww.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with mother, grandmother and doula Denise Love about preparing to be in the birth space as a support person.Recorded in November 2014, aired on 99.9 BayFM on 28 December 2015http://mummadoula.wix.com/lifeoptions-4#!__contactProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with Csilla Tottzer, mother of 6, who homeschooled 5 of her children and wrote "Love Learn Live" about her family's experiences of home based learning. www.lovelearnlive.com.auRecorded at the Conscious Parenting and Natural Learning Conference in Byron Bay in February 2014.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 25 January 2016.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016

Sally's interview with Sandy Baxter about her experience of raising her son, now 21 yrs, on her own.Sandy says in spite of the enormous challenges of solo parenting, she has gained a great trust in her intuition, an unfailing ability to manifest whatever she wants in life, and a strong sense of independence.She didn't get to say this on air, but Sandy also believes that looking back, finding herself alone as a parent was part of a Master Plan to transform her into a fully independent woman. And after all her years of hard work, patience and discipline, that is exactly what she has become.She also talks about her son's Montessori education she managed to pay for and its benefits.An overall positive view of the experience of single parenting and the power of self-belief.Thank you for sharing your experiences with our listeners Sandy!Aire on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 18 January 2016.Podcast edited on 21/7/2018Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Listen to Prem Williams, from Australian Music Duo Sacred Earth, talking about motherhood, the sisterhood, relationships, music and her connection to the divine, in this interview by Caroline Cowley. Also containing inspiration for women who feel they are "too busy" to be creative, in how to combine motherhood, creativity and divinity into the one truly fulfilled life.

Sally's interview with Jannine Barron, founder of Nature's Child on cloth nappies.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 7 Dec 2015.www.natureschild.com.auProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015.www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Annie Bryant about ways to bring meaning to the festive season beyond just consumerism. And she performs live her new song "Summertime Christmas Song" in the studio with a small children's choir.www.talesandsongs.comAired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 7 Dec 2015.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

In today's episode, my husband and life partner, Danny has graciously agreed to come on the show and talk about his experience with fatherhood. We chat about the process of becoming parents, starting from the seeding event ;-) and cover his unique journey into parenthood including:-Coming from the Medical more Managed way of thinking and transitioning into Birth Trust + Home Birth-Doing it together, what it takes to co-create family-Being Dad, in the 21st Century + self-care practices.Join us for a beautiful conversation on the parenthood journey, from a fathers perspective.AnnaleeProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Sally's interview with expectant father, Paul Crebar about his hopes and expectations and the mysteries of parenthood that await him. The two main mysteries for him at in the last 10 mins!Features a couple of mins of another interview with Robin Grille on the birth of his daughter. "It was like the ocean was looking at me."Paul also talks about the imprint of fatherhood that his dedicated father has given him, what he wants to do the same, what he would do differently.Paul also cites his most important educational resources for preparing for birth: Films: Birth as We Know it by Elena Tonetti-Vladimirova and Birth Day by Frank Ferrel and Diana PaulBook: Down to Earth Birth Book by Jenny BlythAlso cites Will Smith when wondering about one of the mysteries that awaits him.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay, Australia on 16 November 2015.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

our wonderful guests today are Jennifer Lalor and Raine Sharpe.Jennifer Lalor is a somatic (body-based) educator and practitioner with over 17 years experience working with a diverse range of clients including executive teams, professionals, artists, and social entrepreneurs. Jennifer had the amazing privilege of studying directly under Anna and her daughter Daria Halprin intensively in the use of the expressive arts in therapy and education before being invited onto Tamalpa’s core faculty. She taught an international student body at the Institute in California for four years before coming to live in Australia. Raine Sharpe, a local woman, mother and grandmother. Apart from her roles as CalmBirth facilitator, midwife & doula, Raine is also a source of vital knowledge and an educator in our community. She carries with her the old knowings of birth. Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB MediaWe call women of her calibre – Birth keepers. And I say calibre because in my mind – birth keepers are not only heroes, they are courageous being walking the earth containing a memory stick if you like, of something that has long been forgotten in western society. Both women today herald the benefits of Somatic work, somatic knowing. That is that The Body Knows and given the opportunity it can manifest itself harmoniously. During the program, Raine speaks of her passion for acknowledging the rite of passage of 'becoming grandmother'. She has been collecting and recording stories from grandmothers from around the world and has a book in the works about this important phase in a woman's life.To get in touch with Raine regarding your unique story of becoming grandmother, email her at:raines@australis.netFor CalmBirth information:http://www.calmbirth.com.auTo find out more about Jennifer's work, visit:

Today on the show we have a beautiful guest with us, Misa Alexander, a Canadian that calls our beloved Byron shire, home. Misa is a graphic designer and Artist who has worked around the world in various roles as a designer. She is also a mother of 3 beautiful boys one of whom is Autistic. We will be discussing the way we perceive disabilities. We will also be discussing her journey as a mother of a child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disability. One of the aspects that most affect children with ASD is their ability to interact with their environment. When Misa first sent her son Hugo to pre-school she encountered first hand the effect of 'empowering his environment' – his teachers, the parents of children attending and the children themselves – to understand Hugo better and ultimately create a space where he belonged. Since then, Misa and her dear friend Erin Knutt have been working to create a visual expression of what it looks and feels like to both be; supported by your environment and be; the support needed for children with any disability to feel connected and a part of their community.We also spoke about the correlation between Gut Health and ADS and how treatment for her son has included testing his gut & supporting him through diet, microbial aspects and fat absorption support.To support their inspiring project Fergus & Delilah in shaping a generation's view on disabilities go to their website:http://fergus-delilah.comTheir Campaign runs from 30 days from the 20th of October 2015, make sure to check in during that time for best impact.Also like them up on facebook at:https://www.facebook.com/FergusDelilahCampaignFor further information if you are in Australia:https://www.autismspectrum.org.auFor further information on Microbiome & gut health research in relation to Autism Spectrum Disorder visit the following research papers (free):http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3700858/http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3072352/http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4591364/http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21555957There are many more research paper, please do your own reaserch for specific informaiton.Thanks for tuning in,Annalee & the pregnancy Birth & Beyond team.Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Monica Elliott, mother of Ros Elliott from Go Earthcare show on BayFM, shares her experiences with cravings during pregnancy over 60 years ago.Sincerest thanks to Ros for the recording, and to Monica for sharing her experiences.Aired on BayFM on 5 October 2015Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015.www.pbbmedia.org

Part 2 of Sally's interview with Patricia Edmonds, American homebirth midwife about midwifery, continuity of care and much more. Recorded at Byron Bay in November 2014, aired on BayFM on 5 Oct 2015.Part 1 here:http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/patricia-edmonds-on-use-of-ultrasounds-iProduced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Nicole Moore from Birth into Being Australia on the impact of smells in our early life and how we carry them into our adult lives, as well as for a mother and baby to bond.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Part one of Sally's two part interview with Patricia Edmonds, homebirth midwife from the US about the role of technology such as ultrasounds during pregnancy and their perceived benefits. Aired on 99.9 BayFM on 28 September 2015.Part 2 here: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/patriciaedmondspart2of2-20150928Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with Nicole about the use of water in healing from past traumas and 'recoding' our limbic imprint. Aired on BayFM on 28 September 2015.Refs:http://birthintobeing.com.au/nicole-moore/Call to Conscious Birth video: https://vimeo.com/91479892Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Jody Vassallo talks about Balancing The Busy, a Womens Health Conference on Oct 10 2015 in Bangalow, NSW, Australia, featuring Dr Libby Weaver as keynote speaker.Produced and presented by Caroline CowleyCopyright PBB Media and Caroline Cowley 2015www.pbbmedia.org

In this episode, Annalee speaks with Angela Snow & Tamar Dubb from Soulfull Broths about the benefits of brothing. Bone Broth has been around for millennia & its miracles known to many. From grandmothers & mothers to physicians & healers, bone broth has been & still is, a staple in the diet of many cultures. In the west, and since the industrial revolution theer has been a loss of tradition in the area of slow food & home cooking in general. We look at Bone broth, its many benefits, recipes & other information in this delicious episode.Links:http://www.soulfullbroth.comhttps://www.facebook.com/SoulfullBrothsLinks to research discussed:1. Moses Maimonides on Asthma - http://thorax.bmj.com/content/36/4/245.full.pdf2. Weston A Price foundation on Bone Broth - http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/broth-is-beautiful/3. Glutamine & the microbime - http://www.westonaprice.org/uncategorized/can-broth-help-us-maintain-a-healthy-weight-a-study-on-glutamine-and-the-microbiome-suggests-it/Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

Sally's interview with Shayla Plosko, mum from Canberra who started a petition to have maternity services policies and procedures updated according to latest research. This is in response to what she describes as being her son's unnecessarily traumatic birth two years ago.https://www.change.org/p/health-minister-revise-outdated-hospital-policiesFrom 26:55 we also have a follow up interview with male student midwife and dad Ritchie. We first met Ritchie earlier this year when we played his interview recorded at the Midwifery Today Conference in Byron Bay in November 2014. Ritchie is an officer in the navy and is looking to make the career transformation to homebirth midwifery next year.Recorded via Skype from Singapore, so please excuse the sound quality.First interviews with Ritchie at: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/student-male-midwife-part-1-of-2Interviews aired on 99.9 BayFM on 10 Aug 2015Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Aired on 99.9 BayFM on 31 Aug 2015.Sally's update on campaign to reinstate birthing services at Murwillumbah Hospital and at 7:45 mins her interview with independent homebirth midwife and teacher of women's mysteries Jane Hardwicke Collings. Topics include how each rite of passage a woman goes through informs the next rite of passage, eg from menarche to birth to peri-menopause and menopause, benefits of preparing for each rite of passage to be open to the change and learn from each experience.More info on Jane: www.moonsong.com.auReferences: "The Wisdom of Menopause" by Dr Christiane Northrup, "Being Born" by Robyn Fernance and maieutic (Socratic) method of midwifery, Dr Sharon Maloney, Qld, re. connection between menstrual shame and difficulties in birth.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Caroline Cowley interviews Anna Watts, Child Birth Educator, Doula Trainer and Spiritual Healer on Spiritual Birthing and the Sacred Feminine. Midway through the episode, Anna also shares a beautiful meditation for connecting with your baby, or sacred wisdom.

This week Annalee speaks with a very special guest. A woman pioneering in the field of Integrated Medicine, a director of a renowned health care practice & the weaver of a new concept in health care. Reine DuBois, is a dedicated local Naturopath & Director of Byron Integrative Medicine & the brand new Health Lodge in Byron Bay. Founding Byron Integrated Medicine in 2010 & working alongside Integrative Medicine Doctors, Psychologists, Acupuncturists & a whole host of other complementary medicine practitioners, she has been leading her teams to create a safe haven for clients. A vision to create a dedicated space to explore the true nature of a client’s health concerns & seeing them through to recovery & a deeper understanding of their condition is the force behind her enterprise.To find out more about Reine's work, visit:http://www.byronintegratedmedicine.com.auhttp://www.thehealthlodge.com.auInterview originally recorded at Bay FM, Byron Bay, AustraliaLive to Air on 99.9FM on the 17th August 2015.Produced and Presented by Annalee Atia for PBB MediaCopyright Annalee Atia, PBB Media

This week its World Breastfeeding Week & the focus is on women returning to the workforce (formally & informally) whilst still breastfeeding. This year, WABA calls for:~ Concerted global action to support women to combine breastfeeding and work, whether in the formal sector, non-formal sector, or at home~ Ratification and implementation of maternity protection laws and regulations by governments, in line with the ILO Maternity Protection Convention~ Inclusion of breastfeeding target indicators in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Supporting Breastfeeding is a particular passion of mine. I am a strong advocate for the benefits of breastfeeding & I have long understood the significance of breastfeeding in creating a healthy & happy society. This episodes features two mothers Juliana Zago and Caroline Cowley.If you would like to find out more about WBW; where you can learn how to support women during this period & as a woman, where you can get support: Australian Breastfeeding Association (look up your local branch): https://www.breastfeeding.asn.auWorld Breastfeeding Week official website:http://worldbreastfeedingweek.orgFor breastfeeding support within Australia call anytime: 1300mum2mumFor questions about our show, please email us at hello@pbbmedia.orgProduced and Presented by Annalee Atia.www.pbbmedia.org

Caroline Cowley interviews Lisa Fitzpatrick, from Sacred Women's Business on the topic of Motherhood As Transformation, examining motherhood as a Rite of Passage for women. If you'd like to find out more about Lisa and her work you can go to www.lisafitzpatrick.com.au

Annalee Atia speaks with Debbie Rayfield about Homeopathy during pregnancy, birth & early childhood.Specialising in Child and Family Healthcare, Debbie is a practitioner of homeopathy and naturopathic nutrition with over 25 years of practical experience, as well as a registered nurse and a qualified Montessori teacher.Links for Debbie Rayfield's work:1. http://debbierayfield.com2. http://www.fountaincentre.com.au/natural-therapies-practitioners/debbie-rayfield-homeopath/Links for Microbial Resistance information:1. University of Minnesota, Academic Health Center. "Infant antibiotic use linked to adult diseases." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 13 May 2015:www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/05/150513140929.htm2. WHO facts on Antimicrobial resistance:http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs194/en/3. The Guardian - a genuine threat:http://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/jul/12/chief-scientist-antibiotic-resistance-warning&http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/jun/02/australian-government-to-crack-down-on-antibiotic-overuse-in-humans-and-animals4. Australia's National Anti-microbial Resistance Strategy, published June 2015:http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/ohp-amr.htm

Sally's interview with Tamara Newlands facilitator of Rites of Passage to Womanhood Camp about the importance of acknowledging rites of passage for young women.Refs: tamaranewlands.com and doctorarne.comAnd Dudley Leggett, co-founder of Dharamananda Community and Sustainability Research Institute about natural learning and models for families living in community.www.sustainable-research.orginfinitechoices.com.au conference - 1-3 October 2015Aired on BayFM on 27 July 2015Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with local musician and free surfer Ziggy Alberts (ziggyalberts.com) about his homeschooling experiences with his family until he was 13 years old.Other refs: "Live Learn Love" by his mother Csilla TotzerAired on BayFM on 13 July 2015Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Annalee Atia interviews Dr Lauren Tober on the Highly Sensitive Person. HSPs comprise approximately 20% of the population & their unique trait affords them greater insight & attunement. Dr Tober discusses living as an HPS & familiarising yourself with the best tools to support high sensitivity.The links we discuss on the show are:Dr Lauren Tober's website - www.laurentober.comCapturing Gratitude - www.capturinggratitude.comDr Elaine Aron's website - www.hsperson.comDr Neff's Ted Talk - http://tedxtalks.ted.com/video/The-Space-Between-Self-Esteem-a

Sally Cusack on the state of maternity services in the Northern NSW Local Health District. In 2009 national health reforms led to the signing of the National Maternity Services Plan (NMSP), which obliged the implementation of midwifery-led continuity of care for all women by 2015. All state health ministers signed this agreement at the COAG of 2010. In 2010 NSW Health created the Towards Normal Birth, a policy directive in line with the NMSP to be implemented by 2015 for all women using maternity services in LHDs. So far, we have the wonderful services at Mullumbimby, Lismore and until recently Murwillumbah, but other than that, our LHD is unlikely to implement with TNB and the NMSP for all women. And it's a very retrograde step to be removing the service at Murwillumbah.With thanks to Carolyn Hastie and Rachel Bryant.To find out more: go to www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-of-Tweed-Valley-Birthing-Service/andwww.facebook.com/groups/FriendsofNNSWLHDBirthingServicesHow are maternity services in your area? We'd love to hear from you!And you can make your voice heard at:nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/about/northern-nsw-local-health-district/complaints-and-compliments/Aired at 99.9 BayFM on 29 June 2015Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with local certified Non-Violent Communication instructor, Paulette Bray-Narai about NVC and its value in parenting.www.expresspeace.comwww.cnvc.orgMarshall Rosenberg's Book "Non-Violent Communication"Aired on 99.9 BayFM on 15 June 2015Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015.www.pbbmedia.org

Annalee Atia's interview with Sarah Armstrong on how her own personal experiences with IVF, gentle, respectful c-section and aware parenting informed her characters in her new novel "His Other House". Aired on 99.9 BayFM on 8 June 2015.www.sarah-armstrong.com

Importance of parents expressing their creativity and tips for doing so.Zannilouise.commylittlesunshinehouse.comAired on 99.9 BayFM on 1 June 2015Motherhood and Creativity: The Divided Heart by Rachel Powers, featuring conversations with some of Australia’s most prominent female artists like Rachel Griffiths and Clare Bowditchhttp://rachel-power.blogspot.com.au/The North Coast Creative Business Women’s Community - a closed Facebook group for connection and inspiration https://www.facebook.com/groups/creativebusinesswomen/Mama Creative: Interviews with women who balance creativity with motherhood on My Little Sunshine House blog: http://mylittlesunshinehouse.com/category/mama-creative/Meet Me At Mikes: a blog by Pip Lincoln who is a very creative mother. She’s also written a book called “Craft for the Soul" http://meetmeatmikes.com/Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with Erica Nettle-Chik on the work of mums to create luminous youth, how we need to develop our intuition for raising our children, as we are the experts in what they need.http://www.luminousyouth.com/events.htmlRefs: Nassim Harramein, Robin Grille, Bruce Lipton, Anastasia and the Ringing Cedar Series, Lucy Cavendish, Heart Math InstituteProduced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Caroline's interview with Star Despres about self care for women. www.divinestar.com.auAnnalee Atia on why mothers aren't inclined to care for themselves, ancient cultures and what they do. Ref: bluezones.com on longevity and happinessProduced and presented by Caroline CowleyCopyright PBB Media and Caroline Cowley 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live 27th April 2015, from the heart of Byron Bay at Bay Fm 99.9. Robbie Davis-Floyd, PhD, Senior Research Fellow, Dept. of Anthropology, University of Texas Austin, and Fellow of the Society for Applied Anthropology, is a medical anthropologist specializing in the anthropology of reproduction. Robbie lectures at childbirth, midwifery and obstetrical conferences around the world. Robbie has written over 80 articles and Author of 'Birth as an American Rite of Passage 1992, Childbirth and Authoritative Knowledge: Cross-Cultral Perspectives" 1997, co-author of Birth Models Her research on global trends and transformations in childbirth, obstetrics and midwifery is ongoing. Thanks to Midwifery Today Conference Byron Bay Australia 2014.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

To mark the 3rd anniversary of commencement of Mullumbimby Community Birthing Service's Homebirth Programme, Sally's interview with midwife Debra Hayhoe and local mother Bridget Perry. Aired on 99.9 BayFM on Monday 4 May 2015.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015Link: http://nnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/about/hospitals/mullumbimby-district-war-memorial-hospital/mullumbimby-birth-centre/the-home-birth-program/Other: Birth Afloat birthing pools

Sally's complete interview with retired French obstetrician Michel Odent and 'protector' of the labouring woman's natural process (or "foetus ejection reflex"). Recorded 30 March 2015.0-6 mins - Introduction6 min - Interview commences15 min - Natural childbirth advocates and medical view have been working to short term criteria of emphasis on live mother and baby at the end of the process, but he calls for us to expand our view to take into account longer term impacts of interventions.18:30 min - Hormones of childbirth20 min - Lack of general understanding of birth physiology and the needs of the labouring woman. Need to ask "what are the needs of the labouring woman, and not simply promote natural childbirth. We need to think "like physiologists" and identify possible inhibitory factors. Key word - to "protect" the natural process.24:30 - Our powerful neo-cortex and how it inhibits our birth process if engaged and active.27:30 - Human sense of smell is stronger than we realise and is inhibited by the neo-cortex.29:30 Need reduced neo-cortical activity to give birth.31 min - How to reduce neo-cortical activity (eg be in dark)35 min - Our cultural conditioning of "helping" the labouring woman - where there is an active role necessarily played by someone else, not the woman, which is disempowering for her. Socialisation of birth started in Neolithic times.37 min - Paleolithic women probably isolated themselves, so our cultural conditioning is around 10,000 years old.45 min - Turning 85 yrs this year and feels he is running out of time so must speak directly about these issues and not worry about being politically correct.48 min - Our fear of birth started during Neolithic times when women saw other women giving birth and built up culture around experts and helpers needing to attend birthing women, whereas Paleolithic women probably did it alone, ie their behaviour not observed so story couldn't build up around what they did when birthing.49 min - most women experience disturbed birth. Authentic midwifery needs to set up optimal conditions for foetal ejection reflex to occur. Difficulty for women is that when they birth instinctively their behaviour can be culturally unacceptable for those present.57 min - 1970 footage of Papua New Guinean woman giving birth alone. Her mother helps her set up birth space then moves away for the actual moment of birth.1:01 min - "Support" is the most toxic word as it gives women the idea that they can only do it with the help of others. Urgent need to reconsider words we use and look at using words like "protection" instead.1:06 - Natural childbirth advocates and medical practioners alike interfere with natural childbirth process by using words like "Support".1:07 - Newborns need love, microbes and stress - what is meant by stress. Impacts on pre-labour caesarean babies.1:13 - We need to study babies born without labour and those born with labour (and born either vaginally or by C/s)1:14 - Swedish study into sense of smell on newborns - comparison between babies born vaginally or by C/S. The sense of smell is 'switched on' by noradrenalin, a hormone produced by the baby in labour and it is needed to help a baby find the nipple.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Epigenetic impacts of birth interventions on our species, what women need to give birth, experiences with midwifery in hospital and home with Hannah Dahlen. http://www.hannahdahlen.com.au/ Aired 13 April 2015.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Annie Bryant talking about her new album for Autumn 2015 "Seek and Find" and the power of story telling for children, and creating with our children.www.talesandsongs.comProduced and presented by Annalee Atia.Copyright PBB Media and Annalee Atia 2015

French obstetrician Michel Odent on the disruptive role that the neocortext can plan in birth. The biggest risk to a woman giving birth naturally is from her neocortex, and not being able to disengage from it.Sally's complete interview with Michel is here: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/michel-odent-entire-interview-30-mar2015www.wombecology.comProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Gail Tully of Spinning Babies joins us for the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond Radio program. Interview took place at the November 2014 Midwifery Today held in Byron Bay Australia. Interview aired live on 99.9 Bay Fm - Byron's community station, 23rd of March 2015.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2015 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Jewelli of The Flowering Soul joins us live in the BayFm 99.9 studio March 9th 2015. Hear about how Australian bush flower essence can benefit the growth and well being of you and your family. http://www.thefloweringsoul.com/Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2015 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

PBB Radio's contribution to Australia's Community Radio Network's broadcast for International Women's Day 2015 - aired Sunday 8 March 2015.Hormones of birth with Dr Sarah Buckley'Physiological' birth with Scandinavian midwife Tine GreveInterviews recorded at Midwifery Today Conference Nov 2014 Byron BayProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Aired live 9-02-2015 from Bay Fm 99.9 Byron's community station. Listen to Sister MorningStar, Cherokee daughter, shares her and her people's wisdom and traditions from midwifery to early childhood. "Sister MorningStar has dedicated a lifetime to the preservation of instinctual birth among native people." http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/whocounts.aspProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2015 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Danie Smallwood, local midwife of 3 yrs, becoming a mother, how this experience may be changing her perspectives as a midwife. First part of this recording is a review of VDay Byron Bay's performance of Vagina Monologues, including a brief recording from the birth monologue. Then final part of (part 3 of 3) interview with a male student midwife. See parts 1 and 2 with our other recent episodes.(Part 1: https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/student-male-midwife-part-1-of-2)(Part 2: https://www.spreaker.com/user/4527888/male-student-midwife-part-2-of-3)Then interview with Danie. Related links:www.vdaybyronbay.com.au"The Aware Baby" book by Aletha Solter, PhD.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with US Naval officer turned student midwife, about fatherhood, his second child's VBAC birth and his upcoming career change. Recorded at Midwifery Today Conference in Byron in November 2014. Aired 19 Jan, 2 Feb and 16 Feb 2015 on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay.Follow up interview 6 months later here: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/shayla-plosko-and-ritchie-male-student-mAnd interview with Ritchie's wife Grace about their third child's birth here:https://www.spreaker.com/user/4527888/grace-unleashed-birthing-differently-this-timeProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015.www.pbbmedia.org

Interview with Deborah McGillivray from familymidwives.com.au about her VBAC practice and the gentle, on again, off again nature of VBAC labour. Recorded at Midwifery Today Conf. 2014 and aired on 19 Jan2015.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Part 2 of Sally's interview with a male student midwife, about how becoming a father has inspired him to study midwifery, particularly homebirth midwifery. Aired on 2 Feb 2015.Part 3 here (approx 5 mins in): https://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/danie-smallwoodmidwife-becoming-a-motherProduced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with Claudine, Tigress Yoga instructor about TY and how she taps into her intuition as a mother and a woman.(Note BayFM experienced some transmitter disruption that day, which can be heard slightly in the early part of this interview only.)Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with student male midwife about his wife's VBAC experience that ignited an interest in him to change careers from being an officer in the US Navy to midwifery. Recorded at Midwifery Today Conference in Byron Bay November 2014. Aired 19 Jan 2015.Part 2 here: http://www.spreaker.com/user/pregnancybirthandbeyond/male-student-midwife-part-2-of-3Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2016www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live from 99.9 Bay Fm, in the heart of Byron Bay. During the Australia HomeBirth Conference 2014 I was able to catch up with Rachel Reed, author of the popular birth blog 'Midwife Thinking'. Rites of Passage, QLD cesarean rates and more.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live Dec 15th 2015, 99.9 Bay Fm. During the 2014 December Uplift Festival I was able to catch up with Scarlet Lewis, Author of Nurturing, Healing, Love: A Mother’s Journey of Hope and Forgiveness. Hear from her the pain and wisdom that came from losing her 6 year old son, Jesse Lewis, in the Sandy Hook elementary school shootings, USA 2012.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2015 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live 12 - 1 - 2015 from the heart of Byron Bay at 99.9 Bay Fm. On today's show we talk with Kerri - founder of The Goddess of Sacred Sex. We hear all about the Goddess and how these ancient mythological women have powerful teachings for women of today. Particular interest is the Goddess Inanna and her decent to the underworld.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2015 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Interview by Sally and Samaya Nicholls-Askill from Mullumbimby Aust Breastfeeding Association with Jenny Shaw from NNSW Local Health District about the move of the maternity services at Mullumbimby Hospital to the new Byron hospital site in 2016. Aired on 8 Dec 2014.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015

Sally's interview with Dr Sarah Buckley at the Midwifery Today Conference in Byron Bay in November 2014. Here she talks about the main hormones of birth and childrearing, breastfeeding, and how they equate to the hormonal interactions of sexual activity, how women develop 1000s more oxytocin receptors in their bodies, which is vital for the oxytocin rush of birth, how artificial induction can impeded by a woman not yet having all the oxytocin receptors she needs for birth.www.sarahbuckley.comProduced and Presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www,pbbmedia.org

Sally's interview with Dr Rachel Reed regarding health issues for babies when their amniotic sacs break at the end of pregnancy and the fluid is stained with meconium (baby's first bowel movement). Recorded at the Midwifery Today Conference in Byron Bay in November 2014.Produced and presented by Sally CusackCopyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2015www.pbbmedia.org

Wednesday the 19th of December 2012, Maha Al Musa founder of Belly Dance For Birth & Author of Dance of the Womb was in the studio talking all things belly dance and birth. Maha was also recently featured in Australia's Women's Day Magazine and on Australia A Current Affairs program titled "I'm 50 and still breast-feeding my 4 year old", tune in to find out what the response to this was and what Maha had to say.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2012. PBBmedia.org

Eco Parenting with Jannine Barron of Natures Child that started in Byron Bay 15 years ago. All things eco parenting in a nutshell. - Nappies, Diapers, cloth diapers, organic and how you can "be the change you want to see in the world." Aired live November 17th 2014 from Bay Fm 99.9 Byron's community station.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.orgPhoto credit: Ingrid Pullen Photography

On the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show we had guest Darren Mattock in the studio talking all things Becoming Dad and birth preparation for fathers. Aired live on 99.9 Bay fm 20th Nov 2013 from the heart of Byron Bay.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Lara's interview with Moana Pearl about the 'red tent'. Features music from Maryen Cairns from her Red Tent album.Presenter Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin 2012www.pbbmedia.org

Each year in Australia, close to 800 babies die within the first 28 days of their birth, almost 2000 babies are stillborn and over 147,000 miscarries occur. In the studio 20-10-2014 two mothers join me to share their story of stillbirth. Ten years ago, Stephanie lost her son Jacob at 24 weeks pregnancy. Susanne lost her baby girl Kiah 28 years ago. Here are their stories.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

This week on the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show we hear about BFW, Birth as a Rite of Passage and the labyrinth as a symbol for labour, birth and postpartum, also fathers and partners support in birth. Aired live on bayfm 99.9 16th of Oct 2013.Guest Lara Martin consciousbirth.com Produced and presented by Taneal Cadou-Blake Copyright PBB Media and Lara Martin PBBmedia.org

Aired live from 99.9 fm Byron Bay community station, 6th October 2014. Sue Cookson joins us in the studio talking all things the Midwifery Today Conference being held in Byron Bay Australia, November 2014.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live 25th of September 2013. In the Bay fm 99.9 Byron Bay Australia studio we had guest Shanti, mother of 5 and founder of Baba Slings discussing baby wearing and mothers in business. Shanti shares with us how her baby wearing business got started along withe the challenges and successes of being a mother in business.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinPBBmedia.org

On the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond Radio show aired live 8th of September 2014, from 99.9 Bay Fm in Byron Bay AU. We have an interview with Jane Hardwicke Collings. Here, Jane shares with us her wisdom on women's moon mysteries, birth as a rite of passage and so much more. Jane website: www.moonsong.com.auProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live 11th of August from 99.9 Bay FM Byron Bay's community station. This week on the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond program we had guest Susan Perrow, world class story teller, author of "Therapeutic Storytelling: 101 Healing Stories for Children (2012)and Healing Stories for Challenging Behaviour (2008)and numerous children's story books. Susan Shares with us how parents can support their young children through life changes through the simple art of story telling and more... www.susanperrow.comProduced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Michelle Walker - mother, lactation consultant, doula, parent team social worker and hypno-birthing instructor joins us on the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond show streamed live from Bay fm 99.9 Byron Bay local community station 31st of July 2013. In honor of international breast-feeding awareness week first half of the show we discuss breast-feeding including challenges, extended breast-feeding and more. Second half of the show we hear about the benefits of Hypno-birthing.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinPBBmedia.org

Australia, Byron Bay Local Bayfm 99.9 community radio 2013. This week on the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond show we interviewed Simon from the Family center on fatherhood and issues that arise for single dads.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinPBBmedia.org

Aired live, 28th of July 2014, from the 99.9 Bay Fm studio's in the heart of Byron Bay Australia. Our guest today on the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show Antonella Gambotto-Burke, Author of Mama: Dispatches from the Frontline of Love. We talk all things attachment, bonding, maternal stress and the journey of motherhood. Antonella, a successful journalist and contributer of a raft of publications including Vogue, Elle, Harpe's BAZAAR, Rolling Stones, The Mail on Sunday and Author of 6 books.++++++++++Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin

Aired live 19th of May 2014 from the Bay Fm Community Radio station in the heart of Byron Bay Australia. Laura Doe founder of Yoniversity in the studio talking all things the pelvic floor wellness for women, the kegel exercise and womens' sexual wellness.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Aired live 8th of May in the Bayfm studio's Byron Bay 2013. Our guest Maureen, founder of Birth Afloat shares with us all about the wonders of Water Birth at home and at hospital. "Water - The Gentle Journey For You & Your Baby"Guest website: www.birthafloat.comProduced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin PBBmedia.org

On today's show we have very special recording to share of Tara Singh on How to raise a child of God. Aired live 2013. Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin PBBmedia.orgBorn 1919 in India, Tara Singh spent the early years of his life in a small village in Punjab. From this sheltered environment his family then traveled and lived in Europe and Central America. At 22, his search for the truth led him to the Himalayas where he lived for four years as an ascetic. He became more and more removed from worldly affairs and devoted several years of his life to the study and practice of yoga. The discipline imparted through yoga helped make possible a three-year period of silent retreat in California in the early 1970s. 
       As he emerged from the years of silence in 1976, he came into contact with the contemporary scripture A Course in Miracles. Its impact on him was profound. He recognized it “as an answer to man's urgent need for direct contact with truth.” There followed a close relationship with its scribe. From then on, the Course was the focal point of his life.   Known for the wisdom he freely imparted, he will also be remembered for the virtue of a noble life and the lasting friendship he openly extended to all he met.  Tara Singh passed away in 2006 at the age of 87. Sourced from the Joseph plan foundation. visit us at www.facebook.com/pregnancybirthandbeyondradio

On the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show we hear from Amriata Hoobs on the importance of honoring girls rights of passage. Second half of the show we hear the trails and tribulations of a gay woman trying to conceive and the joy of finally giving birth to her son. Aired live from the bay fm 99.9 studio in Byron Bay. 22nd of May 2013.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara Martin PBBmedia.org

During the 2014 Australian Home Birth Conference I was able to catch up with Peter Jackson founder of Calm Birth and his daughter Karen McCoy midwife and calm birth educator. Aired lived on Bay fm 99.9 Byron Bay's community station June 30th of 2014.Produced and presented by Lara Martin Copyright 2014 PBB Media and Lara Martin www.pbbmedia.org

Annie was in our Pregnancy Birth and Beyond studio discussing her latest EP. "Come Gather: Tales & songs to warm young hearts". Aired live June 30th 2014.Guest: Annie Bryant. Presenter & Producer: Lara Martin Date: 2014

Dr Andrew Bisits, staff specialist obstetrics working in in Obstetrics for 30 years and Director of Obstetrics at the Sydney's Royal Hospital for Women. Known for his advocating for women's childbirth choices particularly when it comes to vaginal breech birth and other "deemed high risk" women such as VBAC. Also in the studio with have Lismore Maternity Choices branch president Sophie, who as a mother experienced for her first baby's birth an emergency cesarean when it was discovered at 8 centimeters dilation her baby was in frank breech position and her second baby was birthed as what is called a VBAC vaginal birth after cesarean. Interview with Dr Andrew Bisits held at the Australian Home Birth Conference February 2014 and aired live on Bay Fm 99.9 Byron's community station 16th of June 2014.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Sally's interview with Gary Simpson, fatherhood educator from the Fatherhood Project: www.fatherhood.com.au about the impact of our fatherhood blueprint from our experiences of childhood, support for fathers, blessing ceremonies for expectant fathers.Also features four women speaking about their experiences with their fathers and what they feel a father can bring to their young daughters as they grow into womanhood.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay on 23 June 2014Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2014.www.pbbmedia.org

The PBB show was able to catch up with Dr William Sear, guru of attachment parenting, during his visit down under. Here Dr Sears gives us the low down on how it all began, even a tip on keeping a lasting marriage and more. Aired live February 2013.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

Aired Live 26th of February 2014 from the heart of Byron Bay 99.9 Bay Fm studio's. Parents, bring love and passion back into your family life. How can parents make love matter once two becomes 3 or 4 or more? Take a listen to find out. You can check out Avalon and Brett's website at www.lovingfamilies.com.auCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Aired live 12th - March 2014. Sue Cookson joins us in the studio to talk the changing face of home birth in the Northern Rivers/ Byron Shire NSW Australia. Home Birth has always been a popular choice for women in the NR region - Sue takes us back in time and also discusses the current challengers independent midwives face.Presenter and producer Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Aired live with love 12 - 2 - 2014, from the heart of Byron Bay at Bay fm 99.9 community radio. On todays show we have an interview with Bruce Lipton, internationally acclaimed Author of best selling book "The Biology of Belief" and the 2009 Goi Peace Award recipient. Bruce was at the Up Lift Festival 2013 sharing is wisdom and I got to ask him a few questions on raising happy children - what parents can do for their kids.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Becoming a dad can be a joyful, wonderful experience, it also can be one of the most challenging times in a man's life. Fostering personal growth with being present as a father and as a partner creates stronger families and more fulfilling relationships. Our guest this episode is Gary Simpson who has worked with the Fatherhood project shares his personal story and insights on the changes men face when they become dads.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Guest Maha al Musa, founder of Bellydance for Birth, speaking about using bellydance to access the primal space for birth, her talk "Birth: The Sacred View" at the Baby! International Film Fest on 5 April.Host Sally, assisted by Taneal (Taneal's last show - for now:)Aired on BayFM on 2 April 2014Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2014www.pbbmedia.org

Karin Ecker talking about her film A Breech in the System and listening to our inner voices when conventional advice conflicts with what we feel is the right thing to do.Sally's first show as presenter. First broadcast on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia on 19 March 2014.Produced and presented by Sally Cusack.Copyright PBB Media and Sally Cusack 2014

What is a doula and how can she/he serve the expecting couple during birth. Anna Watts founder of Celebration of Birth Doula Training and doula Shanelle join us in the bayfm studio located from Byron Bay Australia, to talk doula. Aired live 27th of March 2013.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

Taneal's interview with Moana Pearl on her woven art exhibit "Mahmi" with the Women of Essence exhibition in Byron Bay March 2014.And the meaning of art and its healing power for men and women alike.And challenges for young women in today's society.Aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay Australia 5 March 2014Presenter Taneal Blake2014www.pbbmedia.org

Description of new Choices for Childbirth class in Byron - Sally CusackNote: These sessions are on hiatus.

Diana Vogel dubbed the kid whisperer was in the bayfm studio talking with us about her new book "How to Stop the ADD/ADHD Nightmare" Diana has developed a new way to help kids with learning difficulties such as dyslexia and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, instead of "drugging our kids".Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

Our guest Sydney sider Dr. Rosealba Courtney is an Osteopath with over 30 years experience. She is also a specialist in breathing therapy and has done extensive research, writing and teaching on this subject. She trains health professionals and runs breathing therapy and mindfulness programs for children and adults.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

"You'll be fine, cows do it all the time" is what our mother's husband said to her when she was led off to the birthing room and her husband shown to the waiting room. It was the late 1950's. Here our mother shares the birth stories of her 4 children over time and different countries.Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

Our mother shares her two stories of giving birth. From self-doubt and disbelief in herself to birth to strength and belief in herself. "it felt like a balloon" baby born in the caul. Aired on the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond radio show Bayfm 99.9 Byron Bay community radio station. Visit us at www. facebook.com/pregnancybirthandbeyondradioProduced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinPBBmedia.org

Would you be able to carry a baby for 9 month, give birth and pass him over to his mother? Here, Lisa shares her story of surrogacy and love. Produced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2013. PBBmedia.org

Aired live from the Bay Fm studio in the heart of Byron Shire 12th of Nov 2013. Joining us on the show is Efrat Wolfson who will be sharing with us all about Nappy Free also known as emotional elimination communication ECC. Efrat lives in Mullumbimby Northern NSW with her family.

Aired live from Bay fm 99.9 located in the heart of Byron Bay. The Conscious Parenting Natural Learning Conference 2012 interview with Robin Grille renowned author of Parenting For A Peaceful World and Heart To Heart Parenting. In this show Robin introduces us to his two books and also parenting with empathy, TV and screen use and staying connected with out children. www.our-emotional-health.comProduced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2012. PBBmedia.org

Aired live 18th of December 2013 from Bay fm 99.9 community radio in the heart of Byron Bay. On the show we had Anthony Mills in the studio sharing his story as a father of two, Jasper Mills his two year old son who was born with Cerebral Palsy & microcephaly and also the birth of his angle, Julian who will always be in his parents hearts. https://www.facebook.com/thejaspermillsappealProduced and presented by Lara MartinCopyright PBB Media and Lara MartinDate 2014. PBBmedia.org

Aired live on 30th of October 2013. Our guest Professor of Midwifery at Southern Cross University on the Gold Coast, Kathleen Fahy was in the Bay fm 99.9 studio talking the future of midwifery and in-particular the implications for midwifery students. If you are a midwifery student this podcasts is for you.Produced and presented by Taneal Blake.Copyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013

Aired live 27th of November 2013 from the Byron Bay, AU, 99,9 Bay fm studio. Interview on birth and on the amazing work being done at Robin lim and Bumi Sehat and at the end of the interview a little history of the local Byron Community primary school"mothers compassion needs to arise in every human on the planet today, it is not a gender issue" "changing the world, one birth at a time"

Aired live from the 99.9 Bay Fm studio's in the heart of Byron Bay Australia, the most easterly point in Australia. Sally Cusack president of the Northern Rivers Maternity Coalition branch talks with Taneal about the work being done nationally and locally.Presenter Taneal BlakeCopyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013www.pbbmedia.org

On the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond show aired live from Bayfm 99.9 Byron community radio 9th of October 2013 we have guest Jewelli Deva on flower and Bush essence for birth preparation, children and motherhood. Jewelli also shares with us her insights on the metaphysics of kids and more. www.thefloweringsoul.com

Sigal Golan Lactation consultant, doula, birth educator, birth activist from Isreal traveling the world joins us in Byron Bay Australia. Sigal shares with us in an interview on a windy day in the Peace Park Byron Bay Australia, about the birthing culture in Isreal. Bay fm 99.9 local community radioProduced and presented by Taneal Blake.Copyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013

Our guest on today's show is Millie, Byron Shire mum of 5 discussing how as parents we come to make the little and big decisions that parenthood presents us with. If you are a pregnant, a new parent or well into your parenting years, this show is for you.Presenter Taneal BlakeCopyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013www.pbbmedia.org

Nicole Moore from Birth into Being Australia joins us on the Pregnancy Birth and Beyond show to talk limbic imprinting and how you can recode your birth imprint. Fascinating! Aired live on Bay fm 99.9 during February from the heart of Byron Bay.Presented by Taneal BlakeCopyright PBB Media and Taneal Blake 2013.www.pbbmedia.org

12th Dec 2012. 'A Breech In The System' Film maker Karin Ecker was in the studio with Taneal talking about Breech Birth and her current birth film project in the works.

Join Taneal on the Pregnancy BIrth and Beyond Radio show talking with Neroli Jager from Mullumbimby women's resource centre and on Domestic Violence.www.pbbmedia.orgFirst broadcast live from BayFM Byron Bay on 30 November 2012.

Join Taneal on the Pregnancy Birth & Beyond show as she shares the message of the Red Tent Festival. www.redtentfestival.comwww.pbbmedia.orgFirst aired on 99.9 BayFM Byron Bay in February 2012