Wombs of the World Podcast

Wombs of the World

Culture is dynamic, birth is universal. The Wombs of the World Podcast brings together doulas, midwives, parents, and birthworkers from across the globe to explore how we give birth, how we honor mothers, and how we heal communities. Hosted by Charlotte Brielle, founder of Wombs of the World, this series weaves stories of ceremony and medicine, traditional midwifery and modern maternal health, grief and joy, activism and everyday care. Whether you are a doula in training, a parent preparing for birth, or simply curious about how birth reflects society, these conversations invite you to learn, reflect, and reclaim the wisdom of birth.

  1. 1 day ago

    Beyond Advocacy: Birth Justice, Medical Bias & Cultural Identity with Ilana Ybgi

    What does birth justice really look like, and how do we create a maternal healthcare system that honors the experiences, identities, and needs of every birthing person? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with Ilana Ybgi for a thoughtful conversation about birth justice, historical trauma, cultural identity, and the changes needed within modern maternity care. Drawing from her experiences as a Jewish and Black woman, Ilana explores how history, community, and identity shape our relationships with healthcare systems. Together, Charlotte and Ilana discuss the importance of recognizing medical bias, building trust between providers and families, and creating space for midwives, holistic practices, and culturally responsive care within the medical system. Their conversation also examines the emotional demands of reproductive justice advocacy and why self-care, community support, and personal well-being are essential to sustaining this important work. In this episode, we explore: Historical trauma and its influence on birth experiencesBirth justice and reproductive advocacyThe intersection of race, religion, and cultural identityHome birth, midwifery, and navigating medical systemsReforming hospital policies to better support birthing familiesBuilding trust between healthcare providers and patientsMaternal mortality, medical bias, and healthcare disparitiesCultural competency and sensitivity in birth workIntegrating holistic approaches into maternity careEducation as a tool for reproductive empowermentSelf-care and community support for birth workers and advocatesCreating more equitable and compassionate birth experiencesAt its heart, this conversation is a reminder that birth justice requires more than individual advocacy. It calls for listening to diverse experiences, examining the systems that shape maternal care, and working together to create environments where every family feels heard, respected, and supported. Connect with IlanaInstagram: @IlanaYbgi @chbirthjustice Become a Full Spectrum DoulaPassionate about supporting families and creating more compassionate, culturally responsive birth experiences? The Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training explores birth work through global perspectives, cultural awareness, and comprehensive education to help doulas support families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and loss. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If this conversation resonated with you, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening, and share this episode with a birth worker, healthcare professional, or advocate who believes in building a more equitable future for maternal care. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  2. 21 Oct

    Understanding Your Fertility: Chinese Medicine, Egg Freezing & Body Literacy with Dr. Susan Fox

    What if preparing for pregnancy started long before you were ready to conceive? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with Dr. Susan Fox to explore fertility through the lens of traditional Chinese medicine, reproductive health, and the importance of understanding our bodies throughout every stage of life. Dr. Fox shares how Chinese medicine approaches fertility, including the role of acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle practices, and environmental factors in reproductive wellness. Together, they discuss the challenges surrounding fertility today, the growing interest in egg freezing, and how individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive futures. The conversation also explores fertility beyond women's health, including the importance of sperm health, the realities of trying to conceive later in life, and the value of understanding menstrual cycles, perimenopause, and the body's natural transitions. In this episode, we explore: Traditional Chinese medicine and its approach to fertilityPreparing the body for conception through lifestyle practicesEnvironmental factors and reproductive healthAcupuncture, herbs, and holistic fertility supportEgg freezing, timing, and important considerationsNavigating fertility decisions and societal pressuresThe role of sperm health in conception and pregnancy outcomesUnderstanding menstrual cycles and reproductive changesFertility considerations for those pursuing motherhood later in lifePerimenopause, menopause, and Chinese medicineBody literacy and making empowered reproductive choicesAt its heart, this conversation is a reminder that understanding our reproductive health is valuable at every age and stage of life. Whether you're preparing for pregnancy, exploring fertility preservation, or simply wanting to better understand your body, knowledge can help you approach these decisions with greater confidence and intention. Connect with Dr. Susan FoxWebsite: https://healthyouniversity.co/ Instagram: @dr.Susan.fox IG, @healthyouniversity Become a Full Spectrum DoulaWant to deepen your understanding of reproductive health and support families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and beyond? Explore the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training, where we bring together education, global perspectives, and community to prepare compassionate, informed birth workers. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening, and share this episode with someone interested in fertility, reproductive wellness, or understanding their body more deeply. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  3. 14 Oct

    Between Birth & Death: Spirit Babies, Grief & Honoring Loss with Amana Be Love

    How do we hold space for both birth and death, joy and grief, beginnings and endings? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with birth and death worker Amana, for an intimate conversation about pregnancy and infant loss, motherhood, grief, and the spiritual connections that can exist beyond death. Amana shares experiences from her work supporting families through both birth and loss, including her perspective on spirit babies and the connections some mothers experience with their babies before, during, and after pregnancy. Together, Charlotte and Amana explore: The emotional complexities of working with both birth and deathPregnancy and infant lossConnecting with spirit babiesMaking space for mystery, intuition, and spiritual experiencesNavigating grief without trying to fix or rush itRituals and practices for honoring babies who have diedSupporting mothers and families through lossFinding empowerment and trusting your internal compassThe importance of community in griefHow birth workers can more compassionately hold space for lossAt the heart of this conversation is an invitation to honor grief rather than turn away from it, and to recognize that supporting someone through loss doesn't require having the perfect words. Sometimes our most important work is simply being willing to stay present. Connect with AmanaWebsite: https://www.amanabelove.com/ Instagram: @amanabelove Become a Full Spectrum DoulaSupporting families through loss is an important part of full spectrum birth work. The Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training explores how doulas can compassionately support people through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and the many reproductive experiences that exist between and beyond them. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If this conversation resonated with you, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and consider sharing this episode with someone who may find comfort, connection, or meaning in it. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  4. 7 Oct

    Birth, Bodies & Intimacy: A Sexologist's Perspective with Anna Linde

    What if reconnecting with your body could change the way you experience boundaries, intimacy, relationships, and even parenthood? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with sexologist Anna Linde to explore her journey into the field of sexology and the healing that can come from better understanding our bodies, emotions, and needs. Anna challenges the idea that sexology is simply about sex, instead exploring it as a holistic field connected to embodiment, relationships, reproductive health, boundaries, pleasure, and the way we move through the world. Together, Charlotte and Anna explore: Anna's journey from birth trauma to sexologySexology as a holistic approach to human experienceCultural perspectives on reproductive rightsHealing through education and reconnecting with the bodyLearning to recognize and communicate boundariesIntuition versus anxietyUnderstanding feelings without automatically treating them as truthNavigating intimacy after having a babyEmotional versus physical intimacy in relationshipsConversations couples can have before becoming parentsWhy small acts of intimacy and connection matterSexual health, pleasure, and liberationMaking self-care a meaningful priorityThis conversation is a reminder that intimacy doesn't begin or end with sex. It is deeply connected to how we inhabit our bodies, communicate our needs, care for ourselves, and stay connected to the people we love through life's biggest transitions. Connect with AnnaWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-linde-msc-08264692/ Instagram: @theadoptedsexologist Become a Full Spectrum DoulaWant to deepen the way you support people through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and other reproductive experiences? Explore the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and share this episode with someone who might benefit from a deeper conversation about embodiment, intimacy, boundaries, and postpartum relationships. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  5. 30 Sept

    Community Over Competition: Building a Sustainable Career in Birthwork with Evan Cohen

    How do you build a sustainable career in birth work without burning out, doubting yourself, or feeling like you have to do it all alone? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, we talk about the realities of building a life and business as a doula, from setting boundaries and navigating imposter syndrome to finding multiple streams of income, working collaboratively in hospital settings, and building community with other birth workers. The conversation explores what it takes to move beyond a scarcity mindset and create a birth work practice rooted in collaboration, advocacy, sustainability, and abundance. In this episode, we explore: Setting boundaries and avoiding birth worker burnoutImposter syndrome as a new doulaDifferent ways to earn income through birth workAdvocacy and supporting clients in hospital settingsCommunity over competition among doulasBuilding positive relationships with nurses and care teamsThe value of mentorship and continued doula educationSocial media, branding, and growing your doula businessPreparing clients for inductions and informed advocacyCreating an abundance mindset in birth workWhether you're considering becoming a doula, newly trained, or already deep into birth work, this conversation is a reminder that doing meaningful work doesn't have to mean sacrificing yourself in the process. Connect With Our GuestGuest: Evan Cohen Website: http://www.bigcatbirthbotanicals.com/ Instagram: @bigcatbirth Become a Full Spectrum DoulaFeeling called to birth work? The Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training prepares doulas to support families across pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and the full spectrum of reproductive experiences while building the knowledge and confidence to step into this work. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and share this episode with another birth worker who could use a little more community and abundance in their work. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  6. 23 Sept

    Birth, Ceremony & the Placenta: Midwifery in Mexico with Miriam Avalos.

    What can traditional midwifery teach us about honoring birth as more than a medical event? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with Miriam Avalos for a beautiful exploration of traditional midwifery in Mexico, the ceremonies surrounding pregnancy and birth, and the cultural significance of the placenta. Miriam shares how traditional midwifery practices vary across Mexico, with knowledge, rituals, and traditions deeply connected to individual regions and communities. Together, they explore blessings, naming ceremonies, temazcal, rites of passage, and the many ways the placenta may be honored after birth. Their conversation also opens a larger discussion about preserving and sharing traditional knowledge, learning across cultures, and navigating the important questions surrounding cultural appreciation and appropriation. In this episode, we explore: Traditional midwifery across MexicoBirth ceremonies, blessings, and rites of passageThe significance of the placenta in Mexican midwiferyPlacenta ceremonies, preservation, and traditionsHow placenta practices differ across culturesBirth as a physical, spiritual, and cultural transitionPreserving generational and traditional knowledgeCultural appropriation, appreciation, and the sharing of knowledgeAt its heart, this conversation is an invitation to look beyond birth as simply a clinical event and consider the ceremony, ancestry, community, and meaning that cultures around the world have woven into this transition for generations. Connect with Miriam Instagram: @GuardianasdelavidaBecome a Full Spectrum DoulaCurious about birth practices around the world and feeling called to support families through these transformative experiences? Explore the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training, where we approach birth work through a global, culturally curious, full-spectrum lens. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and share this episode with a birth worker, midwife, doula, or someone who loves learning about birth traditions around the world. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  7. 16 Sept

    Wombs of the World Mentorship Episode: Building a NICU Doula Practice with Sammy

    What happens when a rocket scientist becomes a doula and discovers an overlooked place where families desperately need support? In this first of its kind episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte sits down with Sammy for a 1:1 mentorship session to talk about her journey from rocket science into birth work, her experience completing the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training, and her growing focus on supporting families navigating the NICU. Together, they explore what NICU postpartum doula care can look like, the challenges of building sustainable services for NICU families, and the persistence sometimes required to advocate within complex medical systems. Their conversation also reaches beyond the NICU into traditional medicine, maternal mental health, adverse childhood experiences, secure attachment, and the many ways doulas can support the whole person during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In this episode, we explore: Sammy's journey from rocket scientist to birth workerHer experience with the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula TrainingWhy NICU families need more postpartum supportThe realities of providing doula care within and around the NICUAdvocacy and navigating complex healthcare systemsCreating sustainable NICU doula servicesTraditional medicine and holistic approaches to birth workAdverse childhood experiences and postpartum healthSecure attachment and maternal mental healthUsing social media to reach families who need support At its heart, this conversation is about finding the places where care is missing and having the courage, creativity, and persistence to help fill those gaps. Connect with SammyWebsite: tranquilapostpartum.com Instagram: @tranquila.postpartum Become a Full Spectrum DoulaSammy's own journey into birth work began with the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training. If you're feeling called to support families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, loss, and beyond, you can explore the training here: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining Support Our SponsorsMeet the organizations supporting the Wombs of the World Podcast: SILVERETTE | silveretteusa.com If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and share this episode with someone who might be feeling the call to birth work. Follow Wombs of the World: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

  8. 9 Sept

    What Korea Can Teach Us About Postpartum Care with Julia Kim from Sanhu House

    What if postpartum care were treated as an essential part of birth rather than an afterthought? In this episode of the Wombs of the World Podcast, Charlotte explores the cultural significance of postpartum care in Korea and what different models of maternal care can teach us about supporting families after birth with Julia Grace Kim from Sanhu House. The conversation looks at Korea's postpartum care centers and the traditions that helped inspire Sanhu House, including the journey of building a postpartum care business and eventually pivoting from a hotel-based model to providing care within the home. Together, they explore how traditional postpartum wisdom can be adapted across cultures without becoming one-size-fits-all, and what may be lost when pregnancy, birth, and postpartum become increasingly medicalized and disconnected from generational knowledge and community. This episode explores: Postpartum care traditions in KoreaWhat postpartum care centers can teach us about supporting new mothersBuilding and adapting a culturally informed postpartum care modelTraditional wisdom alongside modern medical careHypermedicalization and its impact on maternal healthGenerational knowledge and culturally responsive careWomen caring for women and the power of community-level preventionHow birth workers can help influence broader cultural and policy changeThe personal journeys behind creating new models of maternal care At its heart, this conversation challenges us to imagine postpartum differently: not as a period mothers should simply "get through," but as a major transition deserving intentional care, rest, nourishment, community, and support. Connect With Our GuestSanhu House: https://www.sanhuhouse.com/ Instagram: @ Sanhuhouse Become a DoulaWant to be part of changing how we care for people through birth and postpartum? Explore the Wombs of the World Full Spectrum Doula Training, designed to prepare birth workers to provide compassionate, culturally responsive support across the reproductive journey. Learn more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/doulatraining Support Our SponsorsIf you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to the Wombs of the World Podcast wherever you're listening and share this episode with someone who believes we can do postpartum care differently. Follow us: @wombsoftheworld Explore more: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com

About

Culture is dynamic, birth is universal. The Wombs of the World Podcast brings together doulas, midwives, parents, and birthworkers from across the globe to explore how we give birth, how we honor mothers, and how we heal communities. Hosted by Charlotte Brielle, founder of Wombs of the World, this series weaves stories of ceremony and medicine, traditional midwifery and modern maternal health, grief and joy, activism and everyday care. Whether you are a doula in training, a parent preparing for birth, or simply curious about how birth reflects society, these conversations invite you to learn, reflect, and reclaim the wisdom of birth.

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