Birth, Baby! | Guidance for Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum, and Parenting

Birth, Baby! Podcast
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Welcome to Birth, Baby! Podcast, your go-to podcast hosted by Ciarra Morgan, a seasoned birth doula, childbirth educator, doula agency owner, and birth doula trainer from Austin, Texas. Episodes aim to give you invaluable insights and expert advice to help you navigate the intricate journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Through candid interviews, personal anecdotes, and evidence-backed content, this podcast aims to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you’re seeking guidance on prenatal care, birth planning, or navigating the early days with your newborn, Birth, Baby! Podcast has you covered. Tune in to and embark on your parenthood journey with confidence.

  1. Breaking the Cycle: A Story of Pregnancy, Birth, and Motherhood After Childhood Trauma

    2D AGO

    Breaking the Cycle: A Story of Pregnancy, Birth, and Motherhood After Childhood Trauma

    Shamrea Marquell joins host Ciarra Morgan to share her journey of motherhood, from her initial reluctance to have children to her eventual pregnancy and the challenges she faced during and after childbirth. She discusses her experiences with pregnancy and the mental health challenges she encountered postpartum from the perspective of a person that experienced childhood trauma. Shamrea emphasizes the importance of self-identity and healing through motherhood, and how her experiences have shaped her as a person and a mother. Connect with Shamrea at www.instagram.com/wickedly_authentic Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    26 min
  2. Prenatal Yoga and the Nervous System: Preparing the Body for Birth

    FEB 10

    Prenatal Yoga and the Nervous System: Preparing the Body for Birth

    Lindsay DiCello, founder of Austin Yoga Lounge, joins host Ciarra Morgan to discuss the unique aspects of prenatal yoga and its significance for expecting mothers. She highlights the differences between prenatal and traditional yoga, emphasizing the importance of tailored practices that address the physiological changes during pregnancy. The discussion also covers the impact of prenatal yoga on labor duration, recovery, and mental health, as well as the role of breathwork and community support in fostering a positive experience for mothers-to-be. Referenced study: https://www.imrpress.com/journal/ceog/52/4/10.31083/CEOG26130 Lindsey DiCello is the founder of Austin Yoga Lounge, a studio in Central Austin dedicated exclusively to pregnancy, postpartum, and early motherhood. Through prenatal yoga, postpartum recovery, birth preparation, and community gatherings, she has created a space where mothers are supported not only in movement, but in the emotional and transformational experience of becoming a parent. After recovering from an eating disorder in her teens, Lindsey understands what it feels like to live in a body that no longer feels like home. Yoga became the bridge back to trust, and that same philosophy now shapes every class and community space at Austin Yoga Lounge. Lindsey is an E-RYT 200 through Woodstock Yoga Lounge, holds her RPYT through Arhanta Yoga Academy, and is an NASM certified Pre and Postnatal Fitness Specialist. She is also a DONA trained birth doula and supports families both in the studio and at the bedside. Website: https://www.austinyogalounge.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinyogalounge/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@austinyogalounge Coupon code for listeners: BIRTHBABY for 10% off their first purchase. Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    32 min
  3. Do You Need to Pump and Dump? Understanding Alcohol and Breastfeeding

    FEB 3

    Do You Need to Pump and Dump? Understanding Alcohol and Breastfeeding

    Ciarra is joined by Jessica Semar, IBCLC, to discuss the complexities of alcohol consumption during breastfeeding. They address common myths, such as the necessity of pumping and dumping after drinking, and provide insights into how alcohol metabolizes in the body and its effects on breast milk. The discussion also touches on societal judgments surrounding breastfeeding parents who consume alcohol and the importance of evidence-based information for making informed choices. Jessica Semar is a board-certified lactation consultant and mom of three boys who has been helping families navigate their feeding journeys since 2017. She supports parents through all aspects of lactation care and has expertise in oral function and ties, breast and bottle refusal, NICU transitions, induced lactation, low milk production, extended breastfeeding, and weaning. Jessica is passionate about providing care that’s evidence-based, inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming, and tailored to each family—no matter how they choose to feed their babies. Website: www.itsmorethanmilk.com IG: @‌jessica.semar.ibclc Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    17 min
  4. Doula Commentary About the Free Birth Society Controversy

    JAN 27

    Doula Commentary About the Free Birth Society Controversy

    Host Ciarra Morgan and special guest Jes Gannon engage in a candid discussion about the controversial Free Birth Society and its implications for expectant mothers. They reflect on their personal experiences and opinions regarding unassisted births, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and the potential risks involved. The conversation is sparked by a recent podcast series from The Guardian that investigates the Free Birth Society, prompting Ciarra and Jes to share their insights and concerns about the community's practices and the impact on vulnerable women. They explore the balance between autonomy in childbirth and the necessity of medical oversight, highlighting the dangers of misinformation and the emotional toll on families affected by tragic outcomes. Link to The Birth Keepers: The Guardian Investigates podcast about the Free Birth Society investigation: https://open.spotify.com/show/57nEonC68q5vgEi6a1k398?si=3ec36e20849643af Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    52 min
  5. A Mother’s Story of Escaping Domestic Violence and Navigating a High-Risk Pregnancy

    JAN 20

    A Mother’s Story of Escaping Domestic Violence and Navigating a High-Risk Pregnancy

    Jennifer Lucas joins host Ciarra Morgan to share her powerful and deeply personal birth story. She shares what it was like to navigate pregnancy, survival, and motherhood while fleeing an abusive relationship. She discusses leaving an abusive relationship while pregnant, navigating a high-risk pregnancy and complex medical decisions, the emotional reality of having a baby in the NICU, and parenting and advocating for your child as a single mother. This conversation is raw, honest, and ultimately rooted in resilience — a reminder that safety, support, and new beginnings are possible, even when the path is incredibly hard. Jennifer Lucas is a mother of two girls, 3 years old and 6 months old as of January 2026.  When she found out she was pregnant with her second child, she was a stay-at-home mom in the process of fleeing an abusive relationship.  She spent her first months of pregnancy in a domestic violence shelter before picking her career back up as a Special Education Teacher and making a fresh start.  Before she could completely regain her footing, however, complications were found on her 20-week ultrasound. After extensive testing, her baby was diagnosed with a severe growth restriction in the 1st percentile. She was hospitalized soon after for monitoring, and her baby was born at 32 weeks, spending 9 weeks in the NICU.  When she's not working or caring for her children, she's busy writing a book about her experiences, with the hopes of helping and empowering other women and moms in the same position. Facebook: https://facebook.com/jennlu512 Instagram: @‌jennlu512 Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    37 min
  6. A Discussion About Why Your Doula Doesn't Offer Refunds

    JAN 16

    A Discussion About Why Your Doula Doesn't Offer Refunds

    In this episode, Ciarra Morgan discusses the reasons behind the no-refund policy for doula services, emphasizing the commitment and business aspects of being a doula. She explains the various factors that contribute to the cost of doula services, including prenatal meetings, on-call time, and the importance of honoring contracts between clients and doulas. Ciarra also touches on postpartum care and the implications of canceling services. Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    8 min
  7. The Influence and Impact of the Free Birth Society

    JAN 13

    The Influence and Impact of the Free Birth Society

    Leonora Colen, a home birth midwife, joins Ciarra Morgan to talk about the recent news of the Free Birth Society. They delve into the topic of free birth, exploring its definition, origins, and the rise of the Free Birth Society. They discuss the implications of free birth, including the trauma some women experience in medical settings, the role of midwives and doulas, and the importance of informed consent. The conversation also touches on the influence of social media on birth choices and the emotional impact of these decisions on parents. Ultimately, the speakers advocate for informed decision-making in the context of childbirth. Contact Leonora Colen Website: www.HomeBirthHoney.com IG: @‌Homebirthhoneyatx Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    58 min
  8. Beyond the 6-Week Mark: Why Postpartum Can Last Years

    JAN 6

    Beyond the 6-Week Mark: Why Postpartum Can Last Years

    Laura Sandoval-Sweeney is back as a guest to discuss the postpartum period after birth. In today’s fast-paced world, the postpartum period is often misunderstood and underestimated. Many believe that six weeks is sufficient for recovery, but the truth is far more complex. In this episode, Ciarra dives into a compelling discussion with Laura Sandoval Sweeney, a mental health therapist, to explore the realities of postpartum experiences that can extend well beyond that six-week milestone. Laura (pronounced Loud-ah) Sandoval-Sweeney is a mental health therapist and owner of Laura Sandoval Therapy in Austin, Texas. With over a decade of experience as a therapist, social worker, and educator, Laura now specializes in supporting high-achieving, anxious moms—particularly those navigating postpartum, trauma, and burnout. Known for her warm, no-BS approach, she helps moms feel more grounded, present, and connected in their everyday lives. Outside of the therapy room, she’s raising a fierce, sensitive toddler and sharing candid, relatable content on motherhood and mental health at @‌laurasandovaltherapy on Instagram. Website: www.laura-sandoval-therapy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurasandovaltherapy/ Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE. For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE. Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE.  Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com Follow on Facebook Follow on Instagram The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk. Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly. Ciarra Morgan: www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com www.BirthBabyAcademy.com Samantha Kelly: www.beautifullymadedc.com

    23 min
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Welcome to Birth, Baby! Podcast, your go-to podcast hosted by Ciarra Morgan, a seasoned birth doula, childbirth educator, doula agency owner, and birth doula trainer from Austin, Texas. Episodes aim to give you invaluable insights and expert advice to help you navigate the intricate journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Through candid interviews, personal anecdotes, and evidence-backed content, this podcast aims to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you’re seeking guidance on prenatal care, birth planning, or navigating the early days with your newborn, Birth, Baby! Podcast has you covered. Tune in to and embark on your parenthood journey with confidence.

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