Made For Birth; The VBAC Podcast For Birth After Cesarean

Katherine Stephens - Made 4 Birth

Are you a mom planning a VBAC or CBAC and looking for solid support and inspiration? You’re in the right place! Join us each week as we dive into empowering stories, expert advice, and the latest research to help you navigate your birth journey with confidence. From the challenges to the triumphs, I'm here to provide you with the information and encouragement you need to have the birth experience you’ve always dreamed of. Tune in, feel empowered, and remember—you were made for this!

  1. 4d ago

    116- What He Learned About Birth Changed Everything: A Partner’s Perspective with Jacob Dubois

    What happens when a skeptical partner actually starts learning about birth? For Jacob Dubois, it changed everything. In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Jacob, author of Why Home Birth, to talk about birth from a perspective we don’t hear nearly enough: the partner’s. Jacob shares what it was like supporting his wife through homebirth, the fears and questions he had along the way, and how learning more about birth physiology, risk, and the maternity care system completely changed the way he viewed birth. We talk about what partners actually need to know to support the women they love, why education matters just as much for them, and what happens when fear is replaced with understanding. And while Jacob’s story centers around homebirth, this conversation is NOT just for homebirth families. If you’re preparing for a VBAC, HBAC, homebirth, hospital birth—or simply want your partner to understand birth on a deeper level—this is the episode to send them. Because your partner doesn’t have to start out completely on board with your birth choices. But they DO need the opportunity to learn, ask questions, understand the options, and become an informed part of your birth team. 🎧 Send this one to your partner and listen together. What He Learned About Birth Changed Everything: A Partner’s Perspective with Jacob Dubois Connect with Jacob Dubois: 📲 Instagram: @apogee.dad 📖 Get Jacob’s book, Why Home Birth?: How Hospitals Turned Birth into a Medical Procedure — and What the Evidence Actually Shows, on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Home-Birth-hospitals-procedure/dp/B0GQNPBDSZ 🌐 Learn more about Why Home Birth?: https://whyhomebirthbook.com Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  2. Aug 14

    115- More Than Showing Up: The Logistics of Doula Work with Annie Hill

    What does it actually take to be available when a client goes into labor at 2 a.m., on a holiday, or three weeks before her due date? In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Annie Hill, doula trainer and former homebirth midwife, to talk about the side of doula work most people never see. We’re getting into the LOGISTICS—being on call, managing family life and childcare, creating backup systems, setting boundaries, structuring your business, and building a life that actually allows you to show up fully for the families you serve. Because loving birth and wanting to support women is one thing. Building a sustainable career that allows you to keep doing it? That takes a whole different level of intention. If you’re considering hiring a doula, this conversation will give you a new perspective on everything happening behind the scenes to make that support possible. And if you’re considering becoming a doula—or already doing this work—Annie and I are talking about what it really takes to make doula work sustainable for the long haul. Connect with Annie Hill: Bright Blessings Birth Services  Website: www.brightblessings.us Instagram: @bbbs_ar Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  3. Aug 7

    114- Beyond Sleep Training: A Holistic Approach to Baby & Child Sleep with Laura, RN

    Sleep is one of the biggest stressors for new parents—but what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? In this episode of Made for Birth, I’m joined by Laura, RN, founder of Strawberry Moon Sleep, to talk about a holistic approach to infant and child sleep. Instead of focusing on quick fixes or one-size-fits-all methods, we explore what sleep looks like through the lens of biology, development, regulation, and connection. Whether you’re navigating the newborn stage, wondering if your baby’s sleep is “normal,” or trying to support an older child who struggles with sleep, this conversation is full of practical insights that will help you better understand what’s happening beneath the surface. In this episode, we discuss: Why infant sleep is often misunderstoodWhat’s biologically normal for babies and young childrenCommon sleep myths that create unnecessary stress for parentsGentle, holistic ways to support healthy sleepHow a child’s development, nervous system, and environment influence sleepEncouragement for parents who feel exhausted or like they’re doing it “wrong”If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re missing something—or simply need reassurance that you’re not alone—this episode is for you. Connect with Laura: Instagram: @strawberrymoonsleep Website: https://strawberrymoonsleep.com Connect with Made for Birth: Website: https://made4birth.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/made4birth If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent who could use a little more sleep—and a lot more confidence. Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  4. Jun 19

    113- Chiropractic Care, VBAC, and the Whole-Body Approach to Birth with Dr. Alayna Clark

    What does chiropractic care have to do with VBAC, breech babies, shoulder dystocia, and postpartum recovery? A lot more than most women realize. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alayna Clark, a Webster-certified chiropractor specializing in prenatal and pediatric care, to discuss how a whole-body approach to pregnancy can support better birth outcomes. We dive into the role of pelvic function, baby positioning, nervous system regulation, scar tissue, and collaborative care in preparing for birth—especially after cesarean. Dr. Alayna explains why prenatal chiropractic care isn't just about relieving back pain. It's about optimizing how the body moves, functions, and adapts throughout pregnancy so both mom and baby have the best possible environment for birth. We also discuss what Webster Certification actually means, how to find a qualified prenatal chiropractor, why pelvic floor physical therapy matters, and why postpartum care should include both mom and baby. In this episode, you'll learn: • What Webster Certification is—and what it isn't • How chiropractic care can support VBAC preparation • The connection between baby positioning and maternal biomechanics • Why breech babies aren't always "just breech" • Common causes of pubic symphysis pain and pelvic dysfunction • What one-sided contractions may indicate during labor • How chiropractic care and pelvic floor PT work together • Why babies should be evaluated after birth—even when everything seems fine • The impact of vacuum, forceps, and birth trauma on infants • How to build a truly supportive birth team Whether you're planning a VBAC, hoping to optimize fetal positioning, or simply want to better understand the connection between body mechanics and birth, this conversation is packed with practical information. Connect with Dr. Elena Clark: WEBSITE @dralaynaclark If this episode was helpful, please leave a review and share it with a friend preparing for birth. Because birth isn't just about getting through labor—it's about supporting the whole mother and the whole baby. Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  5. Jun 16

    112- The Long-Term Effects of Pregnancy and Birth with Emily Roper

    What if the impact of pregnancy and birth extends far beyond labor day? In this episode of Made for Birth, I sit down with Emily Roper to explore how a baby’s earliest experiences—from life in the womb through birth and the postpartum period—can influence long-term development, nervous system regulation, behavior, learning, and overall health. We discuss the growing understanding of how maternal health, stress, environment, nutrition, and birth experiences may shape a child’s foundation for years to come. This conversation isn’t about creating fear or guilt—it’s about recognizing the incredible opportunity parents have to support their baby’s development from the very beginning. Whether you’re currently pregnant, planning a future pregnancy, or simply curious about the lasting effects of early life experiences, this episode will challenge you to think differently about what it means to prepare for birth. In this episode, we discuss: How development begins long before birthThe connection between pregnancy, birth, and long-term health outcomesThe role of the nervous system in early childhood developmentWhy the postpartum period matters for babies, tooHow parents can support healthy development without striving for perfectionThe importance of informed, intentional decisions during pregnancy and birthAbout Emily Roper Emily Roper is a passionate advocate for maternal and infant wellness with a special interest in the lifelong impact of pregnancy, birth, and early childhood experiences. Through her work, she helps families understand how the earliest environments can influence development, empowering parents with knowledge that supports both informed decision-making and confidence in their parenting journey. 🎙️ Connect with Emily:  earlyrootstherapy.com IG: @earlyroots Find me on IG & Facebook @Made4Birth Remember: Birth is one day, but its effects can ripple through a lifetime. Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  6. Jun 12

    111- Questioning the Standard of Maternity Care with Dr. Stuart Fischbein, MD

    In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Stuart Fischbein to discuss VBAC, informed consent, risk, hospital policies, and the state of modern maternity care. Drawing from more than 40 years in obstetrics, Dr. Stu shares why he believes VBAC is often misunderstood, how fear and liability influence birth decisions, what current guidelines actually say, and what families can do to make informed choices about their care. Whether you’re planning a VBAC, exploring home birth, or simply want to better understand your options, this conversation will challenge you to think critically about the standard of care and what true informed consent looks like. Resources Mentioned: ACOG Guideline 664: Refusal of Medically Recommended Treatment During Pregnancy 🌐 VBAC Facts 🎙️ Evidence Based Birth Podcast with Nicholas Rubashkin, MD, PHD 📖 Why Home Birth by Jacob Dubois 🎙️ Birthing Instincts Podcast 📖 Fearless Pregnancy Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  7. May 29

    110- Why Birth Feels Like an Emergency Even When It Isn't

    Birth can feel like one long emergency—even when it isn't. A provider expresses concern. A test comes back slightly outside the normal range. A recommendation is made. Suddenly, what started as a routine prenatal appointment feels like a crisis. In this episode, we're unpacking why birth so often feels urgent, high-stakes, and scary, even when there is no actual emergency unfolding. You'll learn how hospital culture, risk management, fear, uncertainty, and the language used around birth can shape the way we perceive our options and make decisions. Most importantly, we'll talk about how to stay grounded when emotions are high and how to distinguish between a true emergency and a situation that simply requires thoughtful decision-making. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why concern and danger are not the same thing • How hospital systems are designed to identify risk • The difference between an urgent situation and an emergency • Why modern culture struggles with uncertainty in birth • How fear impacts decision-making • Questions to ask when recommendations are made • How to determine whether you have time to consider your options • How to use the SACRED framework to make informed decisions under pressure Whether you're planning a VBAC, a first birth, a home birth, or a hospital birth, this episode will help you navigate recommendations, stay centered in your values, and approach birth decisions with greater confidence. Because not everything that feels scary is dangerous. Not everything that feels urgent is an emergency. And not every recommendation requires an immediate yes. Connect with Katherine: Website: made4birth.com Instagram: @made4birth If this episode resonated with you, share it with a pregnant friend who feels overwhelmed by all the decisions that come with birth. Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

  8. May 22

    109- Why Culture Is So Afraid of VBAC

    For decades, VBAC has been painted as dangerous, reckless, or “too risky.” But the truth?  The conversation around VBAC is far more nuanced than most women are ever told. In this episode, we’re unpacking why culture is so afraid of VBAC, how birth became increasingly medicalized, and what shifted in the late 90s and early 2000s that dramatically changed the way providers and hospitals approached vaginal birth after cesarean. We’re talking about: • the rise and fall of VBAC support  • the research and policies that changed everything  • how liability culture shaped modern birth care  • why fear spreads faster than nuance  • the difference between individualized risk vs blanket statements  • and why women deserve informed consent — not fear-based counseling This is not an anti-cesarean episode.  And it’s not about convincing every woman to pursue a VBAC. It’s about understanding the history, the culture, the nuance, and why so many women feel caught between fear and autonomy when making birth decisions after cesarean. Because women deserve more than one-size-fits-all answers when making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Join The VBAC Space community Connect with me on Instagram: @made4birth Send me a text if you have episode request. All other questions please email me so I can reply! Support the show Find me on Facebook & Instagram @Made4Birth or visit my website at www.made4birth.com for all the information about my coaching program.

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5
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About

Are you a mom planning a VBAC or CBAC and looking for solid support and inspiration? You’re in the right place! Join us each week as we dive into empowering stories, expert advice, and the latest research to help you navigate your birth journey with confidence. From the challenges to the triumphs, I'm here to provide you with the information and encouragement you need to have the birth experience you’ve always dreamed of. Tune in, feel empowered, and remember—you were made for this!

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