Rise: A Christian Birth Podcast

Mannah
  • 5.0 (7)
  • CHRISTIANITY

Rise: A Christian Birth Podcast is for pregnant Christian women who want to prepare for birth with confidence, wisdom, and trust in the Lord - especially if you desire a natural or unmedicated birth but feel unsure how to get there. Hosted by Christian doula Mannah Liu of Rise Birth Services, this podcast offers encouragement, education, and biblical truth for birth without fear. You’ll learn how fear impacts labor, what’s happening in your body during birth, and practical tools to cope with pain, alongside Scripture-grounded perspective, prayer, and honest conversations about real-life birth. Whether you’re a first-time mom, feeling torn between faith and fear, or hoping to approach labor with more peace and clarity, Rise will help you prepare your heart, mind, and body for birth so you can walk into labor informed, supported, and anchored in God’s presence.

  1. 14. How One Home Birth Led to a Georgia Birth Freedom Movement | Lainey Stancil, Founder of Peach State Birth Coalition

    1D AGO

    14. How One Home Birth Led to a Georgia Birth Freedom Movement | Lainey Stancil, Founder of Peach State Birth Coalition

    Send a text In this episode, I’m joined by Lainey Stancil, founder of the Peach State Birth Coalition, a Georgia-based nonprofit focused on maternal health education, community support, and birth freedom. Lainey shares the story of how her own birth experience completely changed the direction of her life. After feeling dismissed by a provider during pregnancy, she switched to midwifery care and planned a home birth...an experience that ultimately led her to start a nonprofit advocating for maternal health education and midwife access across Georgia. We talk about: • The moment Lainey realized her provider wasn’t listening  • How midwifery care changed her experience of pregnancy and birth  • The difference between hospital-based midwives and direct-entry midwives  • Why midwife licensure matters for access to care in Georgia  • The connection between surrender, trust, and physiological birth  • How one mom’s birth grew into a statewide birth nonprofit organization Lainey also shares the story of her water birth and the mindset that helped her navigate labor with confidence and peace. Whether you are exploring home birth, curious about midwifery care, or passionate about improving maternal health in your community, this conversation offers an encouraging look at how one experience can grow into something much bigger. Lainey is also hosting the Peach State Birth Expo, a family-friendly event connecting expecting families with birth professionals and maternal health resources. Tickets and vendor information can be found through the Peach State Birth Coalition website. If you are interested in Lainey's birth doula services, check out her website here. ... Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    46 min
  2. 13. Top 6 Myths About Natural Birth (And the Truth for Christian Moms)

    MAR 9

    13. Top 6 Myths About Natural Birth (And the Truth for Christian Moms)

    Send a text There are many misconceptions about natural birth in modern culture. Some of these myths come from media portrayals of labor, some come from medicalized birth culture, and some even appear wrapped in spiritual language. In this episode, we walk through six of the most common myths about natural birth and gently replace them with truth grounded in physiology, history, and biblical wisdom. This conversation is not about creating pressure or suggesting that one type of birth is morally superior to another. Instead, the goal is to help pregnant Christian moms make informed decisions from a place of wisdom, peace, and understanding. In this episode, we discuss: • Why we believe that only certain women are “strong enough” for unmedicated birth  • Why natural birth is not a modern trend  • The truth about pain in labor and why some women choose to avoid medication  • Why natural birth is not automatically “better” in every situation  • Non-medicated pain relief methods during labor  • Why trusting God and preparing for birth go hand-in-hand Birth is not about proving toughness or earning a badge of honor. It’s about understanding how God designed the body to work, recognizing the cultural influences shaping our views of birth, and making thoughtful decisions rooted in wisdom rather than fear. Whether you are planning a medicated or unmedicated birth, this episode will help you think more clearly about the choices available to you. Scripture referenced: Isaiah 40:11 “He will tend his flock like a shepherd;  he will gather the lambs in his arms;  he will carry them in his bosom,  and gently lead those that are with young.” Psalm 139:13–14 “For you formed my inward parts;  you knitted me together in my mother's womb.  I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.  Wonderful are your works;  my soul knows it very well.” Proverbs 18:13 "If one gives an answer before he hears,     it is his folly and shame." Proverbs 18:15 "An intelligent heart acquires knowledge,     and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge." Ecclesiastes 3:1 "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:" Micah 6:8 "He has told you, O man, what is good;     and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness,     and to walk humbly with your God?" Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength,     a very present help in trouble." Proverbs 22:3 "The prudent sees danger and hides himself,     but the simple go on and suffer for it." James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    13 min
  3. 12. What Are Necessary and Unnecessary Birth Interventions?

    MAR 2

    12. What Are Necessary and Unnecessary Birth Interventions?

    Send a text You may have heard the phrase necessary vs. unnecessary interventions in birth. But what does “necessary” really mean? In this episode, we break down: What the word intervention actually meansThe difference between a true medical emergency and a normal physiological processWhy speeding up labor isn’t always medically indicatedHow common interventions (like Pitocin or artificial rupture of membranes) can affect hormones and labor progressionHow to make informed, autonomous decisions using benefits, risks, and alternativesBirth is not a medical emergency by default. It is a normal physiological process and wise stewardship means discerning when intervention is truly needed and when it’s simply routine. Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    13 min
  4. 11. Women’s Hormones, Thyroid Health & Functional Medicine with Dr. Gabrielle Wesemeyer

    FEB 23

    11. Women’s Hormones, Thyroid Health & Functional Medicine with Dr. Gabrielle Wesemeyer

    Send a text In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Gabrielle Wesemeyer, Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, to talk about women’s hormones, thyroid health, stress, cortisol, and simple lifestyle shifts that can make a major impact. Gabrielle shares her personal health journey, including medically induced menopause during chemotherapy, and how that experience led her to dive deep into women’s hormonal health. We discuss: Why your menstrual cycle is a “vital sign” of overall healthBasal body temperature and cervical mucus as hormone indicatorsThe 3 S’s of hormone healthCycle syncing workouts for better hormone balanceHormone support during pregnancy and postpartumThyroid dysfunction, stress, and gut health connectionsCortisol mythsBirth control misconceptions and reconnecting with your cycleWhy women are not meant to function like men hormonallyThis conversation simplifies complex hormone topics and brings it back to the foundations: sleep, nourishment, stress regulation, and working with your body instead of against it. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by hormone advice online, this episode will help you refocus on what actually matters. Connect with Dr. Gabrielle Wesemeyer: Alliance Spine and Physical Medicine (Woodstock, GA)Follow Dr. Gabrielle on: InstagramTikTokJust getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    43 min
  5. 10. Why Understanding Hospital Protocols Matters in Any Natural Birth

    FEB 16

    10. Why Understanding Hospital Protocols Matters in Any Natural Birth

    Send a text If you're planning a natural birth in the hospital, understanding hospital policies and protocols is one of the most important things you can do to prepare. In this episode, we talk about: Why “going with the flow” without preparation can increase stress and interventionsHow hospital default policies influence birth (IVs, monitoring, movement, food, cervical checks, newborn procedures, and more)Why understanding routine vs. medical necessity changes everythingThe powerful question to ask your provider that reveals their birth philosophyHow to use your birth plan as a communication tool Why your husband or support person must understand your preferences tooHow preparation reduces fear and why that matters physiologicallyThe role of prayer, discernment, and flexibility in birth decisionsHospitals have a default flow. If you don’t intentionally speak into that flow, it will carry you along with it. This episode is not about being combative; it’s about being informed, calm, and confident. Preparation allows you to advocate respectfully, reduce fear, protect your oxytocin flow, and approach your birth with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever felt nervous about asking questions or worried about being “too picky,” this episode is for you. Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    15 min
  6. 9. Perinatal Mental Health, Birth Trauma & Support with Paige Head of Crescent Counseling & Consulting LLC

    FEB 9

    9. Perinatal Mental Health, Birth Trauma & Support with Paige Head of Crescent Counseling & Consulting LLC

    Send a text In this episode, I’m joined by Paige Head, licensed therapist and owner of Crescent Counseling & Consulting, to talk honestly about postpartum mental health, birth trauma, expectations, and the kind of support moms actually need. Paige shares her own story of traumatic birth, postpartum depression and anxiety, and how God used those experiences to shape her calling to serve women in every phase of motherhood...from trying to conceive to postpartum and beyond. We discuss: Why unmet expectations can deeply impact mental health in pregnancy and postpartumHow trauma is defined by nervous system response, not just medical eventsThe difference between “baby blues” and postpartum mood disordersWhy support (or lack of it) can change everythingHow to ask better questions when supporting new momsWhy accepting help is not failureHow faith, connection, and community play a role in healingThis conversation is compassionate, grounded, and deeply validating for any mom who has ever wondered, “Am I allowed to feel this way?” Resources Mentioned: Crescent Counseling & ConsultingInstagram: @crescent.ccllcFacebook: Crescent Counseling & ConsultingPostpartum Support International (PSI): https://www.postpartum.netFind a Perinatal Mental Health Provider (PMHC): https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/provider-directory/The Climb – North Georgia (June 7, Fowler Park, Cumming, GA)The Climb North Georgia on FacebookCharlotte Ramberg - Cherokee Rose Counseling and ConsultingVictoria Hefton - Lillidale Designs CoJust getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth  Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    48 min
  7. 8. Which Hospital in Atlanta is Best for Natural Birth?

    FEB 2

    8. Which Hospital in Atlanta is Best for Natural Birth?

    Send a text Expectant parents often ask, “What’s the best hospital in Atlanta for a natural birth?” hoping for a clear, reassuring answer. But in this episode, we unpack why that question may be oversimplifying something far more complex. I share why I don’t rank or recommend specific hospitals, even though some have better reputations than others, and what actually matters more than the hospital name on your chart. Drawing from real client experiences and my observations as a Christian birthworker, we talk about why two people can give birth in the same hospital and have completely different experiences. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why hospitals aren’t monolithic and why reputation alone can be misleadingHow putting too much stock in finding the "right" hospital can actually work against youHow provider philosophy, nurse support, and unit conditions impact laborWhy preparation (mental, emotional, spiritual, and educational) matters everywhereIf you’re planning a natural birth in the Atlanta area (or anywhere) and feeling pressure to “pick the right hospital,” this episode will help you reframe the decision with clarity, stewardship, and peace. Scripture referenced:  John 16:33 Proverbs 4 Luke 14:28-29 Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    12 min
  8. 7. What Happens Right After Birth: 6 Things No One Tells You

    JAN 26

    7. What Happens Right After Birth: 6 Things No One Tells You

    Send a text Most birth preparation focuses on labor and pushing but very few parents are truly prepared for what happens immediately after the baby is born. In this episode, we walk through the first minutes and hours after birth and talk about what is normal, what is routine, and where you may have options. For many moms, this phase feels confusing or overwhelming...not because anything went wrong, but because no one explained what to expect. This is a practical, educational episode covering: Why birth doesn’t end when the baby is bornThe physiology and importance of immediate skin-to-skin contactWhat happens during the delivery of the placenta (the third stage of labor)Common sensations after birth, including shaking, bleeding, and exhaustionFundal checks and why they’re doneNewborn procedures and how to protect the “golden hour”The emotional whiplash that can happen after birth (and why it’s normal)The goal of this episode is not to create fear, but to replace uncertainty with understanding so you can prepare for this phase of birth with the same intentionality you bring to labor. Resources & Research Mentioned: Cochrane Review: Strong evidence supports skin-to-skin contact after birth WHO: Immediate skin-to-skin care for newborn survival UNICEF: Research on skin-to-skin contact Evidence Based Birth: The third stage of labor and Pitocin Just getting started? Use my free pregnancy and birth research checklist to jumpstart your learning. Free roadmap to planning a natural birth: 10 Steps to Natural Birth Want to feel more confident making decisions in labor? Join the Autonomous Birth Workshop to learn how to advocate for yourself and navigate birth with clarity. Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards For encouragement and truth as you prepare for birth, download my Free Scripture-Based Affirmation Cards Connect with me on Instagram: @rise.birth

    16 min
See All (15)

Trailer

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Rise: A Christian Birth Podcast is for pregnant Christian women who want to prepare for birth with confidence, wisdom, and trust in the Lord - especially if you desire a natural or unmedicated birth but feel unsure how to get there. Hosted by Christian doula Mannah Liu of Rise Birth Services, this podcast offers encouragement, education, and biblical truth for birth without fear. You’ll learn how fear impacts labor, what’s happening in your body during birth, and practical tools to cope with pain, alongside Scripture-grounded perspective, prayer, and honest conversations about real-life birth. Whether you’re a first-time mom, feeling torn between faith and fear, or hoping to approach labor with more peace and clarity, Rise will help you prepare your heart, mind, and body for birth so you can walk into labor informed, supported, and anchored in God’s presence.

Information