Send us a text A hurricane on the horizon, contractions five minutes apart, and a quick detour through a Chick-fil-A drive-thru—Erin’s first birth story doesn’t read like any class manual. What followed was a long labor, Pitocin without pain relief when an epidural failed, and a body contorting into whatever position brought a sliver of relief. When the anesthesiologist finally got it right and her waters were broken, everything shifted—one push and Kylie arrived. Together we unpack why that experience felt traumatic, how back labor can hint at a sunny-side-up baby, and why instinctive movement often becomes the most powerful tool you have. The second time was a different world. Early March 2020, open triage bays, “flu” precautions that turned out to be COVID, and a race to get an epidural before the cutoff. Her water broke at home, the pressure told the real story, and a few pushes later, Kason was here. We compare what changed—baby position, timing, hospital flow, mindset—and explore the myth that a smooth birth equals success while a hard birth equals failure. Birth plans help, but listening to your body, asking for options, and protecting your headspace matter more. We also go deep on postpartum truths: breastfeeding pressure versus low supply, family history that reframes expectations, and the permission to choose formula or donor milk without shame. Erin talks candidly about body image, the relief of having her partner home during lockdown, and how building Bump and Beyond became a lifeline for parents who need more than advice—they need a village. If you’ve ever felt out of control, second-guessed every choice, or wondered whether you did enough, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs reassurance, and leave a review telling us one belief about birth or postpartum you’re ready to let go. Your story can help someone else find theirs. Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be! Coaching offer Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth CoachBasically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike! Support the show Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon! Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.
