Open to Life

Melanie Salazar
  • 4.5 (8)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Open to Life is a podcast at the crossroads of body literacy and the pro-life movement. Hosted by Melanie Salazar, a Chicana and mother, each episode explores real conversations at the intersection of natural family planning, unexpected pregnancies, motherhood, and the dignity of the preborn. With a vision of ending abortion through deeper respect for the female body, this show champions a future where true progress means recognizing the power of our fertility, and as a result: honoring new life as a gift.

  1. 27 | The Sanctified Womb: Fertility, Childbearing, and Family Life with Orthodox Christian Khouria Cathryn (Should Christians NOT eat our baby's placenta?)

    3D AGO

    27 | The Sanctified Womb: Fertility, Childbearing, and Family Life with Orthodox Christian Khouria Cathryn (Should Christians NOT eat our baby's placenta?)

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Melanie Salazar speaks with Katherine, the author of The Sanctified Womb, about her journey into motherhood, faith, and women's health. Katherine shares her personal experiences with fertility, birth, and the challenges women face in navigating these topics within the church. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's body, the role of faith in motherhood, and the need for more resources that support women in their fertility journeys. Katherine's insights aim to empower women to make informed choices and embrace the beauty of motherhood. Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠ My favorite travel credit cardConnect with Cathryn: https://www.thesanctifiedwomb.com/ Keywords: motherhood, fertility, faith, women's health, natural family planning, church, pregnancy, postpartum, sanctified womb, Katherine

    57 min
  2. 26 | The Catholic Church wants you to have a GREAT SEX LIFE!!! (In marriage!) with Ellen Holloway of Charting Toward Intimacy

    JAN 30

    26 | The Catholic Church wants you to have a GREAT SEX LIFE!!! (In marriage!) with Ellen Holloway of Charting Toward Intimacy

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Ellen Holloway discusses her journey into Catholic sex and intimacy education, emphasizing the importance of understanding female anatomy and pleasure. She shares her personal experiences with sex and intimacy, the transition from natural family planning (NFP) to intimacy coaching, and the significance of church teachings in guiding couples towards fulfilling relationships. Ellen also explores the connection between sex and spirituality, the practical applications of Theology of the Body, and offers advice for young mothers and couples navigating their intimacy. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the role of rules in relationships and how they can enhance the experience of love and intimacy.Connect with Ellen: https://vinesinfullbloom.com/ Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠ My favorite travel credit card Keywords: Catholic, sex education, intimacy, NFP, female anatomy, church teachings, Theology of the Body, marriage, spirituality, relationships

    40 min
  3. 25 | The NFP Pharmacist on Body Literacy and Women’s Health with Emily Kirkwold

    JAN 16

    25 | The NFP Pharmacist on Body Literacy and Women’s Health with Emily Kirkwold

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Melanie Salazar interviews Emily Kirkwold, a pharmacist and advocate for Natural Family Planning (NFP). They discuss Emily's journey to becoming an NFP pharmacist, the misconceptions surrounding NFP, and the importance of body literacy in women's health. Emily shares her insights on the nuances of birth control, the empowerment that comes from understanding one's body, and the impact of NFP on unexpected pregnancies. The conversation also touches on Emily's current focus on family and her hopes for the future of women's health advocacy. Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠ My favorite travel credit cardConnect with Emily: nfppharmacist.com/

    42 min
  4. 24 | Looking back at 2025 and Stepping into 2026: My Vision Boards!

    JAN 1

    24 | Looking back at 2025 and Stepping into 2026: My Vision Boards!

    In this episode, Melanie reflects on her experiences and achievements in 2025, sharing insights from her vision board, including travel, personal growth, and the launch of her podcast. She discusses the challenges of motherhood, her pro-life activism, and her journey towards self-care and mental health. Looking ahead to 2026, she outlines her goals for personal and professional development, including fundraising for her pro-life work, language learning, and nurturing her family life. Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFEFind healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠. Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFFBuild a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠My favorite travel credit cardKeywords: vision board, personal growth, pro-life, motherhood, language learning, podcasting, fundraising, self-care, activism, spirituality

    51 min

  5. 11/08/2025

    23 | A New Chapter for Me—and for Open to Life

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Melanie Salazar shares her journey of moving to a new neighborhood in San Francisco, reflecting on her pro-life work, personal struggles, and aspirations for the future. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with her advocacy work, her experiences in doula training, and her desire to build a supportive community. As she prepares for a break, she expresses hope for the future and plans for upcoming episodes in 2026. Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠My favorite travel credit card

    26 min
  6. 22 | Find DELIGHT in Sex and Marriage w/ Catholic Moral Theologian Sarah Bartel

    10/24/2025

    22 | Find DELIGHT in Sex and Marriage w/ Catholic Moral Theologian Sarah Bartel

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Melanie Salazar interviews Sarah Bartel, a Catholic moral theologian and sex and marriage coach. They discuss her journey into moral theology, the challenges of balancing motherhood and ministry, and misconceptions about Catholic teachings on marriage and sexuality, including marital debt. The conversation highlights the role of body literacy, fertility awareness, and Natural Family Planning (NFP) in fostering intimacy and healthy marriages. Together, they explore the dignity of women, the need for healing in embracing sexuality, and practical steps for cultivating joy, communication, and openness about sex within the Catholic community. Check out Sarah's ministry at canafeast.com 10 / 10 I DO RECOMMEND her course My Delight for Catholic Wives (and brides-to-be) Listen to Sarah's My Delight Podcast Follow Sarah on Instagram @canafeast Resources mentioned in the episode: Helpful book guides for Catholics to start talking to your children about sex by Julia Sadusky Ministry to help you heal from the obligation sex mentality Bare MarriageFREE Online Catholic Marriage Workshop The Little Way of MarriagePope Paul VI's Encyclical Humane Vitae Pope John Paul II's Encyclical Mulieris Dignitatem Pope John Paul II's Encyclical Evangelium VitaeSupport the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠My favorite travel credit card

    1h 48m

  7. 10/10/2025

    21 | Pro-Life Work Abroad, Life Updates, and My Thoughts on Charlie Kirk (Requiescat In Pace)

    In this episode, Melanie Salazar shares personal updates about her family, including her son's development and her recent travels for pro-life advocacy. She discusses her experiences in various countries, highlighting the challenges of promoting pro-life messages abroad. Additionally, she delves into her journey in fertility education and holistic health, exploring her training in natural family planning and doula work. Melanie reflects on her cultural identity as a minority in pro-life spaces and shares her thoughts on the recent death of Charlie Kirk, addressing the complexities of gun violence and mental health in society. Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠ My favorite travel credit card

    45 min

  8. 09/26/2025

    20 | Why Protestants Should be Anti-Contraception with Cassidy Shooltz

    In this episode of the Open to Life podcast, Cassidy, a passionate pro-life advocate, discusses the moral implications of contraception and its impact on society. She shares her personal journey and the importance of viewing children as blessings rather than burdens. The conversation explores biblical perspectives on fertility, the connection between pro-life advocacy and anti-contraception stances, and the cultural attitudes that have shifted negatively towards family size. Cassidy emphasizes the need for churches to address these issues and encourages couples to consider natural family planning as a means of understanding their bodies and embracing the gift of life. Check out Cassidy's blog at letmylifebealight.com/ Check out her pro-life website embryoadvocates.com/ Connect with her on Instagram @cassidyelaine99 Connect with her on Twitter / X @cassidyelaine99 Further reading recommendations: Godly Seed—American Evangelicals Confront Birth Control by Alan CarlsonDispelling the Myths of Abortion History by Joseph W. DellapennaThe End of Woman: How Smashing the Patriarchy Has Destroyed Us by Carrie GressListen to The Contraception Pod (10 / 10 I DO RECOMMEND!!!)Support the podcast: Learn menstrual cycle, period, and fertility education for Catholics of all ages and stages at ⁠Pearl and Thistle⁠ Get 15% OFF the ⁠TempDrop⁠ with my code AFOPENTOLIFE Find healing after a traumatic birth in ⁠The Dwelling Place⁠. Learn more at ⁠Loretto Wellness⁠.  Immerse Yourself In All Things Pregnancy, Home Birth, and Postpartum from a Natural Christian Perspective through ⁠Embrace Birth Journey⁠ Radical Birth Education: How To Have a Natural Birth — Self Paced Program. Use code MELANIE7116 for 5% OFF Build a ⁠toxin-free baby registry⁠ My favorite travel credit card Takeaways: Contraception is a moral issue that affects everyone, not just Catholics.Many Protestants have adopted contraception without examining it through scripture.Children are often viewed as burdens rather than blessings in some Christian communities.The Contraception Pod highlighted the collaboration between Catholics and Protestants on this issue.Scripture emphasizes God's involvement in fertility and the value of children.Contraceptive mentality can lead to a disconnect between sex and the potential for pregnancy.Cultural attitudes towards family size have shifted negatively in recent decades.The pro-life movement is interconnected with the anti-contraception stance.There is hope for a cultural shift away from contraception towards valuing life.Natural family planning can empower women and couples to understand their bodies better. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Pro-Life Advocacy and Contraception 01:38 Cassidy's Personal Journey into Pro-Life Activism 05:50 The Contraception Pod: A Collaborative Effort 06:57 Biblical and Theological Perspectives on Contraception 12:39 Addressing Common Arguments for Contraception 16:14 Stewardship and the Ethics of Contraception 20:19 Consequences of Embracing Contraception 26:02 Jesus as Lord Over Our Fertility 28:29 The Gift of Self in Marriage 30:08 Mindsets and Trust in God 31:39 The Sanctifying Nature of Motherhood 33:55 Consequences of Embracing Contraception 39:55 Pro-Life Movement and Contraception 49:54 Cultural Call to Action for Churches 55:20 The Weight of Abortion in Faith Communities 56:39 Rethinking Contraception Through Scripture 59:53 Building a Unified Movement Against Contraception 01:01:26 Understanding Natural Family Planning 01:06:12 The Theology of Life and Contraception 01:08:38 Signs of Hope in Pro-Life Advocacy 01:13:43 Advice for Unexpected Pregnancies and Contraception Choices 01:18:08 Resources for Further Exploration

    1h 22m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Open to Life is a podcast at the crossroads of body literacy and the pro-life movement. Hosted by Melanie Salazar, a Chicana and mother, each episode explores real conversations at the intersection of natural family planning, unexpected pregnancies, motherhood, and the dignity of the preborn. With a vision of ending abortion through deeper respect for the female body, this show champions a future where true progress means recognizing the power of our fertility, and as a result: honoring new life as a gift.

Information

  • Creator
    Melanie Salazar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Melanie Salazar
  • Show Website
    Open to Life