Birth Story: Breaking Anxiety and Embracing Joy with Matthew & Sara
This week’s episode is such a treat because we’ve got a birth story—and not just any birth story—one that includes both mama and dad! Sarah and Matthew share the story of how they prepared (physically, mentally, and emotionally) to bring their baby girl into the world. And you guys…their journey is such a powerful reminder of what intentional preparation, trust, and partnership can look like.
Sarah walks us through her health challenges before pregnancy, how she got her body ready to conceive, what labor looked like over several days (yes—60 hours!), and how she stayed grounded and at peace through it all. Plus, Matthew shares his perspective as a supportive and involved partner—and I know so many of you will love hearing from a dad who was all in.
If you’re wondering how to prepare for birth in a way that truly supports you and your unique journey…you’ll want to soak this one in.
Timestamps:
00:00 – A little pep talk from Sarah
“You’re the mom. You can take the advice, choose what works, and if something doesn’t feel right to you—don’t do it.” (YES!)
00:27 – Meet Sarah & Matthew
They live in Southern California, and just had their first baby, Phoebe! Sarah shares how being a stay-at-home mom was her dream, and how they approached pregnancy as a true team.
01:29 – Preparing the body before pregnancy
Sarah didn’t wait to start getting ready—she cleaned up her diet, built strength, prioritized sleep, and even walked daily while listening to this podcast (love that!).
08:42 – Overcoming health challenges
Sarah opens up about her experience with chronic fatigue and EMF sensitivity, and how healing physically and emotionally helped set the stage for a healthy pregnancy.
11:26 – Yes, we talk EMFs
If you’ve never heard of EMF sensitivity, this part is fascinating. Sarah shares what worked for her and how it impacted her well-being during pregnancy.
12:49 – Finding the right provider
They chose a birth center and a midwife who respected their preferences from the start. Sarah talks about knowing she found the right person when she just felt it. (Mama instinct for the win!)
14:08 – Third trimester vibes
From yoga balls and dates to Braxton Hicks every time she walked—Sarah gives us a real picture of those final few weeks before labor kicked in.
16:25 – Dad's role in choosing a provider
Matthew shares how he supported Sarah’s choices, asked great questions, and felt totally aligned with their birth plan because they prepared together.
18:01 – Supportive partners make a BIG difference
From food and supplements to podcast “pop quizzes,” Matthew was all in—and it paid off big time during labor.
20:16 – How they practiced for labor together
Their practice sessions involved breathing through foot massages (seriously!), and helped Sarah stay calm and in control when things got intense.
22:40 – The start of labor
It began slowly—so slowly that Sarah didn’t even realize she was in labor at first! Things picked up over the next couple of days, and yes, this turned into a long one…
35:10 – The tears, the pressure, and the power of transition
When the midwife gave them a deadline to have the baby or transfer to a hospital, emotions ran high. Sarah shares the powerful release that came with crying—and the HUGE progress that followed.
41:29 – Birth partner gold
Matthew talks about supporting Sarah through long labor, what surprised him most, and the things that helped the most (like counter pressure, honey, and just being there).
45:03 – Real talk for mamas
Sarah’s advice: “You know what’s best. Trust your instincts.” Her honesty and gentle confidence will leave you nodding along.
47:21 – Favorite tips from both parents
From waterproof seat covers to vitamin K from wheatgrass and being prepared for postpartum emotions—this is the kind of practical, real-life advice every parent needs to hear.
49:50 – Wrapping up with love & gratitude
Their story ends with joy, healing, and a lot of love—and some beautiful reminders about what matters most.
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