In this episode of The Homebirth Midwife Podcast, Sarah and Charli unpack the challenging but vital topic of obstetric violence. They explore how mistreatment during pregnancy and birth can take many forms—from subtle dismissiveness and coercive language to invasive procedures performed without consent—and why these experiences are so often minimized or normalized. Drawing on their years of midwifery experience, they discuss the cultural and systemic roots of this issue, while also offering the midwifery model of care as a compassionate, respectful alternative. With warmth and honesty, they remind listeners that birth should be empowering, safe, and free of violence, and they offer hope for healing and change through informed, client-centered care.

If you like what you get here, you'll like our online childbirth education course even more. It's a more detailed look at the stages of labor, how to cope, and what to do along the way to set yourself up for success. It also shows partners what to expect from their point of view and what they can do to support you in labor.

Stay Connected With Us!

• Website: https://hearthandhomemidwifery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearthandhomemidwifery1206

The Homebirth Midwife Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of midwifery, medicine, or other professional health care services. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast are at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The Homebirth Midwife Podcast is back! Sarah McClure and Charli Zarosinski share the story of Charli’s third birth — a joyful and empowering home water birth of her daughter, Daphne. Charli reflects on her more relaxed mindset during pregnancy, the humorous and sweet moments of early labor, and the calm, celebratory environment created by her birth team. She describes moving through labor with strong support, natural progression, and firm encouragement from Sarah, culminating in an immediate and powerful emotional connection with her baby. The episode highlights the intimacy, autonomy, and unique care possible in home birth midwifery, leaving Charli grateful to close her childbearing chapter on such a high note.

If you like what you get here, you'll like our online childbirth education course even more. It's a more detailed look at the stages of labor, how to cope, and what to do along the way to set yourself up for success. It also shows partners what to expect from their point of view and what they can do to support you in labor.

Stay Connected With Us!

• Website: https://hearthandhomemidwifery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearthandhomemidwifery1206

The Homebirth Midwife Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of midwifery, medicine, or other professional health care services. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast are at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

In today's episode of The Homebirth Midwife Podcast, Sarah and Charli answer listener questions about pushing during labor and practicing birth work while pregnant. The conversation begins with a deep exploration of various techniques for pushing during labor, focusing on whether to hold one's breath ("purple pushing") or to breathe through contractions. They go on to unpack their personal experiences as midwives and mothers, sharing firsthand insights from the intersection of their profession and their maternal lives. Tune in for a warm, humorous, and informative talk that supports and educates expectant mothers through the journey of childbirth.

If you like what you get here, you'll like our online childbirth education course even more. It's a more detailed look at the stages of labor, how to cope, and what to do along the way to set yourself up for success. It also shows partners what to expect from their point of view and what they can do to support you in labor.

Stay Connected With Us!

• Website: https://hearthandhomemidwifery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HearthandHomeMidwifery
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearthandhomemidwifery1206

The Homebirth Midwife Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of midwifery, medicine, or other professional health care services. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast are at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.