Augustine Colebrook and Maryn Green of IndieBirth sit down and delve into the profound shifts in midwifery as it has evolved into a modern profession. Maryn reflects on how this transition has reshaped the role of the midwife, distancing it from the deeply integrated archetype it once was—a cornerstone of community life, present for both birth and death, and supported by the very people they served.

Today, midwives often feel like isolated islands, disconnected from the grounded community support that once gave their work deep significance. In this conversation, they explore what has been lost, what can be reclaimed, and how midwifery can return to a model rooted in autonomy, interconnectedness, and ancient wisdom.

Links:
https://indiebirth.org/
https://indiebirthmidwiferyschool.org/

In this episode, we dive into the crucial role midwives play in supporting pregnant individuals with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Dr. Kate Levick, a leading researcher in POTS, shares her personal journey with the condition and offers expert insights into how midwives can be frontline providers for people navigating pregnancy with POTS. We discuss the unique challenges of managing symptoms during pregnancy, from dizziness and fatigue to managing blood flow, and the ways in which midwives can create safe, supportive environments for those affected. With practical advice on monitoring and empowering patients, this episode is a must-listen for midwives, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of POTS and its management during pregnancy.

Tune in to learn more about how midwifery care can be transformative for individuals with POTS on their pregnancy journey.

Show Resources:

Our previous episode on POTS: POTS and Pregnancy
Kate Levick's Research
POTS and Pregnancy: A Review of Literature and Recommendations for Evaluation and Treatment

Email Kate at kate.levick@newcastle.edu.au

In this episode, we’re joined by Laura Federico, midwife, and Morgan Miller, clinical sex therapist, to explore the powerful connections between mental health and midwifery. Together, we discuss how understanding the intersection of emotional well-being, hormonal cycles, and reproductive health can transform the care midwives and birthworkers provide to their clients—and themselves.

We also dive into their new book, The Cycle Book, a game-changing resource that offers midwives and birthworkers a deeper way to help clients take control of their cycles. This analog, customizable guide goes beyond period-tracking apps, addressing key insights like:

• Supporting clients in managing pain and regulating emotions.
• Using cycle tracking as a tool for improving mental health and relationships.
• Helping clients better understand conditions like endometriosis, anxiety, and perimenopause.

Laura and Morgan share practical tools and personal experiences that highlight how cycle tracking can become a missing link in reproductive care. This conversation is packed with insights to deepen your practice and inspire new ways to empower your clients.

Support your local bookstore by grabbing The Cycle Book when it releases in January 2025—or pre-order your copy now wherever you buy books!

Learn more about Laura, Morgan, and their groundbreaking work at itslauraandmorgan.com.

And don’t miss updates about their book tour—follow them on Instagram at @thecyclebook!