In this season finale, we’re going all in on the questions you’ve whispered, giggled through, or were too scared to ask.
Do all women poo in labour? Can babies cry in the womb? What even is a birthgasm?
And yes — I’m answering the awkward stuff dads ask too (you’re welcome).
It’s raw, it’s funny, it’s deeply human.
This is the no-filter, midwife-tells-it-straight Q&A to wrap up Season 2 — because if we can’t laugh about bodily functions, baby bonnets for photographic purposes and strainers for the birth pool, what are we even doing?
Plus, I’ll give you a sneaky peek at what’s coming in Season 3 — interviews with the incredible humans working in the pregnancy and birth space. It’s about to get deeper, juicier, and even more real.
Disclaimer:
While I’m a registered midwife working in the Australian public health system, this podcast is an independent project and reflects my personal views and professional experience — not those of my employer or any health service. The content is designed to offer supportive, evidence-based information and storytelling, but it’s not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your own care team when making decisions about your health and care.
I believe in respectful, collaborative maternity care that empowers people with accurate information — without fear or blame. I recognise that birth can be complex, and while some experiences are distressing, I do not support rhetoric that assumes malice or systemic abuse by default. My goal is to offer a space for real talk, not scare tactics — and to bridge the gap between evidence and empathy.
Get in touch:
We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. Want updates, events, and special offers? Let us know in your message and we’ll add you to our contact list.
Check out the sosh:
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Pregnancy has a way of drawing out everyone’s opinions — your partner, your mum, your in-laws, your bestie, even strangers in the checkout line.
This episode is all about learning how to manage that energy while still protecting your peace.
We’re talking people with big opinions, mums who want to be in the room, and friends who mean well but miss the mark.
I’ll share practical scripts, mindset shifts, and ways to set boundaries without guilt — so you can stay centred in your experience.
Because this is your body, your birth, your baby — and your voice matters.
Disclaimer:
While I’m a registered midwife working in the Australian public health system, this podcast is an independent project and reflects my personal views and professional experience — not those of my employer or any health service. The content is designed to offer supportive, evidence-based information and storytelling, but it’s not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your own care team when making decisions about your health and care.
I believe in respectful, collaborative maternity care that empowers people with accurate information — without fear or blame. I recognise that birth can be complex, and while some experiences are distressing, I do not support rhetoric that assumes malice or systemic abuse by default. My goal is to offer a space for real talk, not scare tactics — and to bridge the gap between evidence and empathy.
Get in touch:
We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. Want updates, events, and special offers? Let us know in your message and we’ll add you to our contact list.
Check out the sosh:
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Pelvic floor health isn’t just a postpartum thing — and it’s definitely not something to worry about after something goes wrong.
In this episode, we’re breaking down what your pelvic floor actually is, how it supports everything from continence to core strength to sexual wellbeing, and why pregnancy is the perfect time to start paying attention.
We’ll talk about common symptoms, contributing factors, and real-life strategies to support this part of your body without shame, overwhelm, or eye-rolls. Because it’s not about being perfect — it’s about being informed.
Disclaimer:
While I’m a registered midwife working in the Australian public health system, this podcast is an independent project and reflects my personal views and professional experience — not those of my employer or any health service. The content is designed to offer supportive, evidence-based information and storytelling, but it’s not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your own care team when making decisions about your health and care.
I believe in respectful, collaborative maternity care that empowers people with accurate information — without fear or blame. I recognise that birth can be complex, and while some experiences are distressing, I do not support rhetoric that assumes malice or systemic abuse by default. My goal is to offer a space for real talk, not scare tactics — and to bridge the gap between evidence and empathy.
Get in touch:
We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. Want updates, events, and special offers? Let us know in your message and we’ll add you to our contact list.
Check out the sosh:
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Let’s talk about something most people wish they knew more about before birth: perineal tears.
How common are they? Can you actually prevent them? And what does recovery really feel like?
In this episode, we ditch the scare tactics and bring you the facts — from risk factors and protective strategies to what helps most during healing. Whether you’re planning a vaginal birth or just want to know what to expect, this one’s all about practical info, reassurance, and feeling confident in your choices.
Because when you know what’s normal and what to look out for, you can face birth with a whole lot more calm and clarity.
Disclaimer:
While I’m a registered midwife working in the Australian public health system, this podcast is an independent project and reflects my personal views and professional experience — not those of my employer or any health service. The content is designed to offer supportive, evidence-based information and storytelling, but it’s not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your own care team when making decisions about your health and care.
I believe in respectful, collaborative maternity care that empowers people with accurate information — without fear or blame. I recognise that birth can be complex, and while some experiences are distressing, I do not support rhetoric that assumes malice or systemic abuse by default. My goal is to offer a space for real talk, not scare tactics — and to bridge the gap between evidence and empathy.
Get in touch:
We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. Want updates, events, and special offers? Let us know in your message and we’ll add you to our contact list.
Check out the sosh:
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Let’s unpack due dates: how they’re calculated, what’s considered ‘normal,’ and how to handle the emotional rollercoaster of waiting. This one’s all about reassurance and perspective. And not one suggestion about bumpy drives 🤣
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Follow us
w: www.blooming.net.au
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Ok, ok - I know. Pregnancy is meant to be a joyous time of running through the meadows and sniffing the flowers…but how are you meant to sleep while you are growing an actual human being INSIDE YOUR BODY?! Listen in to hear some strategies and some sympathy, and let me know if you’ve got any additions in the comments :)
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Check out the sosh!
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: the blooming and beyond podcast
We’re myth-busting the endless hospital bag checklists and focusing on what’s truly useful for labour, birth, and recovery. Simple, thoughtful tips from a midwife who’s seen it all and has definitely experienced the highs (red frogs - yessss!) and lows (leaky bags of dirty laundry in the clean PJs!)
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Check out the sosh!
w: www.blooming.net
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: the blooming and beyond podcast
Today, we’re walking through the common routine tests and checks offered during pregnancy.
Allllll the bodily fluids that us midwives love! From bloods and wee to scans and screening — we’ll cover what they’re for, what they mean, and how to make confident choices that fit your lights
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Follow us:
w: www.blooming.net.au
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
Baby kicks can be magical and mysterious. We’ll talk about how and when movements start, why they matter, and what to do if things change. You’ll leave feeling empowered to trust your instincts and know when to speak up.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Follow us
w: www.blooming.net.au
i: @thebloomingandbeyondpodcast
f: The Blooming and Beyond Podcast
In this episode we break down how iron deficiency is diagnosed, what it means for you and your baby, and whether supplements or infusions are necessary. Find out what you know, and work out how to fill the gaps to know what you don’t yet know that you don’t know! 🤣
Visit www.blooming.net.au for show notes, more info about our subjects, and VIP
offers and events
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation. Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you!
Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
In a change to the advertised episode, we are taking a brief look at pregnancy myths!
This was originally going to be our much-requested episode on birth trauma – a topic that’s incredibly important, and something many of you have been waiting for. I’ve recorded it, rewritten it, sat with it… but after reflecting deeply, I’ve decided to hold off on releasing it just for now. Not because it isn’t ready – but because I want to be really mindful about how we explore topics that are deeply personal, often triggering, and deserve time, care, and space to process. This episode is coming – and when it does, it’ll be one you can listen to when you’re ready, not just when it drops into your feed.
I’m sorry to leave you hanging with such a Minisode, and one recorded in the middle of a massive thunderstorm nonetheless! 🤣 I’d love to hear your best pregnancy myths, advice and embarrassing questions and will answer them or comment in a future episode during season 2. Please get in touch as below!
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Hoping for a vaginal birth after caesarean? You’re not alone – and you deserve evidence-based support. This episode covers VBAC safety, hospital culture, and how to navigate your options with clarity and confidence.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
What does ‘natural birth’ even mean, and who decides what’s natural? We unpack the pressure this label puts on birthing people, how it can shape identity and expectations, and why the goal should be a supported, safe experience – not one that fits what anyone else deems “perfect”
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
It’s not epidural vs ‘natural’ – it’s a whole toolkit of options. From gas and morphine to water immersion and breathwork, we walk through each option so you can choose what’s right for you, in the moment.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Induction rates are rising, and many people feel unsure about what’s truly necessary. We explore the medical reasons, the grey areas, the ARRIVE trial, and how to make an informed decision without fear or pressure.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Your model of care can shape your whole experience – emotionally and clinically. We talk through MGP, private OBs, shared care, birth centres, and more.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Birth hypnosis,guided visualisation and various patented methods like hypnobirthing and Calm Birth can get a lot of side eye. What’s real, what’s hype, and how do you know if it’ll work for you? We break down what relaxation and hypnosis techniques actually involve, why they’re not about ignoring pain, and how they could help you stay grounded, focused and calm in the midst of all the long-awaited excitement!
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Not everyone has a partner at their birth – and not every partner knows what to do when they’re there. We explore how birth support people (friends, doulas, family, or partners) can shape your birth experience and how to help them feel prepared – not panicked.
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
In this episode, Midwife, mum and educator Ali presents a whistle stop tour of some of the common misconceptions around hospital vs homebirth and does some debunking!
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.
Episode 1: Real Talk – What Birth Planning Really Means
Birth plans sometimes get a bad rap – but they’re not about scripting every moment or trying to control the uncontrollable. In this episode, we unpack what birth planning really is: a tool for confidence, communication, and feeling supported – no matter how your birth unfolds.
You’ll learn from a midwife, ex-teacher and a mum of 4 what to include, why flexibility is your best friend, and tips on how to start creating a plan that actually works for you.
Need help getting started? Need some advice on navigating your way through all the appointments? Need to access some short, no frills classes that speak to you and your birth support team so you can make truly informed choices? Need a debrief on your previous experiences so you can move along this journey without that extra weight?
I’ve got you!
Disclaimer: While I’m a registered midwife working in the public sector in Australia, this podcast is entirely independent and reflects my personal views and experiences. It’s not affiliated with my employer or any health service. The content is for informational and storytelling purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please speak with your own care team to make decisions that are right for you and your situation.
Get in touch: We’d love to hear from you! Email thebloomingandbeyondpodcast@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, or topic suggestions. If you’d like to be added to our contact list for updates, events, and special offers, just let us know in your message.