Holistic Pregnancy
Do you self-identify as "crunchy" or holistic? Are you into all things natural wellness, nutrition, pregnancy and birth? Do you like hearing the controversial, unpopular and sometimes "woo-woo" perspectives on these topics? If so, this is the show for you.The Holistic Pregnancy podcast is your go-to resource for all things natural pregnancy, birth, motherhood and beyond. This isn't your average, cookie-cutter "what to expect" type of advice, either. This show offers a raw and real, unfiltered perspective on taking responsibility for your health and your family. Join your host, Taylor Shaffer, and her guests as they dive deep into...
Is This Normal? Weird Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy is full of surprises—and not all of them are cute. In this episode, I’m breaking down the weird, uncomfortable, and straight-up confusing symptoms that no one warns you about. From bleeding gums and leaky nipples to lightning crotch and spotting after sex, we’re covering it all.
You’ll learn what causes these symptoms, what’s actually normal, and simple, holistic ways to support your body through the chaos. If you’re googling your fifth “is this normal?” of the week, this episode is for you!
Magnesium supplements mentioned in the episode:
...Root Causes of Colic & Infant Discomfort | with Alice Lucken
In this episode, I am chatting with Alice Lucken about all things unsettled babies. Alice is an IBCLC who helps moms identify and address root causes of infant discomfort, reach their infant feeding goals and find some calm in the chaos of motherhood. You can find her on instagram at @babyetaluk or her website, www.babyetal.co.uk
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and...
Herbal Remedies for Pregnancy | with Elinor Thomas
In this episode, I am chatting with bio-regional folk herbalist Elinor Thomas about herbs and how we can incorporate them into our routines to support the body during pregnancy and postpartum!
You can find Elinor on Instagram at @sovereignmamaherbs
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review to share the love!
*Follow along on Instagram
Should You Hire a Doula?
In this episode, we’re unpacking one of the most common birth prep questions: Do I really need a doula? Whether you’re planning a homebirth, already working with a midwife, or still exploring your options—this episode will help you choose your birth team with intention.
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review to share the love!
*Follow along on Instag...
Sex After Baby & Intimacy Postpartum | with Emily Clark
Let's talk about sex! Postpartum sex, that is. In this episode, I am joined by certified sexologist and sex coach Emily Clark of Designing Intimacy. We are chatting about all things postpartum intimacy, sex after birth and pleasure in motherhood.
You can find emily on Instagram at @designing_intimacy or on her website, designingintimacy.com
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review<...
Childhood Vaccines & Informed Medical Decisions | Just the Inserts
If the thought of diving into the topic of childhood vaccines makes your chest tighten or your brain want to check out altogether… you’re not alone.
In this episode, I am chatting with special guest Alexandra Galaska of Just The Inserts about childhood vaccines & informed consent.
Alexandra has been featured on Culture Apothecary, Redpill Your Healthcast, and is trusted by over 200,000 families for a reason—she leads with facts, not fear. Alexandra is also a mother whose world changed after her child’s adverse reaction to a routine vaccine. What followed...
Taylor's Autonomous Homebirth
This is a very special episode of the podcast... because it's actually MY most recent birth story! The audio is from my interview on the Happy Homebirth podcast. I am so excited to share the intimate details of my pregnancy and birth experience with you. I hope you enjoy listening to it!
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review to share the love!<...
Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy, Labor and Babies | with Dr. Ashley Gonzales-Barwick
Today, we are talking with Dr. Ashley Gonzales-Barwick. Dr. Ashley is a holistic chiropractor in Greenville, SC, specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, and pediatric care. She’s passionate about helping mothers navigate motherhood with less pain, optimized healing, and a village of support. When she’s not adjusting, she’s spending every minute with her husband and sweet baby girl, Cecilia. In the episode, Ashley and I discuss the benefits of chiropractic care for moms and babies, as well as address many frequently asked questions about chiropractic care during pregnancy.
You can find Ashley’s practice on Instagram @ourpatch...
The Slippery-Slope of Combo Feeding, Organic Formula and more | with Caley Jones
Today, we are talking with Caley Jones. Caley is a dedicated mother of three, wife, holistic birthworker, proud RAD mom, and the owner of an infrared sauna fitness studio. With a deep passion for undisturbed birth, Caley is committed to helping women reconnect with their bodies and embrace their innate power. The family calls Colorado home, where they enjoy snowshoeing, snowboarding, hiking, swimming, and experimenting with fermenting all sorts of delicious creations in their kitchen!
In the episode, Caley and I discuss all things predatory formula marketing, how the rise of combo-feeding is setting up breastfeeding moms...
Grief & Pregnancy | with Taylor Kirkbride
Today, we are back with Taylor Kirkbride, who you may remember from our Prenatal and Postpartum Nourishment episodes. After experiencing the loss of numerous friends and family members, including her brother, who was her closest friend and confidant, Taylor decided to take a deep dive into her grief and learn how to fully experience and  honor it. This led to her passion for supporting mothers, which she now does as a postpartum chef and doula.
In the episode, Taylor and I discuss a vast array of complex topics surrounding grief, pregnancy, divorce and even abortion. If you a...
Vaginal Steaming | with Liz Kohut
Today, we are talking with Liz Kohut, a certified peristeam specialist. Liz stumbled upon Vaginal Steaming following a miscarriage in 2018 after her doctor suggested a D&C and she declined. Liz knew there had to be a more natural and non-invasive option. After she saw the positive effects of regular Vaginal Steaming (also known as peri, womb or yoni steaming), she decided to take the Peristeam Facilitator course offered by The Steamy Chick Institute. Her goal is to bring more awareness to this long-standing practice throughout countries all over the world in order to help educate women through the...
Hypnobirthing & Positive Birth After Trauma | with Carrie LaChapelle Craft
Today, we are talking with Carrie LaChapelle Craft. Carrie is a licensed homebirth midwife in South Carolina, and a mother herself. After experiencing a traumatic birth, Carrie knew there had to be a better way and pursued hypnobirthing for her next pregnancy. In the episode, Carrie shares her experience and we address some common misconceptions about hypnobirthing and positive birth after trauma.
You can find Carrie’s practice on Instagram @hatched864!
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum re...
Intuitive Movement & Breathwork | with Melissa Gambone
Don't miss this special MOTHER'S DAY sale! Get $100 off the Holistic Mama Course (now through Mother's Day weekend) using code "MOM" at checkout > Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review to share the love!
*Follow along on Instagram
The First 40 Days | with Shelley Rahim
Welcome to Season 3!Â
Don't miss this special MOTHER'S DAY sale! Get $100 off the Holistic Mama Course (now through Mother's Day weekend) using code "MOM" at checkout > Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e-book download
>> Postpartum recipes & cookbooks
...And as always, please consider leaving a rating and review to share the love!
*Follow along on Instagram
Inducing Labor at Home: Herbs, Pumping, Castor Oil and more
In this season finale episode (don't worry -- we'll be back mid-April!) you'll learn all about all of the ways you can 1) prepare your body for labor and 2) kickstart labor at home. This one is packed full of information -- so buckle up and get ready to take some notes!
DON'T FORGET to join us over in the Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course! This episode just gives a teeny-tiny little glance into the powerhouse of information that is included in the course -- I promise you want to get in on this. You can learn...
Is Homebirth Safe? How Midwives Handle Emergencies | with Irena Freystaetter, CPM
Today, we are talking with Irena Freystaetter, a licensed midwife in Upstate, SC. In the episode, Irena and I discuss the safety of homebirth and how midwives handle emergencies at home, along with other common questions and concerns.
You can find Irena on Instagram @midwifeirena or on her website, bloomgreenville.com!
This is a fantastic episode to share with your partner, friends or family members who may be uneasy about the idea of birthing outside of the hospital!
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>>...
Navigating Pregnancy After Loss | with Sarah Lingle
In this episode, Sarah Lingle and I are talking all things Pregnancy After Loss. Both Sarah and I are currently expecting rainbow babies at the time of the episode release, so this conversation feels extra special!
Sarah is a certified birth and bereavement doula who specializes in supporting mothers navigating pregnancy after loss. After experiencing her own journey through loss and welcoming her rainbow baby, Sarah founded The Pregnancy After Loss Doula, which offers compassionate care through birth education, support groups, and one-on-one guidance. As the host of The Pregnancy After Loss Podcast, she shares insights and...
Vitamin K, Erythromycin, Newborn Metabolic Screening, CHDD and more
Today we are talking all things newborn testing and procedures! In this solo episode, Taylor will cover what to expect in the hours and day following your baby's arrival so can you make informed decisions about what you'd like to consent to when it comes to their care.
If you enjoy this episode, you're going to LOVE the Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course!Â
>>> You can learn more about the course here
Glucose Challenge Test, GBS, Ultrasounds and more
Today we are talking all things prenatal testing and procedures! In this solo episode, Taylor will cover what to expect during your routine prenatal visits so can you make informed decisions about what you'd like to consent to during your care.
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: The Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course is officially LIVE and available to the public! If you enjoy this episode, you're going to LOVE the course. You can learn more here!
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list
>> Access the Facebook community
>> FREE nutrition e...
Pelvic Pain & SPD During Pregnancy | with Megan Martineau
Today, we are talking with Megan Martineau, a certified personal trainer and pre/postnatal fitness specialist. After the birth of her first child, Megan realized how little support moms have when it comes to moving their bodies during pregnancy and postpartum, and she’s on a mission to change that. Her goal is to provide the highest level of support to help her clients thrive in pregnancy, have an empowered birth, and come back stronger postpartum.
In the episode, Megan and I talk about some common pregnancy discomforts and how to remedy them. We get into details ab...
Nourished Pregnancy, Empowered Birth: The Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course
Presale enrollment for the Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course is officially LIVE! 🎉
This course is everything I wish I had when I was navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. It’s your one-stop, no-BS roadmap to a fully nourished, informed, and empowered journey—without the overwhelm, confusion, or second-guessing.
So today, I’m breaking down:
✔️ Why I created this course (and why this matters for YOU)
✔️ Who this course is for (hint: if you want an autonomous, deeply nourishing pregnancy & birth, listen up)
✔️ What makes it diffe...
Cycle Tracking & Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) | with Crystal Melanson
Today, we are talking with Crystal Melanson of Zen Functional Wellness. Crystal is a certified clinical nutritionist, certified functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and certified natural chef. Crystal has been studying health and nutrition for over 19 years. She is blessed with 2 children, a loving husband and is passionate about helping women and couple’s mend and maximize their fertility naturally to have the family they dream of. Using her program “The Preconception Plan” - she works with women all over the world and has a mission to provide fertility care that is empowering and customized to each unique individual.
In t...
Preparing for a VBAC | with Sarah Marie Bilger
Today, I'm talking all things VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) with Sarah Marie Bilger of Entering Motherhood. Sarah Marie is a doula and VBAC mama herself, and such a wealth of knowledge on the topic, so I'm excited for you all to hear from her! you can find Sarah Marie on Instagram @entering_motherhood or on her website, https://www.enteringmotherhood.com.
Now, BIG news before we jump in....WE HAVE A LAUNCH DATE!
The Holistic Mama Pregnancy & Birth Course is a one-of-a-kind roadmap to a deeply nourishing and empowering journey through pregnancy, b...
Homeopathy 101 | with Emily Frye
Welcome to Season 2!
Today, we are talking with Emily Frye. Emily has been studying and teaching homeopathy for nearly 20 years. She’s a certified homeopath with a small practice in Houston, TX. Her specialty is pregnancy, labor and delivery but she treats all the ailments that can come up in a family. She’s been married to her Baptist preacher husband for over 30 years. She is a homeschooling mom of 9, grandmother of 5. Emily is a Christian who believes that God is the healer and often says that she’s grateful for the front row seat homeopathy gives her to...
Why You Should Ditch Your Prenatal Vitamins
In this season finale episode (don't worry -- we'll be back mid-January!) you'll learn all about what you can do INSTEAD of taking a prenatal vitamin to achieve optimal nourishment for fertility, conception, pregnancy and postpartum. This one is packed full of information -- so buckle up and get ready to take some notes!
For a written version with clickable links, download this PDF guide!
Happy holidays! Can't wait to see you back here in 2025.
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>> Jump on the email list <...
Prenatal Exercise, Sciatica & SI Joint Discomfort | with Dr. Stephanie Daniel, PT, DPT
Today, we are talking with Dr. Stephanie Daniel, PT, DPT. Stephanie is an ortho-pelvic physical therapist, meaning she specializes in pelvic floor PT and considers a holistic approach, taking into consideration the whole body. She founded Fortis PT and Pelvic Health in April of 2023 to help active adults regain control over their bodies and return to the activities they love most.Â
In the episode, Stephanie and I discuss all things prenatal exercise, as well as get into the details of sciatic pain and SI joint discomfort - what they are and how we can manage them.
Nourishment for Postpartum & Fertility | with Taylor Kirkbride
This episode is actually part 2 of my conversation with Taylor Kirkbride, postpartum chef and doula. Part 1 was all about nourishment during pregnancy so if you missed that, definitely go back and listen. In this episode, we really get into the details of postpartum nourishment spanning from preparing during the third trimester all the way through late postpartum when we begin to intentionally nourish our bodies back into the preconception era to prepare for future pregnancies. Taylor is so full of wisdom and her food is absolutely incredible. I am actually hiring her for postpartum support after I give birth...
Nourishment for Pregnancy | with Taylor Kirkbride
Today’s conversation is SO good that I decided to break it up into two full episodes, so, surprise! You guys get a bonus episode this week. In this part 1 episode, I’m chatting with Taylor Kirkbride about all things nutrition and nourishment during pregnancy. Taylor is a private chef and doula and boy is she a wealth of knowledge. She describes herself as a warm bowl of soup, and I would definitely agree. I’ve had the privilege of getting to know her personally over the last couple of years, so bringing her onto the podcast was a no-bra...
Intrusive Thoughts & Postpartum Mental Health | with Susannah Long, LMFT
Today, we are talking with Susannah Long. Susannah is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Greenville, SC. In her private practice, she helps pregnant and postpartum moms tackle fear and learn to take back control from intrusive thoughts and anxiety.Â
In the episode, Susannah and I discuss some of the common misconceptions around mental health. We also talk about preparing to thrive during the postpartum period, and how to navigate intrusive thoughts and postpartum mood disorders if they do arise. Reframing the way we perceive mental health struggles and learning how to effectively communicate our needs a...
Reframing Motherhood, Simple Living, Ayurvedic Medicine and more
Today, I'm having a conversation with Ashley, the voice behind A Nourished Mother. Ashley is a mama of two boys, regenerative homesteader and independent researcher with a passionate focus on female physiology and fertility.
In the episode, Ashley and I discuss the concepts of nourishment, slow living, reframing our perspectives on motherhood and more. You are truly in for a treat! This conversation was so refreshing; I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
You can follow along with Ashley on Instagram at @anourishedmother
NEXT STEPS:
>> Join the course!
>>...
Biohacking Your Cycle & Balancing Blood Sugar | with Caitlin Cipriano
Today, we are talking with Caitlin Cipriano. Caitlin lives in Vermont with her husband, two littles, and their two dogs. She is a graduate of Logan University's Nutrition and Human Performance program and a Certified Perinatal Nutritionist. Her mission is to help women nourish so that they can flourish from conception all the way through postpartum.
I have been really excited to share this episode with you all because I am so passionate about this topic. Caitlin and I talk about all things cycle-syncing (aka my favorite form of biohacking) as well as the importance...
Tongue Ties & Breastfeeding 101 | with Sarah O'Rourke, IBCLC
Today, we are talking with Sarah O’Rourke. Sarah is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of two. She owns a private practice called Milk and Honey Breastfeeding Services located in Travelers Rest, SC and also offers virtual care worldwide. Sarah specializes in prenatal care and oral ties, which is why I was so thrilled to have her on for this conversation.
In the episode, we start by talking about common hindrances in the early postpartum and how we can prepare prenatally for a successful breastfeeding experience. But then we really get into the meat an...
The Hormonal Cocktail of Birth & Rhythm as Medicine | with Carey Glenn, LM, CPM
Today, we are talking with midwife Carey Glenn. In addition to her home birth midwifery practice, Carey is also an educator, bodyworker, mentor and rhythmic therapist. She weaves these passions together into unique offerings for her intimate community of in-person clients, mentorship students, and the wider world through online courses, speaking events and film screenings. She also co-produced the one-of-a-kind undisturbed birth documentary titled These Are My Hours. You can watch the film here.
In the episode, Carey and I discuss the hormonal cocktail of birth, the concept of embodiment, the importance of communication skills and the...
Acupuncture for Pregnancy & Postpartum | with Dr. Deanna Carell, DACM
In today’s episode, we are talking with Dr. Deanna Carell, DACM. Deanna is a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. She is board certified by the state of Florida’s medical board and currently practices in downtown Naples. She is originally from NJ where she earned her Master’s Degree in Acupuncture and has a practice there with her sister Heather, who is also an acupuncturist. Her areas of speciality are women’s health and fertility and cosmetic acupuncture. She has been practicing for almost 10 years and now teaches acupuncture continuing education to other practitioners.Â
This episode i...
START HERE: Welcome to the show!
Welcome to the Holistic Pregnancy podcast! I'm your host, Taylor Shaffer: holistic pregnancy coach, virtual doula and self-proclaimed crunchy mom.
[You can find me on Instagram @nestedandnourished]
If you’re anything like me, you probably run against the grain a little bit, fight the status quo.. But deep down you just want life to be more simple. Getting back to real food, deep nourishment, living out your core values, and not letting someone else tell you how to live your life. Sound like you? Then you've found your place.
This sh...
