Birth Untethered
Birth Untethered is a podcast hosted by Shellie Poulter and Kemi Johnson, two educators and advocates of physiological birth. Drawing on their backgrounds in osteopathy, naturopathy, biomechanics, midwifery, and advocacy, they examine the realities of modern maternity systems. The show challenges coercive practices and combines scientific evidence with lived experience. It aims to empower birth workers, families, and truth-seekers to make informed choices without fear.
Episodes
S2E36 - Coached Pushing, Helpful or Harmful?
In S2E36, Kemi Birthjoy Johnson and Shellie explore coached pushing, “purple pushing,” the Valsalva maneuver and the contrast to physiological or undisturbed pushing —and why shouting instructions to push may work against the body’s natural instincts. They discuss spontaneous pushing, the role of birth positions, and what the evidence says about maternal fatigue, pelvic floor injury, and outcomes
S2E35 - Caesarean Procedure, Comparative Outcomes, Consequences and Side Effects
This episode is a detailed look at caesarean birth covering what happens in theatre and recovery to the potential short- and long-term effects for parent and baby. Shellie and Kemi discuss informed consent, advocacy and doula support, rising intervention rates, differences in care models, and evidence on risks including complications, NICU admission, PTSD, and future pregnancies.Become an Untether
S2E34 - The History of Cesarean Birth. How and Why They Have Become Safer Over The Years
Shellie and Kemi explore the history of caesarean birth and the changes that have made the surgery safer. From antisepsis and anesthesia to antibiotics, checklists, and modern monitoring. They also examine what “safer” means in practice, discuss risks including infection and blood clots, and question how informed choice and respectful care shape birth outcomes.A candid, evidence-focused conversati
S2E33 - Instrumental Birth Forceps and Vacuum with Dr Stu
Dr. Stuart Fischbein joins Shellie and Kemi Birthjoy Johnson to discuss instrumental birth, including when forceps or ventouse may be genuinely helpful, the different risks involved, and why essential obstetric skills are disappearing.Together, they explore consent, intervention cascades, medicalised birth, fear-based protocols, and the importance of collaboration between obstetricians, midwives,
S2E32 - In Conversation with Dr Stu-How Fear, Incentives, and Protocols Turn Birth Into Interventions
Shellie, Kemi and Dr Stuart Fischbein examine the forces shaping modern maternity care and what happens when we look beyond the intervention itself to the system that created the circumstances for it.We explore how birth care can be shaped by institutional incentives, liability and throughput as much as by evidence, and how time limits, induction, defensive caesareans, routine scanning and licensi
S2E31 - In Conversation with Dr Stu-What Doctors Get Wrong About Safety, Consent, and Birth Outcomes
In this episode, join Shellie, Kemi and Dr Stuart Fischbein as we explore how birth outcomes can be shaped by system design, not just clinical skill, or lack thereof.We discuss how time pressure, immobility, fear, monitoring and routine intervention can create the very problems they are then used to solve. Epidurals, coached pushing, early admission and continuous monitoring can influence labour,
S2E30 - Episiotomy - Part 2
This episode continues the episiotomy discussion, focusing on what it is, why it’s used, the evidence against routine use, the risks and complications, and the importance of informed consent. Become an Untethered Rebel: https://birthuntethered.kit.com/products/untethered-rebel-subscription Book time with Shellie: https://www.theserenitydoula.co.uk/bookachatwithshellie Book time with Kemi: https://
S2E29 - Episiotomy - Part 1
Shellie and Simon break down what this surgical cut actually does to the perineum, why it was normalised for decades, and why the evidence now strongly supports restrictive use instead of routine intervention.Shellie, joined by her husband and co-host Simon, takes you inside the anatomy, history, and real-world consequences of episiotomy. From the pressure of crowning to the structures that can be
S2E28 - Epidurals - Side Effects and Impacts on Physiology
In this episode Shellie and Kemi discuss the side effects of epidurals and how frequently they occur to give you evidence based information upon which to make your own informed choices. They also explore the impacts of epidural on physiology and how these cause effects to the mother and baby.If you are wanting to make a more informed decision about whether you would like to accept an epidural in y
S2E27 - Epidurals - The Process and Different Kinds of Epidural
On this week's episode Shellie and Kemi discuss what actually happens when an epidural is placed, why the consent process is far too rushed and how the medications involved can affect the mother and baby. From the surprising chemistry behind the medications like bupivicaine, to the real-world consequences of reduced mobility with epidural. We also discuss some different kinds of epidurals and
S2E26 - Epidurals History and How They Work
In this episode, Kemi and Shellie trace the history of epidural anaesthesia in childbirth, exploring how pain relief evolved from early general anaesthesia to modern epidural techniques. They break down the anatomy and physiology behind how epidurals work, why they can affect movement, blood pressure, bladder function, and pushing, and what that means for mothers and babies. Along the way, they di
S2E25 - Katie's Birth Stories - Induction, Synthetic Oxytocin and HIE
In this powerful conversation, Katie shares her deeply moving birth stories, the life-changing consequences of medical negligence, and how she’s turned her experience into advocacy for other mothers. Honest, urgent, and unforgettable, this episode explores consent, induction, maternal care, and the fight to be heard.Please give generously to Katie and her family here:https://linktr.ee/kspinks06 Be
S2E24 - Synthetic Oxytocin Part 4
Unlock the uncomfortable truth behind synthetic oxytocin in childbirth. This episode exposes how this powerful hormone, often hailed as a lifesaver, can secretly cause harm, influence outcomes, and fuel systemic issues in maternity care, all while women remain in the dark. If you've ever felt unsure about the interventions you're offered or want to truly understand your options, this episo
S2E23 - Synthetic Oxytocin (and some rants) Part 3
Shellie and Kemi further discuss the impacts of synthetic oxytocin on mothers and babies. They reveal how widespread use, overuse, and misuse of this drug are fueling rising cesarean rates, severe postpartum hemorrhage, and lifelong trauma in hospitals worldwide.You'll discover the shattering truths behind the cascade of interventions triggered by synthetic oxytocin, how it increases the risk
S2E22 - Oxytocin and Synthetic Oxytocin Part 2
Most women aren’t told that synthetic oxytocin; marketed as Pitocin or Synto, is fundamentally different from the natural hormone produced in your body. In fact, this common medical intervention may be quietly altering your birth experience, your bonding, and even your mental health long after your baby arrives. If you’re pregnant, a birth worker, or simply curious about what’s really happening be
S2E21 - Oxytocin and Synthetic Oxytocin Part 1
Most women aren’t told just how profoundly synthetic oxytocin, commonly known as Pitocin or Synto, disrupts the natural birth process. Shellie and Kemi reveal how this widely used drug impacts everything from labour physiology to postpartum mental health and breastfeeding success, often without women realising the long-term consequences. The reality is glaring: while synthetic oxytocin mimics cont
S2E20 - Medicalised Birth with ARM to Freebirth - Caz's birth story part 2
What You Need to Know Before Agreeing to ARM or AmniotomyWhen your healthcare provider suggests breaking your waters or using artificial rupture of membranes (ARM), do you truly understand the risks involved? This episode reveals the shocking realities behind one of the most common yet controversial obstetric interventions. If you're pregnant, planning a home birth, or simply want to advocate
S2E19 - Artificial Rupture of Membranes - With Caz's Birth Stories - Part 1
Unlock the truth about common obstetric interventions with Caz's powerful birth stories. See how choices around procedures like artificial rupture of membranes (ARM) and amniotomy truly impact your labor, your confidence, and your lifelong bond with your baby.In this episode, Caz recounts her first birth, where interventions like ARM were routine but led to overwhelming pain, loss of control,
S2E18 - Chemical Induction - Prostaglandins, process and Outcomes
Most women are told that induction is a lifesaver, but what if everything you’ve been led to believe is misleading? Shellie and Kemi untether the complex truths behind common induction practices, revealing how often interventions are unnecessary and the true risks you face. This eye-opening conversation exposes the real impact of medical procedures that are presented as safety measures but often l
S2E17 - Chemical Induction - Prostaglandins, Side Effects and Information
Shellie Poulter and Kemi Johnson reveal the shocking realities behind common induction methods, their risks, and the patriarchal forces shaping our maternity care system.Did you know that many induction medications can cause severe side effects like uterine rupture, fetal distress, and even catastrophic conditions like DIC? Or that the actual risk of stillbirth at full term isn't nearly as high as
S2E16 - Mechanical Induction - Balloon Catheters, Dilation Rods - Part 2
Most women are told induction is the safest way to start labour, but what if it's often the very thing that increases risks instead?In this eye-opening episode, Shellie and Kemi cut through the medical jargon to reveal the true risks behind mechanical induction methods like balloons and rods, and question whether waiting naturally might be the safer, smarter choice.You’ll discover:Why balloon
S2E15 - Mechanical Induction - Balloon Catheters, Dilation Rods - Part 1
Shellie and Kemi discuss mechanical induction methods. If you're facing induction and want to know more or are questioning its necessity, this eye-opening episode exposes the myths, risks, and emotional toll of these interventions, not just on your labor but on your baby's lifelong health. Most women are unaware that procedures like balloon catheters, osmotic rods, and cervical ripening de
S2E14 - Membrane, Cervical Stretch and Sweep
When routine cervical sweeps are actually invasive, coerced interventions, are we doing more harm than good?If you're pregnant or supporting someone through birth, understanding the truth about cervical sweeps could change your entire perspective on labor and medical intervention. This episode exposes the often-hidden reality: cervical sweeps are not just gentle, routine procedures, they'r
S2E13 - The Intervention of Late Pregnancy Surveillance - NST, Scans, Foetal Movement
This comprehensive discussion explores the limitations and realities of fetal monitoring techniques like CTG, Doppler scans, and fetal movement assessments. It emphasizes informed decision-making, the importance of understanding medical interventions, and advocating for respectful, evidence-based maternity care.Most women are often pushed into a cycle of unnecessary interventions, believing they'r
S2E12 - The Intervention of Late Pregnancy Surveillance and Hormonal Changes in Late Pregnancy
Most pregnant women encounter intrusive interventions and fear-mongering around late pregnancy, yet they often have no idea what’s really happening inside their bodies or whether these tests are necessary. In this eye-opening episode, Shellie and Kemi expose the truth behind fetal surveillance, revealing why so much of this routine testing is unnecessary, and sometimes even harmful.Discover how ho
S2E11 - Are the reasons for induction evidence based - part 2
In this episode Shellie and Kemi continue thier discussion about the many reasons given to people to end their pregnancies before their bodies and babies are ready. They go through the reasons and discuss the available research on the outcomes comparing induction to not inducing.If you are being offered an induction, this episode and the previous episode will be very helpful for you in understandi
S2E10 - Are the Reasons Being Given For Induction Evidence Based - Part 1
In this Episode Kemi and Shellie begin a two part discussion about common reasons given to people as to why they should end their pregnancy early via induction or cesarean. We look at the available evidence comparing outcomes for watchful waiting or ending the pregnancy early to see if when you are being told your baby's life is at risk if you continue your pregnancy compared to waiting, if th
S2E9 - The History of Induction and Is Women Being Older and Larger Really the Problem?
In this Episode Kemi and Shellie discuss the history of induction and we explore the current obstetric narrative that women are getting older, fatter and more complex and this is why outcomes are getting worse. But is is really the reason?The truth about induction may shock you! We dive deep into the world of labor induction and the myths surrounding it. Many expectant parents are pushed toward in
S2E8 - Induction of labour - Part 3
In this episode Shellie and Kemi continue their overview discussion of induction of labour. Beginning with at home methods, covering the impacts of induction on maternal and infant physiology and the psychology of why so many people choose induction, even if they don't really believe it is the right course of action for them. Website:https://www.theserenitydoula.co.uk/birthuntetheredPatreon:ht
S2E7 - Induction of labour - Part 2
Shellie and Kemi continue their discussion about induction of labour. We circle back to stone babies, cover that you will not be pregnant forever and share an overview of what the induction process may look like if choosing a medical model.Remember, everything is your choice. Website:https://www.theserenitydoula.co.uk/birthuntetheredPatreon:https://www.patreon.com/14193903/joinSpotify:https://open
S2E6 - Induction - Part 1
Kemi and I delve into induction, why you really need to think seriously about the impacts before making the decision to have an induction because remember you always have a choice. We begin an overview of what an induction may look like, how long it may take and the effects on you and your baby. This episode is best watched as there are props to help demonstrate what assessing your bishop score in
S2E5 - The Biggest Intervention? Leaving your Home to Birth Your Baby - Risks of different birth settings
In this Episode Shellie and Kemi discuss the big intervention of choosing to leave your home to give birth and how choosing to birth in an obstetric unit dramatically worsens outcomes for you and increases the likelihood of long term negative health consequences for both you and your baby.We look back to the research propaganda that drove birth away from home and into the hospital and how the perc
S2E4 - The Second Intervention - Appointments, Tests, Scans. What Can I Accept or Decline - Part 2
In this episode Shellie and Kemi continue to discuss the routine surveillance that is on offer in NHS maternity services. In this episode we cover low PAPP-A and continue with routine maternity appointments including the 20 week ultrasound anatomy scan and what you may wish to accept or decline as part of your maternity journey.If you would like to attend the birthrights class and receive the pdf:
S2E3 - The Second Intervention - Appointments, Tests, Scans. What Can I Accept or Decline - Part 1
In this episode Shellie and Kemi discuss the routine surveillance that is on offer in NHS maternity services. In this episode we cover booking appointments, the first trimester scan, what you can accept or decline and why you may want to. We also cover blood pressure, urine dip testing, fundal height. We look back to the origin of maternity surveillance and the rise of medicalisation of testing. I
S2E2 - The First Intervention - Inviting People Into Your Pregnancy and Birth Space - With Tess
In this episode we discuss inviting people into your pregnancy and birth bubble and the impact this can have on your journey and your physiology. We continue our onversation with Tess Lovely a former NHS midwife and her experience of trying to be with woman in the system and how the system treated her for it. We need to understand people's motivations and what we do and don't want to invit
S2E1 - The First Intervention - Who You Choose To Invite Into Your Pregnancy Bubble - Chat with Tess Lovely Former NHS Midwife
In this episode we discuss the first intervention - who you choose to invite into your pregnancy bubble and birth space. We have a frank conversation with 2 former NHS midwives - Tess Lovely and Kemi, in order to understand how their wanting to provide woman centered care was not encouraged in the NHS setting where they used to work. Tess gives us some excellent tips if you are choosing to navigat
S1E13 - The Red Thread - Understanding Childbirth as a Rite of Passage Through Time - Part 2
In this episode Shellie and Kemi continue the journey of following the red thread through time from mitochondrial Eve to the present day. We explore the repeating themes around patriarchal dominance over women and the tools used to subjugate, minimise and demonise feminine power and ownership over our bodies. The cultural shift from matricentric societies where the life giving power of women was c
S1E12 - The Red Thread - Understanding Childbirth as a Rite of Passage Through Time - Part 1
In this Episode Shellie and Kemi begin the journey of following the red thread through time, from mitochondrial Eve to the present day. We explore what has always and still does make childbirth safe, what we can be grateful for from the advances in social healthcare and medication and changes in practice. We explore the figures of death rates around birth for mothers and babies, how they have neve
S1E11 - Strength Isn’t Silence: Simon Reflects on His Birthing Journeys as a Father
In this raw and compassionate conversation, Shellie, Kemi and Simon explore birth through the eyes of Simon. A father who's thoughts and reactions were shaped by two frightening, medicalised births, and how that trauma followed him into a third, deeply different experience. We talk about fear, responsibility, and the pressure partners feel to “hold it together,” even when their nervous system
S1E10 - Embodying Birth - A Conversation with Maha Al Musa
In this episode Shellie and Kemi welcome Maha Al Musa. We delve into a deep discussion about the healing potential of embodying birth, the challenges of being an authentic heart led birthworker and Maha shares her birth stories, life journey and wisdom with us.Maha Al Musa is a mother of three beautiful children (now 29, 26 and 17) and is of Palestinian/Lebanese origin raised in Australia. She is
S1E9 Birth Untethered - Becca and Alex's Wild Pregnancy and Freebirth Story
Shellie and Kemi chat to Alex and Becca about their wild pregnancy and freebirth. Becca and Alex share their thought processes through the pregnancy and birth, ideas of things that were helpful for them both throughout. An honest deep dive into what stepping outside of the status quo felt like for both of them. This is an excellent episode for birth partners to listen to.Website:https://www.theser
S1E8 Birth Untethered - Anna's Freebirth Story - First Baby
In this episode, Kemi and Shellie speak with Anna and Max about her decision to freebirth her first baby at home with her partner Ben and her doula Shellie. Anna discusses the things that happened throughout her pregnancy that brought her to the realisation that she felt that birthing at home with her chosen support felt like the safest and most sensible option for her. Anna describes a number of
S1E7 - From Earth to Ancestry - Amelia’s stories of birth and blood mysteries
In this Episode Shellie and Kemi are joined by Amelia. They explore art, blood, life, death, the times it is helpful to reach out to people to hold space for you and when that may not be useful. Finding your power of no. Taking what you need from the system whilst holding boundaries for what you don't want or need. We explore spirit, ceremony and ritual in integrating loss, life, death, birth
S1E6 Birth Untethered - Placentas and Cords
In this episode Shellie and Kemi dive into the anatomy of the umbilical cord, speak about the blood flow through placentas and how the levels in babies blood change due to the transition to live outside of the uterus and what this can mean. We debunk some cord myths, highlight the increased safety for mothers and babies in leaving the cord the F alone to do what it needs to do. Let's stop the
S1E5 Birth Untethered - Umbilical Cords - Keeping Them Intact Saves Lives - Christina Shares Her Amazing Story
In this Episode, Shellie and Kemi discuss avocado gate - the transfusion of blood from the placenta to the baby, waiting for a baby to have all of their blood, that they need for transitioning and for their whole health for life. We muse about maintaining an intact cord for helping transition and hear Christina's amazing story of her heroic efforts to help her daughter's transition Earth s
S1E4 Birth Untethered - Physiology After Birth; Skin to Skin, Breastfeeding Placentas, Cords and Blood
In this episode, Shellie and Kemi discuss the physiology of the immediate time after birth, the benefits of skin to skin and breastfeeding, protecting the birthing dyad in these precious and vitally important moments. We talk about placentas, umbilical cords and blood in both mothers and babies. What causes haemorrhage, what can we do naturally to help prevent it, manage if it does happen. We expl
S1E3 Physiological Labour and Birth
In this Episode Shellie and Kemi discuss deeper into the oxytocin spiral of labour, the Ferguson and Foetal Ejection Reflex, the wonders of champagne and the amazing design of the human body for safety during childbirth. Join us on Patreon to support the podcast with the added bonus of further resources. We have three tiers: 1. Simple Truths - £2 per month - video episode, PDF with links to the re
S1E2 Continuation Into The Initiation Of Physiological Labour
In this episode Shellie and Kemi sink further into the initiation of physiological labour. We speak about oxytocin, the brown fat your baby is accumulating ready for birth, the protection of supporting physiology rather than removing safety with intervention.This is essential listening for everyone in the lead up to birth to understand the amazing things happening in your body and your baby's
S1E1 Birth Untethered Physiology of the Lead up to Birth
Shellie and Kemi discuss the physiology of the birth giver and baby in the lead up to the start of labour and what the potential consequences of choosing to interrupt that with induction and/or cesarean are. This will continue in episode 2 where we flow, much like birth from the initiation of labour into the potential beginning of labour.Join us on Patreon for the following benefits:Simple Truths:
Pilot Birth Untethered
The Pilot Episode of the Birth Untethered Podcast with Shellie Poulter and Kemi Johnson.Shellie and Kemi discuss their motivation for creating the podcast and share their number one tips for parents, birth partners and birthworkers. Join us at birth untethered on patreon for extra resources, a growing community of birth rebels, connection, learning, unfiltered truths and collective wisdom.With thi
Trailer Birth Untethered Podcast
Join Shellie Poulter and Kemi Johnson for the trailer for their brand new Birth Untethered Podcast. Filled with unfiltered truths and collective wisdom around pre-conception, pregnancy, birth parenthood and beyond. Join us at birth untethered on patreon for extra resources, a growing community of birth rebels, connection, learning, unfiltered truths and collective wisdom.With the first episode com
