Episodios

  • 25: Healing, Identity, and Rebirth After Motherhood: Listener Q+A

    25: Healing, Identity, and Rebirth After Motherhood: Listener Q+A
    Jun 9 2025
    Postpartum is more than physical healing—it’s a complete transformation. In this Q&A episode of Midwife Life, Diane Ortega answers powerful listener questions about healing, identity, and navigating life after motherhood. From pelvic health and cycle wisdom to the sacred mess of personal rebirth, Diane offers grounded, soulful guidance for women in every season of becoming. What You’ll Learn: What’s normal at six months postpartum How to use cycle tracking as a self-care tool Essential pelvic health tips after birth Navigating identity shifts in motherhood and business How to know when it’s time to let go and evolve What it truly means to midwife your life If you’ve ever felt lost, in-between, or unsure how to move forward—this is your permission slip to honor the season you’re in. 🎧 Listen now and share with a mama or friend walking through her own sacred becoming. Resources Mentioned: Follow Diane on Instagram: @themidwifelife.co (https://www.instagram.com/themidwifelife.co) Submit a question for the next Q&A: https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/
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    18 m
  • BONUS REPLAY: Mindful Motherhood: A Look at Perinatal Mental Health

    BONUS REPLAY: Mindful Motherhood: A Look at Perinatal Mental Health
    Jun 2 2025
    **BONUS REPLAY** This week host Diane Ortega welcomes back Dr. Cara English, CEO of Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies. Together, they explore the critical and often overlooked topic of women’s mental health, including maternal mental health, perinatal care, and the role of midwives and healthcare providers in supporting holistic wellness. Key Topics Covered: The State of Women’s Mental Health: Why women are 2-3 times more likely than men to experience a mental health condition and the societal, hormonal, and cultural factors behind this disparity. Effective Screening Tools: Discussion on tools like the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and MDQ, and why a comprehensive approach is crucial to identifying depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in women. Cultural Competence in Mental Health Care: The importance of matching women with providers who understand their unique experiences, with a focus on BIPOC and culturally congruent care initiatives in Arizona. Addressing Trauma and PTSD in Women: How trauma, including birth trauma and sexual trauma, impacts women’s health, and why somatic and body-based therapies, like EMDR, are game-changers for recovery. Self-Care Beyond the Surface: Practical self-care approaches like the “Snowball Tips” and how they can be applied to improve mental well-being and prevent burnout. Join the Conversation: If you found this episode valuable, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and community. Your voice helps us reach more women, create a stronger support system, and spread the knowledge we all deserve. Remember: You’re not alone in your journey—together, we can foster a community of empowered, informed women. Resources Mentioned: Postpartum Support International (PSI) Get Help- Find Support - Resources: ⁠https://www.postpartum.net⁠ Perinatal Mental Health Training: ⁠https://www.postpartum.net/training/⁠ Postpartum Support International – Arizona Chapter: ⁠https://psiarizona.org⁠ 4th Trimester Arizona-Parent resources & support villages: ⁠https://4thtrimesteraz.org/parent/⁠ MOPS: ⁠https://www.themom.co/home⁠ Arizona Perinatal & Pediatric Psychiatry Access Line (APAL): 888-290-1336 for free clinical guidance for obstetric & pediatric providers M-F 8:30am-4:30pm National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (call or text 24/7) Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS): ⁠https://www.cope.org.au/health-professionals/health-professionals-3/calculating-score-epds/⁠ Recommended Reads: Nobody Told Me About That: Surviving and Thriving the Early Weeks of Parenting by Ginger Breedlove The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality by Kimberly Johnson Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers by Karen Kleiman Seven Sisters for Seven Days: The Mothers’ Manual for Community Based Postpartum Care by Michelle Peterson The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Certificate, Women's Health ⁠Specialty⁠: ⁠https://cgi.edu/ibh-women/⁠ Trauma Informed Care Certificate: ⁠https://cgi.edu/tic/⁠ Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/⁠ Website: ⁠themidwifelife.co⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/⁠ Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/
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    47 m
  • 24: Hummingbird Wisdom: Sobriety, School Integration, and Somatic Sex Education (Part 2)

    24: Hummingbird Wisdom: Sobriety, School Integration, and Somatic Sex Education (Part 2)
    May 26 2025
    In part two of this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Diane welcomes Anna Lodder to The Midwife Life. A self-described “career hummingbird,” Anna shares the wisdom she’s gathered from a life of transformation—moving from addiction recovery and early motherhood to grassroots education activism and, most recently, to the healing path of somatic sex education. Together, they unpack what it means to parent for the collective, not just the individual, how grief and loss can shape legacy, and why telling the truth about abortion, desire, and embodiment is an act of reclamation. Anna’s story is honest, hilarious, heartbreaking, and holy—a reminder that our healing helps heal the world. Topics We Cover: The hummingbird metaphor: embracing nonlinear careers and layered identities Recovery, resilience, and the power of mentorship Choosing community-centered parenting over perfectionism Public schools as a public good—and what “integration” really means Why “your child is not your brand” is the parenting mantra we all need Telling the truth about abortion, even when it’s hard The beauty and bravery of somatic sex education Reclaiming pleasure, voice, and the divine feminine after disconnection How healing our bodies allows us to show up more fully for community Links & Resources: Learn more about Integrated Schools: https://integratedschools.org Read: Call of the Wild: How We Heal Trauma, Awaken Our Own Power and Use It For Good by Kimberly Ann Johnson (https://amzn.to/4jYBAnu) Read: Come As You Are: The Surprising Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Cory Silverberg (https://amzn.to/4mk4b8d) Read: Sex Is a Funny Word: A Book About Body, Feelings, and YOU by Robin Wall Kimmerer (https://amzn.to/44ASXpu) Read: Shameless: How I Ditched the Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure…and Somehow Got Home in Time To Cook Dinner by Pamela Madsen (https://amzn.to/43jTqds) If Anna’s story stirred something in you—share this episode with a friend, a fellow parent, or someone navigating their own rebirth. These conversations matter. They help us grieve, heal, and grow—together. Subscribe to The Midwife Life and leave a review to help more women find their way back to themselves.
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    45 m
  • 23: Hummingbird Wisdom: Sobriety, School Integration, and Somatic Sex Education (Part 1)

    23: Hummingbird Wisdom: Sobriety, School Integration, and Somatic Sex Education (Part 1)
    May 19 2025
    In part one of this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Diane welcomes Anna Lodder to The Midwife Life. A self-described “career hummingbird,” Anna shares the wisdom she’s gathered from a life of transformation—moving from addiction recovery and early motherhood to grassroots education activism and, most recently, to the healing path of somatic sex education. Together, they unpack what it means to parent for the collective, not just the individual, how grief and loss can shape legacy, and why telling the truth about abortion, desire, and embodiment is an act of reclamation. Anna’s story is honest, hilarious, heartbreaking, and holy—a reminder that our healing helps heal the world. Topics We Cover: The hummingbird metaphor: embracing nonlinear careers and layered identities Recovery, resilience, and the power of mentorship Choosing community-centered parenting over perfectionism Public schools as a public good—and what “integration” really means Why “your child is not your brand” is the parenting mantra we all need Telling the truth about abortion, even when it’s hard The beauty and bravery of somatic sex education Reclaiming pleasure, voice, and the divine feminine after disconnection How healing our bodies allows us to show up more fully for community Links & Resources: Learn more about Integrated Schools: https://integratedschools.org Read: Call of the Wild: How We Heal Trauma, Awaken Our Own Power and Use It For Good by Kimberly Ann Johnson (https://amzn.to/4jYBAnu) Read: Come As You Are: The Surprising Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Cory Silverberg (https://amzn.to/4mk4b8d) Read: Sex Is a Funny Word: A Book About Body, Feelings, and YOU by Robin Wall Kimmerer (https://amzn.to/44ASXpu) Read: Shameless: How I Ditched the Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure…and Somehow Got Home in Time To Cook Dinner by Pamela Madsen (https://amzn.to/43jTqds) If Anna’s story stirred something in you—share this episode with a friend, a fellow parent, or someone navigating their own rebirth. These conversations matter. They help us grieve, heal, and grow—together. Subscribe to The Midwife Life and leave a review to help more women find their way back to themselves.
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    43 m
  • 22: Strength Born Twice: Motherhood, Cancer, and the Power of Resilience (Part 2)

    22: Strength Born Twice: Motherhood, Cancer, and the Power of Resilience (Part 2)
    May 12 2025
    This week we're bringing you the second part of a powerful story of courage, motherhood, and healing. I’m honored to be joined by Shaleigh Rae, a former birth center client, registered nurse, and breast cancer survivor whose diagnosis came during pregnancy. Together, we explore her extraordinary journey: Choosing midwifery care and preparing for birth The unexpected discovery of breast cancer during pregnancy Navigating treatments while nurturing life Redefining strength, hope, and self-advocacy as a new mother What she learned about herself, motherhood, and healing Shaleigh's story is one of raw resilience — a testament to the ways women rise for themselves and for the next generation. Whether you are navigating your own health challenges, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking a story of hope, this conversation will move you deeply. Tune in to hear: How Shaleigh Rae balanced cancer treatment and pregnancy Her birth story and the incredible support of her midwifery team Life after birth: recovery, motherhood, and reclaiming her strength Powerful lessons about intuition, trust, and community support Links & Resources Mentioned: Willow Midwife Center: https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/⁠https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/⁠ Connect with Shaleigh on Instagram: @itspronouncedshaylee (⁠https://www.instagram.com/itspronouncedshaylee⁠) Breast cancer awareness resources: Susan G. Komen Foundation: ⁠https://www.komen.org/⁠ National Breast Cancer Foundation: ⁠https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-resources/⁠ Connect with Us Follow The Midwife Life on Instagram: @the.midwife.life.co (⁠https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/⁠) Visit our website: ⁠www.themidwifelife.co⁠ ✨ If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Share this episode with a friend who needs a story of strength today. Tag us on Instagram and tell us: What does resilience mean to you?
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    51 m
  • 21: Strength Born Twice: Motherhood, Cancer, and the Power of Resilience (Part 1)

    21: Strength Born Twice: Motherhood, Cancer, and the Power of Resilience (Part 1)
    May 5 2025
    Today’s episode is the first half of a powerful story of courage, motherhood, and healing. I’m honored to be joined by Shaleigh Rae, a former birth center client, registered nurse, and breast cancer survivor whose diagnosis came during pregnancy. Together, we explore her extraordinary journey: Choosing midwifery care and preparing for birth The unexpected discovery of breast cancer during pregnancy Navigating treatments while nurturing life Redefining strength, hope, and self-advocacy as a new mother What she learned about herself, motherhood, and healing Shaleigh's story is one of raw resilience — a testament to the ways women rise for themselves and for the next generation. Whether you are navigating your own health challenges, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking a story of hope, this conversation will move you deeply. Tune in to hear: How Shaleigh Rae balanced cancer treatment and pregnancy Her birth story and the incredible support of her midwifery team Life after birth: recovery, motherhood, and reclaiming her strength Powerful lessons about intuition, trust, and community support Links & Resources Mentioned: Willow Midwife Center: https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/ Connect with Shaleigh on Instagram: @itspronouncedshaylee (https://www.instagram.com/itspronouncedshaylee) Breast cancer awareness resources: Susan G. Komen Foundation: https://www.komen.org/ National Breast Cancer Foundation: https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-resources/ Connect with Us Follow The Midwife Life on Instagram: @the.midwife.life.co (https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/) Visit our website: www.themidwifelife.co ✨ If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Share this episode with a friend who needs a story of strength today. Tag us on Instagram and tell us: What does resilience mean to you?
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    54 m
  • 20: Forget Balance. Find Your Rhythm Instead.

    20: Forget Balance. Find Your Rhythm Instead.
    Apr 28 2025
    The truth? Work-life balance is a myth that keeps women stuck. In this episode of Midwife Life, Diane Ortega, certified nurse midwife and maternal mental health advocate, dismantles the toxic idea of balance and offers something better—living in seasons. Whether you're an entrepreneur, caregiver, or doing all the things (usually at once), this conversation will help you release the guilt of trying to do it all. Diane shares personal stories and practical strategies for aligning your work, life, and well-being in a way that honors your energy—not some impossible standard. What You’ll Learn: Why work-life balance doesn’t work How to identify the season you’re in (growth, rest, caregiving) Ways to align your energy—not your hours How to integrate your life instead of compartmentalizing it The power of sacred no’s (and why they protect your peace) If you’re tired of feeling like you’re failing at balance, this episode is your permission slip to live differently. 🎧 Listen now and tag Diane with your favorite mindset shift from this episode.
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    18 m
  • 19: Spring Renewal: What Birth & Motherhood Teach Us About Rebirth

    19: Spring Renewal: What Birth & Motherhood Teach Us About Rebirth
    Apr 14 2025
    As spring unfolds around us, we’re reminded that rebirth doesn’t happen all at once — it happens in layers. In this reflective solo episode, Diane explores how birth and motherhood parallel the season of spring. From the tender, muddy beginnings to the fierce and intuitive becoming, this episode is your invitation to slow down and honor your own unfolding. ✨ Inside this episode: Why you’re not meant to “bounce back” — you’re meant to become The hidden power of motherhood as personal transformation Journaling prompts for spring renewal Grounding affirmations for the messy middle A gentle reminder: You are not behind. You are becoming. Resources Mentioned: Postpartum Guide & Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FDQNwjVmYz1cPmmG_5lweHx_K7MQSur7/view Upcoming Workshops: https://themidwifelife.co/events/ Let this episode hold you like a warm spring breeze — soft, steady, and full of permission to bloom in your own time.
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    12 m
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