✨ Unfiltered, unapologetic, and deeply inspiring VBAC homebirth stories.
If you're a mama seeking VBAC homebirth inspiration, you’re in the right place! Hosted by Ashley Winning, a Homebirth Educator, Doula, and HBA2C mama, this podcast shares raw, real birth stories from women who reclaimed their
In this episode, I reflect on one of the greatest privileges of hosting this podcast—listening to hundreds of women share their birth stories. Over the years I've heard stories of VBACs, HBACs, homebirths, hospital births, freebirths, long labours, fast labours, breech births, VBA2Cs, births that went to plan, and births that didn't. While every story is unique, there are some powerful themes that come up again and again. In this episode I explore: Why birth rarely follows the textbook What I've learned about women's intuition How your birth environment can influence your experience Why…
In this episode, I sit down with Mel to hear her incredible journey from a 23-week premature birth and classical caesarean to achieving a vaginal birth after two caesareans (VBA2C). After experiencing a classical caesarean with her first baby and a planned repeat caesarean with her second, many would have assumed a vaginal birth was no longer an option. But Mel's story reminds us that birth journeys are rarely straightforward. Together we discuss the challenges, decisions and support that shaped her path as she prepared for a VBA2C and planned homebirth, before ultimately transferring to…
Barbara shares her powerful journey from a breech caesarean to a surprise breech homebirth. In this episode, we explore breech birth, advocacy, informed choice and trusting yourself when birth takes unexpected turns. After her first baby was discovered to be breech during labour, Barbara faced changing plans, hospital policies and important decisions that ultimately led to a breech caesarean birth. But her second birth unfolded very differently. Preparing for homebirth with a private midwife and birth team, Barbara experienced an unexpected and empowering surprise breech homebirth . This…
In this deeply personal episode, I share my recent experience with pregnancy loss after a chemical miscarriage. After nine months of trying to conceive and two chemical pregnancies, I open up about the grief, the intuition that something wasn’t right, and the emotional journey of loss—especially while navigating this at 39, turning 40. This episode is for any woman walking through fertility struggles or pregnancy loss. You are not alone. Support Resources If you’re currently experiencing loss or grief, please reach out for support. You don’t have to do this alone. ⭐ Red Nose Australia –…
In this episode, I dive into a question so many women carry when planning a VBAC: what if my VBAC fails? We unpack the fear behind “VBAC failure” and gently reframe what that really means. I share my own experiences, the emotional weight many women carry after birth trauma, and why your outcome does not define your worth or success. We talk about: Why “VBAC failure” isn’t actually a failure The role of mindset, support, and environment in birth Why homebirth isn’t a guarantee—but can change the experience Letting go of guilt, blame, and unrealistic expectations This episode is here to remind…
In these two part episodes, I sit down with Margarite, a mum of five living in rural Queensland, who shares the first part of her powerful birth journey. Her story includes multiple miscarriages, a caesarean, a VBAC, and a second caesarean for breech twins, flipping the script at 39 weeks and deciding to birth at home at the last minute — all while navigating the challenges of rural maternity care, long-distance transfers, and feeling disconnected within the system. At 39+2, everything began to shift as she discovered new perspectives and started questioning what was possible for her next…
In these two part episodes, I sit down with Margarite, a mum of five living in rural Queensland, who shares the first part of her powerful birth journey. Her story includes multiple miscarriages, a caesarean, a VBAC, and a second caesarean for breech twins, flipping the script at 39 weeks and deciding to birth at home at the last minute — all while navigating the challenges of rural maternity care, long-distance transfers, and feeling disconnected within the system. At 39+2, everything began to shift as she discovered new perspectives and started questioning what was possible for her next…
In this episode, I sit down with Kelsey , a Canadian mum of three now living in Newcastle, NSW, who walks us through her deeply contrasting birth experiences — from a marathon first labour, to a premature birth affected by pre-eclampsia, and finally, her powerful HBAC. Kelsey’s story is a reminder that birth doesn’t follow a straight line. Each pregnancy asked something new of her, and each birth required its own kind of strength. Her first baby arrived after more than 40 hours of labour , beginning at 40+5. After labouring for 24 hours she was still only 1 cm dilated. Her baby was…
In this episode, I share a short, practical guide to finding a midwife in Australia to support your HBAC or VBAC homebirth. Starting the search can feel overwhelming, but there are trusted pathways and communities to help you connect with the right support. Here’s what we cover: ⭐ How to begin your search for a midwife in your local area ⭐ The role of Homebirth Australia as a representative organisation, and how it connects with state groups like Homebirth Queensland, Homebirth NSW, and Homebirth Victoria ⭐ How to use Facebook groups such as Homebirth Australia , Homebirth Queensland , and…
In this episode, I sit down with Tiffanie , a mother of two from Mt Isa, who shares her raw and powerful birth stories—two very different journeys that shaped her into the woman and mother she is today. Tiffanie’s first pregnancy was planned as a freebirth, but at 38+4 weeks she developed preeclampsia so severe she was losing her vision for up to ten minutes just from standing up. When she presented at the hospital, doctors told her she was on the edge of eclampsia—her liver and kidneys were shutting down—and a caesarean was her safest option. What followed was an incredibly tough start to…
In this episode, I share the remarkable birth journey of Kelsey, a mother of three from Wisconsin, USA, who moved from fear and medical trauma to deep empowerment with a healing home birth after two caesareans (HBA2C). Baby #1 saw Kelsey induced at 37 weeks for suspected pre-eclampsia. Her regular doctor was away, and with a male provider stepping in, she felt overwhelmed and anxious. Not realising she had the right to say no, she was swept into a domino effect of interventions that led to her first C-section. At her six-week check-up, she was told her pelvis was “too small” and that vaginal…
In this solo episode, I’m diving into a topic that rarely gets the airtime it deserves— long labours . As a doula and homebirth mentor, I’ve witnessed first-hand how a mismatch between expectation and reality can quickly spiral into fear and self-doubt. That’s why today I’m sharing what you really need to know to prepare for the marathon, not the sprint. Whether you're planning a VBAC, homebirth, or your first vaginal birth, this episode will help you get your mind as ready as your body. Because birth isn’t just physical—it’s deeply emotional, spiritual, and mental too. Inside this episode:…
In this episode I give you a step-by-step run through of what you need to think about, where to get a birth pool and how to make it run as smoothly as possible. First Things First: Choose the Right Pool Not all birth pools are created equal. Ideally, you want one that’s: Sturdy enough to lean on without collapsing. Deep enough so you can fully submerge your belly (think: shoulders and chest in too, if possible). Quick to inflate (preferably with an electric pump). Comfortable (some have cushioned floors and sides). You can either hire a birth pool kit (which often comes with all the bits and…
In this episode, you get just me, Ashley in a solo episode which was a bit fun as I haven’t done a solo episode all year! We celebrate 5 years of The VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast, some of my favourite episodes (and yes I may have a few too many favs!) be sure to check them out if you haven’t listened yet. We cover: Top episodes: Hazel Keedle EP17 Dr Sarah Buckley EP30 Rachel Reed EP12 Dr K EP165 Emma 18 days ruptured waters, freebirth EP55 Katy’s planned homebirth turned hospital birth and uterine rupture EP49 EP2 Kamal’s accidental unassisted VBAC homebirth EP11 Working through fear with…
In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with the remarkable Dr K , a high-risk obstetrician and online doula who is walking the delicate line between the medical system and autonomous birth. With rare insight and fierce compassion, Dr K shares what it’s like to be an OBGYN working within a system that too often defaults to control, fear, and policy over people. Her mission? To bring balance back into the conversation and ensure that informed consent isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a sacred part of birth . ✨ Inside this episode: What it’s really like being an OBGYN in today’s…
In this powerful episode, we sit down with a midwife-turned-mama who planned two homebirths and ended up birthing in hospital under very different circumstanceswith her first baby. This raw and revealing story offers insight into what happens when the tables turn, and the one who usually supports birth journeys must navigate her own. This is a VBAC story filled with nuance, informed decisions, intuitive pivots, and emotional depth. ✨ Inside this episode: The reality of planning a publicly funded homebirth and what shifted her decision How her waters breaking at 41 weeks kicked off a long and…
In this week's episode, I sit down with the lovely Ana , a mother of two boys living in Portugal, as she shares her inspiring journey from a medicalised breech birth to a midwife-supported VBAC at home . Ana’s first birth in late 2019 ended in a caesarean after going to 41+5 with a breech baby and navigating a tough hospital system. Her initial private OBGYN was unsupportive, pushing decisions without much collaboration—until Ana found a new provider who honoured her options and helped her feel seen. Although her first birth ended in surgery, it was the spark that set her on a mission to…
This week on the podcast, I sit down with Lizzy , a mama of three and a graduate of my Homebirth Mentoring Program , who shares the deeply personal and powerful story of her second VBAC—a surprise pregnancy that became a profound journey of self-trust, healing and sovereign birth. With just 18 months between her babies, Lizzy found herself unexpectedly pregnant and unsure whether she would continue the pregnancy. But through deep inner work, radical honesty, and full-body alignment, she chose not only to keep the baby—but to freebirth on her own terms. In this episode, we talk about: 🌟…
This week I’m joined by Claire Holloway , homebirth mother, yoga educator, and fierce advocate for reclaiming autonomy in pregnancy, birth and matrescence. Claire shares her own HBAC story and how her experience with both an emergency C-section and a homebirth transformed her relationship with her body—and with yoga. We dive deep into the true essence of yoga for birth , stripping away the fluff of 'prenatal stretch classes' and exploring how ancient philosophy offers a powerful framework for navigating birth on your terms. In this episode, we explore: ⭐ How yoga for homebirth is radically…
You’ve just birthed a whole human—so why are we so quick to rush mothers out the door, slap on a nappy, and tell them to “get on with it”? In today’s honest, soul-stirring chat, I’m joined by TEDx speaker and postpartum advocate Sonal Patal to unpack the reality of the fourth trimester —a crucial stage of motherhood that most people still aren’t talking about. We explore what the fourth trimester really means—not just in terms of hormones and healing, but in the radical rest, nourishment, and village every new mother deserves. From why you shouldn’t feel guilty about spending money on…
In this emotional and deeply insightful episode, we hear from a powerful mama Aly McClain who shares the highs and lows of her four unique birth experiences. Each one teaching her something new about surrender, trust, and the strength of her body and spirit. From a pain-empowered second birth, to navigating an unexpected NICU transfer, to welcoming her birthday baby after 42 weeks, this episode covers the full spectrum of birthing experiences, including a moment of potential shoulder dystocia and the power of intuition in labour. In This Episode, You'll Hear: 🔹 A powerful story of choosing…
In this deeply thought-provoking episode, I sit down with the incredible Billie Harrigan —birth worker, educator, and fierce advocate for women’s autonomy in childbirth. With over 40 years of experience supporting birthing families, Billie has seen firsthand how the medical cartel has reshaped birth, often prioritising control over care. We dive into the history of birth, the technocratic model, and the ripple effects of medicalised maternity care . Billie shares her powerful insights into what women need to know to reclaim their birthing power, especially those planning a VBAC homebirth .…
In this episode of VBAC Home Birth Stories, we’re diving into a topic that deserves real talk and respect—plus size pregnancy and birth. If you’ve ever been made to feel like your body is a medical condition rather than a life-giving force, this episode is for you. I share my personal experiences navigating the maternity system as a plus-size woman, from early pregnancy bias to the constant fear-mongering around birth choices. We also explore how plus-size women can reclaim their power, whether choosing a home birth or hospital birth, and what size-friendly care should actually look like. If…
In this episode, we dive into the incredible story of Emilie, a yoga instructor from Bribie Island, Queensland, who embraced her intuition and unapologetically stood in her power to navigate her birthing journey. Emilie’s story is one of resilience, trust in her body, and the beauty of natural birth after a Caesarean and surprise breech birth. (HBAC). Her journey includes a surprise breech birth, navigating care with private midwives, and staying centered in her inner strength. Emilie shares how yoga, mindfulness, and her connection to her inner wisdom played pivotal roles in this…
In this episode, we welcome back Sarah, who shares her incredible journey of birthing her fourth baby at home—her second home birth after two caesareans, including a special scar birth. If you missed her previous episode ( EP67 | Sarah – Mindset Overhaul, Small Babies, 3 Planned Homebirths, HBA2C + Special Scar ), you can listen to her earlier birth stories on the podcast. Sarah’s pregnancy was smooth until around 35 weeks , when she started experiencing high blood pressure. This led to more hospital appointments, increased monitoring, and pressure from medical professionals who advised…
In this episode, we hear from Victoria, a determined and inspiring mum who birthed on her own terms after a Caesarean. Living in Broome rural Western Australia, Victoria planned for a healing and autonomous birth, engaging deeply in birth education, self-care, and intuitive preparation. Her journey started with a planned Homebirth and the support of a birthkeeper who was set to fly in from Perth. The birthkeeper was meant to stay with Victoria in the week leading up to her due date—offering support, massage, and even filling her postpartum freezer with nourishing meals. But when the time…
In this episode, we hear from Lise, an inspiring Canadian mum who achieved an unassisted VBA2C homebirth while managing Type 1 diabetes. Lise’s journey is one of resilience, self-trust, and unwavering determination as she navigated a system that often felt disempowering to take control of her birthing experience. After two previous Caesarean births, both prompted by concerns over reduced movements late in her pregnancies, Lise faced immense challenges. Both of her boys were taken to special care shortly after birth—an experience she refers to as “medical kidnapping,” where implied consent…
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jane Hardwicke Collings , a grandmother, former homebirth midwife, and internationally renowned teacher of women's mysteries. Jane’s work spans decades, focusing on the sacred dimensions of menstruation, childbirth, and menopause, helping women reconnect with their bodies and reclaim their power. Having trained as a midwife in the hospital system, Jane had a profound awakening to the institutionalised abuse within maternity care. This led her on a lifelong mission to educate and empower women, founding The School of Shamanic Womancraft , an…
In this continuation of our discussion, Ashley and Jade dive deep into the history of midwifery and its transformation over the years. They explore the ripple effects of medicalisation, the current roles of birth workers, and the challenges created by the fear-driven narratives surrounding free birth. With a focus on fostering collaboration and understanding, this episode shines a light on what’s needed to create a more inclusive and supportive birthing environment. What they discuss in This Episode: 🌟 The rich history of midwifery and how it shifted into institutionalised care. 🌟 The…
In this eye-opening episode, Ashley is joined by Jade, a doula and mother of three, to explore the recent media scrutiny surrounding free birth. They dive into the sensationalised narratives dominating headlines, including a controversial ABC article that painted unregulated birth workers as dangerous. Together, they challenge these perceptions and offer a deeper understanding of why women choose freebirth. What we discuss in this Episode: 🌟 Why women choose free birth—and how those choices are often misunderstood. 🌟 The impact of fear-based media narratives on the birthing community. 🌟 The…
About VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast
✨ Unfiltered, unapologetic, and deeply inspiring VBAC homebirth stories.
If you're a mama seeking VBAC homebirth inspiration, you’re in the right place! Hosted by Ashley Winning, a Homebirth Educator, Doula, and HBA2C mama, this podcast shares raw, real birth stories from women who reclaimed their
VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast is a English kids & family podcast from Ashley Winning. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.
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