I was able to have a much clearer mind and perspective because of the content we learned in this class, and I would highly recommend it for any expecting parents! - Kayla
This class helped my wife and I dig deeper into topics we'd thought we'd already covered, like possible stressors during and after birth. Our communication about these things, and how we wanted to approach potential solutions, was a game changer for us. -Nate
Jodi's breadth of knowledge on pregnancy, birthing, and postpartum, paired with her approachable demeanor, made for the perfect combination. I can't imagine approaching birth and postpartum without the knowledge I gained through Embracing Birth. -Claire
Thank you so much for the tools and confidence you gave us. It was a gift! The information you shared helped alleviate a lot of my anxieties about the labor experience. I was able to truly enjoy my pregnancy without overly stressing about labor was going to be like.
We really appreciated how the Embracing Birth Classes focused not just on the physical aspects of pregnancy and delivery but on the emotional and mental aspects, as well. We felt really aware and really prepared going into our birth experiences after learning about all of these elements from Jodi. The one mantra from the course that stuck with me throughout my whole delivery was "pain not suffering." That played in my head on a loop, and it helped me to make some tough decisions when needed.
How my love of birth began:
My husband and I took our classes at the hospital where our baby would be born. Our teacher was a lovely, warm and welcoming woman and we loved gathering our pillows and going to class each week. About two weeks after the amazingly empowering birth of our first son, I knew what I wanted to do with my life: work with pregnant women/couples! I wanted to be a tiny part of their birthing experience. I wanted them to see the power they held and the magic of birth. So I began my Childbirth Educator journey.
During these times of learning and absorbing all I could about birth, I birthed three more sons. Each one of these amazing experiences solidified my belief in the power of birth and the tremendous need for women to understand their options, and, more importantly, to feel empowered by their own experiences. Through it all, one constant has remained; my passion for and love of birth!
Since beginning my journey:
I've become a certified childbirth educator, doula, and lactation counselor. I am a Early Childhood Specialist and proudly spend my days as a Family Advocate for Early Head Star in Green County, WI
When not talking about birth:
I LOVE to spend time in my very large garden growing delicious food and beautiful flowers or playing with my darling Border Collies, Badger and Ruby!