In this first episode of the year, MaryRuth sits down with two powerful guests: Lori (MaryRuth’s doula for all four births, with 26+ years and 1,600+ births) and Dr. Phabby (a holistic OB-GYN with 20+ years in practice). Together, they unpack how birth mirrors life, why presence and trust matter more than perfection, and how routines, mindset, and nervous system regulation shape both birth and motherhood — plus, hear some unforgettable life lessons that apply far beyond the delivery room.
⏱️ Timestamps & Highlights:
00:01:01 – MaryRuth introduces her doula for all four births, Lori, and Dr. Phabby.
00:03:20 – Lori’s philosophy: “no right way,” why education + respectful care matter, and how birth imprints families.
00:04:59 – What a doula is (and what doulas actually do in the room).
00:10:36 – Dr. Phabby on being present, listening, and having no agenda or timeline.
00:13:38 – “We’ve medicalized pregnancy”— why understanding individual physiology changes everything.
00:22:21 – Morning routines: gratitude/meditation, vitamins, journaling, intention setting, and nervous system support.
00:36:19 – Big life lesson: the only thing you can control is yourself (and how that empowers birth).
00:51:40 – Closing truths: trust your intuition, nobody fails at birth, and perfectionism is a lie.