431. Haven Postnatal Retreat with Brittany Starobin

·1 hr 14 min·5 clips

Brittany describes feeling her C-section and being ignored by nurses despite screaming that something was wrong with her epidural.

The episode begins with host Garrett Kusmierz sharing her personal pregnancy journey, including IVF and reflections on time perception during her second pregnancy. She introduces the topic of co-care (seeing both an OB and midwife) and sovereignty in birth decisions. Guest Brittany Starobin, founder and CEO of Haven Postnatal Retreat, joins to discuss her background in healthcare consulting and spiritual calling to create Haven. Brittany describes how the business unfolded seamlessly after she aligned with her purpose, signing a hotel contract within three weeks. She recounts her own traumatic birth experiences, including a failed epidural and not being heard by medical staff, which drove her to build a space where mothers are seen and respected. The conversation covers Haven's mission to provide a peaceful environment for postpartum recovery and bonding, with services like massages, pelvic floor therapy, workshops, and nightly emotional check-ins. They explore the challenges of marketing to first-time moms who often neglect postpartum planning, and the importance of supporting mothers holistically. Brittany emphasizes leading with love and meeting mothers where they are, without judgment. The discussion touches on the involvement of partners, the ideal five-night stay, and the logistical aspects of running the retreat. Brittany criticizes the U.S. healthcare system for lacking mandatory postpartum support and insurance coverage, expressing her desire to make Haven more accessible through employer benefits or subsidies. She shares her goals for the future, including subsidizing stays for mothers who cannot afford it. The episode concludes with Brittany's advice for new moms to have grace with themselves during the postpartum period.

As heard by us

A candid conversation about postpartum pain, being heard, and reclaiming agency in care.

Postpartum care is framed as a matter of agency: what happens when a mother knows something is wrong, says so clearly, and still is not heard?

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Why you'd press play

Press play for a candid listen on postpartum pain, being heard, and care with room for agency.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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