In this nourishing chat, Victoria sits down with doula and motherhood mentor Ash Tomlinson to unpack birth without fear, what “continuity of care” really looks like, and how to turn a rigid “birth plan” into a flexible birth map anchored to your values. Ash shares her own story -planning a home birth, navigating IUGR and a breech baby, ultimately choosing a gentle, intentional caesarean - and how listening to her intuition shaped a joyful experience. You’ll hear practical ways to advocate for yourself, include partners meaningfully, and protect your nervous system in pregnancy, birth, and the long, long season called motherhood.Big reminder: You always have the answer within you - you just need the space to hear it.What we cover From plan to map: why a birth map honours your values, preferences, and “if this/then that” pathways—even when things change Intuition over noise: how Ash knew a caesarean was the right call and made it beautiful and intentional Continuity of care: private midwives, postpartum support at home, and why familiar faces matter Language & power: spotting phrases that quietly remove your choices—and reclaiming your “yes/no” Partners as anchors: preparing partners for hands-on (or hands-off) support, and debriefing their experience too Postpartum is forever: nervous-system regulation, emotional embodiment, and simplifying daily rituals Little moments, big impact: sunlight, a hot coffee, slow mornings—why tiny practices count (and kids mirror what we model)Meet AshAsh Tomlinson is a mum to Billy and a doula supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum in and around Geraldton, WA. She blends mindset work, nervous-system education, and soulful, practical support for mothers at every stage. Ash offers 1:1 doula care, birth mapping sessions, and a motherhood group program (re-launching early in the new year). Connect: Instagram @ashtomlinson_ or Facebook: Ash Tomlinson Holistic Doula &b Mentor Enquiries: DM Ash to book a connection callConnect with Victoria Instagram: @the.victoria.r Website: www.victoria-r.com.au Questions or collabs: DM on InstagramGentle disclaimerThis episode shares lived experience and general information. It’s not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for your specific circumstances.

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