A major new podcast series from The Guardian is taking a deep, investigative look into the world of the Free Birth Society and the women who lead it. The second episode of this year-long project focuses squarely on the movement's founder, Emilee Saldaya, and her business partner, Yolande Norris-Clark.
Who is Behind the Free Birth Society Movement?
The central figure under scrutiny is Emilee Saldaya, the American woman who founded the Free Birth Society. This online community and educational platform advocates for unassisted childbirth, a practice where women give birth without the assistance of medical professionals like midwives or doctors. The movement has gained significant traction online, promoting a philosophy of complete bodily autonomy during pregnancy and labour.
Journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne, who are conducting the investigation, delve into Saldaya's background and the origins of her organisation. Their work raises critical questions about the messaging and influence of the group, which operates largely through social media and paid courses.
A Partnership Under the Microscope
A key part of the story is Saldaya's partnership with Yolande Norris-Clark. The podcast explores how the two women met and joined forces to build the Free Birth Society brand. Their collaboration is a focal point for the journalists as they examine the structure and reach of the movement.
Furthermore, the investigation probes a fundamental issue: the professional credentials claimed by both Saldaya and Norris-Clark. The episode questions whether either woman possesses the formal qualifications or medical training that their audience might assume from their positions as leaders in this space. This line of inquiry is crucial for understanding the authority with which they dispense advice on a matter as high-stakes as childbirth.
The Implications of a Year-Long Probe
This second instalment is part of a comprehensive, year-long investigation by The Guardian. The sustained focus indicates the complexity and sensitivity of the subject. Unassisted childbirth is a deeply controversial topic within maternal health circles, with medical experts often warning of the potential dangers for both mother and baby without professional oversight.
The work of Kale and Osborne suggests a commitment to unpacking not just the personal stories of the founders, but also the broader societal impact of the movement. The podcast, Full Story, aims to provide listeners with a nuanced, fact-based narrative that goes beyond the polarising rhetoric often found online.
The revelations and questions posed in this episode are likely to fuel ongoing debate about choice, risk, and information in the realm of pregnancy and birth. As the investigation continues, it promises to shed more light on a movement that challenges conventional medical paradigms.
