Against The Grain

Full reference list for this episode: https://tinyurl.com/jf6pudb2 In this episode, I sit down with Dean Garnett to talk about childhood j@bs — and let’s just say, things get real.We dig into why j@bs have always stirred debate, why skepticism isn’t new, and how government and pharmaceutical companies make a lot of money from all this. We share stories from parents, examine the ingredients, and poke at the science — which, spoiler alert, isn’t always as clean as it’s sold.We also touch on the autism debate, the messiness of peer-reviewed research, and why informed consent is more than just signing a form. This isn’t about fear-mongering — it’s about asking questions, knowing what’s going in your child’s body, and owning your healthcare decisions.How government and pharmaceutical companies make a lot of money from all thisWhat’s really in the ingredientsThe science behind jabs — messy, conflicting, and sometimes unclearThe autism debate and why it’s still contentiousFlaws and biases in peer-reviewed researchWhy informed consent is more than just signing a formHow to take control of your child’s healthcare decisionTune in if you want to challenge the narrative, think for yourself, and navigate the rabbit hole of lies & corruption.

Here I dive into biohacking—how small, intentional lifestyle shifts can transform your energy, focus, & well-being. I share my personal routines, tips, and practices that have made the biggest difference for me, breath work & meditation to sunlight, movement, and mindful eating.📌 Full list of products, supplements & links are below. Everything is clickable so you can research, shop, or try what I use.Key Takeaways from the EpisodeBiohacking = small, intentional lifestyle tweaks that boost energy, focus, and wellbeing.Mornings matter, get your morning started rightBreath work & mindfulness calm your nervous system and sharpen focus.Sunlight or red light therapy helps reset your body clock and lift your mood.Move daily and use recovery tools to support long-term health.Cold plunges, quality water and reducing plastics improve hormone balance.Supplements and an animal-based diet boost energy and hormones.Protect your eyes from blue light (glasses) and avoid LED overstimulation to improve focus and reduce anxiety.Acupuncture, HBOT, and red light therapy to support recovery and vitality.Practices and products I start my day with:ACV, lemon & Celtic salt in warm waterMy morning essentials: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/theliverpooldoula_/list/18RQEPZBLLME8?ref_=aipsflistWim Hof Book: https://amzn.to/4qxCUBtRed light panel: https://www.red-light-therapy.co.uk/?ref=ylppdnbr (Discount code: ABBYSNOW)Benefits of red light therapy: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2jZvU445U3BunrmQmVWOAY?si=nzAmMLOlRaG86LF-jY0A1gSalt lamp: https://amzn.to/4o9kXYeSupplementsNaturaviva supplements: https://www.naturavivauk.co.ukShilajit benefits: https://fyfor.com/wellness/shilajit-benefits-side-effects-research/Pregnancy supplements: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/theliverpooldoula_/list/9WLOPW5USZY4?ref_=aipsflistBeef liver caps: https://amzn.to/47hGu9POyster Max: https://amzn.to/4oDKKYsCamu camu: https://amzn.to/4qqI6XuMushroom blend: https://amzn.to/4hqJd5DLemon balm : https://amzn.to/49hVOpuUse the code PODCAST to get 20% off my shopSleepy Dream Cream & Unwind Roll-On: https://theliverpooldoula.bigcartel.comGet rid of back pain NOWShakti mat: https://amzn.to/4o39LMxFor clean water & storageReverse osmosis system: https://www.hommix.co.uk/collections/reverse-osmosis-systemsGlass tank: https://amzn.to/4nnadV4Glass Tupperware: https://amzn.to/4oBMcdPStainless steel water bottle: https://amzn.to/47mUIXcBetter oral optionsFluoride-free toothpastes: https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/theliverpooldoula_/list/CZDQ4ZF42TY4?ref_=aipsflistOil pulling https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/theliverpooldoula_/list/22DL02BWSR3NC?ref_=aipsflistConcordia Clinic LiverpoolAcupuncture, sports massage, HBOT & red light bed: https://concordiaclinic.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/concordiaclinic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Light mattersBlue light blocking glasses: https://amzn.to/4ngRVVrInfo & reading about better choicesLED light dangers: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/sep/14/increase-in-led-lighting-risks-harming-human-and-animal-healthPolyester & endocrine disruption: https://orbasics.com/blogs/stories/chemicals-in-clothing-is-polyester-an-endocrine-disruptor-1Sunbed for Vit Dhttps://doi.org/10.1080/19381980.2017.1375635Raw milk benefits: https://www.rawmilkinstitute.org/about-raw-milk/#nutritionGary Brecka podcast: https://www.theultimatehuman.com/podcastGary Brecka Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garybrecka?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Infrared morning sun research: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-02311-1Grounding benefits: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/Sauna benefits: https://www.saunasociety.org/press-releases/2015/10/18/health-benefits-of-saunaHBOT benefits: https://aviv-clinics.com/blog/brain-health/for-the-first-time-hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy-proven-to-reverse-biological-aging-in-humans/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

In this episode of Against the Grain,Stevie joins the conversation to explore the hidden truths of infant feeding and the profound impact breastfeeding can have on babies and mothers. As a Hypnobirthing teacher, breastfeeding peer supporter, and mother of three homebirthed children, Stevie shares insights from her experience supporting families and navigating the challenges of feeding. As well as sharing her own story of both breast & bottle feeding her own kids and the struggles she faced along the way.The discussion covers the ways formula can affect health, the emotional and biological benefits of breastmilk, and why understanding feeding choices is so important.In this episode, you’ll hear about:·       How different feeding choices can influence both short- and long-term health·       The unique benefits of breastmilk that formula can’t replicate·       Emotional and calming effects of breastfeeding for mother and baby·       The importance of education, support, and community in navigating feeding challenges·       How societal pressures and misinformation can complicate feeding journeys·       Early practices that support successful breastfeeding, including skin-to-skin contact and managing engorgement·       Practical guidance for overcoming common breastfeeding challenges·       How understanding feeding choices can empower mothers to trust their instinctsFind Stevie - This Mum Hypnobirthing Website https://www.thismumhypnobirthing.com/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thismumhypnobirthing/Get Stevie's £30 online birth education coursehere https://www.thismumhypnobirthing.com/challenge-page/onlinehypnobirthing?programId=f1098135-d56e-4b4d-a0a5-abab33894f9cUSE CODE TLD510AFF FOR £5 OFFBreast Beginnings: Breastfeeding Workshop on 17th December 2025.It’s normally £50, but you can get £10 off — that’s just £40!Grab your spot herehttps://www.thismumhypnobirthing.com/service-page/breast-beginnings-breastfeeding-workshop?referral=service_list_widget Here is the link to the natural folate supplement i would recommend https://amzn.to/3JkPUJM

Get 20% Off Mollie’s Natural Products: https://www.floholistics.com – use code PODCAST at checkout!Buy the CHILDBIRTH BIBLE, the book I recommend every woman should read: Guide To Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin https://amzn.to/472g9wx In this episode of AGAIN TO THE GRAIN, I talk with Mollie about her birth journey—from a traumatic hospital birth to a calm, empowering home birth. She shares amazing firsthand experience and advice that can help women feel confident, prepared, and supported to have the birth they truly want.Key Takeaways:Mollie’s first hospital birth left her feeling powerless and traumatised.After that experience, she always dreamed of a home birth for her second child—and it was everything she hoped for.Empowerment and making informed choices are crucial for a positive birth experience.Her home birth allowed freedom to move, eat, and labour naturally.A supportive midwife made a huge difference in her birth and recovery.Creating a birth plan and trusting your instincts is key.Mollie’s advice gives practical tips for women wanting to achieve a home birth and feel fully in control of their experience.

In this episode of Against the Grain, Isit down with homeopath Rachel Williams to uncover the truth about natural medicine and what it really means to take control of your health. We dive deep into how to live healthier, even in a system that often doesn’t have your best interests at heart. Along the way, we debunk myths about natural remedies, share personal stories, and explore how to empower yourself when access to honest, supportive healthcare is limited.Some of the topics we cover:·Seeing the whole person, not just the symptoms.·Gentle safe approaches—even for children.·How natural remedies can complement conventional medicine.·Practical ways to stay healthy despite systemic obstacles.·The power of education, curiosity, and community in taking charge of your wellbeing.·Addressing physical, emotional, and inherited health issues.·Hormones, women’s health, menopause, and the dangers of the pill.·Surprising ways these methods can support pets and even plants.·Why curiosity and understanding are essential for navigating a flawed healthcare system.Tune in to learn how radical self-healing and taking responsibility for your health can transform your life—and maybe even shake up Big Pharma along the way. You can learn all about Rachel & her services here on her website https://www.rwilliamshomeopathy.co.uk/Book in for a 15 minute consultation with Rachel herehttps://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule/481b12bdBuy one of Rachel's kits here which include a free educational coursehttps://thisishomeopathywithrachel.co.uk/Use the code ABBY10 for discount

In this episode, I’m spilling the facts about vaping—whether you’re pregnant or not. Think e-cigarettes are a “safer” option? Let’s break down what’s actually going into your lungs, how nicotine and heavy metals affect your body (and a baby if you’re expecting), and some natural strategies to help you reduce nicotine use for better health overall. Takeaways:The NHS sometimes recommends vapes as a harm reduction strategy, but there’s more to the story.Vaping delivers aerosols and heavy metals straight into your lungs—bypassing your natural filters.One disposable vape = 26 cigarettes; refillable vapes = 133 cigarettes.If pregnant, nicotine crosses the placenta and accumulates in fetal brain tissue.Heavy metals from vape coils can impact neuron growth and overall health.Addiction is a behavioural pattern, not a disease—quitting benefits both you and, if pregnant, your baby.Natural alternatives and mindfulness can help break the nicotine cycle.My insta @theliverpooldoula_My website www.theliverpooldoula.co.uk Life-Changing eBookGet My eBook Shop Organic Skincare ProductsUse code PODCAST for 20% off Placenta Pills Booking FormBook HereBook a Free 30-Min Doula Discovery CallAm I the Doula for You? Advice/Guidance SessionBook Here Create Your Dream Birth PlanStart Here Shop on AmazonThe Liverpool Doula Store 

In this episode, I call out the veterinary industry for what it really is: a profit-driven machine that often puts your pet’s health last. I share my own stories with my dogs—howtraditional vets, meds, and kibble can actually make things worse—and why trusting the system blindly is a huge mistake. I’m here to make you wake up, question everything, and take real control of your pet’s health. Natural holistic care isn’t woo-woo—it’s smart, effective, and your pet deserves it. Takeaways:Most vets are more about money than your pet—over-medication and unnecessary treatments are the norm.That“healthy” kibble and prescription meds? They can wreck your pet’s long-term health.Holistic approaches—real food, natural remedies—can fix problems the vets can’t or won’t.Stop blindly following the system—question your vet, challenge advice, demand better.📚 Recommended Resources for Dog Health & Longevity🐾 The Forever Dog by Dr. Karen Becker & Rodney Habib — A groundbreaking guide to helping your dog live a longer, healthier life.👉 Paperback on Amazon🐾 The Forever Dog Life by Dr. Karen Becker & Rodney Habib — A beautifully illustrated hardback packed with practical tips and lifestyle strategies for vibrant canine health.👉 Hardback on Amazon🛒 Pet Essentials I Recommend — A handpicked list of natural, safe, and genuinely useful products for your pets, all in one place.👉 Shop my Amazon Pet Essentials List

In this episode of Against the Grain, I pull no punches and expose the dirty little money games behind birth. The NHS and maternity care? Let’s just say profit often comes before people. I spill the tea on the cascade of interventions that turn a simple hospital check-in into a full-blown C-section, and how the Group B Streptococcus antibiotic racket messes with your microbiome. We get realabout the long-term trauma women carry silently after birth, and why doulas are the real MVPs in helping women reclaim their experiences. I’m here to show you how to question everything, fight back, and take your power back in the birthing room—because birth isn’t a transaction, it’s your life.Takeaways:The NHS runs on payment-by-results“High-risk” labels? Often just a ticket to unnecessary procedures.A cascade of interventionsGroup B Streptococcus antibiotics & wrecking your microbiome Many women live with birth trauma for years without even realising it.Doulas change the game—reducing interventions and protecting your birth experience.The system literally profits off women’s trauma and ongoing health issues.Natural healing methods to empower you and cut your dependence on pharma.The placenta? Treated as trash, when it could boost your recovery.Knowledge is power: education and informed choices beat consumerism every time. My insta @theliverpooldoula_My website www.theliverpooldoula.co.ukLife-Changing eBook⁠Get My eBook⁠BOOK YOUR PLACENTA PILLS HERE Book HereShop Organic SkincareProductsUse code PODCAST for 20% offBook a Free 30-Min DoulaDiscovery CallAm I the Doula for You? Advice/Guidance SessionBook Here Create Your Dream Birth PlanStart Here Shop on AmazonThe Liverpool Doula Store Red Light Therapy PanelBuy Here   

In this episode of AgainstThe Grain, I get real about the placenta—yes, that weird-looking organ that everyone ignores. I dive into what it actually does, its cultural significance, and why placentophagy (yep, eating it) can help with postpartum recovery. We chat delayed cord clamping, bust myths, and I empower you to make your own choices about your placenta and postpartum journey. I also break down practical tips for placenta encapsulation and how it can boost your mood, bonding, and overall recovery. Takeaways:The placenta is a vital organ— not just biological waste.Cultures around the world respect the placenta, but Western medicine mostly ignores it.Placentophagy (eating your placenta) may help postpartumrecovery—even if science hasn’t fully caught up.Delayed cord clamping is non-negotiable There are so many myths about the placenta—let’s bust them.You have the right to keep your placenta and use it however you want.Placenta can be encapsulated into pills for postpartum health benefits.The power of oxytocin from your placentaHad a C-section? Find out if you can use the placentaEmpowerment in childbirth & making your owninformed decisions My insta @theliverpooldoula_Learn all about the differentplacenta remedies available https://www.theliverpooldoula.co.uk/placenta-remedies  BOOK YOUR PLACENTA PILLS HERE Book HereShop Organic Skincare ProductsUse code PODCAST for 20% offBook a Free 30-Min Doula Discovery CallAm I the Doula for You? Advice/Guidance SessionBook Here Create Your Dream Birth Plan Start Here Shop on AmazonThe Liverpool Doula Store Red Light Therapy PanelBuy Here Life-Changing eBookGet My eBook

In this episode of AgainstThe Grain, I get real about the differences between midwives and doulas—and why it matters for your birth. I clear up the myths around doulas, showing how we provide emotional, physical, and informational backup while you navigate pregnancy and birth. I also spill on the struggles midwives face in the healthcare system and why informed consent is non-negotiable. Plus, I drop my tips for picking the right birth team and what red flags to watch for—because you deserve people in your corner who actually have your back.Takeaways:I provide emotional, physical, and informational support—your advocate from bump to baby.Midwives are clinical care providers, stuck following strict policies.I work for you, not the healthcare system.Policies often mean midwives can’t give truly individualised care.Informed consent is a must—and I push for it.Picking the right doula? Make sure we click and share the same birth values.Red flags in doulas?Red flags in midwives?Free birth is your legal rightDoulas can level up your birth experience My insta @theliverpooldoula_My website www.theliverpooldoula.co.ukBook a Free 30-Min DoulaDiscovery CallAm I the Doula for You? Life-Changing eBook⁠Get My eBook⁠Shop Organic Skincare ProductsUse code PODCAST for 20% off Placenta Pills Booking FormBook Here Advice/Guidance Session Book Here Create Your Dream Birth Plan Start Here Shop on AmazonThe Liverpool Doula Store Red Light Therapy Panel Buy Here