The Protector’s Role: Birth, Boundaries & Partnership with Ashley Mariani //S4E38

Couples therapist and birth advocate Ashley Mariani (aka “The Rogue Therapist”) joins us to talk about love, leadership, and protecting your family in the birth space. Ashley works at the powerful intersection of birth, intimacy, and nervous system healing, supporting couples through pregnancy, birth, and the massive transition into parenthood. From naming obstetric violence to calling fathers into true protection and partnership, this episode is a wake-up call and a blueprint for unity.

We unpack why so many moms feel dismissed, how “good girl” conditioning shows up in appointments, and what real advocacy looks like when the pressure is on. Ashley shares the core relationship shifts after baby (mental load, intimacy, boundaries), how to regulate your nervous system so you can respond—not react and why fatherhood should be treated as a rite of passage, not an afterthought.

If you’ve ever wished your partner knew exactly how to show up or you’re ready to reclaim birth as yours, this one will change how you prepare together!

 

Key Highlights: • Why naming obstetric violence matters—and who can perpetrate it (it’s not just OBs) • The 3 biggest relationship shifts after baby: mental load, sex/intimacy, and family boundaries • How “good girl syndrome” keeps women quiet—and scripts to set firm, respectful boundaries • Green flags vs. red flags with providers (consent, collaboration, and how they react when you say “no”) • What true advocacy looks like in the room—and why regulated partners are taken more seriously • Nervous system 101: responding vs. reacting, widening your window of tolerance • Why fatherhood is a rite of passage—and how men can build brotherhood and leadership now • A step-by-step debrief for couples after birth (even years later) to heal and move forward • Expectations talk: the proactive conversation every couple should have in pregnancy • How dads can become “the protector”: purpose, presence, and practical leadership • Shadow work for both parents—owning your triggers so fear doesn’t run the birth space

 

About the Reclaiming Birth Conference

This powerful in-person gathering brings together voices from around the world who are reclaiming birth, autonomy, and truth. Designed for parents, birth workers, and change makers, the conference is about honouring physiology, challenging the status quo, and reclaiming your birthright.

📍 Ontario – September 19 & 20, 2025 🌐 reclaimingbirthconference.com 📸 @reclaimbirthconference

📍 Montreal – Spring 2026 🌐 reclaimingbirthmontreal.ca 📸 @reclaiming.birth.montreal

 

Connect with Ashley Mariani:  Instagram: @TheRogueTherapist  Course: Protecting Your Family from Obstetric Violence   Website: mindonline.ca

Connect with Melania & Ally:  Instagram: @rawmomversations     Website: rawmomversations.com

 

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Raw MOMversations podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of Raw MOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!