Dr. Nathan Riley, Holistic OBGYN: When Love Guides Birth Instead of Fear // S4E37

Dr. Nathan Riley, holistic OB-GYN and host of the Born Free Method podcast, joins us for one of our most expansive and paradigm-shifting conversations to date. Trained in both conventional medicine and hospice care, Dr. Riley now walks a radically different path- one that integrates midwifery, lifestyle medicine, intuition, and reverence for birth as a sacred rite of passage.

We talk about how doctors are schooled out of intuition, how medical hierarchy silences women, and why midwifery—not obstetrics—should be the default model of maternity care. Dr. Riley also shares his deeply personal story of attending his own daughter’s home birth, what it really means to “sit on your hands,” and why reclaiming birth is inseparable from reclaiming society itself.

This episode is a masterclass in love-based care, medical deprogramming, and what it looks like to hold birth—not manage it.

If you've ever questioned the system—or yourself—this one will help you remember your power.

Key Highlights:
• Why Dr. Riley left the hospital system—and never looked back
• The story behind “eat oysters” and its connection to fertility
• How medical school trains out curiosity and critical thinking
• The difference between schooling and true education
• Why midwifery care leads to better outcomes and deeper trust
• How male OBs can support birth without dominating it
• The impact of hospital birth on newborns—and society
• Why intuition is “authoritative knowledge” in birth
• How the ARRIVE trial and induction reflect deeper cultural issues
• Reclaiming birth as a portal to reclaiming community and humanity
• The role of presence, not information, in birth support
• How we raise schooled children to be obedient, not autonomous
• Why love, not fear, must lead our conversations around birth
• The hopeful wave of new med students challenging the system

 

About the Reclaiming Birth Conference

This groundbreaking event brings together voices from around the world to challenge the mainstream birth narrative. Designed for parents, birth workers, and revolutionaries, the conference centers physiology, sovereignty, and sacred connection.

📍Ontario – September 19 & 20, 2025
🌐 reclaimingbirthconference.com
📸 @reclaiming.birth.conference

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

 

Connect with Dr. Nathan Riley:
 Website: bornfreemethod.com & belovedholistics.com
 Instagram: @nathanrileyobgyn
 Podcast: Born Free Method

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!