Episode 15 - Breaking the Silence: Birth Trauma, Advocacy and Systemic Injustice ~ Sharon Stoliar

Welcome to the Doulas Uncensored Podcast! Join hosts Sammy Griffin and Moran Liviani as they embark on this journey of exploration, education, and empowerment.

In this episode, Sammy and Moran talk to Sharon Stoliar. Sharon Stoliar is a highly experienced midwife, researcher, and advocate dedicated to exposing the failures within maternity care. As the president of the Maternity Consumer Network in Australia, she played a key role in the recent Birth Trauma Inquiry, working to highlight the mistreatment and systemic failures that many women experience in the healthcare system.

She is also the author of Scars of Gold, a powerful memoir detailing her personal experience with birth trauma and her journey into advocacy. But Sharon’s advocacy goes beyond birth—she was one of the few voices to call out systemic antisemitism within the healthcare system, raising the alarm about discrimination faced by Jewish healthcare workers and patients. Instead of being heard, she was cancelled by the birth world and ignored and penalised by the regulating body, AHPRA.

This episode is controversial for good reason. We’re diving into birth trauma, the fight for maternity reform, and the hidden biases—including antisemitism—that are often swept under the rug in healthcare. Buckle up—this is a conversation that challenges the status quo.

Sharon's book recommendation are:

Gifted Hands by Dr Ben Carson

And one of the most famous books of all time; The Bible and references her inspirations being two powerful women in the bible being Ruth & Esther.

You can find Sharon on Instagram as well as on her blog and through the Maternity Consumer Network.

So, sit back, relax, and let's uncover the untold stories, insights, and wisdom together on Doulas Uncensored.

Sammy Griffin: sammygriffinbirthsupport.com

Moran Liviani: 2life.com.au

Disclaimer:

Welcome to the Doulas Uncensored podcast! Before we dive into our episodes, we want to make sure we're all on the same page.

First and foremost, while we strive to provide valuable information and resources, it's important to understand that the content shared on this podcast is not intended to serve as a substitute for medical or clinical advice. Our aim is to educate and inform, with the understanding that any application of this knowledge should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, please note that the content of our podcast may be supplemented, edited, or updated at any time. While we make every effort to maintain accuracy and completeness, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or currency of the information provided. Therefore, we accept no liability for any loss, damage, or unfavorable outcomes that may result from the use or reliance on the content presented here.

Thank you for your understanding and for joining us on this journey of discovery and discussion!