Today in Focus The Birth Keepers: Death plan – episode six
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Jan 3, 2026 Yolanda Norris-Clarke, author and co-founder of the Free Birth Society, faces intense scrutiny alongside host Emilee as they navigate backlash against their controversial practices. They discuss their response to criticisms, including rebranding efforts and backlash on social media. The conversation explores the deeply emotional impacts of their teachings on grieving mothers, raising questions of accountability. They also delve into the unsettling philosophy that death can be an acceptable outcome in childbirth, igniting further debates on responsibility and care.
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Rebrand To Avoid Regulation
- Emily and Yolanda rebranded MMI to MatriBirth Mentor Institute to avoid regulated terms while keeping the same content.
- They added disclaimers framing content as informational, not medical, despite influencing maternal choices.
Adair’s Loss After Following FBS
- Adair lost her daughter after 115 hours of labour and had no insurance or private midwife.
- She found FBS and had not considered unassisted birth before encountering their content.
Camille’s Debrief With Yolanda
- Camille paid Yolanda for a discounted birth trauma debrief after losing her son Marlo in a free birth.
- Yolanda told Camille the birth sounded within the realm of 'completely normal' despite signs Camille had questioned.
