The Birth Keepers | The Guardian Investigates

The Birth Keepers: Death plan – episode six

Dec 10, 2025
Yolanda Norris-Clark, co-founder of the Free Birth Society, dives into the controversy surrounding their philosophy on birth. She and her colleague Emily defend their practices against backlash and discuss their rebranding efforts amidst criticism. The duo addresses the fallout from tragic stillbirths linked to their teachings, raising ethical questions about personal responsibility in parenting choices. As they navigate tough conversations about medical interventions and accountability, Yolanda insists on the importance of individual decision-making despite the ongoing scrutiny.
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INSIGHT

Rebrand After Regulatory Pushback

  • Emily and Yolanda rebranded their Matri-Birth Midwifery Institute to MatriBirth Mentor Institute after criticism that it wasn't a legitimate midwifery school.
  • They framed it as the same program while acknowledging legal limits on using the word "midwifery."
INSIGHT

Backlash Framed As Jealousy

  • Emily and Yolanda publicly dismissed Reddit backlash as jealousy and a "hate club," rejecting cult comparisons.
  • They portrayed critics as lonely women projecting onto them rather than engaging with safety concerns.
ANECDOTE

Adair’s Loss After Following FBS Guidance

  • Adair lost her daughter Ilex after 115 hours of labour and attributed the outcome to guidance from Free Birth Society.
  • She expressed anger that Emily and Yolanda refuse responsibility for influencing mothers' choices.
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