Podcast's Radical Birth Advice Leads to Tragedy

An investigation reveals how the Free Birth Society (FBS), founded by Emilee Saldaya, preyed on vulnerable mothers with a radicalized approach to unassisted childbirth. Through podcasts and paid courses, FBS promoted a dangerous ideology, discouraging prenatal care and medical intervention, even in critical situations. This led to devastating outcomes, including infant deaths and severe maternal harm, as exemplified by Esau Lopez's tragic case of irreversible brain injury during a freebirth.

The organization, which generated over $13 million since 2018, fostered an environment where questioning the ideology was suppressed. Followers were encouraged to embrace 'radical responsibility,' absolving FBS of accountability for negative outcomes. Despite evidence of numerous tragedies, including stillbirths and neonatal deaths, Saldaya and co-founder Yolande Norris-Clark continued to expand their empire, establishing 'Radical Birth Keeper' schools that trained individuals with no medical expertise.

As scrutiny intensified and former members spoke out, FBS faced accusations of operating as a cult, manipulating followers and deleting critical feedback. Despite a shift in branding to 'birth mentors,' the core message of extreme freebirth persisted, with Saldaya and Norris-Clark facing increasing criticism for their role in promoting potentially fatal practices and the tragic consequences experienced by many families.