Life changes in the most unexpected ways. After months of absence from our podcast, we're back with a birth story that's as dramatic as it is meaningful. Our journey to baby number three began in the aftermath of October 7th, a day that fundamentally changed how we viewed the world and our place in it. Amidst grief and trauma, we felt a spiritual calling to bring another Jewish child into the world, despite having previously considered our family complete.
What followed was a whirlwind pregnancy at age 42 and a birth experience that defied all expectations. From false alarms and desperate attempts to naturally induce labor (including a memorable prenatal massage from a therapist who looked like Mr. T!), to a middle-of-the-night rush to the hospital and a delivery that happened in just three minutes flat—the entire experience was intense, terrifying, and beautiful all at once.
The drama didn't end with delivery, as we discovered the umbilical cord had been wrapped around our daughter's neck, explaining the urgency that filled the delivery room. And later, complications from the epidural sent us back to the hospital for an emergency procedure. Through it all, we felt guided by something greater than ourselves, from the serendipitous timing of having our regular doctor on call to the arrival of family support just when we needed it most.
We share the deeply personal decision behind naming our daughter Arielle Eden, honoring two hostages who lost their live, a young boy and a young woman with whom I felt a special connection despite never having met. This episode isn't just about childbirth; it's about finding hope and purpose amidst tragedy, making spiritual decisions in a material world, and completing our family in the most unexpected way.
Whether you're planning a family, expanding one, or simply curious about the messy, beautiful reality of bringing new life into the world, join us for this raw, emotional conversation about our newest addition and the remarkable circumstances of her arrival.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow
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