Getting To Know Calmbirth Educator Kristen Cantrell

03/04/2025 Kristen Cantrell

My name is Kristen, and I am a registered midwife and a Calmbirth educator. Currently, I am pursuing my studies to become an International Board-certified Lactation Consultant.

As a mother of three beautiful little girls, I am inspired daily to transform the existing birth culture from one rooted in fear to one built on profound trust, compassion, and empowerment. It is my passion to support and educate families on their journey to parenthood, helping them embrace the beauty and strength within themselves as they welcome new life into the world.

Through my work, I aim to create a nurturing and supportive environment where expectant parents feel confident and informed about their choices. I believe that by fostering a sense of calm and understanding, we can transform the birth experience into one that is positive and fulfilling.

I am truly passionate about the Calmbirth program, having personally experienced it during my third pregnancy. It empowered me to approach my birth with both knowledge and confidence, as I learned about the mind’s power, my beliefs surrounding childbirth, and how to replace fear with trust and surrender. This transformative experience not only enriched my own journey but also deepened my commitment to sharing these invaluable tools with others. By integrating relaxation, visualisation, and practical techniques, the Calmbirth program supports expectant parents in cultivating a peaceful mindset, which can significantly influence their birthing experience.

My goal is to inspire a sense of self-assurance and joy, so families can embrace the miracle of birth with open hearts and minds.

I look forward to continuing this work and witnessing the incredible moments of discovery and connection that unfold within our Calmbirth community.

Kristen x

My Name is… Kristen Cantrell

I work at… I am currently enjoying an extended maternity leave from my clinical duties. Following the birth of my third and final baby, I’ve been eager to cherish every moment with her and my other two children. Previously, I worked at the incredible Gold Coast University Hospital, where I rotated through the antenatal clinic, birth suites, and postnatal ward. I truly love the community at GCUH and am looking forward to re-entering clinical work later this year.

My life in five words… If I were to describe my life in five words, they would be Learning, Laughter, Love, Resilience & Growth.

The best thing about where I live is… One of the greatest aspects of my location is being situated midway between the Gold Coast and Brisbane city. I enjoy the proximity to farming properties while still living in a suburban area. My community is wonderful, filled with people who genuinely care for one another and look out for each other.

What I do to relax when I’m not working… I genuinely cherish spending time at the beach, listening to a mindfulness podcast, and creating special memories with my family. There’s something enchanting about being fully present with them, watching my children play and discover as they explore their surroundings. Their laughter and curiosity are truly contagious.

I can’t live without… I don’t think I could live without my Apple AirPods. As a busy mum of three little girls, using my airpods mean that I can still listen to my favourite books, podcasts and daily mindfulness practices on the go, whether I’m at soccer training, gymnastics, or dance lessons.

The person or traits I most admire is… One of the traits I truly admire in people is kindness. It’s like the magic ingredient that makes everything possible, because when people are wrapped in kindness, they can achieve extraordinary things. If I had to choose one individual I truly admire, it would be Dr. Wayne Dyer. He has played a significant role in my journey of spiritual growth and self-development. His teachings have provided me with guidance during some of the most difficult times in my life, imparting wisdom and insights that have profoundly resonated with me. One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned from Dr. Wayne Dyer is the concept of being a “human being” rather than a “human doing.” This idea has helped me slow down and appreciate the present moment, fostering a deeper connection with myself and the world around me. His gentle yet powerful reminders to practice gratitude and self-love have transformed the way I approach challenges, allowing me to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and resilience.

What I love most about being a Calmbirth Educator… What I cherish most about being a Calmbirth educator is the opportunity to truly connect with my couples. I gain insight into their fears, doubts, and concerns, guiding them to trust their bodies during the birthing process, embrace surrender, and feel empowered as they move forward. Each couple brings a distinct story and journey, making it a privilege to be part of such a transformative phase in their lives. The joy reflected in their eyes when they discover their inner strength is profoundly rewarding. I treasure the moments when they express their excitement and anticipation, and together we navigate any uncertainties they may face. This role goes beyond teaching; it’s about building connections, providing reassurance, and celebrating their growth and newfound confidence. Witnessing their transformation from apprehension to empowerment is a truly beautiful experience, and I am thankful for the chance to contribute to their journey into parenthood.

If I had to describe my own birth experiences in 3 words… If I were to describe my birthing experience(s) in just three words, they would be magical, powerful, and transformative.

The 3 essential things you need to take with you into labour are… Three essential things you need to take with you into labour are, the Calmbirth breathing techniques, Optimal positioning, and a confident mindset grounded in trust of the birthing process.

My most memorable moment at as Calmbirth® educator… One of my most unforgettable experiences as a calmbirth educator occurred when a couple approached me after finishing the course. They expressed their gratitude for discovering the program, sharing that they arrived feeling scared and anxious about the birthing journey, but were now leaving with a wealth of knowledge, newfound confidence, and excitement for the labour and birth ahead. This experience filled me with immense gratitude for the opportunity to share my knowledge with so many beautiful couples on their journey. Being a Calmbirth educator is truly such a privilege.

A favourite quote Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and soothing to the spirit.

If you had to describe how seeing a baby being born makes you feel Witnessing the birth of a baby is the most extraordinary, incredible and emotional experiences. The moment a new life enters the world, it feels as if time stands still, allowing everyone present to fully appreciate the miracle unfolding before them. The room is often filled with a mix of emotions—joy, relief, and a profound sense of connection to something much larger than us. As the newborn takes its first breath and lets out that initial, tiny cry, there’s a shared understanding among all who witness it: this is the beginning of an entirely new journey, one filled with potential and countless possibilities. It’s a reminder of the beauty and resilience of life, and the amazing capacity for love and hope that each new baby brings into the world.

You can follow me at @birth.with.kristen

My next Calmbirth courses are: 26th of April & 3rd of May