We had the good fortune of connecting with Kim Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kim, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
I think the most important thing I’ve done as a parent is allow my children to be themselves, and simply love them as who they are. We nurture and allow space for them to explore their interests, read what they love, engage in free play, and participate in activities of their choosing. We carve time to be fully present, talk with them, and really listen to tune into who they are and who they are becoming. It’s not about who we think or want them to be, or what a society or system says they should be, but about who they genuinely are.

In the beauty and the mess, in the successes and the failures, in their strengths and their weaknesses, they are always loved, no more or no less. My husband and I are parents to 4 children (ages 7, 10, 12, and 13). Our children are similar in many ways, but so different in others, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Through personal and career experiences and our understanding and belief in Christ’s love for us, this is a powerful message we cultivate within our family. I am hopeful in the impact this has on our children, both now and in their future!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Authentic Birth Co provides emotional, informational, and physical support to those walking the journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and new motherhood. I believe that your birth matters, and all our services aim to promote informed, positive, and empowering birth experiences. In addition, I believe that women have the freedom to walk their journey in an authentic way, making choices in alignment to her character, beliefs, and preferences. I also believe in the strength of community, and that pregnancy and new motherhood aren’t meant to be done alone. We offer a variety of doula services, some traditional and some a little more untraditional, with both in-person and virtual options. Check us out to see if something looks like a good fit for you!

As the founder, I have over 15 years experience as a licensed therapist and am a mother to 4 children myself. I personally understand and am passionate about the importance of walking into childbirth and new motherhood with knowledge, resources, support, and confidence!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If it’s just me and my husband, you’ll probably find us at a local coffee shop, walking, chatting, and just enjoying quiet time together without the kids, maybe at a park or while browsing small, local shops. If friends were in town, we’d probably make a trip up to Chattanooga and spend time hiking or by the river. We’d first visit our favorite breakfast spot, Bluegrass Grill, and then Velo Coffee Roasters. To end the day, we’d definitely grab an ice cream at The Ice Cream Show while we walk over the river on the walking bridge!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate a big shoutout to my mom! She has shown nothing but love and grace through all the highs and lows in my life, and not once have I ever felt judged or criticized by her. I’m honestly not sure how that’s even humanly possible. Her unwavering loyalty is beyond belief. As a mother myself, I now grasp the power of a mother’s love. It’s a hard and holy love, yet at the same time somehow easily flows right out of us like a river.

I also want to give a huge shoutout to my husband! He’s given 100% of his love and support to me in my journey of creating Authentic Birth Co. Sometimes believing in yourself is a little easier to do when you know someone believes in you. I truly could not ask for a better husband and father.

Also, my kids rock! They are so fun and are my biggest cheerleaders!

Website: www.authenticbirthco.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticbirthco?igsh=c3M5ZXVpeWhtamRz&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Camille Abimbola

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.