Within months of the death of Lorren's baby, Journey Moon, and the public backlash against the Free Birth Society that followed, Emilee Saldaya took the FBS membership private, transforming the organization into a global multimillion-dollar empire. This is episode four of a year-long investigation by Guardian journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne.
The Tragedy That Changed Everything
The death of Journey Moon sent shockwaves through the birth community. Public scrutiny intensified, forcing Saldaya to pivot the Free Birth Society from a public-facing group to a private, paid membership model. This move not only shielded the organization from criticism but also unlocked a lucrative revenue stream.
A Global Empire in the Shadows
By taking FBS private, Saldaya capitalized on the growing demand for unassisted birth resources. The business expanded rapidly, attracting thousands of members worldwide. According to the investigation, the empire now operates across multiple countries, generating significant income through subscription fees and related products.
"Emilee Saldaya built a multimillion-dollar enterprise out of the tragedy," said Sirin Kale, one of the journalists behind the series. "The privatization was a strategic move to avoid accountability while profiting from vulnerable families."
Impact on the Birth Community
The shift has raised concerns among health professionals and former members. Critics argue that the secretive nature of the organization puts lives at risk by promoting unregulated birth practices. The Guardian investigation highlights how the empire's growth correlates with a rise in home-birth complications.
As the series continues, the full scope of Saldaya's business practices and their consequences remain under scrutiny. The Birth Keepers was originally published on 10 December 2025.
