Podcasts about Doula

As 2025 comes to an end, guest host Dr. Sara Ailshire turns the tables and interviews Dr. Rebecca Dekker about the biggest childbirth trends, lessons, and breakthroughs of 2025, and what exciting changes are coming to EBB in 2026.   Together, Sara and Rebecca dive into the shifting landscape of birth: the unprecedented rise in labor inductions, how AI is complicating the search for evidence-based information, changes in doula access and Medicaid coverage, and how politics continues to shape pregnancy and postpartum care. They walk through the most impactful EBB research updates of the year—including new evidence on vitamin K, gestational diabetes testing, induction timing, big babies, and respectful maternity care—and reflect on the episodes that resonated most with our global community.   Rebecca also opens up about what she personally learned this year, including how unresolved childhood trauma impacted her own labor years ago, and how that insight is shaping her thinking about the emotional and spiritual dimensions of birth. Plus, Rebecca reveals a major new direction for Evidence Based Birth in 2026 that could transform hospital birth culture around the world and bring evidence-based care to thousands more families.   Want to provide input on EBB's new direction? Fill out this survey here!   (02:12) The #1 trend of 2025: inductions everywhere (03:50) How AI is reshaping (and complicating) birth information (07:51) Doula coverage, Medicaid changes, and fewer parents seeking childbirth education (11:55) Miscarriage care, politics, and the impact of Dobbs (13:42) Biggest EBB research updates: vitamin K, GDM, and more (21:40) The new Respectful Maternity Care handout (22:21) The new "big baby" trial and why it likely won't shift U.S. practice (25:37) The top five EBB podcast episodes of the year (32:58) Highlights from the 2025 EBB Conference & Summer School (41:22) How trauma shaped Rebecca's own labor (53:50) The big reveal: what's coming for EBB in 2026   Resources Vitamin K Signature Article (Updated 2025): ebbirth.com/vitamink Gestational Diabetes Signature Article (Updated): ebbirth.com/gdm Get the Respectful Maternity Care Free Handout: ebbirth.com/RMC Sign up for the Big Baby Signature Training for Pro Members: ebbirth.com/classes Get the My Doula Visit Workbook: ebbirth.com/doula-workbook/   Referenced EBB Episodes EBB 349 – An L & D Nurse's Advice for Advocating in the Birth Room with Trish Ware the Labor Nurse Mama EBB 357 – Making Decisions about Elective Induction of Labor with Dr. Ann Peralta & Kari Radoff, CNM, from Partner to Decide EBB 377 – Medicaid Coverage for Doula Care with Amy Chen, Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program EBB 352 – Calming Breathing Techniques for Pregnancy with Dr. Shilpa Babbar, Obstetrician and Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist EBB 343 – Top Ten Evidence-Based Strategies for Lowering the Risk of Cesarean EBB 347 - Updated Evidence on Vitamin K EBB 350 – Surviving a Long Antepartum Hospital Stay and Preparing for a Scheduled Cesarean with Krista DeYoung, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate EBB 372 – Comfort Measures and a 41-Week Induction with Hopey Fink and Ben Levin, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates   EBB Doula Trainer Rewards Lorie Michaels, BirthPro Advanced Doula Training: birthpro.org Lorenda Lewis, Healing with Dignity: healingwithdignity.com Heather McCullough, HMBirth: hmbirth.com Heather Christine Struwe, Community Aware Birthworker: communityawarebirthworker.com Charlotte Shilo-Goudeau, Community Birth Companion: communitybirthcompanion.org Naima Beckles, For Your Birth: foryourbirth.com Leiko Hidaka, Leiko Hidaka: leikohidaka.com Ruth Kraft, Birth Professional International: birthprofessionalinternational.com Jennifer Anderson, Birth Fusion: birthfusion.com Chanté Perryman, Baby Dreams Maternity Concierge: babydreamsmc.com   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.    

168 Breaking Taboos: Talking About Death with Gabby Jimenez  In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, interviews Gabrielle Jimenez, a hospice and palliative care nurse, end-of-life doula, grief educator, and author. Gabby shares her journey from commercial real estate to nursing, witnessing nearly 2000 last breaths, and discusses the importance of human-centered care in hospice. The episode also covers the challenges and rewards of starting a nursing career later in life, the need for earlier hospice care, and supporting parents losing a child. Highlighting Gabby's intention to create a safe place through her Facebook community 'The Hospice Heart,' this episode emphasizes the critical role of compassion and education in end-of-life care. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:46 Meet Gabrielle Jimenez: Hospice Nurse and Doula 02:01 Gabrielle's Journey to Hospice Care 10:12 The Role of a Doula in End-of-Life Care 17:01 Challenges and Changes in Hospice Care 21:38 The Importance of Discussing Death and Dying 24:04 Celebrating Life and Death in New Orleans 24:37 Organizing Funeral Food 25:51 A Funny Story About My Dad's Funeral 27:20 Reflecting on My Mother's Death 29:13 Dealing with Family Drama During Funerals 32:12 Advice for Handling Grief and Family Dynamics 39:08 Supporting Parents Losing a Child 43:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  https://www.thehospiceheart.net/   If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link   https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice  Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast.  Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the  cloud9caresystem.com,  When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)  If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com   Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.

This week's BLBD podcast brings something a little different: it's story time! Listen this week to hear a few of my favorite sections and ideas from this beautiful book by Lisa Smartt, Words at the Threshold: What We Say as We're Nearing Death. As a linguist, she became interested in what people said as they neared the end of life – and not only the words, but the patterns and commonalities. I'll share what she learned and what she suggests for how you can "courageously and compassionately witness final words.”For more information on Best Life Best Death please visit our website at ⁠⁠www.bestlifebestdeath.com⁠⁠Follow us on our social channels to receive pertinent and helpful resources on death, grieving, and more at:Facebook: ⁠⁠www.facebook.com/bestlifebestdeath⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/bestlifebestdeath⁠⁠

This episode is for women building something meaningful… and quietly wondering why it feels so hard.Building a mission-driven business isn't just about strategy or growth.It's emotional. It's heavy at times. And it often asks more of you than anyone prepares you for.In this episode, I'm sitting down with Kelly Cox, founder of Share The Drop, an app connecting families with screened donor breastmilk to increase access to human milk support for babies who need it most.But this isn't a conversation about features or tech.It's about the woman behind the work.We talk honestly about:The moments Kelly doubted herself and questioned whether she was the right person to build thisWhat it's like to carry responsibility for families and babies while still figuring yourself outThe complicated relationship with visibility and social media as a founderThe emotional weight of building something rooted in care and serviceWhere she sees the business, and herself, heading in 2026If you've ever thought, “I believe in this, but I'm not sure I'm built for the weight of it,” you're not alone.And you're exactly where you need to be.

Mary and Elizabeth were the original collaborators, co-laboring to provide the world with the hope and promise that it needed. In drawing near to each other, they discovered mutual support and joy, and the strength to encourage each other throughout their journeys. In a season where our relationships with those closest to us might be most tested and strained, we are called to practice vulnerability, mutuality, and shared love.  Reflection Questions:1. What would it mean for you to be a “Tabernacle” for God? 2. What would it mean for you to be a “Doula” for God?3. How will you prepare for the fresh arrival of Jesus in and through your life?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

S porodom se ne rodi le otrok, temveč tudi mama. Gre za popolnoma novo vlogo v življenju, na katero pa smo težko popolnoma pripravljeni. Razlika med pričakovanji in realnostjo zna biti zelo velika, zato je porodniški dopust vse kaj drugega kot zares dopust. Tudi zaradi tega se je psihologinja Asja Samec odločila, da bo postala poporodna doula. Mamam priskoči na pomoč v času po porodu, prav tako jih na to obdobje pripravlja že v času nosečnosti

In questa puntata di We Are The Net mi fermo a parlare con Serena Alaimo, doula dell'anima e custode dei riti di passaggio. È una conversazione che non corre.Con me ci sarà anche Anita Woodspell.Parliamo di corpo, cicli, trasformazione, nascita e cambiamento. Di quei momenti della vita che non chiedono soluzioni rapide, ma presenza, ascolto e accompagnamento. Serena lavora proprio lì: nei passaggi.Là dove qualcosa finisce e qualcos'altro sta per iniziare.Un sapere antico, fatto di ritualità, natura e relazione, che oggi torna a interrogarci in un mondo sempre più veloce, performante e disincarnato.Questa puntata è un invito a rallentare.A ricordarci che non tutto può essere spiegato, ottimizzato o risolto.Alcune cose vanno semplicemente attraversate. Un dialogo tra visibile e invisibile, tra umano e simbolico, tra rete e radici.*****************We are the Net: un podcast su società, culture, filosofie, digital marketing, tecnologie e spiritualità.Ideato e condotto da Fabio Mattis alias lo Sciamano Digitale———————-☑️ Entra nel canale Telegram https://t.me/wearethenet

In today's episode, we reconnect with Sarah and Lara of Dynamic Doulas, who last joined us in Episode 196: The Toughest Part of Being a Doula. Three years later, we tackle the conversation that is in fact the toughest part of being a doula: Supporting women through the loss of a baby at birth. Sarah and Lara return to talk to us about their recent experiences including when a baby dies or faces a severe adverse outcome. We move beyond business and birth plans and into the realities most childbirth education never mentions.We talk about a stillbirth at 38 weeks, a shoulder dystocia at 42 weeks, an ambulance transfer during a home birth, and what happens to the doula's mind and body afterward. We explore the ethical tension between educating clients toward physiological birth and supporting every decision they make, even when those decisions give the doula pause.We also look at the limits of “evidence-based” care, why risk can never be reduced to zero, how to think about induction at 42 weeks, big babies, shoulder dystocia, and continuous fetal monitoring without slipping into fear or blind trust in the system. For pregnant women and birth workers alike, this conversation examines responsibility, intuition, and the space between over-medicalized birth and simplistic reassurance.Sarah and Lara share how these losses changed their practice, how they now talk to clients about risk and responsibility, and what it truly means to “hold space” when the worst outcome occurs. We also talk about nervous system strain, how doulas know when they need a break from their work, and why no doula should have to process these experiences alone.For women who are pregnant, this episode offers perspective on how rare events are understood by the people supporting you, and how to stay rooted in your own values, intuition, and sense of responsibility. For birth professionals, we discuss burnout, secondary trauma, why partnership matters so much in this work, and how a strong professional doula partnership can make the difference between quitting and continuing onward with new clients after witnessing a client's loss.#196 | The Toughest Part of Being a Doula with the Dynamic Doulas of London, OntarioSend us a text Needed

Orgasmic Birth Story   Ep 170 Description:  "Embodiment only happens if you have a body, so if you have a physical shell, and that physical shell is showing you signs. That physical shell can be sore, it can be tender, it can ache, it can also feel good and nurtured and soft and warm." —Lisa Strohdach What if the secret to a more joyful birth and life isn't about pushing harder, but about tuning in, letting go, and giving yourself permission to feel good? If you've ever felt disconnected from your body or doubted that pleasure belongs in pregnancy and parenting, you're not alone—there's a gentler, more powerful way forward. Consider this: your body already knows how to connect pleasure, rest, and birth, and it's time to trust that wisdom. This week, Debra sits with Lisa Strohdach, whose journey began with her own craving for self-pleasure and embodiment during pregnancy, which she later realized was key to her smooth breech home birth. This personal awakening inspired her to become a doula, yoga teacher, and retreat leader, now guiding others to cut through shame and confusion so that they can reconnect with their body and mind. Hear real talk on embodiment, oxytocin, masturbation, radical rest, simple breathwork, and how to create a supportive community—plus, get tips you can use right now to make pleasure and rest part of your everyday routine in this episode. Tune in!   Connect with Debra! Website: https://www.orgasmicbirth.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orgasmicbirth X: https://twitter.com/OrgasmicBirth  YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/OrgasmicBirth1  Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@orgasmicbirth  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-pascali-bonaro-1093471    Episode Highlights: 00:50 Meet Lisa: From Breech Birth to Doula and Retreat Host 03:18 How Pleasure and Birth Physically, Hormonally, and Mentally Linked 10:02 Tools for Pleasure: Vibrator, Oxytocin, and Real Talk  16:13 What is Embodiment?  21:46 Easy Embodiment Practices for Pregnancy and Life 25:26 Radical Rest: Why It's Revolutionary, Not Lazy 31:18 Wild Bloom Retreats 35:13 Reclaiming Pleasure and Power    Resources: 

Weil Anna einen BMI von 42 hat, behauptet ihrer Ärztin in der ersten Schwangerschaft, dass eine vaginale Geburt aufgrund von "Verfettungen im Becken" nicht gehen würde, obwohl es für diese Behauptung keinerlei Evidenz gibt. Annas erstes Kind kommt also per geplantem Kaiserschnitt zur Welt, obwohl Anna keinen Kaiserschnitt will. Noch vor der nächsten Schwangerschaft sucht sie sich ein neues Geburtsteam, inklusive Doula, und bringt ihr zweites Kind problemlos vaginal zur Welt. Evidenzbasierte Informationen rund um Schwangerschaft und Geburt für Frauen mit hohem BMI gibt es bei Dr. Sarah Wickham. *** Hier kannst du eine Google Review für den Podcast schreiben und damit dazu beitragen, dass mehr Frauen authentische Geburtsgeschichten hören können. Unterstütze den Podcast finanziell auf buymeacoffee.com/geburt. Zum MutterKultur Substack geht es hier entlang. Den Geburtsgeschichten Instagram Kanal findest du hier. Folge direkt herunterladen

This week on the Becoming a Sleep Consultant podcast, I'm joined by Deb Pocica, a postpartum doula who added sleep consulting to her business and saw an immediate shift in the way she could support families.In this episode, we talk about:• Why sleep consulting is the perfect complement to postpartum care• How sustainable systems can prevent burnout for doulas and sleep consultants• What expanding your services can mean for both your income and your energyThe truth is, postpartum care often ends right when families need continued guidance the most. Sleep consulting fills that gap. It extends support beyond the newborn phase, strengthens relationships, and positions you as a long term resource instead of a short term solution.If you are a doula or newborn care specialist thinking about how to grow, diversify, or prevent burnout in your business… this episode will give you a lot to think about.Links:Website: https://www.debpocica.com/If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry

If your doula business feels like you're pushing a boulder uphill- showing up, posting, trying everything- and still barely moving… this episode is going to land hard.I'm breaking down a concept I've never taught publicly before. A way to understand why the beginning feels so damn heavy, why momentum is inconsistent, and why some doulas suddenly take off while others stay stuck doing “all the right things” with no traction.This isn't about effort. It's about structure. And once you hear this, you'll finally understand what your business has been missing.If you want things to feel clearer, lighter, and actually forward-moving… press play.LIMITED-TIME OPPORTUNITY (Only 10 Slots): Book Your Free Clarity Call TodayStruggling to grow your doula business? Tired of chasing pregnant mothers online? Imagine effortlessly attracting your dream clients and reaching the mamas you're meant to serve!? ⬇️ START HERE ⬇️FREE: Book Out Your Doula Calendar With These 3 Questions The Booked AF Doula Toolkit

In this episode, HeHe welcomes Kassi to discuss the vital role doulas can play in lactation support. The conversation touches on the misconceptions about doulas' scope in providing lactation advice, Kassi's journey from a community clinic to becoming an IBCLC, and the importance of prenatal lactation education. They explore how doulas, with proper training, can address new parents' needs, identify red flags, and refer to IBCLCs when necessary. The episode delves into practical advice on breastfeeding, pumping, and supporting new mothers, highlighting the collaborative benefits when doulas and lactation consultants work together. Kassi also introduces her 'Bridge' program, designed to empower doulas with advanced lactation support skills. This comprehensive discussion aims to enhance breastfeeding success and maternal well-being by fostering a cohesive care approach. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:09 The Role of Doulas in Lactation Support 01:36 Personal Journey into Doula and Lactation Work 03:48 Challenges in Prenatal Lactation Education 06:05 Lactation Support in Hospitals 07:51 Insurance Coverage for Lactation Support 09:32 Educating Families Prenatally 16:19 Recognizing Red Flags in Lactation 19:01 Nipple Pain and Damage 23:53 Pumping Guidance for New Mothers 26:14 Understanding the Roles in Breastfeeding Support 26:55 Navigating the Scope of Doula Support 28:21 The Gray Area of Clinical Support 31:58 Diverse Advice in Lactation Support 35:17 The Importance of Standardized Lactation Education 39:14 The Role of Pediatricians in Lactation Support 46:29 Introducing the Bridge Program for Doulas 50:32 How to Join the Bridge Program   Guest Bio: Kassi Reyes: IBCLC, RN, Doula, Clinical Educator, and Mamá + your go-to person for real-world lactation tools. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about helping birthworkers gain real-world lactation skills, because I believe they're the missing puzzle piece in helping families feel confident and supported on their feeding journeys. When Kassi's not working, you'll probably find her with a cup of coffee, chasing my toddler, practicing yoga, or exploring the outdoors. Connect with Kassi: https://www.kassireyes.com/apply https://www.kassireyes.com/training Free Lactation Guide for Perinatal Professionals - Answers to the Top 10 Feeding Questions your Clients will ask: https://www.kassireyes.com/guide SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram  Connect with Kassi on IG  Connect with Kassi on YouTube   BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere. And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor. LINKS MENTIONED: Get 10% off Silverettes to support your breastfeeding journey with code HEHE   Check out Kassi on HeHe's DoulaTok here!   

In this solo transmission, I name something I've been witnessing for a long time in the birth space: the birth world is completely out of control!What was once a simple, instinctual axis of natural birth vs medical birth has now fractured into multiple layers with brands, ideologies and Instagram philosophies.In this episode, I strip away the noise and bring us back to the TRUE foundation of Birth.And how, when we try to domesticate her, intellectualise her, or control her - we create the chaos we're currently drowning in.I also speak to the nine-year cycle we're moving through collectively - a cycle of exposure, collapse, and cosmic housekeeping - and why this moment of breakdown in the “birth world” is not a mistake, but a clearing. A return.I also explore:Why the “freebirth vs medical birth” war is a distractionWhy the unfolding of birth absolutely matters - and why some will act as though it doesntThe birth world as chaos, fragmentation and marketplaceThe misogynistic and biblical roots of “you get the birth you needed”What “the birth world” actually is - and why it's irrelevant to birthThe myth of providing choice for modern womenThis episode is for you if…You feel disillusioned or confused by the current “birth world” and all its sides, methods and opinions.You've sensed that birth is being pulled further and further away from what it truly is - and you can't unsee it.You're ready to move beyond camps, labels and strategies - and nd return to the raw, uncontaminated truth of birth.

This birth story is such a beautiful reminder that preparation, prayer, and unwavering partner support can truly transform the labor experience. In this episode, Kaitlyn and her husband Kale share their faith-filled home birth journey — from unexpected pregnancy challenges and prenatal depression to the incredible moment Kale caught their baby in the birth tub.You'll hear the raw realities of third-trimester pain, mental health struggles, intentional birth prep as a couple, and the powerful role prayer played when their birth took an unexpected turn. This episode is packed with encouragement for moms preparing their bodies and minds for birth — and for dads learning how to show up with strength and confidence when it matters most.This was such a meaningful birth story to record, and I truly hope you absolutely love it.Here's some highlights from the episode: • Unexpected pregnancy symptoms and fears surrounding possible cholestasis • The reality of severe third-trimester pain and prenatal depression • How Kaitlyn chose a home birth and found the right midwife • How they prepared for labor together as a couple • What labor looked like from both the mom and dad perspective • Natural pain relief methods used during home labor • The moment Kale caught their baby • A delayed placenta and the powerful role prayer played • What it was like emotionally for both of them to experience a home birth • Their best advice for expectant moms and dads preparing for birthThis episode is a beautiful reminder that birth is not just a physical experience — it's emotional, spiritual, relational, and transformational. Whether you're planning a home birth, a hospital birth, or trying to figure out each of your roles during pregnancy and birth, this is the perfect episode for moms AND dads! ❤️ Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast! Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple Podcasts Find “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcast Select “Ratings and Reviews” Click the stars! Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On Spotify Find "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcast Click the 3 dots "..." Select "Rate podcast" Click the stars and write a quick review! FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier! Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds: On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page. On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titles Let's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com. Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM!

Sales conversations feel vulnerable. Raw. Exposed.It's not your certifications or your follower count or the fact that you don't have the “perfect” line to say.It's that somewhere along the way, you started performing.Polishing yourself. Shrinking your edges. Trying to sound like the “ideal doula” instead of the real you.And polished? Polished doesn't convert.In this episode, we're throwing out the performative BS and getting back to what actually books clients:✨ Your presence ✨ Your intuition ✨ Your human-to-human connection ✨ Your ability to hold emotional space—not just in labor, but on the consult tooI'm breaking down:

Musician and trained doula Domino Kirke will be hosting a concert on Dec. 17 with other 'mama musicians,' including Joan As Police Woman and Rachael Price of Lake Street Dive. She'll discuss the event, which benefits Carriage House Birth, an organization she founded which provides doula training and childbirth education. 

Enjoy one of our most popular episodes to date.  What do you wish you knew before becoming a doula? This is a question that we see frequently from those considering birth work or those who have just entered the field. Working with growing families is the part of the work that most have at least a loose idea about. But when I think about what I wish I knew it's the practicalities that many often fail to consider. Living the on-call life. Pacing yourself when supporting families. What self-care actually looks like. These are just a few things that come immediately to mind as experienced birth workers.  Then there are other things that many may not consider. Running a business. For those who are just getting started, client management is also often overlooked. But when you get busy, systems are essential to keep track of clients, what they need, what services they've hired you to provide, and what their preferences and needs are.  Come join us as we discuss what we wish we'd known before becoming doulas!

Send us a textBirth feels different when the room feels safe. We dig into how to choose a doula by focusing on connection, clarity, and calm rather than running a rigid checklist. Instead of quizzing someone for the “right” answers, we map the questions that actually reveal fit: their vibe during intensity, their range across home and hospital births, and how they help you stay informed without pushing an agenda. If your goal is a steadier nervous system and a smoother decision path, this conversation gives you the language to get there.We break down what to ask and why it matters: how they describe their style, the types of births they've supported, their comfort with inductions and c-sections, and how they collaborate with nurses and providers when decisions move quickly. You'll hear how to screen for flexibility and respect for your choices, plus the cues that signal a red flag—like fighting the hospital rather than helping you navigate it. We also cover communication plans, on-call timing, when they typically join you in labor, and how they include partners so your support team works as one.Backups and advocacy round it out. You'll learn how to ask about backup doulas and why a quick intro can ease last-minute stress. Then we define real advocacy in the hospital: making space for your voice, slowing moments for consent, and protecting your presence without speaking over others. By the end, you'll know which few questions to ask, what a good answer sounds like, and how to trust the feeling in your body when the fit is right. If you're planning a hospital birth, exploring unmedicated options, or anywhere in between, this guide helps you choose support that aligns with your values.If this helped you get clear, follow the show, share it with someone planning their birth, and leave a quick review so others can find it. And if you want my notes from this video, comment “notes” below. Coaching offerKelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth CoachBasically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!Support the showConnect with Kelly at kellyhof.com Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyondGrab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!Medical Disclaimer:This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman's medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

In this episode I sit down with Brittney Michelle - wild pregnancy, sovereign birthing mama and the woman behind Woman Be Wild. Brittney shares the seven-year initiation that carried her from religious conditioning and “good girl” programming into a fully embodied, earth-rooted woman - and the magical 9 months she spent with her Mother, before the Father of her child walked into her life!We trace the moments that cracked her open: the vow she made to her bloodline, the near-death experience and the slow reclamation of her body, her language and her direct relationship with Spirit.Brittany takes us inside the bones of Woman Be Wild and why this fifth edition feels like the book finally “arrived.” She speaks to writing from a woman who has walked through the underworld, held the line through 2020 and birthed her baby in total sovereignty.We explore the “dead template” - the chain of cultural, religious, medical and political systems that bind women to a lifeless script, and what it means to consciously step outside of it so that real life, real birth and real motherhood can move through.We also weave the story of how our paths crossed – the invisible soul-network that connected us across countries. And the women scattered across the globe that are holding the same knowing - being the bridges between the system and the sovereign, the dead grid and the living earth.This conversation is for the woman who feels the deadness of the old systems, who has held the line with family, medicine, or culture - and who knows somewhere deep in her bones, that she is here to write her own program, birth her own way, remember herself – wildly, wholly, and free.'Woman Be Wild; The Redprint of the Feminine' can be pre-ordered at @8rittneymichelle or at @womanbewild

Giving birth trauma a voice. Doula and advocate HeHe Stewart explores the emotional journey of NICU parents and the unseen wounds of traumatic birth experiences in this episode. From redefining advocacy to helping families find healing even in survival mode, HeHe shares powerful insights, personal stories, and practical support for those navigating life after the NICU. Whether you're a parent, partner, or professional, this conversation sheds light on the resilience, grief, and hope that shape the path to recovery.  

There are moments in early motherhood when the longing for support is so real it sits in the body like a weight. And for many families, that longing is met with another ache—the sense that professional postpartum care is out of reach.In this week's episode, I'm joined by Sarah Trott and Esther Gallagher, the soulful hosts of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, for a conversation that feels like a deep exhale. Together we explore what becomes possible when we look beyond traditional expectations of paid postpartum care and instead rediscover the ancient, human patterns that have held new mothers for generations.Sarah shares her experience of hiring Esther for both of her births, and how that early connection eventually led them to create their own platform of postpartum education. Esther—whose decades of experience in postpartum and birth work are rooted in an extraordinary story that began when she was just eight years old—offers wisdom that reminds us how natural it once was for mothers to be held by their community.Together, we hold the question so many mothers carry quietly:What do you do when you know you need help, but don't have the means to hire support?In this conversation, we explore:✨ How postpartum support was originally communal—not professionalized✨ What “doula” truly meant before the term expanded into birth work✨ Creative, accessible forms of care that don't depend on financial resources✨ The Universal Mother Principles as an inner compass when support feels scarce✨ The power of reciprocity, presence, and small gestures of nourishment✨ How to soften the shame so many carry around “not having a village”This episode is a reminder that while the culture around us may not naturally provide postpartum care, the possibility for care is never lost. Community can be built, even slowly. Support can arrive in small, meaningful doses. And the sacred window can still be held with reverence, even when resources feel thin.Wherever you are in your journey—mothering, caregiving, remembering your own postpartum story—I hope you feel seen here. You deserve support. You deserve nourishment. You deserve to be held.✨ Connect with UsLearn more about the Conscious Postpartum Caregiver Certification, free resources, and community offerings at the Center for Sacred Window Studies.Links for Sarah and Esther:Fourth TrimesterAbout Us - Fourth TrimesterAre you feeling the call to know more about Conscious Postpartum Care?Reach out! ⁠Schedule a time with Christine⁠ to find out how this work can transform your care business or provide a meaningful career path.Here is the ⁠link⁠ to our free class@‌sacredwindowstudiesJoin our ⁠Facebook Group⁠Podcast Music is Composed by Sara Emmitt, graduate of the Center for Sacred Window Studies. You can hear more of Sara's incredible music at Sara Emmitt.

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on something I've never really said out loud: for a long time, I felt like a complete imposter teaching anything related to social media. I didn't have a huge following. I wasn't “aesthetically perfect.” I didn't look like the typical content coach.And yet… my clients were getting results. Big results. Sales. Confidence. Clarity. Freedom.This episode walks you through the exact moment I realized my approach to visibility wasn't actually about social media, it was about sales psychology, emotional connection, and helping doulas feel safe enough to take up space online.We talk about letting go of comparison, tapping into your natural gifts, turning your story into your strategy, and why standing out online isn't about trends… it's about truth.If you've ever questioned whether you're “qualified enough” to teach, lead, show up online, or sell your offers, this one will matter.You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of why your voice is your most powerful sales tool and how embracing your uniqueness is the key to signing more clients.Struggling to grow your doula business? Tired of chasing pregnant mothers online? Imagine effortlessly attracting your dream clients and reaching the mamas you're meant to serve!? ⬇️ START HERE ⬇️FREE: Book Out Your Doula Calendar With These 3 Questions The Booked AF Doula Toolkit

#surrogacy #ivf #surrogate Kristen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenbellettmartinez?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Birth can be beautiful, messy, and intensely logistical—especially when you're carrying for someone else. We sit down with Kristen, a multi-time surrogate and former agency intake coordinator, to trace her path from a pandemic C-section for placenta previa to a confident VBAC with international intended parents racing into the room as the baby crowned. Along the way, she shares what most guides skip: the fourth trimester after surrogacy, the emotional whiplash of shifting contact after delivery, and how hospital routines often ignore surrogacy preferences unless someone speaks up.Kristen also lifts the curtain on agency intake: why education beats pressure every time, how simple check-ins and care packages change the tone of a journey, and what she learned turning leads into engaged, informed applicants. After a tough year trying to rejoin the industry as staff, she created the Surrogacy Doula program—a virtual service built for surrogates and intended parents that blends monthly support, perinatal nutrition guidance, and real-time messaging with thoughtful mediation when tensions rise. She helps craft surrogacy-savvy birth plans, clarifies roles in the delivery room, and gives IPs practical ways to bond before birth, from shared playlists to mindful rituals that bridge the distance when they didn't carry the baby themselves.If you're weighing VBAC after C-section, navigating domestic vs international IP dynamics, or searching for a surrogacy doula who understands both the paperwork and the heart-work, this conversation is a blueprint. We talk closure language for contracts, setting hospital expectations for immediate skin-to-skin, and how to keep everyone informed without turning the surrogate into the project manager. Listen for grounded, human-tested strategies that make surrogacy safer, kinder, and more connected.Enjoyed the conversation? Follow, share with a friend who's exploring surrogacy, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so we can keep bringing real stories and practical guidance to your feed.http://www.wellsurro.com/Emails:kristen@wellsurro.cominfo@wellsurro.comSend us a texthttps://stopsitsurrogate.com

In this episode, I sit down with doula Bonnie Walker, who's been supporting families for over 23 years. We dive into how birth has shifted over the decades.Bonnie brings a wealth of experience and shares what she's learnt and why there truly isn't one “right” way to give birth. It's an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation about birth, the body, and the many beautiful and unpredictable paths people take to meet their babies.You can find out more about Bonnie and her work here. Want to hear more? Listen to our other episodes!Vaginal Examinations in Labour: What You Need to KnowDo The Inner Work: Why Birth Prep is More Than Just a PlanChristine's Positive Hospital Birth Story

Katherine Stephens is a doula, childbirth educator, and the warm-but-unfiltered voice behind the Made for Birth podcast. Based in Southwest Louisiana, she's dedicated to supporting women through pregnancy, birth after cesarean, and postpartum with compassion, clarity, and a whole lot … Continue reading →

Send us a textIn this episode, Georgia from Western Australia shares the two birth experiences that shaped her journey into motherhood.Her first birth at 41+1 began with an induction and unfolded in ways she hadn't anticipated. Georgia speaks about labouring on her own for a period — even after asking for her partner and doula, who weren't allowed in right away — and being offered pharmaceutical pain relief before having an epidural. Her baby was born with the help of a vacuum, along with an episiotomy and a second-degree tear. She also reflects on missing that initial skin-to-skin moment and the breastfeeding challenges that followed as she navigated her baby's reflux.Falling pregnant again just seven months later, Georgia followed her intuition toward a more supported experience. She chose a private midwife and planned a homebirth that felt more aligned. At 41 weeks she birthed her 4.3kg baby at home, experiencing another second-degree tear and transferring to hospital.Support the show@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.

Send us a textBrogan Miller, PE is a startup veteran, product engineer, and the founder of Doula Studios, a consultancy dedicated to helping early-stage hardware companies bring their ideas into reality. Calling himself a “doula for startups,” Brogan supports entrepreneurs as they navigate the often-chaotic birth of new products, offering hard-won wisdom, technical expertise, and a get-it-done mindset.Brogan's career path has been anything but ordinary. He's held pivotal roles as one of the earliest employees at several startups, including Sensel, AliveCor, Trove Foods, and Typhur, where he designed and launched everything from ultra-thin pressure sensors to a 200-pound electromechanical cooking system. As Head of Engineering at GaeaStar, he guided the company through critical product validation stages, building engineering infrastructure and supply chain resilience. His work has spanned continents, including a year living in Asia to shepherd product development on the ground.But Brogan's story is more than just shipping products. He's also deeply committed to education and community. As an adjunct lecturer at Stanford University, he has guided students in product design and engineering, while his earlier work in the Graduate School of Education led to the creation of seven open-sourced educational tools—one of which was acquired by Google. Beyond academia, he volunteers with organizations such as First Robotics and Youths of Africa Career Development, where he introduces Ugandan youth to engineering pathways and mentors the next generation of innovators.With a reputation as a jack of all trades and a master of one—getting things done—Brogan brings a unique lens on what it takes to turn bold ideas into successful products.LINKS:Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brogan-miller/Guest website: https://www.doulastudios.com/ Aaron Moncur, hostAbout Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Across generations, birth workers have held space for families with skill, love, and deep purpose. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Elder Midwife Charlotte Shilo-Goudeau, a licensed Certified Professional Midwife from Louisiana, and Chanté Perryman, Director of Programs at Evidence Based Birth®, certified doula, and student midwife. Together, they explore what it means to embrace the dual calling of doula work and midwifery and how both roles are acts of service, advocacy, and healing.   Elder Charlotte shares her journey from personal loss to becoming one of only a few Black midwives in Louisiana, carrying forward the wisdom of generations. Chanté reflects on how her experiences as a doula shaped her path into midwifery and her vision for compassionate, individualized care. They remind us that titles may change, but the heart of this work remains the same: being present, being of service, and being called to birth.   (03:46) How Chanté's Birth Experience Inspired Her to Become a Doula (05:42) Elder Charlotte's Journey from Stillbirth to Midwifery as a Calling (10:59) How Doula Work Shapes Midwifery Care and Philosophy (14:34) Serving Underserved Communities as One of Four Black Midwives in Louisiana (19:01) Shifting from Midwife to Doula During Hospital Transfers (24:08) Chanté's Perspective on Identity, Service, and Humility in Birth Work (28:40) Micro vs. Macro Advocacy: Supporting Families and Legislative Change (37:29) Navigating Hospital Restrictions During the Pandemic (42:57) Lessons from Midwifery School (45:30) Advice for Those Considering Doula or Midwifery Paths   Resources Follow Chanté on Instagram: @babydreamsmc Connect with Ms. Charlotte: midwifecharlotte.com Connect with an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor: directory.evidencebasedbirth.com Learn more about the National Perinatal Task Force: perinataltaskforce.com Visit the Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery: commonsensemidwifery.org Check out the Kentucky Birth Coalition: kentuckyhomebirthcoalition.com Visit the Mercy In Action College of Midwifery: mercycollegeofmidwifery.edu   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Today we hear from Dr. Fiona Lovely as she explains her journey to becoming a Menopause Doula and the start of the movement she is creating to help women support women.  She discusses the Menopause Doula Matrix and the 8 pillars of health that are affected by the renovation our bodies undergo during this season of life we call menopause. If you are feeling called to know more about this movement, we are meeting again Wednesday November 19th at 10am MT.  Register at menopausedoulacouncil.com to receive the links to the webinar and replays.   Thank you to our sponsors for this episode:

No more niche-nonsense! I'm getting real about the season I tried to talk to everyone...and ended up connecting with no one. You'll hear how stepping away from my doula niche almost wrecked my clarity (and my peace), and why coming back home to my people doubled my income and reignited my purpose.I'm unpacking:✨ Why niching down is the key to a booked-out doula business✨ How clarity in your message becomes clarity in yourself✨ The biggest myths about narrowing your audience (and why they're dead wrong)✨ How selling and niching go hand-in-hand in growing your confidence✨ What happens when you stop trying to please everyone, and start leading with convictionIf you've been spinning in confusion, this is your permission slip to simplify, specialize, and finally stand out.

Rachel Jones is a student midwife and doula, homeschool consultant and founder of the cool nerds.org. Rachel is a Memphis native with a B.A. in African and American Studies and a minor in Philosophy, as well as an M.A.T. in … Continue reading →

- Opening prayer - Connection to ancestry through plants - Freays free birth in a remote village - Tuning into babies needs and desires in choosing a birth plan - Staying grounded in our own choices and vision amidst all of the opinions and noise - Life as the preconception journey - Connecting to the earth as a guide - The turning point in birth - Trusting the orchestration of birth - Sisterhood support in post partum - Discovering her son has epilepsy - Finding the middle way between western and "alternative" medicine   https://www.templeoffreya.art/ @temple.of.freya www.emmamyers.love @_guidedbylove https://www.pastureandpetal.com/ use code EMMA https://shop.fourvisions.com/ use code EMMA15 Perfcet Supplements use code WEAVINGHARMONY

This week on the podcast, my guest is Heather Condren, founder of Flowerpop, a brilliant, creative and unique flower business based in Dublin (and delivering everywhere). Heather and I cover a lot of ground: what it's like to start a business with a tiny baby, the realities of parenting while running your own company, and the constant juggle of entrepreneurial life. But one of the most fascinating parts of our chat was Heather's experience working with both a pregnancy doula and a postpartum doula. She speaks so passionately about the incredible support doulas provide, what they actually do, how their roles differ, and why that kind of care can be life-changing. Our conversation also opened up into the bigger picture: how much support for new mothers has disappeared, and how isolating it can feel without the “village” previous generations could rely on. Heather is inspiring as a mother, a founder, and a person who is willing to share her journey so honestly. I think you'll find this episode as thought-provoking as it is encouraging. Thanks so much for listening and I'll be back next week with more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Across Oklahoma, a community-powered doula network is reshaping what equitable maternal care looks like. On this episode of The Dose, Dr. Joel Bervell talks with Omare Jimmerson of the Oklahoma Birth Equity Initiative about how culturally rooted doulas, smart policies, and practical supports—from rides to diapers—are helping hundreds of families thrive each year.

We sit down with acclaimed celebrity doula Lori Bregman to demystify what a doula really does: from pregnancy to birth—and how that support can calm fear and build confidence. Lori shares how she partners with doctors and midwives, helps families navigate hospital systems, and counters the fear-mongering messages that often surround birth. She offers grounded guidance and spiritual tools for staying flexible when plans change and for letting go of control.In this heartfelt episode, Annabel opens up through tears about her own raw birth experience—the unexpected C-section that left her battling shame and the social-media glamorization of “perfect” births. A must-listen for any mama curious about doulas, birth choices, and entering motherhood with more trust and less fear.Instagram: @wearemorethanmomsPatreon: More Than Moms Guides & Resources Join our IRL LA communitySubscribe to our NewsletterProduced by Peoples MediaInstagram: @wearemorethanmomsPatreon: More Than Moms Guides & Resources Join our IRL LA communitySubscribe to our NewsletterProduced by Peoples Media Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hiring a doula can be one of the most impactful choices you make during pregnancy, but how do you actually find the right one? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Team EBB members and experienced doulas, Julie Fors and Chanté Perryman, to share insider tips on finding and interviewing a doula with confidence.   Julie and Chanté walk you through where to begin your search, the most important questions to ask, and how to know if a doula's personality and philosophy are the right fit for you and your partner. They also tackle misconceptions about doula work, explain backup plans and postpartum support, and discuss how insurance and Medicaid are changing access to doula care.   (06:19) The pillars of doula support (09:06) Where to start your doula search: Google, recommendations, and directories (12:20) Why interviews are essential before hiring a doula (17:49) Key questions to ask a potential doula (style, philosophy, postpartum support) (23:58) Backup doula plans and long labors (29:45) Common misconceptions about doulas and how to clear them up (33:30) Shifts in doula access: insurance, Medicaid, and nonprofit programs (37:06) How childbirth education and doula support work together (39:09) Tips for finding a postpartum doula and planning ahead (42:46) Overcoming nervousness about reaching out to doulas   Access the EBB Signature Article, "Evidence on: Doulas" for all the scientific research on doulas + a comprehensive list of doula directories and interview questions!   Resources Search the EBB Instructor Directory: directory.evidencebasedbirth.com/ Learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class: evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirth-class/   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Today we sit down with end-of-life Doula and author, Diane Button. In her new book WHAT MATTERS MOST: Lessons the Dying Teach Us About Living (The Open Field; Sept. 16) Diane shares stories and wisdom from her clients' final chapters that can help us make the most of life's gifts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textIn this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Kaitlyn sits down with Brad Walsh, creator of the Empowerography Podcast, award-winning boudoir photographer, and self-described story doula  to explore how storytelling can heal, connect, and transform lives.Brad opens up about how his journey behind the camera led him to create a global platform that amplifies women's voices, and what it means to truly empower, elevate, and educate through storytelling. Together, he and Kaitlyn dive deep into the importance of sharing your story, the beauty of resilience, and how even one voice can create a ripple effect that changes the world.Brad also shares his personal growth through the movement  from overcoming self-doubt and comparisonitis to finding spiritual strength, confidence, and purpose in uplifting others.If you've ever felt like your story doesn't matter or you've struggled to find your voice, this episode will remind you that your magic lies in your story  and the world needs to hear it.

Your doula Instagram bio is the front lawn of your online home. And right now? A lot of birth workers are wondering why no one's knocking when the lawn's looking a little… patchy.In this episode, I'm diving into how to transform that tiny little square of text at the top of your profile into a full-blown client magnet.I'll walk you through the 5 simple steps to turn your bio from “meh” to magnetic, so that when a mama is scrolling at 2AM searching for support, you're the one she finds.You'll learn: 

Today's guest shares her work in mentoring the next generation of doulas and helping maternal healthcare professionals balance the heart of their work with sustainable business practices. We also discuss Medicaid, systemic barriers to care, and systemic barriers that prevent some populations from accessing doula services. Join us to learn more! Jacquelyn Clemmons is a veteran birth and postpartum doula, trainer, and mentor with over 20 years of experience serving diverse, intercultural families. She is the author of A Doula's Guide to Improving Maternal Health for BIPOC Women  and is the producer of the short film, Jazz and the Blues. Jacquelyn is a leading advocate for culturally competent care and a passionate supporter of doula services for all women. Through her Intrinsic Doula Design™ framework, she empowers doulas to build authentic, thriving businesses while transforming the families they serve.  Show Highlights: Jacquelyn's journey into doula work Jacquelyn's framework, Intrinsic Doula Design™  The shift in doula work in 2020 Understanding the basics of business development is a big piece of doula work. The importance of a sustainable pricing model from the beginning Jacquelyn's work as an advocate in Oregon Sustainable doulas help to stimulate local economies. Medicaid reimbursements for doula care are up to $3500 in the state of WA, which is leading the way. (OR and CA are close behind.) Hospitals' greed—-watch out for it! What can you do? Advocate for yourself by always asking, “Can you please document that in my chart?” (Hospitals speak the language of liability.) Jacquelyn's film project, Jazz and the Blues (See the trailer at okionu.app.) The need for comprehensive support for families, even those with good family support Jacquelyn's book, A Doula's Guide to Improving Maternal Health for BIPOC Women  A well-matched doula can be a strong support for maternal mental health. The need for cultural respect and well-matched core values Resources: Connect with Jacquelyn Clemmons: Website, Instagram, and A Doula's Guide to Improving Maternal Health for BIPOC Women  Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773.  There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms. Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/for information on the grief course.  Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!  If you are a California resident seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this coaching call, Evolve Lactation Community member Kristen Navia and I discuss the cyclical nature of doula and lactation work, strategies for utilizing downtime for business growth, and the importance of community support. Kristen shares her insights on preparing for the IBCLC exam, the emotional rewards of supporting families, and the unique challenges faced in lactation consulting. Our conversation emphasizes the integration of doula and lactation roles and the significance of feedback, relationships, and community in building a successful practice.You can learn more and enroll in the First 100 Hours Masterclass right here.Takeaways:The doula and lactation business is cyclical, with busy and slow periods.Utilizing downtime effectively can lead to business growth.Community support is crucial for emotional well-being and professional development.The Lactation College provides valuable resources for exam preparation.Short, bite-sized learning materials can enhance retention and understanding.Feedback from clients and peers is essential for growth and improvement.Building relationships with clients can lead to referrals and repeat business.Managing expectations is key in client interactions.Integrating doula and lactation roles can provide a holistic approach to care.The emotional rewards of supporting families are profound and fulfilling.Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!04:02 Navigating Business Cycles in Doula and Lactation Services07:02 Utilizing Downtime for Business Growth09:54 The Impact of Lactation College on Exam Preparation13:01 Modern Learning Methods in Lactation Education15:53 Resources and Strategies for Effective Study21:23 Understanding Lactation from a Medical Perspective24:08 The Evolution of Lactation Knowledge27:32 Integrating New Research into Practice31:21 Navigating Consultations with Families36:56 The Importance of Community and Feedback41:00 Building a Referral Network in Lactation SupportEvolve Lactation with Christine Staricka is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for listening!You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode Sarah Marie walks through practical ways to prepare for the postpartum period, including meal planning and freezer meals, creating nursing stations, stocking healing supplies (peri bottles, pads, nipple cream), and organizing helpers with clear lists and expectations. She also discuss emotional and professional support, lining up lactation consultants, pediatricians, doulas, and therapists, setting visitor boundaries, and small comforts to make those early weeks easier. Find the Full Show Notes Here: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/episodes Relevant Links: Register for the O.W.N Your Birth Childbirth Education Course Learn more about the Build Your Village Summit 5 ways to prepare for an Unmedicated Birth Download the FREE Comprehensive Birth Vision Planner Hypnobabies is a great tool to use hypnosis when preparing for childbirth. Use the code MOTHERHOOD20 to receive 20% off today! Truly fuel your body with FOND Bone Broth a verified regenerative by land to market company dedicated to serving you rich and handcrafted items. Use code ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 10% off. Looking to become a doula yourself and get into birthwork? Check out the Online Doula Training Program to get started on your path today. Become certified through Postpartum University and help clients learn more about how to nourish their bodies in the postpartum period. Want a baby carrier you can snuggle your baby tight in? Check out LoveHeld for their handwoven ring sling carrier you'll be sure to love. In need of nursing tops and postpartum items? Kindred Bravely is the place to shop for all of your attire needs and more.  Connect with Entering Motherhood: The Entering Motherhood Website @entering.motherhood (IG) Entering Motherhood (FB) Contact us Directly  

Supporting family and friends as a doula can be both rewarding and complex. The personal connection you share makes it easy to overstep boundaries, give unsolicited advice, or slip out of your professional role. Maintaining the balance between being a loved one and being a doula requires awareness, restraint, and compassion. It means stepping back from the more intimate role you usually play and intentionally working within the doula's scope of practice. In this episode, we talk about how to navigate these blurred lines while honoring the unique journey of the people closest to us. Just as we do with our clients, we must offer care, support, and guidance without judgment or assumption.  Join us for a thoughtful conversation on how to serve with integrity, maintain boundaries, and show up professionally when supporting those you love.

Join the My Essential Birth Course by November 4th and get TWO exclusive BONUSES: The Belly Mapping Guide & Partner Belly Binding Video Tutorial. It's everything you need to help your baby be in the perfect position for birth AND to support your belly postpartum!-------One day she sneezed... and everything shifted.

Dr. Sara Ailshire, an anthropologist and Evidence Based Birth® Research Team member, and her husband, Dr. Siavash Samei, an environmental archaeologist, share the story of welcoming their rainbow baby after loss. In this episode, Sara and Siavash open up about navigating miscarriage care in the wake of changing abortion laws in Ohio, the anxiety and hope of pregnancy after loss, and Sara's experience with developing preeclampsia near the end of her pregnancy. They describe how they worked with a supportive midwifery team, hired a doula for advocacy and comfort, and ultimately experienced an induction that honored their preferences for a low-intervention birth. Their story also sheds light on the realities of discrimination in healthcare, the importance of community support, and the resilience found in becoming parents after loss. (01:58) Facing Miscarriage in Ohio and Barriers to Care (07:35) Pregnancy After Loss: Anxiety, Detachment, and Hope (13:04) Finding Midwifery Care in Kentucky and Planning a Low-Intervention Birth (20:29) Preparing for Birth: Classes, Doulas, and Advocacy Concerns (22:37) Early Signs of Preeclampsia and Navigating Blood Pressure Monitoring (30:33) Deciding on Induction at 38 Weeks (36:39) Laboring with Support and Moving Through Transition (42:43) Birth of Ferdous and Unexpected Placenta Complications (49:34) Advocacy, Microaggressions, and the Role of the Doula (54:23) Advice for Expecting Parents: Finding Calm, Support, and Autonomy   Resources Learn more about preeclampsia: www.preeclampsia.org Miscarriage Care Instructions from Kaiser Permanente: healthy.kaiserpermanente.org Dobbs-Era Abortion Restrictions and Miscarriage Care: kff.org Navigating Miscarriage Management Post-Dobbs: whijournal.com Emotional Coping After Miscarriage: americanpregnancy.org An Account of a Miscarriage at Home: miscarriageassociation.org.uk Supply List for a Miscarriage at Home: miscarriagematters.org.nz Learn about the Jada System: organonpro.com The Birthing Spa in Stanford, Kentucky: thebirthingspa.com   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, we're diving deep into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in early parenthood SIDS and co-sleeping. Despite the scary warnings you've probably heard from the AAP or your pediatrician, many families still find themselves wondering how to safely sleep near their baby. And honestly? That's a valid question. We'll explore what the research actually says about bedsharing, the science of a baby's biological need for closeness, and how parents can make informed choices that balance safety and connection. You'll hear about the work of James McKenna, Helen Ball, and La Leche League's Sweet Sleep, plus insights from Sarah Ockwell-Smith that bring real-world practicality to this nuanced conversation. If you've ever felt torn between expert advice and your natural instincts, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and calm in your family's sleep choices. 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Safe Sleep Practices 01:18 Personal Story: Transforming a Mother's Sleep Routine 03:28 Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide 07:22 The Science Behind Newborn Sleep 09:06 Interview with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum 17:07 Understanding Co-Sleeping and Bed Sharing 22:32 Safe Sleep Guidelines and SIDS 28:39 Controversial Topics: Vaccines and SIDS 31:06 Global Perspectives on Safe Sleep 35:22 Purity Coffee: A Healthier Choice 38:43 Addressing Sleep Challenges in Babies 42:16 Embracing Flexibility with a Newborn 44:04 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation 46:11 Building a Support System for New Moms 52:28 Debunking Myths About Newborn Habits 56:47 The Impact of Sleep Training on Mental Health 01:06:43 Tips for Optimal Baby Sleep 01:13:17 Final Thoughts and Resources   Guest Bio: Greer Kirshenbaum PhD is an Author, Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant and Family Sleep Specialist and Mother. She trained at the University of Toronto and Columbia University with additional training at New York University and Yale University. Greer has combined her academic training with her experience as a doula and mother to lead The Nurture Revolution. A movement to nurture our babies' brains to revolutionize mental health and impact larger systems in our world. Greer wants families, professionals, and workplaces to understand how early caregiving experience can boost mental wellness and diminish depression, anxiety, and addiction in adulthood by shaping babies' brains through simple intuitive enriching experiences in pregnancy, birth and infancy. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby's Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com and on Instagram @drgreerkirshenbaum. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Dr. Greer on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: www.nurture-neuroscience.com   Reviews of the research on SIDS and infant death James McKenna: https://cosleeping.nd.edu/ Helen Ball: https://evolutionaryparenting.com/bed-sharing-and-co-sleeping-research-overview/ La Leche League's Sweet Sleep book: https://llli.org/resources/sweet-sleep/ Sarah Ockwell-Smith: https://sarahockwell-smith.com/  

After surviving domestic violence and a series of traumatic hospital births, Tahlia from Australia made the courageous decision to leave her abusive partner and begin again.In rebuilding her life, she came to understand what it truly means to make herself available to health, love, and sovereignty.That path culminated in the extraordinary experience of birthing her twins at home—on her terms, in her power.This conversation is a testament to resilience, reclamation, and the deep transformation that becomes possible when a woman chooses herself.✨ Get Our *Free* Freebirth Starter Kit - Just getting started? Download our powerful, free starter kit to begin your journey with clarity and support.Download here. ✨Donate to the podcast here.If you want to connect with Tahlia, follow her on Instagram here. Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for up to 40% off your first order (including their already discounted plans and subscriptions) at thisisneeded.com. The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon!