The Birth Geeks' podcast

Rural medicine, Indian Health Service, MD advocacy, and so much more

The messy magic of being a doula! In this episode of The Birth Geeks, we sit down with Dr. Andrea Ford, anthropologist, doula, and author of Near Birth, to explore the strange, powerful, and often contradictory world of modern birthwork. What even is a doula today? A sister or a professional?
A rebel or a regulated service?
A support system or a scapegoat? We unpack it ALL:
The tension between respect and reimbursement
 Why doulas are praised for outcomes they can't control  What happens when community care meets institutional demands
 And how birthwork quietly challenges American values about bodies, power, and autonomy If you've ever wrestled with your role in the birth space or wondered how being "near birth" is as political as it is personal, this conversation will hit home. Listen now. 

How do you go from spreadsheets to spinning babies, and end up on national perinatal boards? In this episode, Hillary sits down with LaToshia Rouse, a birth and postpartum doula, childbirth educator, and speaker who brings her whole self (and sometimes her whole family!) to the work of changing maternal care from the inside out. We talk about: Parenting triplets and how NICU life shaped LaToshia's why How doulas can support clients without overextending themselves What it really takes to build connections with hospital systems Why flexibility, strong boundaries, and knowing your season are everything You'll laugh, nod along, and walk away feeling like you've just made a new doula bestie.

Today on The Birth Geeks, we spoke with Dr. Sarah Rubin about her research on motherhood and postpartum depression in South Africa. She shared eye-opening insights on how culture and social support shape the experiences of new mothers, especially in under-resourced communities. We dove into the challenges of measuring mental health across cultures and why context matters in global maternal health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about birth, wellness, and understanding the bigger picture.

Today on The Birth Geeks, we dove into the inspiring journey of Shanay Rocker, a fashion-industry pro turned Berlin-based doula. From her adventures moving from Australia to New York and finally Berlin, Shanay shared how motherhood transformed her life and led her to birth work. We explored what it's really like to give birth and be a doula in Germany, the power of supportive communities, and building resilience as a parent and entrepreneur. Sinead's story is proof that growth, adaptability, and following your passion can open doors you never imagined—wherever you are in the world.

On this episode of The Birth Geeks, we sit down with Katie Shannon, a certified nurse midwife and entrepreneurial powerhouse. Katie takes us through her inspiring journey from grad school to running her own successful home birth practice in the DC metro area. She shares lessons on building a business, finding balance, overcoming burnout, and the importance of partnering with the right people. Katie gives us a behind-the-scenes look at serving diverse clients and navigating licensing challenges, proving that with passion and dedication, you can create a thriving, meaningful business that truly supports families. Don't miss these insights on resilience, growth, and redefining care.

Welcome to another episode of The Birth Geeks! In today's conversation, host Dr. Hillary Melchiors sits down with Jen Chandlee, an experienced postpartum doula trainer, educator, and advocate. Not only was Jen Hillary's own postpartum doula trainer, but she brings a wealth of knowledge from decades spent supporting families in diverse regions of the U.S., including Wilmington and Asheville, North Carolina. Together, they dive into how postpartum doula support has evolved, the increasing demand for it, and the important differences between birth and postpartum doula care. Jen shares heartfelt stories from her trainings—like the different moving traditions of welcoming new birthing people—and discusses the importance of cultural ritual in the postpartum period versus what many parents in the U.S. experience today (hello, grocery store runs instead of crowns and songs). The episode explores how virtual doula training breaks down barriers and brings global perspectives together, how the "crunchy parent" stereotype and consumer culture collide in parenting, and why overnight postpartum work—and its perception—may deserve a second look. Jen and Hillary also talk about the effects of perimenopause on doulas, the need for boundaries and self-care, plus the financial and policy challenges facing today's doula workforce. With warmth and honesty, Jen and Hillary unpack the reality of postpartum care, the critical need for recognition and support for new parents, and what it really means to be a lifeguard for families in the early weeks. Whether you're a doula, a parent, or just passionate about birth work, this episode is full of wisdom, humor, and some well-deserved tiara talk. Grab your tea, put on your imaginary crown, and enjoy this inspiring conversation!

In 2018, Amanda Chandler became the first licenced black Certified Professional Midwife in the state of Indiana, and in 2020 the first in Kentucky. Amanda is a trailblazer, nature lover, and birth geek extraordinaire. In this episode we talk about how closing rural hospitals' OB units impacts her work as a community midwife, her path to midwifery, career trajectory, challenging state policies, and so much more. I could think of no better way to celebrate Black Maternal Health Week than celebrating with the brilliant Amanda Chandler CPM. 

When Spela completed her PhD in Biomedicine, she did not expect doula work to be her destiny. After years in this field and studying multiple specialized pathways, she knows in her heart that doulas make a difference not only for our clients, but also within communities. Through our conversation you will not only hear Spela's passion for birth work, but also some amazing stories about working as a doula in the country of Slovenia! Spela's leadership in her country, within the European Doula Network, and in the broader doula community worldwide is remarkable, and she's incredibly fun to chat with too. This conversation will leave you inspired! 

What does doula work look like in Istanbul? In this episode, we talk to doula and translator Ayşegül Boz Baltacı about her work both in Turkey and in the European Doula Network. Ayşegül is a connector and an incredible advocate for families and doulas around the world. Shortly after we talked for this interview, a Turkish law banned all non-medical support for birthing parents, essentially closing public hospital doors to birth doulas entirely. Ayşegül Boz Baltacı is an outstanding leader in her community and for doulas everywhere, and her perspective really broadened my understanding of doulas as cultural brokers in multiple spaces. We hope you enjoy our conversation about her journey and goals as a doula. 

Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Birth Geeks"! Today, Dr. Hillary Melchiors sits down with Ania Freitas, a passionate doula originally from Madeira, Portugal, now based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Join us as Ania shares her journey from helping her sister in Northern Ireland, discovering her calling as a doula, and navigating different cultural landscapes. We'll dive into Ania's unique experiences in the doula field, her role with Doula UK, and her contributions to the European Doula Network (EDN). She discusses the welcoming yet complex landscape of doula work in Northern Ireland, the historic and cultural attitudes towards postnatal care, and her multilingual proficiency that enriches her practice. Discover the fascinating cultural nuances, the importance of postnatal support, and even some light-hearted moments, like Ania's fondness for Portuguese breakfasts. Whether you're a birth professional, an expectant parent, or just curious about the world of doulas, this episode offers a blend of professional insights and personal stories you won't want to miss. Tune in now!

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Birth Geeks! Today, hosts Dr. Robin Elise Weiss and Dr. Hillary Melchiors are joined by the insightful Darcy Sauers, a seasoned doula and business expert, for a deep dive into the intricacies of running a successful birth-related business. In this episode, we'll explore strategic blogging to attract local clients, the critical role of consistent thank-you campaigns, and the importance of tracking referral sources to make evidence-based business decisions. Darcy and our hosts will share valuable tips on managing data efficiently without feeling overwhelmed and discuss the vital aspect of treating doula work as a business to avoid burnout. We'll also delve into the power of search engine optimization (SEO) for local searches and maintaining control over your digital assets, given the limitations and risks of relying solely on social media platforms. Plus, we'll touch on creative content strategies, social media analytics, and Darcy's passion for making marketing analytics accessible and less intimidating. To wrap it up, we venture into the lighter side with fun "Would You Rather?" questions and share a touch of personal connection and excitement about future conferences. This episode is packed with insights to help you harness analytics, connect more meaningfully with your audience, and sustain a long-term, thriving practice. So tune in and get ready to geek out on all things birth and business!

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Birth Geeks! Today, we're thrilled to be joined by Elizabeth Mosley, an exceptional birth doula and advocate committed to systemic change in birth care. Our host, Dr. Hillary Melchiors, delves deep into the intricacies of trauma-informed care, the importance of culturally congruent support, and the ongoing challenges in doula certification and reimbursement with Elizabeth Mosley. From exploring models of doula care and the impacts of volunteer advocacy to navigating the complexities of state and national policies—this episode is packed with valuable insights. We even touch on some lighter topics like regional dialects and the joys of pet companionship. Whether you're a seasoned birth worker or new to the field, this conversation offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. So grab your headphones, settle in, and let's geek out on all things birth!   Comprehensive Sequence of Topics Covered in The Episode: Trauma-Informed Care & Models Systemic Change vs. Individual Blame Local versus National Data Nonprofit Organization Challenges Full-Spectrum Doula Work Doula Certification and Reimbursement Issues Culturally Congruent Care Impact of Stress and Structural Violence Reimbursement Challenges Recognition of Refugee and Immigrant Doula Challenges Political Advocacy Living Experiences and Work Settings Advantages of Doula Care Research Methodologies Systemic Issues in Healthcare   Links "I want…to serve those communities…[but] my price tag is…not what they can afford": The community-engaged Georgia doula study New Effort to Examine Doula Care Programs in Medicaid to Advance Racial Equity Embrace Refugee Birth Support Healthy Mothers, Health Babies: Georgia

Join Dr. Hillary Melchiors as she dives deep into the enriching journey of Debbie Mitchell, an integral part of the European Doula Network. Debbie shares her insightful experiences and the remarkable collaboration between organizations like DONA, ICEA, and Red Mundial de Doulas that brought the "doula corner" to the FIGO Conference in Paris. The discussion shines a light on the enormous impact that collective efforts can have in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology. European doula shares her journey, influenced by a friend, and completed training in Slovenia. Faced challenges in establishing her practice amidst language and cultural differences. Discussed involvement with the European Doula Network (EDN) and the importance of networking and support. Emphasized sociocracy and consensus in EDN decision-making and the diversity of doula practices across Europe. Noted the need for simplified language for better communication and inclusivity. Highlighted growth in conference attendance and financial accessibility concerns. Mentioned collaborative efforts among doula organizations and traditions like the "doula song." Importance of volunteer leadership, local engagement, and shared responsibilities within EDN. Reflected on the significance of relationships, communication, and cultural nuances in the doula profession. Closed with appreciation for community connection and an invitation for doulas to share experiences. Links Mentioned: European Doula Network DONA International ICEA Red Mundial de Doulas  

Welcome back to The Birth Geeks! In today's episode, your hosts Dr. Hillary Melchiors and Dr. Robin Elise Weiss delve into the intricate world of rebranding and visual updates. We'll explore the importance of networking and leveraging connections within the industry, the necessity of updating visuals like logos and fonts across platforms, and the challenges of the rebranding process itself. Hillary shares her first-hand experience of evolving her doula business, while both hosts emphasize the critical role of professional help, cohesive messaging, and effective client communication during a rebrand. We also navigate through decision-making hurdles, investment considerations, and the significance of staying organized by keeping business conversations streamlined. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on doula services and the need for adaptive messaging strategies are discussed. To wrap up, we'll share practical tools and advice for balancing daily operations with strategic development. Whether you're contemplating a brand refresh or a full rebrand, this episode is packed with actionable insights and light-hearted moments. So, sit back, relax, and join us as we journey through the nuances of rebranding in the birth industry. Overview Discussion on rebranding vs. brand refresh: significant changes vs. minor updates. The speaker is refreshing their doula business brand. Rebranding factors: business evolution, audience shifts, outdated visuals/messages. Importance of aligning brand with current offerings and target audience. Balancing local resources and budget for design work. Decision-making: DIY vs. hiring help based on skills and time. Benefits of professional help for complex tasks like website design. Reflect on goals and audience to avoid resource waste. Audit current branding efforts for improvements. Utilize networking for reliable project assistance. Ensure cohesive updates across all branding elements. Align messaging with visual branding for effective communication. Challenges of rebranding and client communication emphasized. Choose between a big launch or soft rollout for the rebrand. Importance of understanding client feedback and expectations. Acknowledge time, financial investments, and mental challenges in rebranding. Set realistic deadlines and manage collaborator communication. Conduct research, gather client feedback, and test website usability. View marketing from the client's perspective to address their needs. Focus on potential clients' pain points to create value. Use lead magnets and freebies to collect contact information. Building funnels is essential in the rebranding strategy. Consistent logo usage is vital for brand awareness. Acknowledge stress involved in the rebranding process. Links Mentioned Coolors Fiverr Canva (Free & Paid)

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Birth Geeks, where we delve into practical and essential topics for doulas. In this episode, TBG 56, join hosts Dr. Hillary Melchiors and Dr. Robin Elise Weiss as they navigate the complex world of setting and raising doula fees. Discover why it's crucial to understand your value and charge sustainably, how cost of living impacts your rates, and the importance of balancing personal financial goals to avoid burnout. We'll also discuss how to respond to client pushback about fees, strategies for offering discounts without undervaluing your services, and recognizing when it's time to increase your fees. With insights into tailoring service packages, maintaining transparent communication, and advocating for proper compensation, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you thrive in your doula career. Stay tuned as we empower you to confidently set and adjust your rates, ensuring both your well-being and that of your clients. Overview Discussion on doulas raising fees for sustainable income. Importance of charging a livable wage and recognizing when to adjust rates. Factors for increasing rates include: Experience from multiple births. Rising living costs. Preventing burnout and ensuring job satisfaction. Full calendar indicating high demand. Timing for rate increases should focus on future bookings. Awareness of local market rates and community positioning is essential. New skills or certifications can justify fee hikes. Comparison of fee structures across regions, e.g., California. Personal financial goals are crucial to avoid burnout. Use "doula-of-fee algebra" for pricing strategy. Consider yearly expenses in financial planning. Strategies for discussing rate increases with returning clients. Clearly explain value and handle objections confidently. Mistakes are part of business growth. Confidently state fees without justification to unsuitable clients. Advocate for fair compensation for doula work. Consider tiered packages or early signing incentives. Maintain prenatal visits for effective support. Regularly review rates based on experience and feedback. Communicate rate changes transparently and in advance. Prepare for pushback on fees with strategies. Prioritize financial security for mental health and sustainability. Utilize resources like doula fee calculators and cost of living data. Engage clients in discussions about fee adjustments. Links Mentioned in this Episode Cost of Living Information Doula Fee Calculator

Welcome back to The Birth Geeks podcast! In today's episode, hosts Hillary Melchiors and  Robin Elise Weiss catch up after a long break and dive into a range of exciting updates and developments in the birth and doula community. They talk about Hillary's upcoming trip to France for the European Doula Network conference and reflect on their busy year, including Hillary's rebrand of her doula agency. From discussing the challenges of balancing doula work with personal life to sharing insights from recent conferences and legislative advocacy efforts, this episode is packed with valuable information and heartfelt moments. Stay tuned as they also hint at upcoming topics and interviews that will enrich the birth and doula community. Let's get started! Links mentioned in this show: Cost of Living Doula Fee Calculator EPDUS-US (Mental Health Screening Tool) Overview Hosts Hillary and Robin reconnect after a long break. They discuss a road trip from Louisville to Minneapolis. Hillary prepares for the European Doula Network in France. They reflect on their busy lives and roles in DONA International. Robin organized the Doulas Doing Business Summit for business management support. They share challenges doulas face in balancing passion and business. Hillary is involved in academic activities related to doulas. Both discuss personal challenges, including Hillary's house fire. They reflect on parenting and the transition to becoming empty nesters. A recent vacation sparked a desire for more travel and reading. The speaker advocates for doulas and perinatal mental health screening. They highlight legislative progress for doulas and maternal care improvement. The agency's rebranding and certification efforts are mentioned. Emphasis on community outreach and agency operations amid challenges. Upcoming plans include discussions on rebranding and financial sustainability. Excitement about interviews and research on perinatal mental health. The speaker shares a personal experience attending a memorial for Penny Simkin. Light-hearted discussion on fame preferences and humorous birth community anecdotes.

How do you stay awake on the drive home at 3am after leaving a long birth or postpartum shift? In this 47th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast we talk about scream therapy, streaking through your house, our go-to meals and self-care routines. After helping our clients, a post-shift ritual is so important to shift your mind out of work mode and actually contributes to helping stave off burnout. Our tips and a few fun references are included in this episode!

How do you define confidence for yourself? You may have a supercomputer in your pocket, but that still doesn't mean that you have to know all the things or that all the things you can know are in there. In this episode we talk about "doula dysmorphia" and mastery development. There's always something more to learn as a birth geek, but there are more important confidence boosting ways to learn than taking all the trainings and reading all the books. What bursts your confidence bubble and how does your sense of humor play into your work confidence, earned or otherwise.

This episode is all about MONEY! We talk about all different ways that childbirth educators and doulas feel about money. What is your money mindset? Do you have an abundance mindset too? We talk about shortcuts to keeping good records and a few key moments that you need to recognize that you should ask for help from people who've been there. We also delve into multiple revenue streams and passive income as a childbirth professional. If you're a birth professional entrepreneur, this episode is especially for you!