The Doula Darcy Podcast

There comes a moment in many doula businesses when everything is technically "working"… You're getting clients. You're good at what you do. You're busy, maybe sometimes too busy. And yet, the income still isn't where it needs to be. In this episode, I'm talking about the very real (and very common) moment when doulas hit an income ceiling and what to do when you realize that trading hours for dollars simply isn't sustainable long-term. I share my own story of reaching this point a few years into my postpartum doula business: juggling multiple families in a day, racing across town, coming home exhausted to my own kids, and realizing that no matter how hard I worked, there were only so many hours available. And the numbers just weren't adding up. If you've ever thought: "I can't raise my rates any higher…" "I love this work, but I need to make more money" "I don't want to burn out or quit, but something has to change" This episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: Why so many doulas hit an income ceiling 2–3 years into their business The emotional reality of loving the work but needing more financial stability When (and how) to raise your rates - even if you're newer than other doulas in your area How to increase your income without adding more in-person hours Smart ways to enhance your doula packages with add-ons and virtual services How to create downsell offers for families who can't hire you as their full-service doula Why digital products and virtual sessions can be a game-changer The role agencies and passive income streams can play in breaking the income ceiling How to build a doula business that supports your family, your future, and your longevity in this work I also talk about the importance of thinking like a "grown-up" business owner so that you are setting rates that allow you to save for taxes, retirement, your kids' activities, and your future - not just scrape by. There is a way to work fewer hours, help more families, and earn more money. And it doesn't require sacrificing your health, your family, or your love for this work. Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling stuck at this income ceiling and want support figuring out your unique doula "sweet spot", I'd love to help. Join My Doula Village for ongoing support, real conversations, and strategy Or explore 1:1 coaching with me to design a business model and marketing plan that actually fits your life This is the work I love most, to help doulas stay in this profession for the long haul, without burnout, resentment, or financial stress. 💛 Thanks for listening! And I hope this episode gave you at least one nugget you can take with you. About The Doula Darcy: Darcy Sauers, aka The Doula Darcy, is a certified postpartum doula, marketing expert, and doula business coach who helps doulas & sleep consultants build sustainable, profitable businesses they love. Through her signature membership, My Doula Village, one-on-one coaching and a top-ranked doula podcast, Darcy empowers doulas to step confidently into their role as business owners, without burning out or giving up their calling. 👉 Learn more at: www.thedouladarcy.com  join The Doula Village: www.MyDoulaVillage.com  📲 Follow along on Instagram: @TheDoulaDarcy  

If you're a people pleaser (and if you're a doula… chances are high), this episode is for you. In this conversation, Darcy unpacks the quiet but powerful connection between the work doulas do for their clients — teaching them to advocate for themselves, ask questions, and trust their gut — and the places we don't do that in our own lives and businesses. From birth rooms to living rooms, doulas are incredible at reminding parents they don't need permission to make decisions that feel right for them. But when it comes to our businesses? Our pricing? Our packages? Our boundaries? We often find ourselves waiting for approval that never comes. In this episode, Darcy challenges you to notice where you're asking for permission, hedging, or saying yes out of obligation and invites you to start running your doula business in a way that actually feeds your soul, your family, and your life.   In this episode, you'll hear about: The surprising parallel between birth advocacy and business decision-making Where doulas unknowingly ask for permission instead of trusting themselves How people pleasing shows up in packages, boundaries, and marketing A powerful reminder that you can always change course If you've been playing small, waiting, or holding back because you're worried about what others will think, this episode is your reminder that you don't need permission to build a business that works for you.   About: The Doula Darcy Darcy Sauers, aka The Doula Darcy, is a certified postpartum doula, marketing expert, and doula business coach who helps doulas & sleep consultants build sustainable, profitable businesses they love. Through her signature membership, My Doula Village, one-on-one coaching and this top-ranked doula podcast, Darcy empowers doulas to step confidently into their role as business owners, without burning out or giving up their calling.   👉 Learn more at: www.thedouladarcy.com   Join My Doula Village: www.MyDoulaVillage.com    📲 Follow along on Instagram: @TheDoulaDarcy  

In this episode, The Doula Darcy shares three simple year-end money moves she makes every December that reliably increase revenue in the next year. These steps take less than an hour each, but they compound in a powerful way. Most doulas try to "hustle harder," but earning more starts with strengthening what's already working. Darcy breaks down how to raise your rates confidently, reduce your taxable income, and increase referrals through gratitude and intentional follow-up. In this episode you'll learn: Why scrolling your photos from January can transform how you feel about the year you just lived The easiest time of year to raise your rates (and a script for announcing it) Why tracking mileage is basically free money A quick end-of-year gratitude ritual that boosts referrals organically How to identify your highest-value clients and referral sources Why expressing gratitude expands abundance in your business   Homework after listening: ✔ Grab your phone → scroll to Jan 1 photos → make a gratitude list ✔ Review your pricing + update pricing page + contract ✔ Log missing miles + download a tracking app if needed ✔ Send 3 gratitude cards or gifts this week If you loved the episode… DM Darcy on Instagram @thedouladarcy and share one business win from 2025 you're grateful for.   The Doula Darcy Meet Darcy Sauers | Doula Business & Marketing Coach The Doula Darcy (a.k.a Darcy Sauers) is a Doula Business Coach & Marketing Strategist who combines her unique background: 10 years in advertising and 15 years as a postpartum doula to help other doulas build thriving businesses. Learn more at https://douladarcy.com

I share the behind-the-scenes of hosting my doula agency's biggest holiday party yet on today's episode. Hear all about how I strategically planned it to be both meaningful and a tax write-off! You'll hear how I: Used smart tax strategies (like the Augusta Rule!) to host a chef-catered dinner at home Created special moments for my team, including custom holiday cards Involved my teen boys in the prep, teaching them what mom really does Pivoted on gifts and ended up offering heartfelt bonuses instead Whether you're an agency owner or a solo doula, this episode is packed with ideas and inspiration for building community, celebrating your people, and integrating more heart (and strategy) into your year-end traditions. 🎧 Tune in to hear: Why in-person connection still matters in a digital world How to plan a holiday party with intention The small touches that made a big impact on my team and clients     Follow The Doula Darcy on Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy    Learn more: www.thedouladarcy.com    

This week, I'm narrowing in on a question many people (including my parents) still ask me: What exactly does a business coach do? And why do you need one? I'm breaking it down through personal stories from my competitive gymnastics and diving days, showing how having a coach - whether on the mat, on the diving board, or in your business—can be the difference between floundering and flying. You'll hear: Why coaching isn't just for athletes How a good coach acts like a "spotter" in your business The importance of trust, accountability, and confidence in coaching relationships What coaching has meant for my business growth, and my clients' Why hiring a coach is one of the smartest things you can do to fast-track your progress and avoid costly mistakes Whether you're new to business or scaling your services, this episode is packed with honest insights, a few laughs (hello, diving smacks), and a strong case for putting someone in your corner who believes in you and knows what they're doing.   About The Doula Darcy - Since 2010, Darcy has built a thriving postpartum doula business (now agency)in New Hampshire. With her team of doulas handling the in-person clients, Darcy now spends her time & energy helping other doulas create passive income streams and hybrid doula business models so that they are earning more money, working less hours and helping more people.  Darcy's super power is creating high-impact marketing strategies  The Doula Darcy uses her unique background of 10 years in mainstream advertising and 15 years as a postpartum doula to help other doulas feel fired up to create impactful doula businesses that don't burn them out. Learn more about her coaching programs here: https://douladarcy.com/doula-coach Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy/  

This week I share how I'm restructuring my business this winter to better support my family and my energy, without the mom guilt. I talk about: Why I'm temporarily closing my membership, My Doula Village The real reason I'm not building a big team (and why you don't have to either) What bro marketers get wrong, and what actually works How entrepreneurship is really a journey of self-discovery The power of getting in rooms (IRL or virtual) with people doing what you want to do Whether you're building an online business, offering in-person services, or just dreaming of doing things differently, this episode will help you see what's actually possible without overcomplicating things. 🔗 Links & Resources: Join My Doula Village before doors close:   https://douladarcy.com/my-doula-village Learn more about the Birth Worker Retreat (January 20–22, Clearwater, FL): https://douladarcy.com/the-birthworker-retreat DM me on Instagram and tell me what part of this episode resonated with you:  https://www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy/

Someone asked Darcy on Instagram how doulas can be incorporating CEO days their doula business.   Darcy, who prefers the term 'Island days' over 'CEO days,' shares her personal strategies for maintaining a balance between work and relaxation.   She shares the importance of taking time to work ON your business rather than just IN it. Whether through designated weekly hours, full days off, or attending business retreats, Darcy emphasizes the value of stepping out of your routine to spark creativity and achieve business growth.   00:25 What is a CEO Day? 01:22 Introducing Island Days 02:12 The Importance of Taking Breaks 05:31 Business Retreats and Their Benefits 07:25 Practical Tips for Scheduling CEO Time 11:04 The Value of Community and Networking 18:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Join My Doula Village — Get in on the next Maine Doula Retreat!  https://douladarcy.com/my-doula-village   DM me on Instagram @TheDoulaDarcy and let me know you listened to this episode. https://www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy/  

Want to meet the Business Coach Behind the The Doula Business Coach?  What happens when your business coach becomes one of your strongest cheerleaders and biggest expanders? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain and inviting you into a very personal (and often hilarious) conversation with my business coach of three years, the incredible Amber Lilyestrom. Amber isn't just a business coach & brand strategist. She's a poet, a mom, and a professional crazy cat lady (yes, we explain). She's also the reason I've taken my doula coaching business to the next level. Together, we talk about designing businesses around the lives we actually want to live and the importance of being brave enough to want what you really want. If you're a doula looking for permission to create a business that truly fits your life (and not the other way around), this episode is your green light. Amber and I get real about money mindset, "right-sized" businesses, and the inner work that makes outer success possible. ✨ Bonus: We also share the behind-the-scenes story of a ridiculous, stormy, cat-filled, Taylor Swift inspired Reel we filmed together - because business should be fun. This episode is for you if: You're a doula who knows there's a next level waiting for you You want to get paid for being yourself and doing what you're naturally good at You crave deep, authentic mentorship that goes beyond strategy You want to build a business that fuels your whole life—not just your bank account 🎧 Tune in and hear why our quirky, soul-sister dynamic might just be the spark you need to fall back in love with your business (or finally go all in).     Find Amber at: https://amberlilyestrom.com Amber's Podcast - Homeward with Amber Lilyestrom https://amberlilyestrom.com/podcast Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberlilyestrom/

The only way to keep serving families without burning out is to design a business that earns you money even when you're not on call. I see it all the time. Doulas pour their whole hearts into their clients, only to realize their business only works if they are physically working. If you're on call 24/7… If you feel guilty every time you block off a weekend… If your bank account feels just as drained as you do… That's not freedom. That's a business model that's running you. The truth? You can't sustain this pace without sacrificing your health, your relationships, or your passion for birth work. The good news? There's another way. And it starts with creating income streams that work while you rest. You don't want to miss this episode of The Doula Darcy Podcast.    

You don't need a huge advertising budget to attract dream doula clients. In fact, you can build a thriving doula business for free (well, almost). In this episode, I share the only investment I believe every doula must make, plus the three free marketing strategies that will keep your client list full for years to come. I also get real about the importance of showing up - online, in your community, and in your client work - so you can grow your business without wasting money.   What You'll Learn in This Episode: The only marketing expense I recommend when starting your doula business. Why your website is your 24/7 client-attracting employee. How to use networking to grow your reputation. The role social media plays in connecting you with dream clients - and why you need to stop complaining about it. The #1 free marketing tool you already have but may be overlooking. Links and Resources:  Get a Doula Website Template — SEO-friendly, easy-to-customize, and designed specifically for doulas.  Join My Doula Village — Get my personal website audit, SEO trainings, and a community of growth-focused doulas. 📩 DM me on Instagram @TheDoulaDarcy and let me know you listened to this episode.

Postpartum doulas often equate their value with how much they do—laundry folded, dishes washed, bottles sterilized. But what if the most meaningful support has nothing to do with physical tasks? In this episode, Darcy challenges the productivity myth and highlights the profound impact of simply being present, listening, and validating a new mom's experience. What You'll Learn: Why postpartum doulas often undervalue emotional support How our culture ties self-worth to productivity—and how to unlearn it Real client stories that prove presence > performance How to ask the right questions to uncover your client's real needs Why virtual postpartum doula services can be just as impactful Whether you're a seasoned doula or just getting started, this episode is your reminder that sometimes the most powerful support you can offer is simply showing up with love and presence. 📩 Questions or thoughts? DM me on Instagram or email me at darcy@thedouladarcy.com.  Join the conversation in my free Facebook group: The Doula Marketing Group.

Darcy explains the number one mistake sleep consultants and doulas make when trying to attract clients. Simply posting on Instagram and relying on cute Canva content won't bring clients rolling in. Instead, building a strong marketing foundation with a lead generation funnel and effective systems is crucial. Learn about the importance of turning strangers into followers, followers into leads, and leads into clients. Darcy also introduces a new 90-day accelerator program aimed at helping sleep consultants earn $10,000 a month by implementing effective marketing strategies. Apply here: https://douladarcy.com/90-days-to-10k-months-for-sleep-consultants-apply Tune in to discover how to stop hustling for likes and start getting booked with clients who are eager to work with you.   Follow The Doula Darcy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy/ Meet Darcy Sauers | Doula Business & Marketing Coach The Doula Darcy (a.k.a Darcy Sauers) is a Doula Business Coach & Marketing Strategist who combines her unique background: 10 years in advertising and 15 years as a postpartum doula to help other doulas & sleep consultants build thriving businesses. The Doula Darcy worked for 10 years in the advertising and marketing field before having 3 children and then becoming a postpartum doula in 2010. She attributes her background in marketing to her success at building a thriving postpartum doula business in a small town in New Hampshire. Now she loves sharing her industry expertise with other doulas. The Doula Darcy is the founder of the My Doula Village, a monthly membership community which helps doulas with the marketing side of being a doula so that they can get more clients. The Doula Darcy also works 1:1 with doulas and sleep consultants who are ready to scale their business to serve more people, earn more impact and work less hours.

In today's episode, Darcy gets into one of the most debated business topics: Should you niche down? Spoiler alert — yes, and here's why. I share real-life examples from my doula business and insights from working with sleep consultants to show how narrowing your focus actually makes it easier to get hired. You'll learn: Why clarity in your offer leads to more clients How I became the go-to C-section postpartum doula The massive opportunity sleep consultants have right now How to identify your "magic piece" of work that lights you up Why niching doesn't mean you have to give up the parts you love ✨ Want help uncovering your niche and building a business around it? Let's chat 1-on-1. This is my zone of genius — helping doulas and sleep consultants create simple, profitable business plans based on what they love most. Book a Breakthrough Call with Darcy here. Free Workshop: "3 Free Ways to Market Your Sleep Consulting Business"    Connect with The Doula Darcy on Instagram   If you found this episode helpful, make sure to subscribe and leave a review — it helps more birth workers grow thriving, sustainable businesses.

Today I'm joined by Julia Riddle, founder of Doula Design Co., a former postpartum doula turned SEO and website expert. Julia breaks down the mystery of SEO into tangible, accessible strategies specifically tailored for doulas. If you feel overwhelmed by the tech side of your doula website, this episode is going to be so helpful. What We Cover: What SEO really is and why it's not as scary as it seems Why doulas can't afford to ignore SEO in today's digital landscape How your website can act as your best employee—working 24/7 to bring in clients Key SEO concepts explained in simple terms (like you're in 5th grade!) The two most important SEO fixes doulas should focus on now Julia's journey from doula to digital expert and how she's supporting others Special offer: Get 10% off an SEO audit from Julia with the mention of this podcast Connect with Julia: Website: doula design co.com Instagram: @douladesignco Bonus for Listeners: Mention "The Doula Darcy" to get 10% off your SEO audit with Julia!   Connect with Darcy: Website: https://douladarcy.com Instagram: @thedouladarcy Get one of Darcy's Doula Website Templates: https://douladarcy.com/doula-website-template

In this episode, Darcy welcomes Alix Myers, a birth and postpartum doula from Montreal with a powerful passion for neurodivergent advocacy. Together, they explore the unique needs of neurodivergent birthing people and how doulas can adjust their practices to be more inclusive, neuro-affirming, and trauma-informed. Alex shares the reasons why it's so critical that doulas understand the spectrum of neurodivergence—including ADHD, autism, OCD, and sensory sensitivities. She offers practical strategies for building inclusive intake forms, creating sensory-friendly environments, and understanding unique communication styles during birth. This episode is full of insight, inspiration, and deeply human takeaways that will help doulas expand their care, prepare clients more effectively, and advocate powerfully at births and beyond. What We Talk About: What neurodivergence is and why it's crucial to understand in perinatal care How doulas can create more inclusive intake forms and birth plans Supporting neurodivergent communication and sensory needs during labor How undiagnosed neurodivergence may intersect with perinatal mental health Preparing neurodivergent families for the postpartum period Why "neuro-affirming" care benefits all clients—not just neurodivergent ones Resources Mentioned: Alix's Birth Planning Bundle for Neurodivergent Families: Love Tenderly Website Follow Alix on Instagram: @lovetender.ly_doula

Join us for a joy-filled episode of the Doula Darcy Podcast, recorded live from the Maine Doula Retreat hosted exclusively for members of My Doula Village. Doulas from across the country share what it's like to step away from daily responsibilities and immerse themselves in three rejuvenating days by the ocean in Maine. Hear candid reflections on burnout, sisterhood, business breakthroughs, and the magic that happens when like-minded caregivers gather in person.   Whether you're a doula, a birth worker, or a solo entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you to prioritize rest, connection, and real support in your professional journey. Get a glimpse of the clarity, creativity, and soul-fueling energy that only retreats like this can provide.   In This Episode, You'll Hear: What it's really like to retreat with your doula colleagues Why community is essential to avoiding burnout How in-person connections amplify business growth Real stories of transformation, laughter, and late-night chats Why you'll want to be at the next My Doula Village retreat Links & Resources: Join My Doula Village – Your online home for support, strategy, and sisterhood Follow along on Instagram: @TheDoulaDarcy Want to be at the next retreat? Learn more here.     My Doula Village members featured on this epsiode: Leslie Owens of Mother Nurture Maternity Lactation in Atlanta Lacy Anderson of UP Family Doula in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan Christine Freeze of Otters Embrace Doula in Houston Lynn Eads of Learn with Lynne in Detroit Emily Wannenburg of 4th Trimester Fitness Method  Chelsea Lambert of The Manistee Midwife    

In this episode, Darcy invites you behind the scenes for a candid, inspiring look at how she blends her life and her business — and why it's essential for every doula (and entrepreneur) to stop separating the two. She shares her recent experiences at a transformative mastermind retreat and live event with her business coach, the power of stepping away to work on your business (not just in it), and the profound impact of treating yourself with care and respect. Darcy reminds us that self-care isn't selfish — it's strategic. Whether it's savoring your morning coffee, booking a massage, or committing to a business retreat, these investments in yourself ripple into every corner of your life and work. She challenges you to schedule micro and macro moments of care, joy, and reflection into your calendar — because when you thrive, your business thrives. Darcy also shares details about upcoming opportunities to join her, including the Maine Doula Retreat and the Birth Worker Retreat in Clearwater, Florida, in January 2026 — the ultimate chance to reset, recharge, and set powerful intentions for the new year. ✨ In this episode you'll hear: Why Darcy doesn't separate her life from her business — and why that's a strength The breakthroughs she experienced at her mastermind retreat and live event How putting yourself at the top of your to-do list can transform your business Simple self-care practices you can start today (without spending money) An invitation to join the Birth Worker Retreat in Florida for an unforgettable business and self-care experience Resources & Links: Join the Maine Doula Retreat → https://douladarcy.com/doula-retreat-maine Book your spot at the Birth Worker Retreat → www.thebirthworkerretreat.com Learn more about working with Darcy →  https://douladarcy.com/work-with-me

In this refreshingly honest episode, Darcy chats with longtime 1:1 coaching client Kelli Blinn, a Columbus, Ohio-based birth doula and childbirth educator, about her journey from teaching private classes to launching her first online childbirth education course. They dive deep into the realities of creating "passive" income, overcoming personal hurdles like tech fear and self-doubt, and why childbirth education matters more than ever. Kelli shares how her passion for informed birth choices led her to create Your Birth, Your Options, and how doulas can leverage her course to serve their clients and grow their own businesses. What You'll Learn: Why "passive" income isn't so passive at first—and why it's still worth it The hidden hurdles that hold entrepreneurs back (hint: it's usually you) How childbirth education empowers clients to advocate for themselves Ways doulas can offer Kelli's course to their clients (and earn affiliate income) The importance of being real, showing up authentically, and starting imperfectly Links Mentioned: Connect with Kelli: kelliblinn.com | Instagram @doulakelliblinn Email Kelli: hello@kelliblinn.com Learn more about Your Birth, Your Options digital course: https://www.kelliblinn.com/online-childbirth-education

Feeling stuck trying to grow your doula business without burning out on social media or spending money on ads? In this session, visibility expert and business coach Tracy Beavers shares her best strategies to help doulas gain more visibility 100% organically. Learn how to:  Create 90 days of content in 30 minutes Use Facebook or Instagram to actually get leads Overcome the fear of putting yourself out there Build trust with your ideal clients online Repurpose content using simple systems and AI tools Embrace your worth and charge confidently for your services    ✨ About Tracy: Tracy Beavers left a 20+ year corporate career to build a successful business teaching entrepreneurs how to grow with visibility, not ads. She's a mom, a dog-lover, and your new go-to coach for showing up with confidence!   📌 Join the FREE Masterclass she mentioned: "How To Grow Your Email List & Attract Your Ideal Clients Without Paid Ads"  https://www.tracybeavers.com/masterclass   Connect with Tracy:    Instagram: @tracybeaverscoaching  Free Facebook Group: Be A Confident Entrepreneur  Podcast: Create Online Business Success https://www.tracybeavers.com/podcast     

Doulas, are you turning away clients because you're booked solid?  It's a great problem to have… until it starts feeling like those referrals you're passing along are a missed opportunity for you. If you're passing client referrals along to other doulas (without getting anything in return) but can't imagine starting an agency because it feels too big, too complicated, or just too much—this episode is for you. I sit down with Juanita Harris of Southern Charm Doula, who was booked 9+ months out, constantly saying no to new inquiries, and exhausted. She thought running an agency was too much work… until she realized she was already doing half the work for free. 🎙️ In this episode, Juanita shares: ✅ Why she resisted starting an agency for so long ✅ The breaking point that made her say, "I have to do this NOW" ✅ How she launched her agency in one week—without the overwhelm ✅ The biggest myths about starting an agency (and what's actually true!) ✅ How she now supports more families, makes more money, and has more control of her schedule If you're feeling stuck, scared, or unsure about taking the next step towards opening a doula agency, this episode will open your eyes to what's possible. 🎧 Listen now! And if you need help growing your business, send me a DM—I'd love to chat. www.TheDoulaDarcy.com www.instagram.com/thedouladarcy