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Episode 166: Selective Bias
What is selective bias, and how does it show up in our work as doulas? We all interpret and retain information in ways that align with our pre-existing beliefs, often unknowingly dismissing data that challenges our biases. From interpreting research to making decisions in birth spaces, selective bias can shape the care we provide and can influence the experiences of our clients. As doulas, we have a responsibility to recognize and confront our own biases, especially when it comes to topics like interventions and birth preferences. Are you open to thinking critically about your own biases, considering how they affect your practice, and exploring ways to actively seek out diverse…
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Episode 165: Don’t Be a Doula If
Doula work can be incredibly rewarding, but it won’t be the right fit for everyone. In this episode, we talk openly about why someone shouldn’t become a doula. Doula work requires a specific mindset, skills, and responsibilities. Being judgmental, struggling to hold space, or expecting birth work to be all about personal fulfillment can create harm. Becoming a doula means running a doula business, and passion alone isn’t enough if you’re not prepared to market, manage, and sustain a professional practice. This honest conversation takes a raw and real look at what it takes to be a doula. It is essential to preserve the integrity of the profession and support…
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Episode 164: Business Ebb and Flow
Every doula experiences it. The ebb and flow of client inquiries and bookings are a normal part of running a doula business. Some months are full, while others feel uncomfortably quiet. There is often a natural ebb and flow of doula work, and it is important to stay grounded when things slow down. What can you do during slower seasons to remain productive and focused on your doula business? You may start by reflecting on your current marketing strategy and identifying what is working and what needs improvement. Or maybe it’s time to refresh your website and social media to reconnect with your community. There are many powerful steps you…
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Episode 163: Communication – Intention vs Interpretation
As doulas, when it comes to communication, what we say and how it’s heard are not always the same. Words shape how clients feel, respond, and make decisions. Asking questions that begin with “why” can unintentionally sound like judgment, even when your intent is neutral or supportive. Doulas often believe that it’s our job to make sure clients are making informed choices. In truth, our responsibility is to our clients, not for them. It is not our role or responsibility to decide what a client wants or needs to know. But doulas often offer information without asking what the client wants to know or inquiring in a non-judgmental way how…
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Episode 162: Telemetry Monitoring During Labor
Telemetry monitoring during labor is becoming more common in hospital birth settings. Yet many doulas may not be familiar with how it works or how it differs from traditional continuous electronic fetal monitoring. In this episode, we explore telemetry monitoring, how it functions, and the potential benefits it offers for mobility and comfort for laboring clients. We also discuss hospital policies, common limitations, and how to support clients in understanding their options when telemetry is available or when it is not. As doulas, having a working knowledge of telemetry can help us better advocate for client preferences, support informed decision-making, and provide more effective physical and emotional support during labor.…
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Episode 161: Low Amniotic Fluid
Low amniotic fluid, or oligohydramnios, is a topic doulas will likely encounter in our work with clients, especially during the third trimester. Doulas and clients often question what low fluid levels mean, how they are diagnosed, and the clinical considerations involved. It is important for doulas to understand risks associated with low amniotic fluid, potential causes, and the treatment options care providers may offer. We also discuss how this diagnosis can influence birth plans and what doulas should keep in mind when supporting clients through these decisions. Tune in for an in-depth conversation designed to strengthen your knowledge and help you better support clients navigating this complicated situation.
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Episode 160: Doula Business Evolution
We’re talking about business evolution: how growth, learning, and new services shape the future of your business brand. Your doula business won’t look the same in a year or two as it did on day one. But that’s a good thing! Your marketing should reflect every step forward, from your first client to expanding your services. Updating your website, social media, and printed materials is essential as your business evolves. A brand refresh, whether that’s a new logo, a change in business name, updated colors, or a shift in messaging, is also likely as you grow. Tune in for real-world insight on aligning your image with your current position so…
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Episode 159: Newborn Care Classes
Many birth workers assume teaching childbirth education is just for labor doulas. Yet, postpartum doulas can benefit just as much from teaching childbirth and newborn care classes. Offering newborn care education can be a game-changer for postpartum doulas looking to grow their client base. Teaching newborn care classes lets you connect with expecting families before their baby arrives, demonstrate your expertise, and build trust early on. You’ll help potential clients understand what postpartum doula support looks like and why it’s so valuable in those early weeks. This episode explores the importance of an informative and engaging class, encouraging families to seek continued support. Tune in to discover how education can…
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Episode 158: The Power of Listening
The power of listening is one of the most valuable skills a doula can have. Listening involves more than just hearing words—it’s about creating space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. It is how deep, intentional trust is built, and it strengthens the doula-client relationship. When clients feel safe to unmask and share openly, real connections form. This allows us to create a judgment-free space, allowing clients to express their fears, preferences, and emotions without shame. This trust becomes the foundation for meaningful support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In this episode, we discuss practical ways to refine your listening skills, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure clients feel…
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Episode 157: Client Reviews
Client reviews shape your doula business. But how do you request them, use them effectively, and respond to negative feedback professionally? Doula work is deeply personal. Families invite us into one of the most intimate times of their lives, trusting us to provide support. Because of this, building and maintaining an emotional connection is essential. Clients need to feel safe, seen, and supported—and that trust often translates into the reviews they leave. One common challenge doulas face is finding the best ways to ask for reviews. Once you have the reviews, you need to determine where to showcase them to build trust and attract clients. Also, don’t forget to turn…
