My Doula's Podcast
84 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 6 ratingsMy Doula's Podcast is a show dedicated to all things "birthy." Join us for birth stories, expert interviews and doula discussions on all the important topics.
*The views expressed in this podcast are those of our guests. The information shared here should not replace the advice of your care provider.*
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Episodes
S2E20: Maggie's Birth Story
October 04, 2022 07:00 - 50 minutes - 45.9 MBMaggie's pregnancy went pretty smoothly overall, until she went to her 36 week appointment and found that her baby was frank breech. Maggie was determined to get that baby to flip and she spent the next week focused on positioning and body work. After lots of work and a very short ECV, her baby flipped! Maggie went on to have a vaginal birth and describes her experience as beautiful. Join us today to hear her full story! We also discuss her experience with engorgement, breastfeeding difficult...
S2E19: Melissa's Birth Stories
August 16, 2022 07:00 - 1 hour - 78 MBMelissa had her first baby in 2016. Overall things went well, but she did end up with a second degree tear. After this birth, Melissa had a procedure called a sphincterotomy. She was told any future births would need to be a cesarean or she would risk further tearing and may end up needing a colostomy bag. Melissa had accepted this, but when she became pregnant with her second, she wanted to explore all of her options. Melissa went on to have 3 more vaginal births without tearing! Listen to...
S2E18: Body Balancing with Mandi Rodenbeck of Great Lakes Doulas
June 21, 2022 07:00 - 1 hour - 60.9 MBMandi Rodenbeck is the owner of Great Lakes Doulas and she is also a DONA certified birth and postpartum doula. She is knowledgeable and passionate about educating her clients and helping them prepare for birth. Join us today as we talk with Mandi about body balancing and preparing your body for birth. We discuss pain in pregnancy, baby positioning, and much more. Mentions & Links Photo Credit: Finding Fire Photography One Strong Mama: https://www.onestrongmama.com/?osm=346&fbclid=IwAR0Oxi4...
S2E17: Interview with Dr. Theresa Osmer
June 14, 2022 07:00 - 41 minutes - 38.3 MBDr. Theresa Osmer, of Flow Chiropractic, is a Chiropractic Physician and a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner. She is trained to help her patients with infertility, pregnancy-related pain, preparing for birth, and much much more. Join us as we talk with Dr. Osmer about chiropractic care in pregnancy, postpartum, and even how she can help your newborn! Links: Flow Chiropractic: https://www.flowchiro.com/ Book: Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.mydoulagr.com/ Facebook Gr...
S2E16: Doula Discussion: The Provider Paradox
June 07, 2022 07:00 - 44 minutes - 41 MBChoosing the right provider in pregnancy is the first step towards a positive birth experience. There are so many things to look at when choosing your OBGYN or midwife. Join us as we discuss the impact the right (or wrong) provider can have on your birth experience and how you can find the right provider for you and your pregnancy. Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.mydoulagr.com/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/597488577727460
S2 E15 - Doula Discussion: Pitocin vs. Oxytocin
May 17, 2022 07:00 - 36 minutes - 33.6 MBPitocin is used quite frequently in the hospital system to induce and augment labor. While pitocin does stimulate uterine contractions, it does not work the same as naturally produced oxytocin. Join us as we discuss the differences between Oxytocin & Pitocin and some ways you can be more prepared heading into an induction. * This podcast represents the opinions of Emily, Lindsey and their guests to the show.The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for infor...
S2 E14: Laura's Twin Birth Story
May 10, 2022 07:00 - 1 hour - 75.3 MBVaginal Twin Birth Story Laura had originally wanted a non-medicated homebirth, but changed her plans when she discovered she was expecting twins at a 9 week dating scan. Her pregnancy went fairly smoothly, but towards the end of her pregnancy, her babies started to measure differently. Laura was induced at 35 weeks and gave birth to a 4 lb 14 oz baby girl and a 7 lb baby boy! Listen in to hear Laura's full story and how she gave birth to her twins vaginally. Resources: When You're Expec...
S2E13 Pediatric Dentistry with Dr. Katie Swanson
May 03, 2022 15:30 - 1 hour - 55.7 MBOn today's podcast we were able to talk to Dr. Katie Swanson. She is one of the Pediatric dentists at Pediatric Dental Specialists of West Michigan. She works with Dr. Stephanie Kloonstra out of their beautiful office located in Grand Rapids off of East Paris Ave. We talked about what age you should start bringing your child to the dentist, why a pediatric dentist might be the right choice for your kiddo's dental needs, and how mouth ties can effect your feeding (breast/chest/bottle) journey ...
S2E12 Potty Training and Toddler talk with Author Jamie Glowacki
April 28, 2022 22:41 - 1 hour - 56.2 MBToday on My Doula's Podcast we talked to author, podcaster, potty trainer, YouTuber, and Mom to a teenager, Jamie Glowacki. Jamie is a fast talking East coast gal who loves talking about how amazing toddlers are. Jamie reminded us that we are all growning and learning all the time, and toddlers are just doing it explosively fast! We talked about a lot of things, but if we didn't get to something you had a question about, Jamie has you covered. She has two books, one on potty training and one ...
S2 E11: Interview with Kathryn Wells Bradley Method Birth Instructor
April 19, 2022 21:46 - 41 minutes - 37.9 MBOn today's podcast we speak with Kathryn Wells who teaches Bradley Method birth classes out of her home in Caledonia Michigan. Kathryn is a Mom of 4, and an experienced birth educator. She shares the story of her 3rd baby's birth, who was born breach in 11 minutes in the hospital. It took a remarkable amount of advocacy for Kathryn to get the birth experiences she wanted with all of her births, and she strives to help parents in West Michigan achieve the births they want. The Bradley Method o...
S2 E10: Self Care for Doulas
April 12, 2022 07:00 - 41 minutes - 37.7 MBWhile a career as a doula is rewarding and empowering, it is also demanding and can easily lead to burn-out. Join us as we discuss doula burnout and some of the ways you can implement self care and set yourself up for success!
S2E9: Doula Discussion: People Pleasing in Pregnancy, Birth, & Postpartum
April 06, 2022 13:01 - 49 minutes - 45.3 MBVery frequently we hear people say something along the lines of, “I don’t want them to think I’m being difficult.” This is in regards to providers, spouses, family, and everyone in between. Oftentimes these individuals feel a sense of pressure to make a decision, not because it is right for them, but because it is what’s more convenient or helpful for others. Join us as we discuss people pleasing in pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.
S2E8: Interview with Kelly O'brien Pahman of Craniosacral Center of Grand Rapids
March 15, 2022 07:00 - 53 minutes - 48.7 MBCraniosacral therapy is a gentle yet effective technique helps your body heal itself by releasing tension through light touch. Join us as we chat with Kelly O'brien Pahman of Craniosacral Center of Grand Rapids. We discuss how craniosacral therapy can help throughout pregnancy, postpartum and with many common newborn concerns.
S2 E7: Interview with Dr. Saxony Matousek, PT, DPT
March 08, 2022 08:00 - 54 minutes - 50.1 MBToday on the podcast we are speaking with Dr. Saxony Matousek, PT, DPT of Think Physical Therapy. Dr. Matousek is a Counterstrain physical therapist with a passion for helping those who are pregnant, trying to conceive, and in the postpartum period. Join us as we discuss how the Counterstrain technique is different and how she is working to help her patients care for their bodies. Dr. Saxony Matousek, PT, DPT Think Physical Therapy - https://thinkphysicaltherapy.com/ 616-287-2662
S2E6: Doula Discussion: Toxic Positivity in Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum
March 01, 2022 08:00 - 48 minutes - 44.2 MBThere's a phrase that's used by many when discussing birth, “Healthy Mom, Healthy baby is all that matters” While this phrase seems like it could be reassuring, oftentimes it's use is invalidating, unhelpful, and devaluing of the persons birth experience. Today we will be discussing this phrase and others that pregnant and postpartum individuals frequently hear. Join us as we discuss toxic positivity in pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.
S2E5 Katie's Birth Story
February 22, 2022 08:00 - 55 minutes - 51.2 MBKatie had a very smooth pregnancy with no complications. At 32 weeks their baby had flipped breech and her providers felt that their baby was too big for an ECV. Her provider gave her the option to schedule a cesarean, or wait to see if baby would flip back over. She chose to move forward with a planned cesarean birth as she has had a history of surgeries and was comfortable with that choice. Join us as Katie shares her birth story and talks about her struggles breastfeeding and some of the...
S2E4: Rachel's Birth Story
February 15, 2022 08:00 - 43 minutes - 40.2 MBRachel woke up the day before her due date feeling some light contractions. She went to her scheduled OB appointment and she was 3 cm dilated. Her OB swept her membranes and they hoped labor would start soon. Throughout the day her contractions became stronger and more frequent. Rachel and her husband Aaron ate dinner, took a walk, and started the miles circuit. Rachel got up and went to use the restroom and when she stood up, her water broke! Listen in to hear Rachel's whole birth story.
S2E3: Postpartum Doula Support
February 08, 2022 08:00 - 59 minutes - 54.1 MBThe postpartum period should be a time of rest, recouperation, and lots of baby snuggles. Oftentimes new parents surprised by some of the challenges that come along with this time. Join us as we discuss postpartum doulas and how their assistance can help you through the 4th trimester and beyond.
S2E2: Interview with Reagan Gielincki MS OTR/L, IBCLC, LLLL
January 25, 2022 08:30 - 1 hour - 56.1 MBJoin us as we talk to Reagan Gielincki of Empowered Feeding. Reagan is a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and an Occupational Therapist. She works right here in West Michigan helping families with anything feeding related, from tethered oral issues, to optimal positioning, and she can even help with bottle feeding! Reagan also talks about the Tummy Time Method which encourages healthy development and connection. Speaking with Reagan was like connecting with an old friend, and we a...
Season 2: Episode 1 - Emily's Homebirth Story
January 18, 2022 08:00 - 1 hour - 60.5 MBCW: Discussion of miscarriage Join us as Emily shares her Homebirth story. This story includes several changes to Emily's plan and to her providers! Photo by Annica at Sprout & Blossom Birth
Episode 60: Year End Wrap up
January 11, 2022 08:00 - 58 minutes - 53.8 MBJoin us for a more laid back episode wrapping up the first year of My Doula's podcast! We discuss some of the professionals we have interviewed, some embarassing moments, and some exciting things to come! We have loved this first year of the podcast and are looking forward to another great year of birth stories, expert interviews, and doula discussions. Thank you to all of you who have shared your stories and expertise with us!
Year End Wrap up
January 11, 2022 08:00 - 58 minutes - 53.8 MBJoin us for a more laid back episode wrapping up the first year of My Doula's podcast! We discuss some of the professionals we have interviewed, some embarassing moments, and some exciting things to come! We have loved this first year of the podcast and are looking forward to another great year of birth stories, expert interviews, and doula discussions. Thank you to all of you who have shared your stories and expertise with us!
Episode 59: Emily's Birth Story
January 04, 2022 08:00 - 42 minutes - 38.5 MBIt's taken me long enough, but I've finally shared my own birth story. Join us as we discuss my experience being induced and having a fast and furious 4 hour labor.
Episode 58: Interview with David Arrell Author of Welcome to Fatherhood: The Modern Man's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Fatherhood.
December 28, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 74.7 MBJoin us as we speak with David Arrell, Author of Welcome to Fatherhood: The Modern Man's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Fatherhood. We spoke with David about the Dad/Partner experience during the birth journey. David took his own experiences, reflected on those, and wrote the book that he needed during that time. David shares practical tips and tricks for connection and specific ways you can be a helpful and supportive partner during pregnancy, postpartum, and everything in-between. ...
Episode 57: Maddie's Birth Story
December 21, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 72.2 MBA few days before Maddie's due date, her doula let her know that she was ill. She made sure she was set up with a backup doula and they crossed their fingers that labor wouldn't start until she was better. Maddie started having contractions on Sunday afternoon, the day before her estimated due date. They headed into the hospital that evening to avoid driving in snowy conditions later on. In triage, Maddie's blood pressure was elevated and they inserted a catheter to get a urine sample. She co...
Episode 56: Joy's Homebirth Story
December 14, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 70.1 MBJoy is a Doula, Childbirth Educator, Pregnancy Health coach, Lactation counselor, a student midwife and a mother to 5! Join us as Joy shares the story of her 4th birth and fist homebirth experience. Joy also shares her experience of having her water break at 31 weeks, while she was supporting a laboring client. Tune in as we discuss mental blocks in labor, the differences in laboring in a place of comfort, and Joy talks Emily through a mental block of her own! Show Notes: Joy Dean Email: J...
Episode 55: Doula Discussion - Choosing The Right Doula For You.
December 07, 2021 16:41 - 47 minutes - 43.6 MBToday on the podcast, we discuss the process of finding the right doula for yourself. We touch on some helpful questions to ask, things to keep in mind, and interviewing multiple doulas!
Episode 54: Interview with MomsBloom
November 30, 2021 08:00 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MBMomsBloom offers in-home practical and emotional support for families with newborns in Kent and Ottawa counties. Join us as we chat with Carrie Kolehouse from MomsBloom. We discuss the postpartum period and how MomsBloom volunteers are helping families through the challenges of this time. We also discuss how to request a volunteer and how to become a volunteer yourself! Show Notes: MomsBloom.org Pine Rest Mother-Baby Program: https://www.pinerest.org/services/mother-baby-program-postpart...
Episode 53: Lindsey's Birth Story
November 23, 2021 16:40 - 46 minutes - 42.2 MBLindsey was 38 weeks pregnant with her second baby when her husband moved from Texas to Michigan. She stayed behind so she could stay with her midwife and give birth at the birth center. Listen in to hear about transferring to the hospital and the rest of her birth story!
Episode 52: Alicia's Birth Story
November 16, 2021 08:00 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MBAlicia went into her first birth experience without much preparation. She had a difficult labor involving a shoulder dystocia, an episiotomy, forceps and a vacuum. When she became pregnant with her second baby, Alicia decided she wanted to do more preparation this time. She worked with a birth educator to get her body and mind ready for another birth. Listen in to hear the story of Alicia's second baby being born 6 minutes after arriving at the hospital! We also chat with Alicia about her a...
Episode 51: Interview with Jennifer Holshoe, CPM
November 09, 2021 08:00 - 50 minutes - 46.3 MBToday on the podcast we are joined by Jennifer Holshoe, CPM. Jennifer is a midwife in West Michigan. We sat down with Jenn to discuss homebirth midwifery and some of the common misconceptions surrounding homebirth. We touch on topics such as, how midwifery care differs from standard OB care, what the process of giving birth at home looks like, and what happens in the rare case that you need/want to transfer to the hospital. Show Notes: https://www.westmichiganmidwifery.com/ Books: Ina May...
Episode 50: Lindsey's Birth Story
November 02, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 66.8 MBLindsey found out she was pregnant and took the advice of a friend who had suggested her OBGYN. Shortly after beginning care with this provider, Lindsey was on the receiving end of some incredibly inappropriate comments. During a cervical check at a standard prenatal visit, Lindsey's OB stripped her membranes without consent. She also accidentally broke Lindsey's water at this time, eventually sending her to the hospital to get labor going. Join us as Lindsey shares her story and how that ...
Episode 49: Chess' Surprise Birth Story
October 26, 2021 07:00 - 49 minutes - 45.2 MBJoin us for a birth story that you won't want to miss! Chess' had spent months experiencing intense digestive issues, that they thought was severe IBS. Chess had multiple doctors appointments where their provider palpated their stomach and conducted urine and blood pregnancy tests. Chess was at work on September 28th when they started feeling extreme digestive upset every 15-20 minutes. They worked out their shift and the next day things intensified more. Chess was getting ready to go sho...
Episode 48: Annica's Birth Stories
October 19, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 68.6 MBToday on the podcast, we are joined by Annica Quakenbush, MS, CD(DONA). Annica is a birth doula, photographer, and all around go-getter. Annica was living in the Phillipines when she decided she wanted to give birth outside of a hospital setting, either at home or in a birth center. When she moved back to the United States and became pregnant with her daughter, she found a team of midwives to help her have a homebirth. Join us as Annica shares her 2 beautiful homebirth stories. We also disc...
Episode 47: Doula discussion: Changing Care Providers
October 12, 2021 09:00 - 36 minutes - 33.3 MBJoin us for a doula discussion all about changing care providers during pregnancy. Why might you want to switch providers? Maybe you love your provider, but they are in a large practice and you rarely get to see them. Maybe you feel like they brush off your concerns or don't take you seriously. Maybe you want an non-medicated birth and they really push for epidurals. Maybe you want a repeat cesarean and your provider doesn't support that. Whatever the reason may be, you deserve to fee...
Episode 46: Clare's Birth Story
September 28, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 57.1 MBJoin us tomorrow on my doulas podcast as Clare shares her birth story. Clear was in the middle of parent teacher conferences when her contractions started. She went home and continued her conferences virtually for about an hour and a half before she was no longer able to ignore her contractions. Claire's Doula came over, her parents came over to watch her little ones and it seemed like everything was moving forward. And then everything slow down. After spending the next week in prodromal labo...
Episode 45: Jenny's Birth Story
September 21, 2021 07:00 - 46 minutes - 42.6 MBJenny's third pregnancy was considered high risk after she had experienced 2 miscarriages. Thankfully, her pregnancy went smoothly and was free of complications. Jenny started having contractions on a Thursday. On Saturday, after several days of prodromal labor, Jenny's contractions were consistently 5 minutes apart. They headed to the hospital only for her labor to completely stop once she was in triage. They were sent home and strong contractions started again. Sunday morning, Jenny went ...
Episode 44: Meghon's Birth Story
September 14, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 77.2 MBMeghon switched care providers at 28 weeks pregnant after some negative experiences with her OB. She made the decision to seek midwifery care, she hired a doula, and she started preparing for a non-medicated birth. At 42 weeks pregnant Meghon went to see her midwife for a routine check up and to have a foley balloon placed. Unfortunately, Meghon's blood pressure was extremely high and she was sent to the hospital to begin an induction. Meghon quickly dilated to 6 cm and the foley baloon fel...
Episode 43: Regina's Birth Story
September 07, 2021 12:54 - 1 hour - 69.4 MBRegina was planning to be an egg donor for her brother and partner but during the testing she was told eggs were more mature than they should be and that she should have her own children first before considering egg donation. Regina and her husband Josh were soon pregnant with their first baby. Regina was induced with her first 2 pregnancies and had good experiences with both births. After the births of their daughters, Regina and Josh decided they were done having babies and scheduled a vas...
Episode 42: Doula Discussion: The importance of coping strategies EVEN if you're planning an epidural
August 31, 2021 07:00 - 42 minutes - 38.6 MBJoin us on as we discuss the importance of having non-medicated coping strategies EVEN if you're planning to get an epidural. Many first time parents go into birth believing that receiving an epidural means that they will have a completely pain-free birth. While this may be true for some, it is not the case for all. Tune in as we touch on topics such as: Coping while laboring at home and while waiting for an epidural When an epidural isn't possible When an epidural fails Different coping...
Episode 41: Kelsey's Birth Story
August 24, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 67.7 MBKelsey got pregnant shortly after getting married and had a fairly smooth pregnancy. The night before Kelsey's due date she tripped over a baby gate and broke her left arm and shattered her right shoulder. She was taken to the hospital via ambulance. She needed surgery asap but needed to deliver her baby first. She was induced and had a smooth delivery at 10 pm. 2 hours after giving birth, Kelsey was brought down for pre-op. After 12 hours in pre-op, Kelsey's surgery was canceled and due t...
Episode 40: Sarah's Birth Story
August 17, 2021 07:00 - 31 minutes - 28.8 MBJoin us as Sara shares how she used The Bradley Method, deep breathing and positioning during labor and had a non-medicated birth. She also discusses experiencing PUPPP skin rash twice during her pregnancy, her breastfeeding experience and her struggles with PPD.
Episode 39: Michele's Birth Story
August 10, 2021 07:00 - 56 minutes - 52.2 MBJoin us as Michele shares her birth story! Michele discusses navigating to the hospital in New York City traffic, deciding who would be in the room, a NICU stay for low blood sugars, and the stress she experienced around feeding her baby. Michele has a podcast, The Best-Loved Nanny where she tells stories from her time as a New York City Nanny. She also offers mentoring/ consulting services for hopeful and current nannies as well as services for families looking for new nannies. All of that ...
Episode 38: Lyanna's Birth Stories
August 03, 2021 07:00 - 52 minutes - 47.9 MBJoin us as Lyanna shares her birth stories. Lyanna also discusses her work as a Certified Lactation Specialist, and her training to be a Doula with Day one Doula Collective. Lyanna is also on the Mom's Bloom Outreach Committee and the Kent County Breastfeeding Coalition. We discuss Lyanna's personal experiences giving birth, as well as the racial disparities that black and brown women face throughout childbirth. Lyanna also shares some helpful resources available online and in our community....
Episode 37: Doula Discussion - Birth in a Pandemic
July 27, 2021 07:00 - 32 minutes - 29.6 MBJoin us next week as we wrap up our series on birth in a pandemic. We discuss some of the fears, challenges, and changes that came along with the Covid-19 pandemic. Mentions: Grassroots Henna and Design: https://www.grassrootshennaanddesign.com/ Gentlebirth with Brenda Baar : https://www.eastownbirth.com/gentlebirth All Source Pregnancy: https://www.allsourcepregnancy.com/home Evidence based birth: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/covid19/
Episode 36: Jessica's Birth Story
July 20, 2021 07:00 - 1 hour - 62.8 MBJessica shares her story of giving birth in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Jessica and her husband took hypnobirthing classes and hired a doula, but due to restrictions in Texas, her doula was not able to be there with her. Jessica describes her experience as “definitely not what normally happens.” She explains how her epidural fell out, her husband passed out due to a blood sugar issue and how they decided to move forward with a cesarean.
Episode 35: Jessica's Birth Story
July 13, 2021 07:00 - 54 minutes - 50.1 MBJessica shares her experience navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum during the covid-19 pandemic. Her story includes a zoom baby shower, a fast moving labor, and breastfeeding struggles. Mentions: Grass Roots Henna and Design: https://www.grassrootshennaanddesign.com/ Gentlebirth Classes with Brenda: https://www.eastownbirth.com/gentlebirth
Episode 34: Emily's Birth Story
July 06, 2021 07:00 - 31 minutes - 28.9 MBCW: Traumatic Cesarean Birth Emily shares her story of giving birth during the Covid-19 Pandemic, while her husband worked directly with Covid Patients as a critical care pulmonologist. She discusses advocating for herself to schedule an induction, and about her cesarean birth. Emily discusses an issue with her epidural which caused her to feel her entire cesarean birth and the impact that had on her bonding experience with her son.
Episode 33: Kim's Birth Story
June 29, 2021 07:00 - 53 minutes - 48.7 MBWeek 1 of our series on birth in a pandemic! Kim shares her 2 birth stories and discusses giving birth in the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Kim talks about experiencing 2 molar pregnancies, her struggles with depression during her second pregnancy, and her epidural not being what she imagined.
Episode 32: Bethany and Clarissa's Birth Stories
June 22, 2021 07:00 - 52 minutes - 48.2 MBCW: Cesarean Birth, NICU stay Bethany and Clarissa have 4 children together. Join us as they share their birth stories! After a hospital birth experience left them feeling like they were pressured into making certain decisions, they opted for a home birth the next time. Bethany and Clarissa share their experience transferring to the hospital in labor and advocating for their parental rights. They also share the story of their twin birth just a few months ago.