In this episode, we chat about:
Melissa's journey into the career of midwifery
Melissa's credentials as a licensed midwife and integrative and functional medicine practitioner
advocacy for birth justice, maternal health equity, and sustainable healthcare reform
the difference between a doula and a midwife
the differences in responsibilities and medical capacities
the importance of home birth and birth center care
emotional and physical support during and after birth
high maternal mortality rate in the United States
financial challenges faced by midwives and birth centers
legislative efforts to support midwifery and birth centers
Resources + Links:
Explore Casa Natal Birth & Wellness Center at casa-natal.com
Follow Casa Natal on social media
Instagram: @casanatalbirthcenter
Facebook: Casa Natal Birth Center
LinkedIn: Casa Natal Birth Center
Connect with Melissa
Instagram: @midwife_melissa_dean
LinkedIn: Melissa Dean
Grow your brand, income, and impact!
Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com
Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative
For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot
Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot
Show Notes:
In this episode of The Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Melissa Dean, a licensed midwife and the founder of Casa Natal Birth and Wellness Center in Silicon Valley. With over two decades of experience, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering passion for birth justice, maternal health equity, and sustainable healthcare reform.
We talk about her inspiring journey from doula to midwife and what makes midwifery care so essential—especially in addressing maternal mortality and improving postpartum outcomes. Melissa breaks down the difference between doulas and midwives, sheds light on the critical role midwives play in supporting birthing people, and shares the behind-the-scenes challenges they face when it comes to insurance reimbursement and legislative barriers.
This conversation is such a powerful reminder of the transformational impact midwifery care can have—not just on individuals but on our entire healthcare system. I walked away deeply moved and incredibly hopeful, and I know you will too.
00:00 Welcome to the Show
00:59 Meet Melissa Dean
02:53 Melissa's Journey into Midwifery
05:28 Understanding Doulas and Midwives
07:01 Transition from Doula to Midwife
09:52 The Importance of Postpartum Care
14:07 Maternal Mortality and Postpartum Risks
27:54 Advocacy for Midwifery and Insurance Challenges
38:50 Final Thoughts
