Shows
The Birth Geeks' podcastInterview with Dr. Connie LiuRural medicine, Indian Health Service, MD advocacy, and so much more
2025-10-1739 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDoula Power, Payment, and Policy: Insights from Andrea Ford's Anthropological PerspectiveThe 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 qui...
2025-08-0445 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastFrom NICU Mom to National Voice: LaToshia Rouse on Flexibility, Boundaries, and Birthwork That MattersHow 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...
2025-07-1439 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastWhat We MiWhat We Miss When We Medicalize: Postpartum Depression in Global Contextsss When We Medicalize: Postpartum Depression in Global ContextsToday 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.
2025-06-3056 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastShaping Birth Experiences: Shannay Rocker on Home Births, Hospitals, and Building Doula CommunityToday 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.
2025-06-1649 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastNavigating Birth, Burnout, and Being Queer in Midwifery with Katie ShannonOn 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...
2025-06-0250 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDoula Diversity, Overnight Myths, and Postpartum Support with Jen ChandleeWelcome 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 mo...
2025-05-2243 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastAmanda Chandler CPMIn 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.
2025-04-1756 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastSpela Peternel: Doula Leadership & KnowledgeWhen 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...
2025-02-1451 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastInterview with Turkish Doula: Ayşegül Boz BaltacıWhat 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 understa...
2025-01-3150 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastAnia Freitas on Doulas, Cultural Differences, and Postnatal Care in Northern IrelandWelcome 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...
2024-12-1744 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastMastering SEO and Analytics for Doula Marketing with Expert Darcy SauersWelcome 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...
2024-12-0252 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastExploring Doula Certification and Policy Challenges in Maternal HealthWelcome 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 re...
2024-11-1555 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastNavigating Cultural Nuances with Doula Advocate Debbie MitchellJoin 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...
2024-11-0450 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastStress-Free Rebranding: Insights and Tools for Birth ProfessionalsWelcome 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, a...
2024-10-1633 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastPricing Your Doula Services: Tips for Longevity and Financial StabilityWelcome 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...
2024-09-3031 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastBack in Action: Catch Up with The Birth GeeksWelcome 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 a...
2024-09-3029 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastPost Work RoutinesHow 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!
2023-03-2252 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastConfidenceHow 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...
2023-03-1551 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastMoney MattersThis 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!
2023-03-0957 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastPandemic Normal?In 2020, birth professionals were all navigating all kinds of shifting policies and ideas about how to keep safe while continuing to serve families as a novel virus and resulting pandemic emerged. As we close in on the 3rd year of learning and pivoting through it all, we're seeing some things go "back to normal" and others remaining changed. In this episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin & Hillary talk about COVID changes that we've seen come and go. What is the science behind these changes and what is the new normal looking like where you are? We dive into...
2022-12-0658 minThe Birth Geeks' podcastPandemic Normal?In 2020, birth professionals were all navigating all kinds of shifting policies and ideas about how to keep safe while continuing to serve families as a novel virus and resulting pandemic emerged. As we close in on the 3rd year of learning and pivoting through it all, we're seeing some things go "back to normal" and others remaining changed. In this episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin & Hillary talk about COVID changes that we've seen come and go. What is the science behind these changes and what is the new normal looking like where you are? We dive into...
2022-12-0658 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Birth Geeks: Infant Sleep with Ann GrauerNew recommendations, old complaints, products, & all the evidence based resources our doula hearts could muster are packed into this episode with special guest Ann Grauer. We're so excited to be back to podcasting & thankful to Ann for being our first guest to return. It's time to get back to upgrading the conversation & renewing your birth professional moxie!
2022-08-161h 10The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Birth Geeks: Infant Sleep with Ann GrauerNew recommendations, old complaints, products, & all the evidence based resources our doula hearts could muster are packed into this episode with special guest Ann Grauer. We're so excited to be back to podcasting & thankful to Ann for being our first guest to return. It's time to get back to upgrading the conversation & renewing your birth professional moxie!
2022-08-161h 10
The Birth Geeks' podcastCreative Tech in Online EducationMallory Emerson and Sharon Muza from Creative & Confident join us today to talk about tech in online educational spaces and making the most of it to spice up your online offerings from childbirth classes to doula trainings, conference presentations to zoom meetings - don't get caught with dull CE again.
2021-05-2731 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 41: Pivot2020 has pushed all childbirth professionals to pivot so much of what we have done before to adapt to the circumstances that most of us weren't really expecting. This whole year I have marveled at Robin's ability to pivot to teaching online, and this episode is full of resources for you to do the same and laughs at the trial and error that we have all been challenged to do this year. Bonus: lots of reading recommendations for your cozy winter at home!
2020-12-1546 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastTia & Shannon from Doula SenseRobin interviews Tia & Shannon two east coast doulas with a new podcast: Doula Sense. They both have an enormous amount of experience and expertise when it comes to childbirth education, birth, postpartum, and breastfeeding, and don't shy away from the hard topics and laughs.
2020-11-1354 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 39: Mandy Irby The Birth NurseNurses and doulas working together for culture change is a dream team, and we're breaking down what needs to change about hospital birth in this episode as well as career pivots, online teaching, and so much more in the birth world.
2020-10-231h 11
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 38: Elizabeth M. Johnson, MAElizabeth M. Johnson talks to Dr. Hillary Melchiors about trauma informed care, empathy vs. kindness, and shifting her When Survivors Give Birth course online in this 38th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast.
2020-10-1750 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastKelli Brien Talks About Being a Doula and.a MidwifeKelli Brien talks about the many aspects that drew her to birth work and how she's moved within the system to help make it a just an equitable place for all birthing people.
2020-10-0439 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDr. Amy Brown Talks Breastfeeding and Infant FeedingDr. Amy Brown discusses working with families around choices for infant feeding, breastfeeding grief, and more!
2020-08-0459 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 35: Doula Dreams of ChangeEver dreamed of what you would say if someone asked you how to change things to improve maternity care? In this episode, we talk about being asked that exact question as doulas and scholars, and how we approach those answers. Hint: it doesn't just involve changing the pictures hanging on the walls.
2020-07-2437 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Doula Darcy Talks About Marketing Your Birth BusinessDarcy Sauers is the founder of The Postpartum Doula Academy and has been a DONA certified postpartum doula since 2010. She talks to The Birth Geeks today to emphasize that we need to band together as birth workers – it's about collaboration NOT competition. And Hillary and Darcy lament about how we spend a lot of time trying to explain what doulas do before we can ever get to the "hire me" phase!
2020-07-0950 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 33: Barbara HotellingTraining nursing students to be doulas helps them no matter where they end up working according to Barbara Hotelling. She talks all about the Duke-la program she helped start, creative ways to test for anemia in resource constrained places around the world, and so much more. You'll love this conversation between her and Robin on this 33rd episode of our podcast.
2020-07-0147 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastConversation with Doula Denise BoldsWe talk to Denise Bolds of Bold Doula in New York City. They talk about Denise's journey to becoming a doula and being a Black doula and what that makes hospital staff think when she's working with her clients. Denise explains how we're always evolving and shares her outlook going forward. Enjoy our conversation with the amazing Denise Bolds.
2020-06-1746 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastGeeking Out With The VBAC LinkMeagen & Julie from The VBAC Link join us to talk about VBAC in a pandemic, special VBAC doula considerations, and how shifting landscapes make it even more important for processing traumatic past events so you can let go in the moment.
2020-06-1046 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 30: Virtual ExperienceHillary & Robin chat from the comfort of their beds at home about their recent experiences working virtually: Hillary as a birth doula and Robin teaching new doulas and childbirth education. How is it easier? What makes it harder? What are we reading to help our mental health right now? Geeking out together from home definitely has its perks!
2020-05-2036 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 29: Erin Underwood Movement for Childbirth ProfessionalsIntentional movement can help childbirth professionals build strength, release stress, and increase their professional longevity, and Erin Underwood is passionate about helping us do all those things! Self-care doesn't have to stop when you are working with clients either, and she gives some great tips and tricks for things to avoid and to pay attention to especially when working long hours.
2020-05-0647 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastTaking Care of Yourself & Birth Business During COVID-19How are you holding up and holding space for yourself as a childbirth professional during this pandemic? Are you pivoting quickly or finding yourself struggling to meet all kinds of new demands? Join us as we talk about what's going on with our businesses and learning as well as our favorite pandemic impulse purchases that are helping us with self-care. Hint: It is NOT toilet paper!
2020-04-2330 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastVirtual Doula Business Planning with Nichole JoyShifting your doula services to offer virtual support requires some planning, and Nichole Joy is here to talk specifics! In this special bonus episode we discuss marketing, pricing, and more for your virtual doula services.
2020-04-0842 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastEpisode 27 Debra Pascali-Bonaro: Orgasmic Birth & Sex After BabyWho knew orgasm was such a divisive word? Debra Pascali-Bonaro joins us for our 27th episode all about her work to bring pleasure back into the birthing and postpartum space. She discusses her newest book that is being released on April 9th too: The Ultimate Guide to Sex After Baby. This is a fantastic episode all about re-framing our thinking and approach to birth, and we just know you're gonna love listening.
2020-04-0138 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastVirtual Postpartum Doulas with Ann GrauerAs we talk about the needs of a new family and how dealing with social distancing and various hospital policies make this period harder for families, we also need to address how a postpartum doula can be effective at helping new families when they may not be with them physically.
2020-03-3158 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastBeing a Virtual Doula with Connie SultanaConnie Sultana has been a doula for over 900 families and was the Director of Certification for DONA International for many years. Here she shares her thoughts, tips, and tricks on making the act of a virtual doula work for families in your care both during the pandemic and beyond.
2020-03-2841 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDid My Water Break & Teaching Childbirth Classes OnlineJoin us as Sharon Muza talks about taking your childbirth classes online in the age of COVID-19, Robin and Hillary share their take on answering the "Did my water break?" question and share their handout for you to use with your clients. There's also links to updated information on maternity care in pandemics.
2020-03-1846 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastAugustine Colebrook Talks Midwifery & Social JusticeCertified Professional Midwife Augustine Colebrook talks to Hillary about sustainable midwifery practice, traveling the world, social justice in the birth world, and so much more. She has such an important perspective to share about not just how we can do better in the United States, but also about training, adversity, and why exporting the obstetrical model of care around the world is not a good idea even though it is happening. Robin also discusses what childbirth professionals need to know about the corona virus!
2020-03-041h 04
The Birth Geeks' podcastProdromal LaborIn this short 24th episode of The Birth Geeks Hillary & Robin talk about prodromal labor. How do you tell if it really is prodromal labor? Why is this happening? What can you do about it? We also cover some research about and resources for hyperemesis gravidarum. A free handout about prodromal labor is available for download at thebirthgeeks.com/shop too!!
2020-02-2019 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDr. Britta Bushnell talks Transformed by BirthDr. Britta Bushnell joins us to talk about why preparing for childbirth by teaching with a story can help recreate the hormonal state and how the process of becoming parents works and how we can help new parents and her new book, "Transformed by Birth."
2020-02-0548 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Value of Childbirth EducationChildbirth education deserves to be celebrated! Robin and Hillary talk about how they became educators and the value that parents get from childbirth education. There is also a discussion about International Childbirth Education Week.
2020-01-2229 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastAndrea Hewitt Talks Doula Agencies and MoreAndrea Hewitt talks about her job as a doula agency owner, her skills from life prior to birth work that she still uses today, having an inclusive business model and more at The Birth Geeks.
2020-01-0849 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Year in Review for Your Birth BusinessRobin and Hillary talk about things you should keep in mind as you do a year in review for your birth business. There is a discussion of how to know what data to share, and what to keep private, to whom and how to send thank you notes for your business, the trick to making sure you track what you want to track, words of the year and so much more!
2019-12-2536 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDr. Robbie Davis Floyd Talks to the Birth GeeksDr. Robbie Davis-Floyd talks with the Birth Geeks about birth and the medical model and also specifically how doulas and childbirth education play a role in outcomes. They even tackle the big topics like - why are people so afraid to question obstetrics today and discuss mentorship.
2019-12-111h 07
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Basics of Bias in ResearchHillary and Robin have a conversation about the basics of bias in research. You'll hear what some of the most basic forms of bias are and how you can guard against them in your practice. You'll also get to hear Hillary's birth story - trust us, you won't want to miss that! And Robin dishes on some tech tools to help you with remembering key dates in your practice.
2019-11-2735 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastSpecial Collaboration Episode with Sara Pixton of Birth WordsIn this special bonus collaboration episode Hillary talks to Sara Pixton from the Birth Words Podcast! This conversation focuses on 3 ways to better communicate for pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period, and we hope you will find it helpful and a thought provoking consideration of language including pronouns, nouns, intention, power, prepositions, and more. If you are interested in the intersection between language, birth, and anthropology, this is a great episode for you. As childbirth professionals the words we choose to use can make a huge difference in our efficacy and how people think about their experience and even t...
2019-11-1829 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastA Look at Cesarean Section in the USBirth Geeks Drs. Hillary Melchiors and Theresa Morris talk about cesarean birth in the United States, the pressure labor nurses are under, and so much more - including how birth professionals can help shape and change policy.
2019-11-131h 15
The Birth Geeks' podcastChanging Policy, Questions New Doula Ask, ABC Show & MoreRobin and Hillary talk about questions new doulas ask about life as a doula, the ABC Expo in Las Vegas, how to change policies, and a bit about triage and the doula - with lots of laughs on their road trip to the Grand Canyon.
2019-10-3041 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastCris Cunningham On Using Video to Market Your Birth BusinessCris Cunningham is an award-winning director and producer and he talks about the types of video that can help you advance your business.
2019-10-171h 22
The Birth Geeks' podcastDr. Amber Price, CNMDr. Amber Price, CNM works in Nashville, TN and she talks to The Birth Geeks about collaboration across specialties, what birth works can do to improve birth no matter where they work, and how disrespect for the birth process happens so easily, particularly on social media.
2019-10-0234 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastDr. Vanessa Hildebrand Talks About Birth & AnthropologyCome listen in as Dr. Vanessa Hildebrand and Hillary geek out about birth anthropology. They talk about a wide range of things from Dr. Hildebrand's research on birthing in an Indonesian Village to what anthropology has to say about childbirth education. You even get to figure out what the three basic things are you need to know about cultural competence to bring to your everyday work in birth. And the key will be challenging your assumptions. Always.
2019-09-1943 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Birth Geeks with Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, Episode 12Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski joins The Birth Geeks to talk about what birth workers need to know about adolescents, how can we turn the conversation about teen pregnancy from doom and gloom statistics into something more proactive, and so much more! Plus Robin discusses the latest article on predicting "failed induction" in pregnant people diagnosed as obese.
2019-09-041h 10
The Birth Geeks' podcastInterview with Dr. Ginger Breedlove: Midwife, Academic, Entrepreneur, and ActivistIn this 11th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Hillary interviews Dr. Ginger Breedlove. They talk all about activism as a childbirth professional, Midwestern kindness, the importance of qualitative data, how childbirth professionals can help March for Moms, and her latest co-authored book: Nobody Told Me About That. Dr. Breedlove has a treasure trove of stories and information at her fingertips, and you are sure to love her practical advice and smile (which we swear you can hear in the recording)!
2019-08-2153 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastExpert Interview: Sarah Juliusson a.k.a. The Website DoulaIn this 10th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin interviews Sarah Juliusson who has been a birth doula & childbirth educator for more than 20 years, and The Website Doula for more than 8! They talk all about making your website stand out and how to be a more effective and attention catching content writer. Hint: self-care is an important component! Hillary also reviews some brand new qualitative breastfeeding research.
2019-08-0750 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastThe Birth Geeks Expert Interview: Sharon Muza, BS, CD(DONA) BDT(DONA), LCCE, FACCE, CLEIn this 9th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin interviews Sharon Muza about being an independent childbirth educator in Seattle, Washington, along with all the other hats that she wears as a childbirth professional. They talk about competing with Elvis for students' attention, the horrors of Seattle traffic, & how to communicate with expecting parents without scaring them. Hillary reviews some health literacy resources that just might change the way you communicate with your students.
2019-07-2437 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastLife on CallLet's face it, living life on call comes with some challenges that not all new childbirth professionals know. On this eighth episode of The Birth Geeks podcast, Hillary and Robin talk about what the day to day looks like when they are on call including dos and don't. Family impacts and strategies for mitigating planning challenges are also part of the conversation, as well as some geek reveals and a special shout-out at the very end of the episode.
2019-07-1052 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastHow to Listen to Birth StoriesListening is a skill that we have to really perfect as childbirth professionals, and hearing birth stories again and again can be challenging for many different reasons. In this 7th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin & Hillary discuss ways to stay grounded and fix your face even when listening to misinformed horror stories at a party. There is also a little assignment at the end for those true geeks out there.
2019-06-2757 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastInterview with Michelle BrancoMichelle Branco talks with The Birth Geeks about health communications and risk-based language in childbirth education and interactions in pregnancy and early parenting.
2019-06-1156 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastInterview with Expert Liz Jostes of Eli Rose Social MediaIn this 5th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast Hillary chats with social media guru Liz Jostes from Eli Rose Social Media. They chat about the best reason to use social media for your small business marketing strategy, specific tools for better targeting your marketing across platforms and warming up your audience, and why content creation is so important. Liz even shares a few equipment tips and other pearls of serious social media wisdom. As you will hear in the interview, Liz is not only funny but also ridiculously knowledgeable about both social media and how truly tiny businesses...
2019-05-2951 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastSpecial Geek Interview with Ann GrauerIn this 4th episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast, Robin interviews Ann Grauer, AdvCD/BDT(DONA), AdvPCD/PDT(DONA), LCCE, FACCE, IBCLC, RLC who celebrates 2019 as her 30th year of working with expectant, birthing and new families. A past president of DONA International (2003-05), Ann created Wisconsin's first hospital-based doula program and has consulted for programs in other states. She trains birth and postpartum doulas through DONA International and Lamaze educators through NYC Lamaze. The 2007 recipient of Lamaze International's prestigious Elisabeth Bing Award. Ann is a mom of two adults and Mamaw to one spirited granddaughter. This episode is fu...
2019-05-1455 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastMolly Mendota Doula Trainer Interview : Self-Care for Childbirth ProfessionalsIn this 3rd episode of The Birth Geeks Podcast Hillary interviews Molly Mendota AdvCD/BDT(DONA), LCCE, CLS, SpBCPE. Together they discuss the importance of self-care as a doula and how Hillary tried to skip Molly's lesson about it at a conference! They also talk about different ways that doulas practice, being a doula trainer, and non-profit doula organizations. Molly is a delightfully insightful interviewee who shares her wisdom about ways to make sure we nurture ourselves before we try to nurture other people, and spoiler alert, it doesn't always have to include a fancy spa day!
2019-04-2652 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastSpecial Geek #2 Interview: Hillary MelchiorsLast time, you met Robin, but this time, we're going to introduce you to Birth Geek Hillary! She's a wicked smart and funny doula and childbirth educator who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the podcast. With her background as an anthropologist, she's got a real eye for details that most of us miss on initial observation and she uses her special powers for good.
2019-04-0946 min
The Birth Geeks' podcastSpecial Geek Interview: Robin Elise WeissOf course we wanted to start our podcast with an introduction to who the heck we are! In this episode Hillary interviews Robin Elise Weiss, her fellow Birth Geek so that we can get to know her a little better. Robin was the 20th DONA certified doula (trained by Penny Simkin herself) and is amazingly knowledgeable about all things birth and beyond. She also has some great long-game perspective about changing the birth scene locally and nationally too.
2019-03-281h 15
The Birth Geeks' podcastIntroducing The Birth GeeksThis is a short silly little introduction to our podcast. You can find out more at out website and seriously, we've got some BIG plans coming!
2019-03-2701 min