Doulas of the Roundtable

As a doula, navigating unexpected situations will become a part of our work. Perhaps a client who has a premature baby. Or those whose labors begin and progress too quickly to get to their chosen birth location. Thinking on our feet and embracing the unexpected will inevitably become a part of our work. When navigating these unexpected situations, judgment calls need to be made. However, it is important always to consider safety. Yet, these situations don't often give the time to think through the situation completely. The location and the situation will play a big role in the resources available. Join us as we discuss some unexpected situations and how we navigated them with our clients.

For many birth workers, where they enter this work is not the same place where they wind up. For example, some may enter this work providing labor support. Yet they may find once they have their own children, that postpartum work is a better fit. Others may enter into the field via postpartum support. Then, life leads them into childbirth or newborn care education. Unlike many other professions, birth work allows the individual to step deeper into the work by providing other related services. Or, it can allow one to step back from birth work entirely and re-enter at a later date. All with minimal barriers to the work. Join us as we discuss the path we've taken and the many options that allow individuals to support growing families.

As doulas, it's not uncommon to encounter individuals with a fear of birth. This fear can be rooted in many sources. First, the way in which TV represents birth. Second, the stories our friends and family share; and third, an individual's lived experiences. The media often portrays birth as a dramatic process. The water breaks and the camera cuts to immediate transition-style contractions. Birth in the media is often presented in an unrealistic and dramatic light. We rarely see a birth that has little to no drama and is a straightforward process. Well-meaning family and friends often share the traumatic aspects of their own personal experiences. Or they share the traumatic experiences of others that they know. It can often be difficult for the pregnant person to find examples of physiologic birth that goes well. As birth professionals, it is essential for us to become informed on the sources of fear surrounding the labor and birth process. Join us as we discuss these sources of fear and the support that we can offer our clients to help reduce fear and instill strength.

Doula mistakes come in all shapes and sizes. We're human, so it's understandable that mistakes will happen. Some mistakes will be unavoidable and only discovered through trial and error. Others can be avoided. Common mistakes include a lack of effective communication, such as being slow or failing to follow up on inquiries or client communications. For labor doulas, there can be a sharp learning curve in incorporating the on-call life into daily life. This includes making sure that we are available to our clients via our preferred communication methods. From a phone that dies to forgetting that we put our phone on silent, these doula mistakes can cause a breakdown in trust between a potential or actual client and the doula. Whether you are a labor or postpartum doula, the potential for mistakes is real. Join us as we discuss common mistakes and how they can be avoided or remedied.

One of the most common questions we hear is, "How do we navigate the question of how many clients we have supported when we first start out?" The question "How many births have you attended?" Or "How many families have you supported postpartum?" is not uncommon. Certain personality types are more inclined to ask these types of questions. For them, the answer will be part of their decision-making process. Yet, for some, the actual number will matter far less than the actual answer provided. Honesty is always the best policy, so being truthful with the number is essential. However, the additional information you can provide regarding how many hours of training, other certifications, and life experience you bring to the table can also be conveyed to those who inquire. Join us as we explore the many ways you can confidently answer this question.

Supporting single parents through pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period looks different than supporting those who are partnered. How we approach labor or postpartum support with an unpartnered parent will look different. Many factors will be different when planning for labor. For example, will they get to their birth location? Or who will make medical decisions about the laboring person's care if no other family support is available and the pregnant person is not able to make a decision? For most, creating a medical directive isn't on the list of preparations for labor. Support during the postpartum period is equally important. Will the client have friends or family to help in the early days or weeks after birth? Is there a plan for when this support will start to dwindle naturally? As postpartum doulas, it's easy to assume that overnight support may be more necessary for single clients. But for many, there are often other times of the day when they find they struggle more. Helping clients identify these areas of struggle and plan for how to address them is an important part of our role. It is important to be aware of our biases when approaching these conversations. Join us as we discuss how to approach these conversations with unpartnered clients.

As birth professionals, providing evidence-based information to our clients is essential. However, it's not uncommon to wonder where to find quality research. Knowing how to read and interpret the evidence is also a skill that takes time and discernment. The first step is understanding the types of studies that exist. From randomized controlled trials to cohort studies to cross-sectional studies, knowing what type of study to look for is essential. The next step is to look at the entire study, not just the abstract. It's important to read and understand the full text. It is also important to look for any disclosures surrounding conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest could result in bias within the study. Join us as we look at the many factors that go into finding and providing evidence-based information to our clients.

According to the American Cancer Society, vulvar cancer accounts for 6% of all cancers of the female reproductive organs. Over 1600 individuals will die from vulvar cancer per year. Cancers of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries are far more well-known, identified, and diagnosed. Yet, cancer of the vulva is a diagnosis that is often hard to obtain. Often, the symptoms can be mistakenly attributed to other skin conditions or yeast and bacterial growth. As a result, many individuals may experience a delay in diagnosis and treatment. This can often result in a delay of treatment for literally years. As with any cancer early detection and treatment leads to improved outcomes. Join us as we discuss one person's journey through vulvar cancer to bring awareness and identify the resources and support that doulas can provide.

Advanced maternal age is defined as a pregnant individual who is 35 years of age or older at the estimated due date or date of delivery. Pregnancy at or beyond this age is considered a risk factor for adverse outcomes in the birthing person and baby. When one is considered "advanced" in age, it is common for closer monitoring to be recommended during pregnancy. Induction of labor or elective cesarean birth are both considered appropriate options for managing labor and birth. For the pregnant person, being labeled and frequently reminded of their "advanced" age can lead to many challenging emotions. Some individuals may desire to assert boundaries surrounding discussions about their age. Instead, they may prefer to focus on their actual risks vs the perceived or statistical risk. Join us as we discuss the many complexities of supporting clients of "advanced" age during pregnancy.

Combination feeding is one of many approaches families choose when feeding their baby. It may be the plan from the start. Or, clients may find themselves settling into combination feeding due to postpartum challenges. Some parents may feel that taking on 100% of the responsibility for infant feeding is an overwhelming task. For these individuals, sharing the task of infant feeding can help them show up as the best version of themselves. Our role is to help them identify their goals, and help them build a plan to get there. Some may desire to give their baby breast milk exclusively. For these parents helping them build a plan that incorporates pumping will be essential. The parent who desires to use formula in addition to feeding at the breast will have a plan that looks much different. Join us as we explore the practical and emotional sides of combination feeding.

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders impact 15-21% of pregnant and postpartum individuals, according to the National Institute of Health. As birth professionals, it is likely that you will encounter a client who experiences a mood or anxiety disorder during pregnancy or after birth. We must be able to identify the signs and symptoms of those who may be struggling. For many, their labor or postpartum doula may be the first person they see and speak to about what they are experiencing long before their postpartum follow-up visit with their provider. Join us as we discuss the various ways pregnant and postpartum individuals experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, as well as the statistics surrounding PMADS.

It's been a busy, amazing year of growth, learning, and success. Here we are again at the end of another amazing season. Looking back over the past year, it's always fun to see our most popular episodes and share our favorites. As always, your love and passion for the topics we talk about are seen, heard, and felt so very much. We appreciate the interaction and feedback you have been giving us on our social media platforms, and if you haven't found us yet, check us out on TikTok. We look forward to another great season of chatting about the topics we love most!

Choosing between virtual or in-person training is one of the first choices often made when considering the many pathways to becoming a doula. Both formats offer pros and cons to learners. Which format may work best for you will depend on many factors. Do you thrive in more independent learning? Or do you thrive in a classroom setting? Do you learn best by listening or by doing? There are many other considerations, such as neurodiversity and the inclusion of different learning styles to accommodate all learners. The choice between virtual vs in-person training is unique. Utilizing both formats will enable some to feel confident and ready to take their skills to the next level. Join us as we discuss the many nuances of virtual vs in-person training.

The methods of support provided during the third stage of labor are many. How the third stage progresses will determine the type of support appropriate for each client. Assistance with bonding, the initiation of breastfeeding, and supporting a client through a perineal tear are all ways in which a client may need the support of their doula. It is also essential for the doula to be aware of complications that may arise during the third stage to best help a client experiencing one. Complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, placenta accreta, or the need for other post-birth interventions may arise without warning. Knowing how to support the client and their partner or other support person is integral to the doula's role. Join us as we explore the many ways to support clients through the third stage of labor.

Understanding birth-related trauma is an essential skill for all individuals who work in the perinatal field. The fundamental definition of trauma is: a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. When working with birthing or newly postpartum families, we may encounter clients who will identify their experience as traumatic. It is never our role to define or redefine the language a client uses when sharing their experience. Sitting with someone in their trauma and supporting them through it is a learned skill. However, a lack of knowledge is not an excuse for a lack of sympathy or support. Join us as we discuss how to support families through birth-related trauma by referencing Evidence and Guidelines for Trauma-Informed Doula Care by Elizabeth Mosley as well as discussing the nuances of supporting clients who have experienced trauma.

The expectations vs the realities of doula work can be vast. Many people consider entering this work, thinking it will be sunshine and rainbows. Experiencing birth and cuddling babies is often high on these lists. One of the very first stark realities that most doulas face is the fact that they are starting a business. It's easy to focus on just working with families who want or need your help. While doing so, many fail to consider that they are becoming a self-employed business owner. As a doula, you are selling a service, but at the same time, you are also selling yourself as a provider of that service. Communication is another reality of doula work. Dependability and responsiveness in communication are essential when working with pregnant or newly parenting families. Clients need to know that we are there when they need us. This starts from the very first touch. Whether it's a quick response to an email or simply picking up the phone when it rings, the response or lack thereof can send an obvious message. Join us as we discuss the expectations and realities of doula work.

Childbirth education is a way for pregnant individuals to learn about the process of birth and what options may exist. It does this through expelling fear and increasing knowledge. In addition, it teaches pregnant people how to advocate for their wishes. However, the role of the doula and the role of the childbirth educator seem very similar but the approach to providing information is actually quite different. The sequence of support for doulas is emotions first, feelings second, what do they need or want to know, then what do they want to do. Childbirth educators start with information first. What do their learners want or need to know or what do they already know. Then how do they feel about the options/information presented. Finally, what are they going to do with the information they have learned. What decisions will the make about their preferences with the information they have learned? Come join us as we discuss the process and value of childbirth education and how we can form connection and community as educators.

For many, the pushing phase of labor is an exciting yet scary part of the labor process. Many individuals have concerns or fears surrounding the pushing phase of labor. From tearing to their infant's safety, a doula is needed for emotional and physical support. Supporting a client through this phase begins during pregnancy. Here, we can help clients explore how they would like to push and what positions they may prefer to give birth in. This is a process of discussion and discovery for the client. Many may not be aware of the multitude of options and positions that exist when it comes to this stage of labor. There are many options, from passive descent to coached pushing to standing, squatting, side-lying, or semi-sitting. It is also important to remember that preferences before pushing begins may change once the pushing process begins. Join us as we discuss the nuances of supporting clients through the second stage of labor.

We often see questions among doulas about agency interviews. There are a lot of specific questions about what to expect and what questions to ask the agency. Each agency will have specific questions that they feel are important to ask. So, what you may encounter will vary from agency to agency. However, some questions will overlap between businesses. It is common for agencies to want to know what training you have taken. If you haven't yet taken a training, they may point you in the direction of the training they prefer or may have the most need for to utilize you best. Presenting your authentic self in agency interviews is also important. Many agency owners deeply believe in how this prospective doula "feels." It's okay to feel nervous but coming to the table with your authentic self is important for both sides. When looking to join an agency, asking the agency what services are most in demand is a great way to assess if they offer what you want to provide. It will also help you determine what additional education you may want to pursue to offer more through the agency. Another important question often surrounds compensation. How much will you be paid for the services you provide? Join us as we discuss both sides of the agency interview and what that may look like.

There are many benefits to adding placenta services as a part of the services you offer. While there is a benefit to the clients who utilize this service, there are also benefits to those who offer it. Processing the placenta for encapsulation in the client's home brings a wealth of benefits to the client in addition to safety. It also allows the encapsulator to sit down with the client and check on how they are recovering from birth. In addition, they can also check in on the newborn and how they are transitioning to life outside the uterus. Offering encapsulation as a labor doula allows you to continue your support into the postpartum period. It also allows for those who are also postpartum doulas to introduce the benefits of this type of support to the client. It gives the opportunity to affirm the client in how they are caring for their baby. Encourages them to ask questions and for you to provide necessary or requested resources. Join is as we discuss the many benefits to clients and birth professionals of placenta services.

Learning how to initiate and lead conversations between prospective clients and clients is an essential skill in doula work. Yet at times, doulas often feel unsure about what to ask or how to keep the client conversations going. Beyond the core questions of due date, location of delivery, and basic contact information, what other information a doula feels is important to learn will vary from individual to individual. When thinking of potential client conversations, consider asking questions that allow you to create an organic flow that helps the prospective client visualize what it would be like to have your support. These conversations cultivate a connection, build trust and mutual respect, and facilitate bonding. Join us as we explore the considerations for what to ask and how to keep the conversations rolling.

There are many facets to consider when supporting a client through active labor. This stage of labor is often an opportunity to become more physically active and present in client support. However, it is also important to remember to alternate periods of activity with rest during active labor. When supporting clients through this stage of labor, it is essential to remember to match the mood of the room. As the client becomes more internally focused, conversation and excitement will fade. It is common for conversations to move from sentences to one-word replies. When providing support during this stage, it's also helpful to consider the senses of the laboring person. Sights, sounds, and smells that may have been comforting initially may become a distraction. The type of touch that feels good will often change as well. It is also important to remember that what works or doesn't work in terms of comfort can change throughout labor. So revisiting positions or comfort measures that didn't work previously may bring comfort later. Join us as we discuss the many options for supporting a client through active labor.

A common inquiry in many online doula communities is where to find free samples to give to clients. While it's likely true that most people love a freebie, are they actually free? Many individuals don't consider the cost of their time in requesting, processing, storing, and handing out freebies. Additionally, many companies that give out products for freebies are multimillion-dollar companies with marketing budgets to promote their product. But the birth professionals are not compensated for their time, recommendation, and efforts. When considering giving out freebies to clients, it's also essential to consider the message that may be sent. Could handing out a sample of lactation tea send the message that it is necessary in order to breastfeed successfully? Or does giving out samples of nipple balm set the expectation that it is necessary? Join us as we discuss the pros and possible cons of handing out freebies to clients.

As birth professionals, education surrounding the perinatal period is an ongoing process. While it is impossible to learn everything about pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, countless opportunities are available to expand your knowledge base. But how do you decide which topics to choose? When thinking about continuing education, think out of the box. Postpartum doulas may benefit from a culinary course to assist with meal prep or to offer postpartum meal planning. Labor doulas may benefit from childbirth education training to deepen their knowledge of pregnancy and birth. Also, consider continuous education that will expand your global knowledge. Courses about trauma-informed care, and working with people who are differently abled, neurodiverse, or a part of the LGBTQIA+ communities may benefit you based on the demographic you serve. Join us as we discuss the various options and considerations for continuous education.

Undoubtedly, social media plays a big role in our lives and how we communicate with the world. Social media platforms have become a big part of marketing products and services. Learning how to navigate social media as a business owner creates unique challenges. One of the challenges is creating and maintaining social media boundaries. As business owners, birth workers must determine how little or how much of their business and lives are shared on social media. On platforms such as Facebook, you can create groups and post to only those groups. This allows friends and family to see the post while preventing clients from seeing it. Some individuals may create separate accounts for personal vs. business use. Others may choose to add clients and colleagues to their personal profiles. Ask yourself if you mind potential clients or the clients you currently serve seeing what you post on your personal profile. From Facebook to Instagram to Tiktok, deciding how and with whom you would like to share your content is an important decision. Join us as we discuss the social media boundaries you may want to consider for your business.

When we think about the value of doula work, we must consider two perspectives—the perspective of the doula and the client's perspective. Before a doula can successfully market their services, they must understand their value to potential clients. While the hallmark of doula work is providing support, the doula must sell their service before client support can begin. Many doulas struggle to communicate the monetary value of their services. There is a tendency for doulas to undervalue their services. Many are encouraged to provide services for free either from training organizations or other doulas in their community. Many doulas set the value of doula work based on their socioeconomic status. It's scary for doulas to price services at a rate they can't afford. Others set the value of their services based on how capable they feel of providing client support. When a doula doesn't know how to sell their services, they often want to give them away. Join us as we discuss how doulas can value themselves to help prospective clients understand the value that the doula can bring to their birth or parenting experience.

Supporting early labor is a necessary skill for labor doulas. Yet many doulas may not know how to approach early labor from a mindset of patience vs the instinct to try to move labor along. Early labor can be a time of anxiety and doubt for expecting families. Contractions may come and go, and they often wonder, "Is this labor?" They often look to their doulas for support and advice. The tincture of time is one of the most useful tools for supporting clients through early labor. Yet many doulas recommend activities such as walking, sex, nipple stimulation and may other approaches that risk physically exhausting the client long before active labor begins. We recommend a different approach to our clients. Our approach focuses on rest, relaxation and distraction. The reality is that early labor is a 'diagnosis' made in retrospect. Contractions don't always mean labor. Uterine irritability, dehydration, Braxton-Hicks contractions or even prodromal labor may trigger contractions. Join us as we discuss how we help clients navigate the complexities, excitement and frustrations of early labor.

One of the more challenging aspects of becoming a doula is navigating doula fees and payments. One of the most common decisions is how to take payment for the services you will provide. There is a tendency for doulas to want to avoid credit card processing fees. They often do this by using peer-to-peer payment options such as Paypal, Venmo or platforms such as Cashapp. Using these payment systems as an individual vs. as a business and with the related processing fees to you is a common but dangerous practice. Using a personal account for business transactions can result in the account being closed and the funds lost. In addition to how you will be paid, you must decide the structure for the payments you will receive. Many doulas do this by charging a retainer fee due at contract signing. Then a determination will need to be made about when the remaining balance will be paid. Another key point surrounding doula fees and payments is to clearly understand how you allocate your fees. First, consider what percentage will go towards taxes. Second, what percentage will you keep in the business to pay for operational expenses? In addition, you will need to determine what your budget is for things such as marketing, continuing education, and costs such as your phone line and website. Join us as we discuss the many considerations surrounding doula fees and payments.

Transitional labor is the third phase of the first stage of labor. It is also considered the most challenging phase of labor, especially for those giving birth without pain medication. During the transition phase of labor, contractions occur every 1-2 minutes and last approximately 60-90 seconds. The cervix dilates from 8-10 centimeters. This is the phase of labor where many laboring individuals want to quit. They may express an inability to go on. Or may question their desire to avoid pain medication. This is often the phase of labor where a client may express, "I don't want to do this anymore. I want to go home. I can't do this. Please make it stop." Physical signs of transition may include shaking, sweating, and feelings of anxiety or panic. As the baby moves lower into the pelvis, some individuals may experience burping or passing gas, rectal pressure, or the urge to bear down. These signs are often present in those who have received pain medication. Join us as we discuss how to support clients through transitional labor and how why this phase of labor can present a challenge to birthing individuals.

Professionalism has many definitions, and how one exhibits doula professionalism in their doula work will vary. We believe that professionalism means that we embody integrity and accountability, responsibly conduct ourselves, and always present the best versions of ourselves in our work. This means we have solid systems to navigate prospective clients through our hiring process efficiently. From the first contact to signing the contract, individuals seeking our care are learning about what it is like to experience our support. Their interactions will shape their desire for our ongoing support and determine if they feel safe in our presence. Boundaries are also an essential part of professionalism. Boundaries around our time and when we work. This may mean scheduled time off. Or a weekly schedule that gives us time off to focus on family. Boundaries around contracts and money are also essential. Other aspects of professionalism include phone/video call etiquette and our appearance. Join us as we discuss why doula professionalism is important and how to define what that means to you.

The poverty mindset is common in doula work. According to Alan Weiss: "A poverty mentality is one that influences behaviors consistent with beliefs that money shouldn't be spent, opportunities are limited, any risk at all is dangerous, any success is temporary and non-replicable, and generally remaining in the back of the pack is safest." Many individuals come to birth work believing their work opportunities are limited. The reality is that birth work offers upward mobility or the ability to move up in socioeconomic status. Creating diversity in birth work allows birth workers to move themselves and their families out of poverty. When coupled with codependence, or the need to be needed, along with the historical message that birth workers should self-sacrifice in terms of money and physical efforts, it's no wonder the burnout rate amongst birth workers is so high. The reality is that most birth workers need to make money to make their work sustainable mentally, physically, and financially. Yet the poverty mindset often holds birth workers back from long-term success whether it is the resistance to invest money into ongoing training and education. Or the unwillingness to take risks that could lead to growth. The poverty mindset is a powerful motivator for limiting beliefs restricting growth and success. Join us as we explore the poverty mindset, how to identify it, and how to overcome it.

As doulas supporting client decisions plays a key role in our care. While there are many approaches to this side of our work, there are also many potential barriers. One of the most prominent barriers is the bias that birth workers bring into their work while supporting client decisions. We see this when doulas say, "I support my client in making informed decisions." Or, "As long as my client is making an informed decision, I support whatever they choose." The reality for most individuals is that decisions are not primarily made on what 'best evidence' or research says. Many individuals will instead make decisions based on what their intuition tells them or based on the opinions of those they trust. Those individuals often include family, friends, providers, and even their doula. As doulas, we have a powerful influence on our client's decision-making process. This is why doulas must be free from their own biases and able to provide nonjudgmental support. Join us as we explore the approaches and pitfalls of supporting client decisions.

When it comes to the ins and outs of how a doula agency works, many myths exist. The truth is, there are many perks to working with a doula agency. For many, the team approach creates a desirable environment where birth workers can find support. Others love being able to focus on the client-facing work and leave the client acquisition process to someone else. Not good at marketing? The agency does that for you. Worried about collecting and tracking client payments? The agency has that covered. Credit card fees, the agency takes care of those too. One of the biggest myths we see surrounding working with an agency is that the agency takes a cut of the doula's fee. The fact is, the agency contracts with the client at a set fee. Then the agency contracts with the independent contractor at a set fee to provide the service. The agency does not take a cut or a percentage of the independent contractor's fee. The independent contractor agrees to the fee they will be paid. After the related business expenses are accounted for, agency owners are paid less than the independent contractors for providing the service. Join us as we discuss this and other common doula agency myths!

As doulas, we often give so much of ourselves as we help families navigate labor and the postpartum period. Yet self-care as a doula is often something that falls along the wayside. We often work with clients at their most vulnerable during one of life's biggest transitions. While our work with one client ends, we often step in to support the next client through similar ups and downs. While this never-ending cycle can leave us feeling energized and empowered, it can also leave doulas feeling emotionally and physically spent. Doula self-care can come in many different forms. While massage and bodywork are common suggestions, music therapy, art therapy, and even rage rooms can be great ways to implement self-care. Join us as we explore the importance of self-care and the many options that exist for birth workers today.

Prelabor rupture of membranes or PROM is defined as the spontaneous rupture of the amniotic sac without contractions for an hour or more after the 37th week of pregnancy. Premature prelabor rupture of membranes or PPROM, is the spontaneous rupture of membranes without contraction for an hour or more before the 37th week of pregnancy. PROM is experienced by approximately 8% of pregnant individuals. Less than 1% of pregnant individuals will experience PPROM Doulas often blame PROM on a baby in a "bad" position. Leading each other to believe that labor will not begin if the baby's position is not "corrected." However, data demonstrate that 95% of individuals who experience PROM will go into labor on their own within 72 hours. What doulas do not discuss is the hormonal triggers for PROM. At term, the fetal membranes and the pregnant person's body release prostaglandins. These prostaglandins break down the cells of the amniotic sac, leading to the rupture of membranes. They also break down the cellular matrix of the cervix, which leads to effacement and dilation. Join us as we take a deep dive into the statistics and science surrounding the prelabor rupture of the membranes.

Stripping membranes or membrane sweep is a common intervention performed in the final weeks of pregnancy. While this may seem like a simple intervention, it is important for clients to understand what they may experience. Stripping of the amniotic membranes stimulates the production of oxytocin and prostaglandins. This intervention serves two purposes. The first is to try to hasten the ripening of the cervix. The second is to try and stimulate the onset of labor. While this procedure may be uncomfortable or painful when performed, the goal is to stimulate cervical change and contractions in the time that follows. As a result, pregnant individuals often experience spotting, bleeding, and contractions. The contractions experienced after sweeping the membranes can last just a few hours or, for others, days. Join us as we discuss the process of stripping membranes and how we can support clients through the experience that follows.

Once again, we have come to the end of another fantastic season. We are honored to share yet another year with you, talking about the work we love. We can feel the love and passion that you have for the topics that we talk about. Your feedback and the number of listeners we have show us every day how much you value Doulas of the Roundtable. This past year has brought us many interesting and exciting conversations. We look back at our favorite episodes from Season Four along with your most consumed episodes. Catch a sneak peek into Season 5 as we talk about kicking off a new season and a new year with our 100th episode! We look forward to the new year and kicking off our 100th episode with a splash!

In the doula community, there is often a line of demarcation between "new" doulas and "seasoned doulas." Yet no clear line exists that determines when one is no longer considered new. So the question is, when does one become an experienced doula, and how is that experience defined? Could it be that a well-rounded doula can enter this work right from the start? The simple fact is that someone just beginning their doula journey can support a client just as effectively as a doula with years of experience. Doulas often focus on the number of births to define new vs. experienced. Yet, for expectant families, connection with the doula often tips the scales in favor of one doula vs another. In this episode, we challenge the notion of new vs. seasoned doulas. Join us as we discuss why the concept of a "well-rounded doula" is far more important than the number of years of experience or clients served.

One of the most common questions amongst labor doulas surrounds due dates. Should I take two clients due on the same date? What is the optimal spacing between clients? Is it better to take clients due further apart or closer together? The truth is, there's no straightforward answer to these common questions. Experience tells us that EDD is just a number on a calendar and that clients may deliver weeks before or after their given date. One thing is for certain, working with a backup doula is essential. Join us as we discuss the many factors to consider surrounding the due date dilemma.

Becoming a doula means that you are starting a business. Many doulas overlook this first step. Or this information is not a big part of their doula training. Understanding the ins and outs of starting a business is important. Creating a legal business structure, setting up business accounts for banking, taking payments, and offering services are critical first steps. These steps not only protect your business but can protect your personal assets as well. Running a business means that you need to manage many aspects of your doula business daily. Working with clients is a part of what you will do as you work in your business. But it won't be the largest part of what you do, at least in the beginning. Doulas who want to make a living at this work will need to tend to their business just as diligently as they tend to their clients. Join us as we discuss the basics of running a doula business.

Doulas new to labor support have a common question; "How will I Know when it's time to go?" Doula clients often have a version of the same question; "How will we know when to go?" The answers to these questions may seem relatively simple, but in practice, the answer can be pretty complex. Factors that doulas may consider include: what are the frequency and duration of contractions, how the client copes with the contractions, would the client benefit from the reassurance that moving to their birth location can offer. Helping clients distinguish between practice labor and progressive labor is a big part of the labor doula's role. Join us as we discuss the many factors to consider when helping clients decide when it's time to go!

On the surface, the difference between a doula consult vs. a doula interview seems virtually nonexistent. However, the intentions behind each can be vastly different. Depending on where a doula trains, an interview may be where a doula decides if they want to work with a particular family. Or an interview is a place where a doula "teases" what they have to offer. But reserves providing information and genuinely engaging in offering a deeper level of information and support until hired. A consultation is where a family can meet with a doula to gather information and advice. It's an opportunity for the doula to create a vision of what it looks like to receive their support. A doula consult is where the doula paints a picture of what it looks like, feels like, and what the experience of working with you as a doula will be like. An interview is a space to gather information, typically via a list of questions someone wants to ask. This is great for the family searching for a doula. But it doesn't often allow space for the doula to discover what the family wants and needs in an engaging manner. It doesn't allow the doula to demonstrate how they can meet that need. When the doula has a list of questions to decide if they are a good match for this family, it can quickly make the interaction impersonal. Join us as we discuss the nuances of the doula consult vs. the doula interview.

As doulas and humans, it is inherent that we bring bias into our work. Yet, at the same time, providing non-biased, non-judgmental support is a hallmark of the support we provide to the families we work with. The first step to setting aside our bias is identifying the types of bias we are subject to. The three basic types of bias that doulas face are: Implicit bias Explicit bias Confirmation bias There are biases that we hold based on our lived experiences. They influence our subconscious thoughts, attitudes, and stereotypes. These biases are identified as implicit bias. Explicit biases are biases that come from our views about a person, thing, or group. Then we have confirmation bias. Confirmation bias leads us to interpret, search for, and remember information in a way that supports our prior beliefs or values. Join us as we explore the common types of doula bias and discuss how they can influence the important work we do with clients.

Supporting precipitous labor is a skill that, for many doulas, is learned in real-time. Precipitous labor is labor that ends 3-5 hours after the onset of labor. On average, 1 in 3 of every 100 birthing people will experience precipitous labor. While certain factors can make a pregnant person more likely to experience precipitous labor, the exact cause is unknown. As doulas, we often wonder what the "secret sauce" is. What is it that will cause some people to experience this type of labor. While the idea of rapid labor may sound great to clients, this type of labor does present some challenges. The body is doing the same amount of work to give birth. Only it's happening in a vastly condensed amount of time. This means that for most, the pace and intensity of the labor are likely more than anticipated. Those who experience precipitous labor often relate that this type of labor is like going from 0-100 in .02 seconds. The expected build-up of contractions from early labor to active labor to transition just doesn't happen. Providing support in this type of situation can be challenging for those who support clients during labor. Helping clients cope in real-time is a process that is fast-paced and requires thinking on your toes. After the birth, it often takes clients some time to process that the birth is over. Even with the baby in their arms. Come join us as we discuss the ins and outs of supporting precipitous labor.

As a birth worker, networking and developing a community referral list are important to your work. Those new to the field often wonder how to begin. Another common question is what services should be included on a referral list. No matter the approach, who you add to your referral list is a task that requires careful consideration. Do the business's beliefs and values align with your own? In the digital age, a fumble on the part of one business can reflect badly on your own. For example, if your business is LGBTQIA+ friendly, referring to another business, no matter how skilled they may be, who does not share these values can cause a negative image of your business. Will the business you refer to offer reciprocity in referring back to you? Come join us as we discuss the many variables to consider when developing your community referral list.

Partner support during the postpartum period is one topic we don't see discussed often. Yet, for the partner, having a baby and learning to parent is an equally transformative experience. Partners experience the birth in a different way than the birthing person. They can experience worry, feelings of helplessness, and even experience vicarious trauma. Partners will typically self-sacrifice to support the birthing person. This is often where the need for more focused support can begin. Sacrificing their own needs to support the birthing person. Setting their need for rest and nourishment aside. As postpartum doulas coming into this dynamic requires assessment skills. What does this partner need most at this point? Where are they struggling? Where are they excelling, and how can we validate and encourage them? Come join us as we discuss the many considerations in how to support partners during the postpartum period.

As doulas consider expanding into other birth-related services, birth photography is often a common consideration. It seems like the perfect mesh, doula skills paired with photography skills equals the perfect match. But can a doula be both at the same time? While it seems like a simple answer, there are many factors that doulas often fail to consider. Will doula support or photography take priority when a client needs hands-on support? What happens if doula support is needed simultaneously as the one "perfect shot" a client wants presents itself? Join us as we take a deep dive into the ins and outs of providing birth photography and labor support.

What do you wish you knew before becoming a doula? This is a question that we see frequently from those considering birth work or those who have just entered the field. Working with growing families is the part of the work that most have at least a loose idea about. But it's the practicalities that many often fail to consider. Living the on-call life. Pacing yourself when supporting families. What self-care actually looks like. These are just a few things that come immediately to mind as experienced birth workers. Then there are other things that many may not consider. Running a business. For those who are just getting started, client management is also often overlooked. But when you get busy, systems are essential to keep track of clients, what they need, what services they've hired you to provide, and what their preferences and needs are. Come join us as we discuss what we wish we'd known before becoming doulas!

As a birth worker, your personal mental health is just as important as your physical health. The very nature of our role often places us in stressful situations that can cause or exacerbate our own mental health issues. Anxiety, depression, and other conditions can all factor into our ability to care not only for our clients. These conditions can also heavily influence our ability to care for ourselves as well. However, there are strategies to help birth workers combat compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. From therapy to medication to processing with a trusted colleague, there are many ways to help birth workers cope. Come join us as we discuss mental health for birth workers, strategies to cope, and our own personal journies.

As a birth worker working with repeat clients is always an exciting and humbling experience. For many, the repeat client is like working with an old friend. Someone you've developed trust, a deep bond with, and a healthy mutual respect for. Yet at the same time we as birth workers have to be careful not to make assumptions about what the client will need in this birth or postpartum experience based on previous experiences. There are also many questions that birth workers have when it comes to working with repeat clients. For example, we often hear the following: "How much do I charge a repeat client if my prices have increased since their last birth/baby?" "How many prenatal visits should I do with a repeat labor client?" "What topics should I cover during a pre-birth visit with a repeat client?" "How will what this client needs from me change as a postpartum doula with an older sibling in the home?" Come join us as we discuss the ins and outs of working with repeat clients.