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35: Confessions of a Midwife: Stories, Healing & the Human Side of Birthwork with Brielle Jenson

35: Confessions of a Midwife: Stories, Healing & the Human Side of Birthwork with Brielle Jenson

In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, I sit down with Brielle Jenson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a midwife with over 20 years of experience, an IBCLC, and the author of the stunning new book Confessions of a Midwife. Brielle has worked in hospitals, home births, and birth centers, bringing a rare, unfiltered perspective on the challenges, triumphs, and deeply human moments of birthwork.

Midwife Life: Midwifing you through health, motherhood, and the sacred mess of life’s transformations with Diane Ortega

September 29, 202541m 27s

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Show Notes

In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, I sit down with Brielle Jenson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a midwife with over 20 years of experience, an IBCLC, and the author of the stunning new book Confessions of a Midwife. Brielle has worked in hospitals, home births, and birth centers, bringing a rare, unfiltered perspective on the challenges, triumphs, and deeply human moments of birthwork.

Her work has been recognized in the field of midwifery, including a nomination for the ACNM Media Award in 2025, highlighting her dedication to sharing authentic stories and elevating maternal health conversations.

In this episode, we dive into:

  • The raw realities of being a midwife—beyond the perfect Instagram birth stories
  • The emotional toll and healing power of birthwork
  • Insights into perinatal mental health and supporting mothers through complex postpartum experiences
  • Brielle’s journey to writing her book and why sharing these stories matters
  • The balance of professional expertise and deep compassion in modern midwifery

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the human side of birth, whether you’re a parent, a birth professional, or simply fascinated by the art and science of midwifery.

Key Takeaways / Reflection Prompts:

  1. What myths about birth and midwifery have you believed that might need reframing?
  2. How can compassion—for yourself or others—transform challenging experiences?
  3. In what ways can storytelling and shared experiences help heal communities of mothers and birth professionals?

Next Step: Take the Sacred Reset Quiz

Feeling inspired to reflect on your own energy, growth, and next steps? Try my Sacred Reset Quiz to discover:

  • Which area of your life is ready for a reset
  • Personalized insights to help you release what no longer serves you
  • Clear guidance on the next steps for your transformation

🎯 Take the quiz here: What are you ready to reset?

Resources & Links:

🎧 Check out more episodes of The Midwife Life: Listen Here
🌿 Connect with Diane & The Midwife Life Community: Check it out!

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