When I first stepped into the NICU as a new nurse, I had no idea how much it would shape my life — or how many families I’d meet who felt overwhelmed, out of place, and desperate for clarity. Years later, after becoming a doula and educator, I realized that what families need most in the NICU is a translator: someone who can bridge the gap between medical expertise and compassionate, human support.

In this very first episode, I’m sharing my story — from my early NICU days to launching The NICU Translator — and the “aha” moments that shaped my mission to bring more joy and less trauma to the NICU experience. I’ll also give you a peek at what’s to come in this podcast and how it can support you, whether you’re a parent, a doula, or another professional working with NICU families.

Resources & Links:

Grab your free guide: 5 Things Every Doula Needs to Know About NICU Babies and Their Families → https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

Connect with me on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the NICU Experience

01:08 Mary's Journey to Nursing and the NICU

07:02 The Special Nature of NICU Nursing

09:55 The Importance of Empowered Education

11:32 Personal Experiences and Insights as a Parent

17:16 Founding the NICU Translator

21:01 The Role of NICU Doulas

23:35 The NICU Translated Podcast Overview

Keywords: NICU nurse story, NICU doula, navigating the NICU, NICU podcast, NICU advocacy, NICU support for parents, NICU doula training, NICU emotional support