Dear Doula

In this episode of Dear Doula, I talk about how parenting can feel lonely today and why having a "village" of support matters more than ever. I share personal stories about raising my children in Los Angeles without family nearby, and how friendships and community became an important part of my parenting journey.

I also give simple ideas for building your own support system, through local meetups, parent groups, classes, or online communities. Sometimes, meaningful friendships start just by reaching out and being open to connection.

If you're feeling overwhelmed as a parent, you're not alone. Don't be afraid to ask for help, join a group, or create your own community. And after listening, take a moment to thank someone who's part of your village, or make the first step toward building one.

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

key topics

• Building a support village for parents
• Historical and cultural differences in parenting support
• Impact of social media on support networks
• Strategies for creating in-person and online communities
• The role of friends, family, and community in parenting

Chapters

00:32 The Importance of Building Your Village

07:24 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges

12:05 Finding Your Community

18:11 Creating Connections and Support

21:23 The Power of Acknowledging Your Village

In this episode, I dive into the often emotional and sometimes divisive topic of feeding your baby: breastfeeding, formula, or a mix of both. Drawing from years of experience as a lactation consultant and doula, I break down the real facts about breast milk, the benefits of colostrum, and the realities many parents face when making feeding choices. My goal is to release the guilt many parents feel and empower you to make the best decision for your family's unique needs.

I cover everything from the science of supply and demand with breastfeeding, ways to introduce bottles, and how to select safe, high-quality formula if you need or want to supplement. I share practical advice for working parents, those struggling with milk supply, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by the options. I also share my honest take on feeding campaigns, like "Fed is Best," and why transparent, fact-based support matters most.

If you have questions about feeding your baby or want more support around breastfeeding or formula choices, I encourage you to reach out! I love hearing from you and supporting you on your parenting journey.

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key points:

1. Breastfeeding vs. formula: societal pressures and guilt
2. Benefits of breast milk and colostrum
3. Feeding spectrum: exclusive, combo, or formula
4. Working and breastfeeding: pumping, milk storage
5. Supply and demand: milk production basics
6. Formula choices and preparation safety

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Feeding Choices

02:49 The Benefits of Breastfeeding

06:04 Navigating Formula Feeding

08:49 Combining Breastfeeding and Formula

12:12 Understanding Formula Options

14:55 The Fed is Best Controversy

18:59 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode, I talk about what it's really like to travel with babies, toddlers, and kids. Based on my own experience traveling with my three children, I share simple, practical tips. From choosing the right gear to handling airports and messy nap schedules.

Whether you're flying abroad or going on a road trip, I cover what actually works, what doesn't, and how to keep your sanity along the way.

You'll hear advice on packing smart, staying flexible with sleep, dealing with picky eaters, and managing jet lag. I also share why travel can help kids become more adaptable and curious, and how some of the best family moments come from things not going to plan.

If you have your own tips or questions about traveling with little ones, I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out and share your experience. And if you enjoyed the episode, don't forget to leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Happy travels!

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Talking Points:

• The fear vs. the reality of traveling with a baby
• What to pack (and what you don't actually need)
• Flying with an infant: ear pressure, feeding on the plane, TSA, and nap strategy
• Road trips: timing drives around sleep, safe rest stops, and sanity savers
• Managing sleep disruption in a new environment
• Traveling across time zones with a baby
• How to enjoy the trip instead of just surviving it

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Traveling with Kids

02:21 Essential Gear for Traveling with Young Children

06:01 Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment

10:10 Managing Food and Snacks on the Go

15:15 Navigating Travel Logistics and TSA

18:28 Adapting to Time Zones and Jet Lag

22:32 Embracing the Adventure of Family Travel

Resources

• Doona: https://www.doona.com/
• Stokke YOYO: https://www.stokke.com/en-gr/category/prams/yoyo-strollers-pushchairs

In this episode I open up about the real challenges and emotions that come with navigating postpartum life, especially when returning to work. Drawing from my own experiences as a mom and doula, I share the ups and downs of juggling career ambitions, shifting family dynamics, and the intense feelings that arise when stepping back into the workplace after having a baby.

I offer practical tips on easing the transition back to work, such as building a milk stash for nursing mothers, gradually returning to your job, and the importance of maintaining open conversations with your partner about changing priorities and expectations. I also highlight the significance of self-care, leaning on your support village, and prioritizing meaningful time with yourself, your children, and your partner to sustain family wellness.

If you're heading back to work, thinking about it, or supporting someone who is, I hope this episode reassures you that there's a wide range of "normal" feelings and experiences. Your journey is valid, and you're never alone!

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key takeaways

1. Postpartum expectations and realities
2. Returning to work after childbirth
3. Emotional struggles and identity shifts
4. Balancing career and motherhood
5. Importance of building a support village
6. Navigating parental leave and partner roles
7. Self-care and maintaining relationships

Chapters

(03:13) First Day Back at Work

(5:07) Decision to Leave Job

(6:04) Advice for New Parents

(10:17) Work-Life Balance

(18:09) Building a Village

In this episode, I'm joined by integrative nutrition expert Jodi to talk about what women over 35 should think about when it comes to conception, pregnancy, and postpartum health. We go through the basics of nutrition, how to avoid common endocrine disruptors, and what actually matters so you don't get overwhelmed by too much information.

We also talk about testing your nutrient levels, simple supplement choices, and how to make sense of all the wellness advice you see online. We touch on important topics like choline, vegan diets during pregnancy, and why testing both before and after pregnancy can help you feel stronger and more supported.

This episode is full of practical advice and real-life insights to help you feel more confident in your choices, whether you're planning a family or already in the postpartum phase.

Resources Mentioned

http://drbrewerpregnancydiet.com/

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Jody Graves

Website:

https://michiganfamilydoulas.com/

https://michiganfamilynannies.com/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-graves/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/jodi_graves_official/

Key takeaways

• Nutrition for women over 35
• Endocrine disruptors and chemical exposure
• The importance of nutrient testing
• Vegan/vegetarian diets during pregnancy
• Postpartum depletion and recovery
• Hormonal changes after childbirth
• Practical tips for better nutrition

Timestamps

00:01:17 - 00:02:58 What is Integrative Nutrition?

00:02:59 - 00:05:27 The Changing Nutritional Needs of Women Over 35

00:05:27 - 00:06:33 Endocrine Disruptors and Personal Care Products

00:06:34 - 00:09:23 Nutrition and Supplementation for Conception & Pregnancy

00:09:23 - 00:11:20 The Role of Lab Testing and Self-Advocacy

00:11:20 - 00:15:56 Veganism, Pregnancy, and Nutritional Challenges

00:15:56 - 00:19:21 Postnatal Depletion and Importance of Baseline Testing

00:19:22 - 00:22:21 Postpartum Recovery: Thyroid, Hormones & Testing

00:22:21 - 00:24:13 Supplement Basics for Women 35+

00:24:14 - 00:27:23 Working with an Integrative Nutritionist: Process & Testing

In this episode, I dive into the three biggest mistakes new parents make around sleep, how to avoid them. With over two decades of experience as a doula, I've seen it all when it comes to sleep struggles during the early days of parenting. I break down the misconceptions about newborn sleep, why nutrition is essential for building strong sleep foundations, and how expectations impact your rest as a family

I also share practical tips on fostering your baby's ability to self-soothe, setting gentle routines, and why tracking feedings and sleep habits can be a game-changer. You'll hear why flexibility with routines beats being overly rigid, how to spot patterns (including the dreaded witching hour), and the power of dream feeds for more restful nights. With gentle advice and encouragement, I want you to feel empowered on your parenting journey.

If you're struggling with sleep or looking to give your baby (and yourself!) the best start, this episode is packed full of insights and real-world strategies. I'd love to hear your thoughts and questions. Reach out by email or on Instagram, and don't forget to subscribe and leave a review so more families can find these tips and find ease in early parenting!

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Resources & Products Mentioned

Code for Ergopouch: BRANDI

Baby Connect https://en.babyconnect.com/sqh

Hatch https://www.hatch.co/?srsltid=AfmBOoolj-OXZ9x5uyYJO_pUOYqW7Mdc1osMHUhJ4sEg36uzCOWS1eAb

Key takeaways:

1. Nutrition's impact on newborn sleep quality
2. Overcoming sleep myths and negative mindsets
3. Sleep crutches versus independent sleep skills
4. Importance of creating sleep routines
5. Tracking logs to identify baby patterns
6. Dream feeds for longer sleep stretches
7. Balancing flexibility with structured schedules

Timestamps:

00:01:09 – 00:03:05 The Reality and Mindset of Newborn Sleep

00:03:05 – 00:07:06 The Importance of Good Nutrition and Weight Gain

00:09:10 – 00:10:36 Feeding Schedules and How They Impact Sleep

00:10:36 – 00:15:05 Encouraging Independent Sleep Skills

00:18:47 – 00:20:03 Strategies to Address Common Sleep Disruptions

00:20:03 – 00:24:47 The Three Solutions for Better Newborn Sleep

In this episode of Dear Doula, I break down the realities of finding quality postpartum and childcare in the US, including what you can expect to pay and what industry standards look like. I guide you through the differences between postpartum doulas, newborn care specialists, and nannies. I share my insights from years in the industry, offering tips on how to find caregivers that truly fit your family's needs.

I also talk about the evolving landscape of domestic work, including compensation ranges, work agreements, retainers, and new trends like rotational positions. You will learn why offering benefits is important, how to navigate payroll, and where to search for reliable caregivers, whether you're using an agency, online sites, or asking for word-of-mouth referrals.

If you're a parent hoping to find the right support or a caregiver curious about career possibilities, this episode is for you. Don't forget to subscribe, share your questions, and tune in for next week's episode, where I'll tackle all your questions about sleep and baby travel!

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key takeaways

1. Postpartum and newborn care options explained
2. Pricing and rates for childcare services
3. Differences between doulas and newborn care specialists
4. Industry standards for nannies and caregivers
5. Importance of contracts and retainers
6. Hiring methods: agencies vs. DIY approaches
7. Worker rights: pay, PTO, and benefits

Timestamps:

00:00 Navigating Childcare Options

09:56 Understanding Postpartum Care

19:55 The Evolving Role of Nannies

30:03 Finding the Right Caregiver

In this episode of Dear Doula, Ι sit down with Dr. Shivani Amin, a functional medicine and women's health specialist, to explore the root causes of hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and the vital role of minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium in women's health. We discuss how simple shifts in habits, like proper breathwork, staying hydrated with quality water, and getting sunlight, can significantly improve wellbeing for women through every stage, from pre-pregnancy to postpartum.

Dr. Amin shares her holistic approach, focusing on getting to the heart of health issues instead of just treating symptoms. She breaks down why Western medicine often misses mineral deficiencies, how functional medicine bridges ancestral wisdom with modern science, and gives practical, accessible tips for feeling better, without major restrictions or expensive fixes.

If you're ready to take charge of your wellness or help a loved one, don't miss this episode! Let us know how this episode resonated with you, share with a friend, and follow along for more empowering guidance on your parenting and womanhood journey!

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

1. Hormonal imbalances and root cause treatment
2. Importance of minerals for women's health
3. Inflammation: causes, symptoms, and solutions
4. Breath work and stress management
5. Vitamin D, magnesium, and supplementation
6. Navigating health advice and social media
7. Pre-pregnancy and pregnancy health optimization

Timestamps

02:10 Addressing Hormonal Imbalances

06:02 Reducing Inflammation through Regenerative Care

08:54 The Importance of Breathwork and Hydration

12:51 Optimizing Mineral Levels through Supplements

18:39 Navigating Information Overload on Social Media

20:30 Dr. Amin's Journey to Functional Medicine

23:24 Overcoming Resistance to Change

25:07 Preparing the Body for Pregnancy

27:03 Supporting Postpartum Health

29:00 Embracing the Process and Being Present

33:39 Engaging Dr. Amin's Services

37:45 Finding Dr. Amin Online

In this episode, I sit down with birth doula and postpartum trainer Kaitlyn Wozniak to talk about postpartum recovery in a whole new way.

Together, we unpack common myths and outdated expectations, like the "snap back" culture, and explore why postpartum should be treated as essential rehab, not just traditional exercise. We talk about shifting the focus from looks to real healing and functional strength.

We cover everything from breathing techniques and pelvic floor health to the value of individualized care over one-size-fits-all advice. The conversation also dives into the emotional side of recovery, identity, autonomy, and how mental health and community support are part of the process.

If you're a new or expecting mom, or someone supporting women through postpartum, this episode is full of practical tips and honest insights. Tune in to learn how to make postpartum your strongest season.

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

• Individualized postpartum recovery approaches
• Pelvic floor health and misinformation
• Diaphragmatic breathing for core stability
• Rehab versus traditional exercise postpartum
• The emotional impact of postpartum changes
• Body image, autonomy, and societal pressures
• Building a supportive postpartum "village"

Timestamps

00:00 The Evolution of Postpartum Care

02:06 Caitlin's Journey into Birth and Postpartum Training

04:00 Debunking Fear-Based Practices in Postpartum Care

06:10 Functional Movement and Preparation for Birth

09:05 Breathwork and Its Importance in Pregnancy

11:59 Understanding the Pelvic Floor

15:52 Postpartum Recovery: Timing and Approach

17:52 Challenging the Six-Week Rule

22:08 The Need for Individualized Care in Postpartum Recovery

24:19 The Importance of Self-Care in Postpartum Recovery

25:05 Rehabilitation vs. Exercise: A New Perspective

29:12 Body Positivity and the Pressure to Conform

33:39 Sisterhood and Healing in Women's Communities

41:52 Finding the Right Support for Postpartum Recovery

In this episode of Dear Doula, I'm talking about something many parents experience but often struggle to understand. The sudden changes in their baby's sleep.

Is it a sleep regression, a growth spurt, or something else entirely?

As a doula and sleep consultant who has supported families for many years, I see this confusion all the time. Babies suddenly waking more often at night, feeding differently, or becoming fussier than usual. These changes are often connected to developmental leaps, shifts in feeding needs, or the way a baby's sleep cycles are maturing.

In this episode, I break down the difference between sleep regressions and growth spurts. I share real examples of what this can look like, from babies learning to roll over and waking themselves up, to the well known four-month sleep regression that catches many families by surprise.

We also talk about what parents can actually do during these phases. I share simple ways to start understanding your baby's patterns, why it helps to track sleep and feeds for a short time, and how to look at bigger lifestyle changes that might be affecting your baby's rest.

If you're currently in a stretch of broken sleep and wondering what changed, this conversation will help you make sense of what's happening and feel more confident in how you respond.

Resources & Products Mentioned

• Code for Ergopouch: BRANDI
• Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump https://haakaausa.com/products/silicone-breast-pump
• Pampers Swaddlers Newborn Diapers https://www.pampers.com/en-us/diapers-wipes/pampers-swaddlers
• Holle Baby Formula
• Dr. Brown's Bottles (Anti-Colic) https://www.drbrownsbaby.com
• Soothie Pacifiers https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-mo/pacifiers
• Sweatpea Swaddle https://www.happiestbaby.com/products/sleepea-swaddle
• Bassinet Safety Guidance (AAP Safe Sleep) https://www.aap.org

Laundry Favorites for Baby Clothes:

• Zum Laundry Soap — https://www.indigowild.com/collections/laundry-soap
• Seventh Generation Fabric Softener- https://www.seventhgeneration.com/liquid-fabric-softener-free-clear
• Ecover Fabric Softener — https://www.ecover.com/products/laundry/fabric-softener
• Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Remover — https://missmouths.com

If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com

Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: [email protected]

Key Takeaways

• Sleep regressions and growth spurts can look very similar, but they often have different causes. • Developmental milestones, like rolling or increased awareness, can temporarily disrupt sleep. • Growth spurts often come with increased feeding and changes in hunger cues. • Tracking sleep and feeding patterns for a few days can reveal helpful patterns. • Small adjustments, like dream feeds or bedtime timing, can support better nights for both baby and parents.

Timestamps

00:00 The Emotional Load of Parenting in 2026

06:41 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting and Personal Growth

12:23 Intentional Parenting: Prioritizing Yourself and Family Values

20:52 Creating a Peaceful Parenting Experience in 2026