Build a Business That Feels Right for You

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the end-of-year "strategize, plan, and grow" messages flooding your feed? You’re not alone! In this candid episode, Darcy reveals why these marketing tactics can feel gross—and how to sidestep them to stay grounded in your own success.

Darcy shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a thriving postpartum doula and business coach. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, she dives into what it really takes to build a business that feels good in your gut, aligns with your goals, and supports your life—not the other way around.

This episode is a must-listen for doulas and sleep consultants who want to grow their businesses while maintaining their sanity and purpose.

 

 

End-of-Year Reflections and Strategies for Doula Business Success  Join Doula Darcy as she guides you through her end-of-year process for reflections and strategies to kick off the next year in the best way possible.   In this episode, Darcy offers practical advice on ending the year by cultivating feelings of gratitude, celebrating achievements, and using that to prepare for 2025.   Listeners will learn the importance of reviewing client data, keeping track of business mileage, investing wisely in their business, and performing a comprehensive analysis of referral sources.   Discover actionable steps to help you grow your doula business, elevate your marketing efforts, and enter the new year with a prosperous mindset. Don't miss out on tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and making smart financial decisions.   Happy Holidays and here's to a successful 2025!

In this episode of The Doula Darcy Podcast, host Darcy discusses the intersection of doula work and sleep consulting with her guest Jayne Havens. Jayne is the founder of Snooze Fest Sleep Consulting and the Center for Pediatric Sleep Management.   They explore how adding sleep consulting to a doula's skill set can provide business growth, increased flexibility, and work-life balance.   Darcy and Jayne emphasize the mutual advantages of combining doula services with sleep consulting, both for client satisfaction and professional sustainability.     00:45 Introducing Jane Havens: Sleep Consultant Extraordinaire 01:29 Building a Simple and Successful Business 05:04 The Importance of Virtual Support for Doulas 09:16 Hybrid Models and Flexibility in Doula Work 10:42 The Benefits of Sleep Consulting for Doulas 16:00 Creating a Sustainable Doula Career 21:32 Designing Your Business to Fit Your Life 23:31 Keeping It Simple: The Key to Success 27:45 Join Us at the Birth Worker Retreat 29:28 Final Thoughts and How to Connect     Check out The Center for Pediatric Sleep Management here: https://thecpsm.com   Join her free Facebook Group: Becoming a Sleep Consultant here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/615707185724840

In this special and lively episode of the Doula Darcy podcast, episode #13, host Darcy introduces Randy Patterson, known as the 'Rock and Roll Doula', founder of ProDoula and author of the book "The Matriarch Rules".    Randy Patterson is unrelenting and unapologetic and she shares her battle cry:  Own your power and charge your worth, doulas! In this electrifying episode, she shares how to see your own strength and why owning your power is non-negotiable.

Tune in for an empowering mix of passion and practicality as Randy Patterson unpacks how she built an multi-million dollar doula empire by consulting over 1,800 birth businesses and serving from the heart.

Relatable, soft, yet oh-so-unshakeable— Randy Patterson is a force of nature and this episode is a must-listen!

  The conversation evolves into an in-depth discussion about the evolution of the doula industry and the ways that Randy has played a big part in that in creating ProDoula.     They also discuss combating misconceptions about the "ideal doula" and establishing successful doula businesses. Randy shares her journey from humble beginnings to revolutionary work with ProDoula, dispelling the myth that doulas can't thrive financially.   Through authentic storytelling, advice on business strategies, and reflections on their shared passion, this episode offers valuable insights for both new and seasoned doulas aiming to make a significant impact in their communities.

Since 2009, Randy has consulted for more than 1,800 businesses and entrepreneurs seeking success. When asked, Randy says her greatest strength is enabling others to see theirs.

 

Cyber Monday Sale -- get $50.00 gift card when subscribing: https://www.prodoula.com/contact-prodoula/ Instgram: : @prodoula http://www.instagram.com/prodoula/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/prodoula

  00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:18 The Hilarious Social Media Mix-Up 02:04 Randy Patterson's Journey and Impact 02:52 Breaking Stereotypes in the Doula Industry 04:16 The BuzzFeed Article and Its Aftermath 06:08 Empowering Doulas to Succeed 10:04 The Birth of ProDoula 14:28 ProDoula's Unique Training Approach 16:50 Overcoming Challenges and Building a Business 29:26 Advice for Aspiring Doulas 30:42 Investing in a Doula Business 31:37 Finding the Right Agency 35:51 Balancing Work and Family 47:18 The Importance of a Strong Online Presence 53:14 ProDoula's Cyber Monday Offer

In this special and lively episode of the Doula Darcy podcast, episode #13, host Darcy introduces Randy Patterson, known as the 'Rock and Roll Doula', founder of ProDoula and author of the book "The Matriarch Rules".    Dream big, doulas!  Randy Patterson is unrelenting and unapologetic and she shares her battle cry:  Own your power and charge your worth, doulas.  In this electrifying episode, she shares how to see your own strength and why owning your power is non-negotiable.

Tune in for an empowering mix of passion and practicality as Randy Patterson unpacks how she built an multi-million dollar doula empire by consulting over 1,800 birth businesses and serving from the heart.

Relatable, soft, yet oh-so-unshakeable— Randy Patterson is a force of nature and this episode is a must-listen!

  Our conversation evolves into an in-depth discussion about the evolution of the doula industry and the ways that Randy has played a big part in that in creating ProDoula.  They also discuss combating misconceptions about the "ideal doula" and establishing successful doula businesses. Randy shares her journey from humble beginnings to revolutionary work with ProDoula, dispelling the myth that doulas can't thrive financially.   Through authentic storytelling, advice on business strategies, and reflections on their shared passion, this episode offers valuable insights for both new and seasoned doulas aiming to make a significant impact in their communities.

 

Randy Patterson represents the badass within all of us. Unrelenting, unshakeable and unapologetic; yet soft, approachable and relatable. Because she believes that doulas are valuable and the work they do is credible, Randy Patterson’s battle cry to birth professionals is above all else, own your power and charge your worth! Since 2009, Randy has consulted for more than 1,800 businesses and entrepreneurs seeking success. When asked, Randy says her greatest strength is enabling others to see theirs.

 

Cyber Monday Sale -- get $50.00 gift card when subscribing: https://www.prodoula.com/contact-prodoula/ Instgram: : @prodoula http://www.instagram.com/prodoula/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/prodoula

  00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:18 The Hilarious Social Media Mix-Up 02:04 Randy Patterson's Journey and Impact 02:52 Breaking Stereotypes in the Doula Industry 04:16 The BuzzFeed Article and Its Aftermath 06:08 Empowering Doulas to Succeed 10:04 The Birth of ProDoula 14:28 ProDoula's Unique Training Approach 16:50 Overcoming Challenges and Building a Business 29:26 Advice for Aspiring Doulas 30:42 Investing in a Doula Business 31:37 Finding the Right Agency 35:51 Balancing Work and Family 47:18 The Importance of a Strong Online Presence 53:14 ProDoula's Cyber Monday Offer

Transforming Doula Careers Through Community and Support with Kaitlin McGreyes of Be Her Village   In this episode of the Doula Darcy podcast, host Darcy, a business coach for doulas, chats with Kaitlin McGreyes, founder of Be Her Village. They discuss their shared mission to help more families access doula support, even though they go about this goal in different ways. Doula Darcy helps doulas reach more parents and get more clients.   Be Her Village is a platform that allows parents to register for doula services instead of traditional baby gifts.   Darcy & Kaitlin also talk about the importance of business retreats - especially for women, and how they belive this is one thing men really get right about business.   They also share insights on the importance of community, self-care, and the upcoming Birth Worker Retreat in Florida, which aims to rejuvenate and inspire doulas. The conversation is filled with personal anecdotes, professional advice, and the joys of collaboration over competition.     00:45 Meet Kaitlin McGreyes: Founder of Be Her Village 01:24 The Birth Worker Retreat Experience 03:37 The Value of In-Person Networking 05:36 The Importance of Business Retreats 09:17 Planning for the Future: January Retreats 10:51 The Power of Community and Collaboration 12:26 Balancing Work and Rest for Business Growth 16:57 Women in Business: Overcoming Burnout 19:27 Integrating Business and Personal Life 20:38 The Importance of Self-Care and Community 21:17 Join Us at the Birth Worker Retreat 22:11 Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder 22:56 Doula Speed Dating and Other Retreat Activities 24:03 The Vision Behind Be Her Village 27:09 Challenges and Solutions in Maternal Support 29:32 How Be Her Village Works 33:43 Encouraging Community Support for New Moms 34:36 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

The Power of Community: What Men Get Right about Business with Kaitlin McGreyes of Be Her Village

 

The Doula Darcy welcomes Kaitlin McGreyes, founder of Be Her Village.

Kaitlin and Darcy discuss their shared mission of helping more families get doula support and how they each go about that mission in very different ways.

They share the humorous backstory of their 'twin' branding, and how they were inspired to create The Birthworker Retreat because that's "what the men were doing."

The conversation emphasizes the unique benefits of in-person networking for doulas, sleep consultants and other birthworkers, the significance of rest and fun for entrepreneurs, and how Be Her Village is transforming the baby gift industry by enabling families to register for doula services instead of traditional gifts.

Join The Doula Darcy and Kaitlin at The Birthworker Retreat in Clearwater, Florida in January 2025. Save $100 with coupon code RETREAT100 at www.TheBirthworkerRetreat.com

 

 

 00:00 Introduction

00:39 Birth Worker Retreat Memories

02:44 The Value of In-Person Connections

04:55 The Importance of Business Retreats

11:22 Overcoming Burnout and Finding Joy

13:25 The Power of Rest and Fun

16:12 Women in Business: Challenges and Reflections

18:50 Integrating Business and Personal Life

20:17 The Importance of Self-Care and Community

20:37 Join Us at the Birthworker Retreat

22:15 The Birth Worker Retreat Details

23:22 Be Her Village: Revolutionizing Baby Registries

24:30 The Journey of Be Her Village

30:04 The Impact and Success of Be Her Village

33:56 Collaborative Efforts and Future Goals 

Doula Agency Success: Insights and Strategies from Two Doula Agency Owners

If starting a doula agency is on your radar - you do not want to miss this episode!

In this episode of the Doula Darcy podcast, host Darcy, an experienced doula business coach and small doula agency ownder, discusses the dynamics of running a successful doula agency. Darcy is joined by Jodi Congdon of Hip2Heart.  Jodi owns a much larger doula agency outside of Boston. They talk about the upcoming Birth Worker Retreat in Florida, their journeys in running two very different sized doula agencies, and key strategies for growth. They also tackle practical tips on managing a team, setting client expectations, and the debate over listing prices on websites.

 

Additionally, Jody shares insights about her Birth Boss Agency program.

 

Join Darcy & Jodi at The Birthworker Retreat in January 2025 in Clearwater, FL.  Save $100 with coupon code RETREAT100 at www.TheBirthworkerRetreat.com  Connect with Jodi and learn about her Birth Boss Agency program here.

In this episode, Darcy shares her strategies for turning doula client interviews into successful bookings. From her fourteen years as a doula, she shares the nuances of conducting successful client interviews, providing actionable tips to help doulas connect and build trust.

Darcy covers:

• How to simplify the client contact process to increase inquiries
• Ways to convey confidence in your experience, even if you’re new
• Essential questions to ask that demonstrate you care about clients' unique needs
• How to create a comforting environment that mirrors the support you’ll provide during birth or postpartum care
• Tips on tracking referrals to refine your marketing efforts

Whether you’re a new or experienced doula, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your interview approach and book more clients confidently. Tune in to take your doula business to the next level! Darcy also mentioned The Birthworker Retreat coming up in January 2025 in Clearwater, Florida.  Save $100 with coupon code RETREAT100 at www.TheBirthworkerRetreat.com

 

Episode Summary:

In this special episode, we’re coming to you live from the Maine Doula Retreat, where five amazing doulas from My Doula Village share their experiences. Listen in as we discuss the transformative power of connecting with fellow doulas, taking time away from the demands of everyday life, and the benefits of being part of a supportive community. This episode is packed with stories of growth, laughter, and even a few tears as we delve into what makes the retreat so special and why every doula should consider joining us.

 

• Introductions: Meet the doulas joining Darcy on the episode: Molly (Atlanta, GA), Stacey (Rhode Island), Tammy (Scranton, PA), Christine (Palmer, AK), and Chelsea (Manistee, MI). 
• The Retreat Experience: We discuss the benefits of the Maine Doula Retreat, including the beautiful ocean views, delicious food, and the luxury of having time to focus solely on personal and professional growth.
• Community and Connection: The doulas share how the retreat has strengthened their bonds with one another and created a sense of sisterhood. The power of being surrounded by others who truly understand the ups and downs of doula work is a recurring theme.
• Collaboration Over Competition: Insights into how My Doula Village fosters an environment of collaboration rather than competition, allowing doulas to share resources, ideas, and support.
• Breakthroughs and Business Growth: The doulas talk about how the retreat has helped them gain clarity in their businesses, make important decisions, and set actionable goals. From strategy sessions to spontaneous discussions, every moment is filled with growth opportunities.
• Personal Transformation: Beyond business breakthroughs, many doulas experienced deep personal growth. Some share stories of overcoming doubts, finding new motivation, and making peace with decisions they needed to make.
• Support Beyond the Retreat: The doulas discuss how My Doula Village extends beyond the retreat, providing ongoing support through virtual meetings, the Facebook group, and a network of over 100 doulas.
• A Life-Changing Community: Each guest shares why My Doula Village is an invaluable part of their lives, from having a network that understands the doula lifestyle to forming genuine friendships that last.

Memorable Quotes:

• "There’s nothing like being in a room full of people who understand the unique work we do. It’s a sisterhood."
• "The energy here is amazing—it feels like sleepover camp with your best friends, but for doulas!"
• "Being surrounded by other doulas who get it has given me the motivation to push forward in my business and personal life."
• "Joining My Doula Village changed my life. I wouldn’t be fully booked in my first year as a doula without this supportive community."

 

• Join My Doula Village here
• Learn about the Maine Doula Retreat here:https://douladarcy.com/doula-retreat-maine

Join the Conversation:

If you’re a doula looking for a supportive community or considering attending a retreat, this episode is for you. Share your thoughts with us and let us know what you’d love to see at future retreats by tagging The Doula Darcy on social media!

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