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Doula Diversity, Overnight Myths, and Postpartum Support with Jen Chandlee
05/21/2025
Doula Diversity, Overnight Myths, and Postpartum Support with Jen Chandlee
Welcome to another episode of The Birth Geeks! In today’s conversation, host Dr. Hillary Melchiors sits down with Jen Chandlee, an experienced postpartum doula trainer, educator, and advocate. Not only was Jen Hillary’s own postpartum doula trainer, but she brings a wealth of knowledge from decades spent supporting families in diverse regions of the U.S., including Wilmington and Asheville, North Carolina. Together, they dive into how postpartum doula support has evolved, the increasing demand for it, and the important differences between birth and postpartum doula care. Jen shares heartfelt stories from her trainings—like the different moving traditions of welcoming new birthing people—and discusses the importance of cultural ritual in the postpartum period versus what many parents in the U.S. experience today (hello, grocery store runs instead of crowns and songs). The episode explores how virtual doula training breaks down barriers and brings global perspectives together, how the “crunchy parent” stereotype and consumer culture collide in parenting, and why overnight postpartum work—and its perception—may deserve a second look. Jen and Hillary also talk about the effects of perimenopause on doulas, the need for boundaries and self-care, plus the financial and policy challenges facing today’s doula workforce. With warmth and honesty, Jen and Hillary unpack the reality of postpartum care, the critical need for recognition and support for new parents, and what it really means to be a lifeguard for families in the early weeks. Whether you’re a doula, a parent, or just passionate about birth work, this episode is full of wisdom, humor, and some well-deserved tiara talk. Grab your tea, put on your imaginary crown, and enjoy this inspiring conversation!
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