#98 The Nurse–Doula Relationship: How To Collaborate Without The Chaos with Ana Paula Markel

What happens when nurses and doulas stop viewing each other as “opponents” and start working as a true team? In this episode of Happy Hour with Bundle Birth Nurses, Sarah Lavonne meets with legendary doula and childbirth educator Ana Paula Markel to unpack the nurse–doula relationship, the difference between advocacy and activism, and why collaboration is one of the most evidence-backed ways to improve birth outcomes. We talk about conflict points (like medical advice, bias, and power dynamics), and discuss practical ways to build trust in the room and protect the physiology of labor. If you want fewer battles, better teamwork, and more patient-centered care, this conversation is your playbook.

Helpful Links!

• Come to MOVE Learning Retreat in Mexico!
• Take our Physiologic Birth training.
• Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for free education!
• DONA International
• Bini Birth taught by Ana Paula Markel
• Ina May Gaskin documentary
• The Business of Being Born

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