Beyond “Breast vs Bottle” Rethinking what Breastfeeding Means: Episode 119

In this thought-provoking episode of the Tongue Tie Experts podcast, host Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC, is joined by Olena Dobchansky, a clinician, educator, and leader in maternal and child health. With decades of experience guiding families and supporting nurses, Olena offers a grounded, compassionate, and deeply informed perspective on the current landscape of infant feeding and postpartum care.

Together, Lisa and Olena explore how maternal-child health has evolved within traditional medical systems, and what has been lost along the way. They discuss the commercialization of breastfeeding support, how language shapes our understanding of infant feeding, and why individualized, relationship-centered care matters.

Key Topics Discussed

• Olena’s journey in nursing and leadership in maternal & child health
• How nursing theory has shifted, and what clinicians are still missing
• The difference between “breastfeeding” and “lactation”: words that matter
• Challenges created by corporate healthcare systems
• The rise of commodified feeding solutions and the “quick fix” mindset
• Building health literacy and informed decision-making in families
• How social media influences parents’ feeding choices, stress, and identity
• The role of family dynamics and support networks in feeding success
• Why understanding the lived experience of each mother is essential to care
• The call to return to personalized, respectful, and holistic support

Takeaways

• Breastfeeding is not simply a biological act; it’s relational, emotional, and deeply contextual.
• Healthcare systems often prioritize efficiency over connection—yet connection is where healing and confidence emerge.
• Families need more than instructions, they need clarity, support, and validation.
• Professionals must listen not just to symptoms, but to stories.

About Our Guest

Olena Dobchansky is a clinician, educator, and advocate in maternal and child health. Her work centers on empowering families and elevating the role of nurses and lactation professionals in supporting holistic, evidence-informed, compassionate care.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.

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A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

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