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: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com

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: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com

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: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com

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