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

In this episode of Dear Doula, Ι sit down with Dr. Shivani Amin, a functional medicine and women's health specialist, to explore the root causes of hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and the vital role of minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium in women's health. We discuss how simple shifts in habits, like proper breathwork, staying hydrated with quality water, and getting sunlight, can significantly improve wellbeing for women through every stage, from pre-pregnancy to postpartum.

Dr. Amin shares her holistic approach, focusing on getting to the heart of health issues instead of just treating symptoms. She breaks down why Western medicine often misses mineral deficiencies, how functional medicine bridges ancestral wisdom with modern science, and gives practical, accessible tips for feeling better, without major restrictions or expensive fixes.

If you're ready to take charge of your wellness or help a loved one, don't miss this episode! Let us know how this episode resonated with you, share with a friend, and follow along for more empowering guidance on your parenting and womanhood journey!

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. Hormonal imbalances and root cause treatment
2. Importance of minerals for women's health
3. Inflammation: causes, symptoms, and solutions
4. Breath work and stress management
5. Vitamin D, magnesium, and supplementation
6. Navigating health advice and social media
7. Pre-pregnancy and pregnancy health optimization

Timestamps

02:10 Addressing Hormonal Imbalances

06:02 Reducing Inflammation through Regenerative Care

08:54 The Importance of Breathwork and Hydration

12:51 Optimizing Mineral Levels through Supplements

18:39 Navigating Information Overload on Social Media

20:30 Dr. Amin's Journey to Functional Medicine

23:24 Overcoming Resistance to Change

25:07 Preparing the Body for Pregnancy

27:03 Supporting Postpartum Health

29:00 Embracing the Process and Being Present

33:39 Engaging Dr. Amin's Services

37:45 Finding Dr. Amin Online

In this episode, I sit down with birth doula and postpartum trainer Kaitlyn Wozniak to talk about postpartum recovery in a whole new way.

Together, we unpack common myths and outdated expectations, like the "snap back" culture, and explore why postpartum should be treated as essential rehab, not just traditional exercise. We talk about shifting the focus from looks to real healing and functional strength.

We cover everything from breathing techniques and pelvic floor health to the value of individualized care over one-size-fits-all advice. The conversation also dives into the emotional side of recovery, identity, autonomy, and how mental health and community support are part of the process.

If you're a new or expecting mom, or someone supporting women through postpartum, this episode is full of practical tips and honest insights. Tune in to learn how to make postpartum your strongest season.

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

• Individualized postpartum recovery approaches
• Pelvic floor health and misinformation
• Diaphragmatic breathing for core stability
• Rehab versus traditional exercise postpartum
• The emotional impact of postpartum changes
• Body image, autonomy, and societal pressures
• Building a supportive postpartum "village"

Timestamps

00:00 The Evolution of Postpartum Care

02:06 Caitlin's Journey into Birth and Postpartum Training

04:00 Debunking Fear-Based Practices in Postpartum Care

06:10 Functional Movement and Preparation for Birth

09:05 Breathwork and Its Importance in Pregnancy

11:59 Understanding the Pelvic Floor

15:52 Postpartum Recovery: Timing and Approach

17:52 Challenging the Six-Week Rule

22:08 The Need for Individualized Care in Postpartum Recovery

24:19 The Importance of Self-Care in Postpartum Recovery

25:05 Rehabilitation vs. Exercise: A New Perspective

29:12 Body Positivity and the Pressure to Conform

33:39 Sisterhood and Healing in Women's Communities

41:52 Finding the Right Support for Postpartum Recovery