Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies and the Battle for Sleep

Doula Deb
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Doula Talk is a podcast for parents navigating the real, often messy middle of postpartum and early parenthood. Hosted by Doula Deb, a birth, postpartum, and sleep doula with over 15 years of experience, this show offers compassionate guidance, honest conversation, and practical support for the first year and beyond. We talk about postpartum recovery, newborn care, sleep, nervous system regulation, and the emotional load that so many parents carry quietly. This isn’t about quick fixes or perfect routines. It’s about understanding what’s happening beneath the surface and building steady, supportive foundations that help both parents and babies feel more regulated over time. Through solo episodes and thoughtful conversations with trusted experts, Doula Talk helps you make sense of sleep struggles, feeding questions, recovery, and the constant mental load of early parenthood, without shame, pressure, or panic. If you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or deep in the exhaustion of caring for a baby, this is a place to slow down, feel less alone, and remember that you’re not doing this wrong.

  1. 49 - Before the Release: What Parents Need to Know Before Saying Yes (Carissa Guiley)

    FEB 17

    49 - Before the Release: What Parents Need to Know Before Saying Yes (Carissa Guiley)

    Send a text Ever wondered whether a tongue tie release is really the fix everyone says it is — or why some babies seem to struggle even after the procedure? In this week’s episode of Doula Talk, Deb is joined by Carissa Guiley, a speech-language pathologist and IBCLC, to unpack the truth about therapeutic readiness and why slowing down before a frenectomy can make all the difference. Together, they explore how nervous system regulation, body tension, and oral reflex development shape feeding — and why rushing straight to surgery sometimes backfires. You’ll learn what true readiness looks like, how to build the right care team, and why supporting the whole baby leads to calmer parents, better feeding, and happier little humans. If you’ve ever felt pressured to “fix” feeding fast — or wondered why the latch still isn’t right — this episode will bring clarity, compassion, and a whole lot of nervous-system soothing. Key Takeaways: A tongue tie release is not a magic wand — preparation matters just as much as the procedureBabies with dysregulation or body tension often need therapy and bodywork firstFeeding gets harder temporarily after release — readiness prevents setbacksA knowledgeable, collaborative team makes all the differenceThis is not an emergency — slow, steady, supported care winsGuest: Carissa Guiley, MS, CCC-SLP, IBCLC Founder of Nourish Therapy and The Nourish & Grow Collective Supporting families and professionals in holistic, evidence-based infant feeding care Find Carissa at nourishfeedingtherapy.com and on Instagram @nourish_feedingtherapy Resources Mentioned: Chrysalis Oral Facial Professional Directory: Search for TOTS Training® Professionals in your area.International Consortium of Ankylofrenula Professionals: Find a Tongue-Tie Professional.Doula Deb’s First Year Support Program: Ongoing, compassionate guidance for families navigating feeding, sleep, and early parenthoodRooted Rest Sleep Course: Gentle, attachment-centered foundations for better sleepIf you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start… you don’t have to do this alone. Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    38 min
  2. 48 - Is This Just Normal… or Is It Time to Get Sleep Support?

    FEB 3

    48 - Is This Just Normal… or Is It Time to Get Sleep Support?

    Send a text In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb speaks directly to exhausted, overwhelmed parents caught in the cycle of sleep deprivation. With warmth, honesty, and just the right dose of real talk, Deb breaks down what’s really happening when your baby sleeps—and why quality rest is non-negotiable for their growth, development, and emotional regulation. This episode isn’t about quick fixes or rigid schedules. It’s about understanding the science of sleep, honoring your baby’s needs, and recognizing when it’s time to stop pushing through and start asking for support. Deb shares powerful truths about how poor sleep affects not just babies, but the entire family, and walks you through gentle next steps if you’re ready to make a change. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why sleep is critical for your baby’s brain, body, and emotional developmentHow disrupted sleep patterns affect mood, immunity, and long-term habitsWhy your mental health matters just as much as your baby’s sleepSigns it might be time to stop suffering through and get supportGentle, attachment-based options that don’t involve cry-it-out🛠️ Resources Mentioned: Episode 13: Sleep Coaching for Newborns – How to build a sleep-friendly environmentEpisode 33: The Hierarchy of Soothing – A gentle approach to improving sleepEpisode 34: Trust Your Gut, Not Just the Books – How to tune out the noise and listen to your instincts🌙 Ready for More Support? Book a FREE 1:1 Sleep Intake Call with Deb to see if working together to build a custom plan for your baby’s unique needs is a good fitJoin the waitlist for the Rooted Rest Sleep Course, launching soon, is a gentle, connection-centered guide to better sleep for the whole family🎧 Listen now and remember: every baby deserves deep, restorative sleep... and so do you. Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    7 min
  3. 47 - Real Emergency or Newborn Glitch? How to Know When to Head to the ER (and When to Breathe Instead) with Dr. Kailey Buller

    JAN 20

    47 - Real Emergency or Newborn Glitch? How to Know When to Head to the ER (and When to Breathe Instead) with Dr. Kailey Buller

    Send a text Ever wondered if your baby’s weird noises, twitchy movements, or late-night fussing are totally normal—or something to panic about? In this week’s episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb is joined by Dr. Kailey Buller, a double board-certified physician in family and emergency medicine (and mom of two), to demystify what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to head to the ER. Together, they unpack the confusing world of newborn behaviors like those gremlin grunts, gagging fits, and twitchy limbs, and walk you through the real red flags that every new parent should know. You’ll learn how to spot signs of true emergencies, build confidence in your instincts, and approach those “is my baby okay?” moments with calm instead of chaos. If you’ve ever found yourself googling “newborn breathing normal or not” at 2 a.m., this episode is your permission slip to step away from the panic spiral and tune into what’s really going on. Key Takeaways: Most middle-of-the-night worries are not emergencies—babies are just weird little humans learning how their bodies work.True emergencies include fever in a baby under 30 days, trouble breathing, dehydration (no wet diaper for 12+ hours), or unresponsiveness.If your gut says something’s wrong, that visit is justified—even if it’s not urgent.You’re not supposed to be the expert in everything. You’re supposed to be the expert in your baby.Trust your instincts. You know your baby best.Resources Mentioned: Surviving Tiny Humans by Dr. Kailey Buller https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/ Doula Deb’s Rooted Rest Sleep Course — A gentle, evidence-based guide to building healthy sleep foundations without sacrificing connection.The First Year Support Program — Ongoing guidance for families navigating the ups and downs of the first year.Or click here to learn more about how I can support you at www.douladeb.com! Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    37 min
  4. 46 - From Maiden to Mother: The Identity Shift No One Prepares You For (Guest: Anna Lundqvist)

    JAN 5

    46 - From Maiden to Mother: The Identity Shift No One Prepares You For (Guest: Anna Lundqvist)

    Send a text In this deeply soulful and eye-opening episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb sits down with former midwife and The Natural Birth Podcast host Anna Lundqvist to explore one of the most profound transformations a woman can experience: the sacred and often-overlooked transition from maiden to mother. Together, Deb and Anna dive into the emotional, physical, and spiritual shifts that happen as women move through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum — a process that’s far more than just gaining a new title. It’s a complete rebirth of identity, purpose, and self. Anna sheds light on why our culture doesn’t prepare women for this shift, how we’ve lost the communal “village” that once supported mothers, and what it means to reclaim birth and motherhood as sacred rites of passage instead of medical events or identity crises. Listeners will find themselves nodding along as Anna explains how the brain literally rewires during pregnancy, how grief and joy can coexist in the postpartum years, and why redefining “sacrifice” as a sacred gift changes everything about how we mother. Deb brings her signature warmth and humor to the conversation, reminding parents that they can honor their transition, rebuild their village one connection at a time, and find peace in the messiness of becoming. This episode is both grounding and empowering — perfect for anyone who’s ever thought, “No one told me it would feel like this.” ✨ Key Takeaways: The maiden-to-mother transition is a sacred rite of passage — not just a new job title.Your brain, heart, and identity all evolve during this journey — and that’s normal.It’s okay to grieve your old self while celebrating your new one.The “village” might not appear overnight, but you can begin building it in your own community.Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    36 min

  5. SEASON 2, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Welcome to Season 2: Stability Over Perfection — A Gentle Reset for Parents

    Send a text Welcome back to Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep! In this Season 2 opener, Deb invites you into a calmer, more compassionate approach to postpartum life. Instead of chasing perfect sleep, perfect feeding, or perfect routines, this season is all about building steadier ground for you and your baby. Because parents aren’t struggling due to lack of effort. They’re struggling because postpartum is a massive transition with far too little support. In this episode, we talk about: the invisible mental load of early parenthoodwhy nervous system regulation matters more than perfectionrealistic expectations for newborn sleep and postpartum recoverythe heart behind Season 2: stability over perfectionThis is a season for letting go of shame, softening unrealistic expectations, and remembering that your needs matter too. You don’t need to do this alone. You’re already doing incredibly meaningful work. If this episode supports you: Share it with a parent who needs reassurance or leave a review so more families can find gentle, evidence-informed support. Looking for deeper help? You’ll find links in the show notes for postpartum doula care, sleep support, and additional resources for the first year. Take a breath. Relax your shoulders. You’re welcome here, exactly as you are. Welcome to Season 2. Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    6 min
  6. 45 - Why You Can’t Relax After Birth (and What Your Nervous System Has to Do With It) with Dr. Avery Champagne

    11/24/2025

    45 - Why You Can’t Relax After Birth (and What Your Nervous System Has to Do With It) with Dr. Avery Champagne

    Send a text In this episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb sits down with holistic family chiropractor and author Dr. Avery Champagne to uncover what’s really happening in a mother’s body when she feels anxious, wired, or unable to rest after birth. Dr. Champagne explains how postpartum anxiety and exhaustion stem from a dysregulated nervous system, not just lack of willpower. He and Deb break down how chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and hormonal changes can keep moms stuck in fight-or-flight mode, and what it takes to restore balance. From practical tools like cold-water face dips and deep breathing to chiropractic adjustments that support the brain-body connection, listeners learn how to move toward calm, grounded postpartum health. They also discuss Dr. Champagne’s book, Root Causes: Why the Healthcare System is Failing Us and What We Can Do About It, and why true wellness means creating health — not just treating symptoms. Resources Mentioned: Root Causes by Dr. Avery Champagne — rootcauses.netRadiant Health Chiropractic in Lacey, WAVisit DoulaDeb.com for gentle postpartum support, sleep consulting, and the First Year Support Program to help you rebuild rest and regulation after birth.This episode will help every new parent understand that anxiety isn’t a flaw — it’s a signal from the body asking for care. Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    48 min
  7. 44 - The Realities of Traveling with a Baby

    11/10/2025

    44 - The Realities of Traveling with a Baby

    Send a text If you are planning a road trip, flying to see family, or even braving a day-long outing, this episode gives you the exact tools to prepare well, keep your baby regulated, and protect your peace. Hit play, pack with confidence, and travel like a pro. Freebie: Travel With Baby Essentials Checklist — a one-page, no-fluff checklist to pack exactly what you need and nothing you don’tProducts Mentioned:  Pumping & Bottle Feeding:Pump bags: Spectra or larger pump bags: https://amzn.to/47Kx8EV or https://amzn.to/3J7DW6p or https://amzn.to/4owCWItIn bra pump bags: https://amzn.to/4hDpoIw or https://amzn.to/3X2l9MQ.Medela manual pumpQuick-clean wipesA hands-free pumping braA wet/dry bagMomcozy Bottle Brush SetMomcozy Portable Milk Warmer for Travel Sleep & Comfort:A nursing cover or shawlTravel rentals: Baby’s Away, Rents4Baby, and BabyQuipRed rechargeable night lightMy favorite clip-on book lightTravel Gear & Play: Momcozy Portable Baby Carrier Babelio White Noise Sound MachineBabyZen YoYo or GB PockitDoona Car Seat & Stroller* This one goes from carseat to stroller instantly!KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit for KidsNo-mess coloring pad for toddlers.Small battery packCar Travel:Backseat mirrorClip-on fan for airflowWindow shadesSupport the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    37 min
  8. 43 - Navigating the Holidays as a New Family: Finding Joy, Setting Boundaries & Ditching the Guilt

    10/27/2025

    43 - Navigating the Holidays as a New Family: Finding Joy, Setting Boundaries & Ditching the Guilt

    Send a text In this validating and heart-centered episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, postpartum and sleep doula Deb dives into one of the most emotionally loaded topics for new families: how to survive the holidays without sacrificing your sanity, sleep, or boundaries. If this is your baby's first holiday and you're feeling pulled in a dozen directions, this episode is your permission slip to slow down and do things differently. Deb breaks down why the holidays often feel so overwhelming after having a baby (hint: you’re not imagining it) and offers deeply supportive, real-life tools to help you navigate the holidays on your terms. With her signature blend of empathy and real talk, Deb shares scripts for boundary-setting, doula-approved travel tips, and why overstimulation matters so much in the early weeks and months. If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to keep your baby asleep while fielding awkward questions at a family dinner, this one’s for you. Freebie: Sleep Survival Kit for Holiday Travel - Your free, downloadable checklist with travel tips, packing suggestions, sleep setup hacks, and gentle reminders for new families braving the holidays. Grab it at www.douladeb.com/freebies Need more support? First Year Support Program – Ongoing postpartum and infant sleep consulting for families navigating feeding, sleep, recovery, and routine building.Sleep Consults – Personalized support for infant sleep foundations, gentle sleep shaping, and nap struggles.Prenatal Planning Sessions – Build your postpartum plan with Deb’s compassionate guidance before baby arrives.Book a consult or explore services at www.douladeb.com 🎙️ If this episode felt like a warm hug or a deep breath, please share it with a fellow new parent. Together, we can build a season rooted in rest, not chaos. Support the show Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey. Contact Information: Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/debdoula TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb Twitter: https://twitter.com/doula_deb Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.

    10 min
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Doula Talk is a podcast for parents navigating the real, often messy middle of postpartum and early parenthood. Hosted by Doula Deb, a birth, postpartum, and sleep doula with over 15 years of experience, this show offers compassionate guidance, honest conversation, and practical support for the first year and beyond. We talk about postpartum recovery, newborn care, sleep, nervous system regulation, and the emotional load that so many parents carry quietly. This isn’t about quick fixes or perfect routines. It’s about understanding what’s happening beneath the surface and building steady, supportive foundations that help both parents and babies feel more regulated over time. Through solo episodes and thoughtful conversations with trusted experts, Doula Talk helps you make sense of sleep struggles, feeding questions, recovery, and the constant mental load of early parenthood, without shame, pressure, or panic. If you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or deep in the exhaustion of caring for a baby, this is a place to slow down, feel less alone, and remember that you’re not doing this wrong.

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