Dear Doula

Brandi Jordan
  • 4.8 (55)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

What if parenting could evoke a sense of calm, joy, and connection? Brandi Jordan, baby and parenting expert, not only believes that it can, but that it should with the right mix of empathy and grace! What if you had a village that was available for weekly support, advice, inspiration, and practical tips to make this parenting journey not only easier, but enjoyable? Grab a cup of tea and join Brandi as she dives into deep conversations that will help you to rediscover your intuition, joy, and sense of calm, along with interesting guests to give you the parenting village that you always knew you needed.

  1. 3d ago

    Empowering Women's Health: Jennifer Gularson Shares What You Need to Know

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I sit down with Jennifer Gularson, an expert in women's health, to discuss the realities of perimenopause and menopause, two life stages that are often shrouded in silence or misinformation. We dive into everything: from the symptoms most people don't realize are connected to hormone changes (like itchy ears and brain fog) to the concerning lack of conversations between healthcare providers and women about these natural transitions. Jennifer shares vital insights on hormone replacement therapy, discussing barriers to access, and highlighting the ongoing shortage of estrogen patches that's leaving many women scrambling. We also explore practical tips for self-care in your 30s and 40s to improve long-term health, and touch on why advocating for better medical resources and breaking the stigma around menopause is so necessary. If you're approaching midlife, supporting someone who is, or just want to be better informed about your health, this episode is full of advice and real-world solutions. Subscribe, rate, and let me know what questions you want answered next!   If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com   Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandi_jordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com   Connect with Jennifer Gularson Website: https://ocfhealing.com/  https://www.yourbestlifewithjennifer.com/   Key takeaways Lack of menopause education and awareness Hormone replacement therapy: benefits and access Stigma and historical misconceptions about menopause Symptom diversity and atypical menopause signs Medication shortages and advocacy efforts Importance of lifestyle for symptom management Testing, baselines, and proactive health monitoring Chapters 00:00 Introduction to menopause and why it matters 01:43 What every woman should know before menopause 03:06 How declining estrogen affects the body 04:50 The stigma and history of hormone therapy 06:05 The evolution of women's health conversations 07:39 Safety and benefits of hormone replacement therapy 12:29 Access and shortages of hormone medications 16:39 Advocacy and policy changes for women's health 22:43 Monitoring symptoms and lab tests 25:44 The link between menopause and brain health 42:20 The protective role of estrogen in women 43:40 Practical advice for women in midlife

  2. Sep 4

    Feeding Kids with Confidence: Balancing Nutrition and Family Food Culture

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I welcome Jennifer Anderson, a registered dietitian and founder of Kids Eat in Color, to explore the world of feeding kids. We talk openly about picky eating, palate training, and how cultural traditions shape the way we raise our children at the table. Jennifer and I share our personal experiences as moms, tackling everything from the pressures of mealtimes to the myths around baby-led weaning and feeding strategies. We break down the difference between typical and extreme picky eating, how to spot the signs early, and what steps to take if you're concerned about your child's eating habits. Jennifer shares practical tools and tips for making family meals less stressful and more joyful, no matter your parenting style or background. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or unsure about how to feed your kids well, this episode is for you! Let's build confidence together as we raise happy, healthy eaters   If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com   Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandi_jordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com   Connect with Jennifer Anderson Website: https://kidseatincolor.com/     Key themes Picky eating vs. extreme picky eating Early identification and intervention strategies Palate training and food variety Baby-led weaning vs. purees Cultural influences on feeding practices Parental confidence and flexibility Resources and support for feeding challenges     Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 01:02 What is picky eating and when to worry 03:18 Signs of atypical feeding behaviors in infants 05:10 Using a screener to identify extreme picky eating 07:34 Approaching feeding from infancy to prevent issues 08:01 The science of flavor exposure in utero and breastfeeding 09:24 Responsive feeding and mealtime strategies 12:36 Trying new feeding approaches and parent flexibility 13:24 What is baby-led weaning and its principles 15:19 Creating a positive feeding environment 17:46 Following child's lead and avoiding pressure 19:41 Addressing extreme picky eating and when to seek help 25:58 Resources and programs for feeding challenges 28:39 About the book 'Feed Them Well' and its benefits

  3. Aug 7

    How to Help Your Teen Choose the Best College Without Breaking the Bank

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I switch things up and dive into what it means to prepare our older kids for college. As a mom of three with a 19-year-old in college and two younger kids, I know firsthand that the journey through higher education can be overwhelming, especially with mounting costs and endless choices. That's why I invited Lizette Paredes, a college admissions expert, to guide us through finding the best "fit" for our teens, far beyond just chasing name-brand schools. Together, we explore the myths around merit scholarships, the importance of having early and honest financial conversations, and why understanding your child's unique strengths and interests leads to the best educational outcomes. We dig deep into the advantages of public universities, the benefits of community college, and why every student's journey deserves to be individualized, focusing on their happiness and future success, not just prestige. If you're a parent with college somewhere on the horizon, this one's for you! Listen in for practical tips, surprising options, and empowering advice to help both you and your teen navigate this exciting chapter.   If you want personalized support, you can learn more about my services here: https://www.thecradlecompany.com Sources mentioned: https://www.reading.com Connect with Me • Follow me on Instagram: @brandij_ordan_official • Podcast Instagram: @deardoulapodcast • Questions or topic ideas: brandi@deardoulapodcast.com   Connect with Lizette Paredes Website: https://empoweredaccess.com/   key topics The importance of fit in college selection Early planning and self-discovery for students Understanding financial aid and scholarship opportunities The changing landscape of student loans and debt The value of community colleges and transfer pathways How to build a balanced college list The role of intrinsic motivation in college success Career exploration and self-assessment for students   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to College Prep and Guest Lizette Paredes 02:21 The importance of supporting development beyond high school 04:38 Factors to consider when choosing colleges: fit, cost, size 05:35 The significance of financial fit and early conversations 07:24 Understanding the changing student loan landscape 10:47 Myth busting about merit scholarships at top universities 12:25 The value of exploring lesser-known colleges and transfer options 15:30 Career and interest assessments for students 18:29 Helping students discover their passions and fit 21:17 The importance of maximizing opportunities in high school 22:50 Strategies for middle-class families to afford college 25:07 The role of community colleges and transfer pathways 30:37 Building a balanced college list and managing expectations 34:18 The value of college experiences and adulting lessons 38:23 Common struggles students face in college applications 39:51 The importance of early self-discovery and exploration 45:13 Examples of diverse career paths and hidden opportunities 50:47 The benefits of early career counseling and exploration 57:16 Advice for parents: supporting growth without high stakes 58:45 Guidance for students: exploring interests and authenticity

  4. Jul 31

    Why Every Baby Hurts: Understanding Baby Bodywork for Calmer, Happier Infants

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I sat down with bodywork expert Ken Moench to dive into the often-overlooked impact of birth and pre-birth positioning on babies' comfort, development, and wellbeing. We shared our experiences working with families, highlighting that frequent fussiness, crying, and feeding challenges in infants might not just be "normal," but could be signs of physical discomfort that gentle bodywork can address. Ken Moench explained the principles behind his Mensch Method Bodywork, sharing heartwarming stories from his own practice that showcase the transformational effects of bodywork for infants, helping improve sleep, reduce crying, and even support breastfeeding. We also explored how a parent's health and even ancestral diet can influence a baby's wellbeing. If you're curious about supporting your baby's optimal development, this is a must-listen episode!   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   Connect with Ken: Website: https://moenchmethodbodywork.com/ Book: https://everybabyhurts.com/   Key takeaways   Pre-birth postural deficits and their impact on health Ken Moench's personal journey and prayer for wisdom Techniques for releasing tension in babies and adults The importance of early intervention in health The connection between birth, posture, and development How body work improves sleep, feeding, and mobility in babies The role of nutrition and lifestyle in holistic health The potential for body work to unlock human potential     Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Ken Moench's background 01:49 Ken's journey into body work and spiritual inspiration 04:58 The significance of pre-birth posture and its effects 10:00 How body work releases tension in babies 14:59 Case studies: from fetal position to relaxed baby 19:59 Impact of birth trauma and early postural deficits 25:04 Techniques for releasing hip flexors and neck tension 29:55 The importance of early intervention and practical tips 35:01 The connection between posture, health, and potential 39:50 How body work benefits pregnant women and families 44:59 Resources, book recommendations, and training opportunities 50:00 Ken's vision for global impact and future research

  5. Jul 17

    Infant Synbiotics: The Missing Link in Pediatric Gut Health

    Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. infants is missing a keystone species of gut bacteria entirely — including many breastfed, vaginally delivered babies long assumed to have the 'gold standard' microbiome. This episode pulls back the curtain on the infant gut microbiome, one of the most important and least understood frontiers in pediatric health. Today, I sit down with Stephanie Culler, a scientist and expert in gut health, to dive deep into the fascinating world of the microbiome and its impact on early childhood development. We discuss how a baby's gut health starts even before birth, the critical role of the microbiome in immune development, and why the rise in C-sections and antibiotic use may be linked to the alarming increase in childhood conditions like eczema, allergies, and asthma. Stephanie shares insights from her groundbreaking research, emphasizing how most modern babies are missing key gut bacteria that are essential for long-term health. We cover what parents can do to help set up a healthy gut for their children, including the importance of probiotics, prebiotics, diet diversity, and practical tips for boosting your family's microbiome in today's fast-paced world. Curious about whether you can undo any "mistakes" and help your child thrive? This episode will give you hope, real tips, and encouragement. Tune in, and don't forget to share the episode with other parents, leave a review, and let me know what you want to hear next. Your feedback helps more families get the support and knowledge they need!   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   Connect with Stephanie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/persephone.bio Website: https://persephone.bio/     key topics Impact of birth methods on microbiome Role of nutrition and prebiotics in gut health Importance of probiotics for infants and children Long-term health effects of early microbiome development Practical steps for supporting gut health in children   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nutrition and Mental Health 01:25 The Importance of Gut Health from Pregnancy 03:14 C-Section Births and Microbiome Inoculation 05:32 Postpartum Care for Gut Health 07:12 Probiotics and Prebiotics for Infants 09:30 Nutritional Needs for Children 10:36 Impact of Antibiotics on Child Development 12:46 Reversing Poor Dietary Choices 14:03 Long-term Health and the Microbiome 15:12 Understanding the Microbiome 15:43 Foods That Harm the Microbiome 17:00 Aha Moments in Microbiome Research 19:11 The Rise of Eczema and Allergies 20:33 Modern Life and Its Impact on Health 23:56 Practical Tips for Parents 25:23 Innovative Products for Gut Health

  6. Jul 10

    When the NICU Becomes Part of Your Birth Story

    Nearly 40% of babies who enter the NICU are full-term — meaning the NICU is never as far from any parent's birth story as they think. In this episode of Dear Doula, I sit down with NICU nurse and doula Mary Farrelly to talk about how medical professionals and doulas can work together to better support families with babies in the NICU. We discuss the emotional challenges parents often face, including fear, grief, stress, and the feeling of being completely unprepared for what they're going through. Mary shares her experience as a nurse, doula, and educator, and explains why families need support that goes beyond medical care, both during their NICU stay and after they return home. Together, we explore simple, practical ways doulas, healthcare providers, and communities can build stronger support systems, have more honest conversations, and help families feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you're going through the NICU journey yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn how to better care for new families, this episode offers valuable insights and practical takeaways. If you enjoyed the conversation, be sure to subscribe, share your thoughts, and check out the resources we mention. Your questions and feedback could help someone else on a similar 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     Connect with Mary Farrelly https://www.thenicutranslator.com/   key topics The role of doulas in NICU support Bridging medical and support systems Importance of prenatal NICU education Supporting mental health postpartum Creating a holistic family care approach Building community and support networks Addressing grief, guilt, and shame in NICU families Training and certification for NICU doulas Supporting family autonomy and decision-making Long-term impact of NICU experiences   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to NICU Experiences and Doulas 03:01 Bridging the Gap: NICU Nurses and Doulas 05:58 The Importance of Pre-NICU Conversations 09:00 Understanding Grief and Trauma in NICU Families 11:57 Building a Supportive Village for NICU Families 14:56 Creating Awareness and Reducing Stigma Around NICU Experiences 18:01 Navigating the Modern Village 19:17 The Importance of Education in Parenting 21:14 Breaking Down Barriers in Healthcare 22:48 The Role of NICU Doulas 29:07 Empowering NICU Families 32:08 Finding Joy in the NICU Experience

  7. Jul 3

    Is Screen Time Rewiring Our Children's Brains? The Digital Dementia Conversation with Danielle Riley

    We hand our kids screens almost without thinking. But what if that everyday habit is affecting their brain health for years to come? In this episode, we explore the growing concern around digital dementia, a term used to describe the impact that too much screen time can have on a child's developing brain. Studies suggest that spending more than 2 to 3 hours a day on screens may affect memory, attention, and learning, and could even increase the risk of cognitive decline later in life. In this episode, I am joined by Danielle Riley, a nurse with more than 20 years of clinical experience and the founder of Concierge Clinicians of Houston. Together, we break down what the research really says, why childhood brain development matters so much, and the simple, practical steps parents can take to help their children build healthier habits in today's digital world. Tune in to hear inspiring stories, simple strategies, and uplifting advice you can put into practice today. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us. Let's build a healthier digital future together! 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   Connect with Danielle Riley Website https://conciergecliniciansofhouston.com/     Key topics: Digital dementia and device overuse Preventive parenting and screen boundaries Intergenerational impacts of technology Old-school habits for brain health Social interaction and family routines Memory exercises and lifestyle changes Reversibility and hope for digital dementia Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Digital Dementia 02:08 Understanding Digital Dementia 04:59 Preventing Digital Dementia in Children 10:31 Strategies for Adults to Combat Digital Dementia 19:37 The Importance of Eye Contact and Engagement 28:07 Reversibility of Digital Dementia and Final Thoughts

  8. Jun 5

    15 Things to Teach Your Toddler That Have Nothing to Do With ABCs

    In this episode, I dive into the essential life skills every toddler should learn to thrive. Beyond colors and counting, I focus on the core values and practices that help build resilient, empathetic, and capable little humans. Drawing on more than 25 years of working with families, I share my perspective on what it really takes to foster emotional intelligence, teach delayed gratification, build community awareness, and nurture self-sufficiency in young children. In this episode, I cover 15 foundational skills, from learning how to ask for help, clean up after themselves, and regulate big emotions, to understanding body safety and appreciating the wisdom of elders. I reflect on my own upbringing and professional experience, offering practical examples and heartfelt stories that highlight how simple daily routines can lead to lifelong strengths. If you're raising a toddler or supporting someone who is, this episode is full of real talk and actionable tips for nurturing the next generation. Share this episode with someone who could use a little inspiration, and let me know which skills you're currently working on at home. 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 topics •    Teaching toddlers to ask for help •    Importance of patience and waiting •    Life skills for independence (dishes, laundry) •    Naming and regulating feelings •    Teaching body safety and boundaries •    Modeling respectful greetings and sharing space •    Fostering friendships and community values •    Encouraging boredom and imagination   Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Emotional Skills in Toddlers 06:17 Teaching Patience and Delayed Gratification 11:55 Fostering Independence and Life Skills 14:41 Understanding and Naming Emotions 19:11 The Art of Apologizing and Accountability 22:03 Social Skills: Greetings and Sharing Space 25:42 Building Friendships and Community 27:33 Body Literacy and Safety 30:48 Teaching Communication and Intentional Movement 32:41 Respecting Elders and Intergenerational Learning 35:31 Embracing Boredom and Imagination

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4.8
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

What if parenting could evoke a sense of calm, joy, and connection? Brandi Jordan, baby and parenting expert, not only believes that it can, but that it should with the right mix of empathy and grace! What if you had a village that was available for weekly support, advice, inspiration, and practical tips to make this parenting journey not only easier, but enjoyable? Grab a cup of tea and join Brandi as she dives into deep conversations that will help you to rediscover your intuition, joy, and sense of calm, along with interesting guests to give you the parenting village that you always knew you needed.

Information

  • Creator
    Brandi Jordan
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Dear Doula

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