Dear Doula

Brandi Jordan
  • 4.8 (54)
  • 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

    Going Back to Work After Baby: The Emotional and Logistical Reality No One Prepares You For

    In this episode I open up about the real challenges and emotions that come with navigating postpartum life, especially when returning to work. Drawing from my own experiences as a mom and doula, I share the ups and downs of juggling career ambitions, shifting family dynamics, and the intense feelings that arise when stepping back into the workplace after having a baby. I offer practical tips on easing the transition back to work, such as building a milk stash for nursing mothers, gradually returning to your job, and the importance of maintaining open conversations with your partner about changing priorities and expectations. I also highlight the significance of self-care, leaning on your support village, and prioritizing meaningful time with yourself, your children, and your partner to sustain family wellness. If you're heading back to work, thinking about it, or supporting someone who is, I hope this episode reassures you that there's a wide range of "normal" feelings and experiences. Your journey is valid, and you're never alone! 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 Postpartum expectations and realities Returning to work after childbirth Emotional struggles and identity shifts Balancing career and motherhood Importance of building a support village Navigating parental leave and partner roles Self-care and maintaining relationships   Chapters (03:13) First Day Back at Work (5:07) Decision to Leave Job (6:04) Advice for New Parents (10:17) Work-Life Balance (18:09) Building a Village

    23 min

  2. APR 17

    Postpartum Recovery After 35: Hormones, Healing, and Support

    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

    40 min

  3. APR 10

    The 3 Biggest Sleep Mistakes New Parents Make

    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: Nutrition's impact on newborn sleep quality Overcoming sleep myths and negative mindsets Sleep crutches versus independent sleep skills Importance of creating sleep routines Tracking logs to identify baby patterns Dream feeds for longer sleep stretches 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

    26 min

  4. APR 3

    The Truth About Hiring Childcare in the U.S.: Rates, Roles, and What No One Tells You

    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 Postpartum and newborn care options explained Pricing and rates for childcare services Differences between doulas and newborn care specialists Industry standards for nannies and caregivers Importance of contracts and retainers Hiring methods: agencies vs. DIY approaches 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

    32 min

  5. MAR 28

    Prepping for Pregnancy: Unlocking Hormonal Health with Dr. Shivani Amin

    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 Hormonal imbalances and root cause treatment Importance of minerals for women's health Inflammation: causes, symptoms, and solutions Breath work and stress management Vitamin D, magnesium, and supplementation Navigating health advice and social media 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

    39 min

  6. MAR 20

    What Postpartum Recovery Really Looks Like (That No One Warns You About)

    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

    47 min

  7. MAR 13

    Regression or Growth Spurt? How to Tell What's Actually Going On With Your Baby's Sleep

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I'm talking about something many parents experience but often struggle to understand. The sudden changes in their baby's sleep. Is it a sleep regression, a growth spurt, or something else entirely? As a doula and sleep consultant who has supported families for many years, I see this confusion all the time. Babies suddenly waking more often at night, feeding differently, or becoming fussier than usual. These changes are often connected to developmental leaps, shifts in feeding needs, or the way a baby's sleep cycles are maturing. In this episode, I break down the difference between sleep regressions and growth spurts. I share real examples of what this can look like, from babies learning to roll over and waking themselves up, to the well known four-month sleep regression that catches many families by surprise. We also talk about what parents can actually do during these phases. I share simple ways to start understanding your baby's patterns, why it helps to track sleep and feeds for a short time, and how to look at bigger lifestyle changes that might be affecting your baby's rest. If you're currently in a stretch of broken sleep and wondering what changed, this conversation will help you make sense of what's happening and feel more confident in how you respond.   Resources & Products Mentioned Code for Ergopouch:  BRANDI Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump https://haakaausa.com/products/silicone-breast-pump Pampers Swaddlers Newborn Diapers https://www.pampers.com/en-us/diapers-wipes/pampers-swaddlers Holle Baby Formula Dr. Brown's Bottles (Anti-Colic) https://www.drbrownsbaby.com Soothie Pacifiers https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-mo/pacifiers Sweatpea Swaddle https://www.happiestbaby.com/products/sleepea-swaddle Bassinet Safety Guidance (AAP Safe Sleep) https://www.aap.org  Laundry Favorites for Baby Clothes:  Zum Laundry Soap — https://www.indigowild.com/collections/laundry-soap Seventh Generation Fabric Softener- https://www.seventhgeneration.com/liquid-fabric-softener-free-clear Ecover Fabric Softener — https://www.ecover.com/products/laundry/fabric-softener Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Remover — https://missmouths.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   Key Takeaways • Sleep regressions and growth spurts can look very similar, but they often have different causes. • Developmental milestones, like rolling or increased awareness, can temporarily disrupt sleep. • Growth spurts often come with increased feeding and changes in hunger cues. • Tracking sleep and feeding patterns for a few days can reveal helpful patterns. • Small adjustments, like dream feeds or bedtime timing, can support better nights for both baby and parents.   Timestamps 00:00 The Emotional Load of Parenting in 2026 06:41 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting and Personal Growth 12:23 Intentional Parenting: Prioritizing Yourself and Family Values 20:52 Creating a Peaceful Parenting Experience in 2026

    29 min

  8. FEB 27

    What You ACTUALLY Need in the First 30 Days With Baby

    In this episode of Dear Doula, I'm sharing what I actually recommend parents have ready for the first days home with a newborn. As a postpartum doula and lactation consultant who has supported families for nearly two decades, I know how overwhelming those early days can feel. There are endless product lists, conflicting advice, and so much pressure to get everything right. The truth is that you do not need as much as you think. What you need most is support, rest, and a few thoughtfully chosen essentials. We talk about feeding, diapering, sleep, postpartum recovery, and the small things that can make a big difference in your confidence during those first 48 hours at home. My goal is to simplify the experience so you can focus on bonding with your baby and healing. If you are preparing for a newborn or supporting someone who is, this episode will help you feel more calm, prepared, and grounded. Resources & Products Mentioned • Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump https://haakaausa.com/products/silicone-breast-pump   • Pampers Swaddlers Newborn Diapers https://www.pampers.com/en-us/diapers-wipes/pampers-swaddlers   • Holle Baby Formula Dr. Brown's Bottles (Anti-Colic) https://www.drbrownsbaby.com   • Soothie Pacifiers https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-mo/pacifiers   Sweatpea Swaddle  https://www.happiestbaby.com/products/sleepea-swaddle • Bassinet Safety Guidance (AAP Safe Sleep) https://www.aap.org    Laundry Favorites for Baby Clothes  Zum Laundry Soap — https://www.indigowild.com/collections/laundry-soap Seventh Generation Fabric Softener- https://www.seventhgeneration.com/liquid-fabric-softener-free-clear Ecover Fabric Softener — https://www.ecover.com/products/laundry/fabric-softener Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Remover — https://missmouths.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 Timestamps 00:00 Welcome: The first days home with a newborn 06:11 Feeding essentials: breastfeeding and bottles 12:11 Postpartum care for new moms 18:00 Sleep basics and swaddling guidance 22:30 Simplifying baby products and reducing overwhelm Key Takeaways • The first 48 hours at home are about bonding and adjustment, not perfection • Swaddling can dramatically improve newborn sleep and regulation • Postpartum recovery deserves just as much attention as baby care • You do not need dozens of products to care for a newborn well • Confidence grows quickly when parents feel supported and prepared

    18 min
See All (93)

Trailer

4.8
out of 5
54 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
    93
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Dear Doula

You Might Also Like