The NICU Translated Podcast

The NICU is a place of extraordinary medicine — where fragile lives are stabilized and miracles unfold every day. But survival is only part of the story. In this final episode of Season One, I share my hopeful vision for the future of NICU care, one that honors both medical excellence and emotional wholeness.What would it look like if trauma-informed practice was standard?If nurses were supported as humans?If families were integrated instead of accommodated?If roles like NICU doulas became collaborative bridges instead of afterthoughts?This episode is not about tearing systems down. It’s about evolving them.You’ll leave with a renewed sense of hope and practical ways you can be part of the next chapter of NICU support. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy Inside This Episode:00:00 Season One Reflection and Future Vision06:50 Emotional Labor and Compassion Fatigue in NICU12:50 Rehumanizing NICU Care18:43 Advocating for Change in NICU CareLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

So many nurses feel the tension between caring deeply and feeling powerless inside broken systems — especially in high-stakes environments like the NICU. Burnout isn’t a personal failure; it’s often a systems problem. But what if nurses didn’t have to leave healthcare to create meaningful change?In this episode, I’m joined by Claire Phillips, DNP, RN — a nurse leader, systems thinker, and founder of Nursing the System — to talk about how nurses can influence change without burning out or walking away from the work they love. Claire brings a unique lens shaped by emergency care, hospital leadership, health innovation, and global health tech.We explore how nurses can map their impact, identify where they actually have influence, and shift from feeling stuck to becoming strategic change-makers. Whether you’re a bedside nurse, NICU nurse, educator, or leader, this conversation offers a refreshing, empowering way to think about leadership, advocacy, and sustainability in healthcare. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyGuest Spotlight: Claire Phillips, DNP RNClaire Phillips, DNP, RN, is a nurse leader, educator, and systems strategist with a background in emergency care, hospital leadership, and healthcare design. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Innovation and Leadership and currently manages a team of clinicians at a health tech company in Amsterdam.Claire is the founder of Nursing the System, where she teaches nurses how to think in systems, lead strategically, and influence meaningful change without burning out. Through her teaching, courses, and tools, Claire helps nurses reclaim agency, build sustainable careers, and make impact from exactly where they are. Connect with Claire:nursingthesystem.comInstagram: @nursing.the.system: https://www.instagram.com/nursing.the.system/reels/Apple Podcasts - Nursing the System Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-the-system/id1788479433Spotify - Nursing the System Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/31O3ui2ES00PsdrpDYqGwd Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to Nursing and Systems Thinking06:26 Understanding Systems Theory in Healthcare09:53 The Impact of Burnout on Healthcare Providers14:51 Mapping Your Impact in the NICU22:15 Navigating New Roles and Embracing Frustration25:27 Integrating into Established Systems29:05 Understanding Stakeholder Dynamics31:16 Sustaining Change in Healthcare34:57 Designing for Ease and Efficiency38:38 Empowering Change Makers in Healthcare Links, Resources & Mentions:Check out Claire's "What’s Your Change Maker Move? Quiz": https://nursingthesystem.outgrow.us/nursingthesystem-nursing-career-pathway-quizCheck out Claire's Map Your Impact Mini Course: https://nursingthesystem.thinkific.com/courses/map-your-impact Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Insurance is one of the most confusing — and emotionally charged — parts of pregnancy, postpartum, and the NICU experience. Bills pile up, coverage feels unclear, and families are often left making financial decisions during moments of deep stress and vulnerability. In this episode, I’m joined by Pachet Bryant, founder of MINE Maternity, to break down maternity benefits in a way that actually makes sense. We talk about what families can do when insurance doesn’t cover enough, the hidden financial costs no one warns you about (especially when mental health support goes untreated), and practical advice for families who are pregnant or currently navigating the NICU.We also explore the other side of this work — how doulas can expand access to care and create more sustainable income by becoming insurance-credentialed providers. This conversation is about clarity, advocacy, and helping families enter parenthood with more peace of mind and fewer unanswered questions.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy Guest Spotlight: Pachet Bryant Pachet Bryant is the Founder of MINE Maternity and has 10 years of experience in the women's and maternal health industry, serving as a Benefits Navigator, Care Coordinator, Maternal Health Researcher and Advocate. Through her years, she has realized the importance of providing clarity on financial resources, especially for parents going through a major life event Every family deserves peace of mind when entering parenthood. MINE Maternity is here to help unlock financial resources and make the complexities of insurance and benefit navigation less complex. The Insurance Check Report allows individuals to clearly understand their benefits for specific services they are interested in from a insurance, FSA/HSA and employee assistance program perspective. The Reimbursement Maximizer is direct support from our Benefit Navigators to get as much money back into the hands of our clients as possible. Intake form: https://www.minematernity.com/navigating-care-benefitsConnect with PachetGuest website: www.minematernity.comInstagram: @minematernity: https://www.instagram.com/minematernity/Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to Pashay Bryant and MINE Maternity02:53 Understanding Your Insurance Power05:51 Navigating NICU Insurance Challenges11:25 Building Relationships with Healthcare Providers15:29 Exploring In-Home Care Options20:15 Preparing for Maternity: Key Insurance Steps24:17 Mental Health Support for NICU Families27:17 The Importance of Self-Care and Support29:03 Practical Resources for NICU Families30:12 Understanding Maternity Leave Options32:47 Legislative Changes and Hope for NICU Families35:27 The Role of Doulas and Insurance Coverage40:08 Activating Your Benefits and Support Systems45:36 Final Thoughts on Worth and Support Links, Resources & Mentions:Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/Hand to Hold: https://handtohold.org/ Project NICU: https://www.projectnicu.org/Alliance for Black NICU Families: https://blacknicufamilies.org/Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Some NICU journeys begin long before delivery — and Natascha Bohmann’s story is one of them. After a high-risk mono-mono twin pregnancy, a lengthy inpatient hospitalization, and a NICU stay for her daughters, she walked through every chapter of uncertainty a family can face: fear, waiting, grief, advocacy, and rebuilding life on the other side.In this episode, Natascha shares how her experience as a NICU mom, combined with her deep background in yoga therapy, grief support, end-of-life care, and healthcare communications, shaped her calling to become a NICU doula. Her story is a powerful reminder that the NICU doesn’t end at discharge — and that families need more emotional, informational, and integrative support than our current system offers. We explore what it’s really like to prepare for an inpatient stay, navigate high-risk pregnancy, transition home after NICU, and rediscover your voice as both a parent and a professional. Whether you’re a NICU parent or a doula building NICU-informed skills, Natascha’s wisdom offers grounding, clarity, and a path forward. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy Guest Spotlight: Natascha Bohmann; MBA, Yoga Therapist, Ayurveda Wellness Counselor, NICU Doula, Grief + Bereavement Specialist, End-of-life Doula Natascha is mom of mono-mono twins. After a lengthy antepartum stay due to a high-risk pregnancy and NICU stay for her girls, as well as navigating the transition home and beyond, she felt called to find meaningful ways to support other families faced with a similar journey. She participated in the beta cohort of the NICU Doula Academy and is working toward certification. In addition, Natascha is a yoga therapist, Ayurveda wellness counselor, grief and bereavement specialist, and end-of-life doula for people and companion animals. She also has a background in healthcare in both marketing/communications and sales. These various experiences have given her insights both from a patient perspective as well as a view of the challenges clinicians face, fueling her inspiration to be the change, and finding a way to bridge the gaps. Her vision is to provide peer-to-peer support to families from inpatient to the transition home and beyond, while weaving in foundational and sustainable yoga-inspired tools to buoy through uncertain and challenging times. She is currently building her offerings and providing support both in-person and virtually. Specific to her NICU doula work, Natascha is looking to create a collaborative network of birth and postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, PTs/OTs, speech therapists and other holistic professionals to help provide supportive resources to families (both in the Pacific Northwest and virtually). Connect through social media or hello.nourishedbeing@gmail.com if interested. Connect with Natascha: www.nourishedbeingnow.comInstagram: @_nourishedbeing_: https://www.instagram.com/_nourishedbeing_/Facebook: Nourished Being: http://facebook.com/nourishedbeing Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Journey05:42 Discovering the Pregnancy and NICU Reality10:34 The Birth Experience and Initial NICU Stay15:37 Navigating NICU Life and Logistical Challenges20:04 Mindset and Coping Strategies During NICU24:43 The Role of Community and Support29:32 Advocacy in the NICU34:07 Transitioning Home After NICU38:54 The Future as a NICU Doula Links, Resources & Mentions:Check out the NICU Doula Directory mentioned in the episode: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/find-a-nicu-doulaLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Stepping into the NICU can feel like landing in a completely different world — one with its own language, routines, and cast of characters. In this episode, I’m breaking down the essentials so you can start feeling more confident, informed, and ready to be an active part of your baby’s care team.We’ll cover what the NICU is, who’s on your baby’s care team, the most common terms you’ll hear, and how to get oriented so you feel less like a visitor and more like the vital parent or support person you are. Whether you’re here for your own baby or to better support the families you serve, this episode will give you a solid foundation.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy Guest Spotlight: Amanda Newstetter, MSWAmanda spent her whole first career as a Social Worker and Trainer in the HIV/AIDS Epidemic starting in 1984 when it was a death sentence. She has 2 daughters and two grandchildren and she and her partner Donna have been together 40 years. She thought that working in the Birth world with new life would nicely balance her early career which focused on illness and death. She has always been drawn to life's thresholds and is in the Threshold Choir which sings at bedside to people who are sick and dying and lullabies to new babies. She lives in San Francisco with her partner. Connect with GuestPPDoula.comInstagram: @amanda_as_postpartum_doula: https://www.instagram.com/amanda_as_postpartum_doula/ Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Journeys04:02 Amanda's NICU Experience and Emotional Journey07:00 Navigating Postpartum Healing in the NICU09:59 The Role of Support and Connection in the NICU12:40 Transitioning Home: The Challenges of NICU Discharge15:36 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on NICU Families18:39 Mental Health After NICU: Amanda's Journey23:00 The Importance of Processing Birth Trauma25:58 Thresholds: Supporting Families Through Transitions28:51 Advice for NICU Families: Healing and Trusting Yourself32:02 Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey Beyond the NICU Links, Resources & Mentions:Want a gentle place to process your NICU experience? Start with The NICU Notebook: https://thenicunotebook.com/Want to reflect on and reclaim your NICU journey? Explore Your NICU Story: https://a.co/d/0iPbVRD Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

The NICU may end at discharge, but for many families, the journey is far from over. Life after the NICU often means learning to navigate complex medical needs, therapies, and emotions that don’t fit neatly into anyone’s discharge plan. In this episode, I’m joined by Michele Salmons, mom of two and one of my former NICU doula clients, whose story is one of courage, advocacy, and deep love. After a uterine rupture during her son Harvey’s birth, Michele and her husband were told he had very little chance of survival. But their journey — from transferring NICUs to building a life of medical care, therapy, and blended feeding at home — has become a testament to what it means to move from crisis to confidence. We talk about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, how to rebuild life and identity after trauma, and the ways families like Michele’s redefine what thriving looks like. Whether you’re a NICU parent walking a similar path or a doula wanting to better understand life after discharge, this episode offers perspective, honesty, and so much heart.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy Guest Spotlight: Michele SalmonsMichele is the mother of two young boys. During her second birth with her son, Harvey, Michele sustained a uterine rupture. Harvey was born with an APGAR score of 1 and given very slim chances of living. Amidst the devastation, Michele and her husband quickly learned to advocate for Harvey ultimately transferring him to a different NICU. After over a month, Harvey was discharged home and the family's journey of complex medical care, early intervention and intensive therapy, and living life through a new perspective began. Today, at nearly two, Harvey is a Cerebral Palsy warrior and Infantile Spasms and Lennox Gastaut Syndrome fighter (along with several other diagnoses). Michele turned to blended tube feeding for Harvey, continues to seek out nationally renowned therapy, and says she will "stop at nothing to give Harvey the best life possible". Connect with MicheleInstagram: @hehasmiraclesHe HAS Miracles was founded to honor the journey and witness the miracles of a little boy named Harvey. Harvey's first month+ on earth began in the NICU as a HIE survivor. Today, at nearly two, Harvey is a CP warrior and IS and LGS fighter. Harvey has defined many of the odds and is living proof that miracles exist. Harvey's family envisions He HAS Miracles morphing into a non profit supporting advocacy, awareness, education, research and resources in the complex medical, brain injury, blended g-tube feeding, and special needs spaces. Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to Michelle's NICU Journey01:59 Harvey's Birth and NICU Admission09:01 Initial NICU Experience and Parental Advocacy18:37 Transitioning to a New NICU24:08 Life After NICU: The Transition Home30:35 Navigating Home Health Nursing37:35 Evolving Needs and Family Dynamics39:39 Navigating the Complexities of Caregiving44:49 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges49:38 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents55:50 Managing G-Tube Care and Nutrition01:07:50 Creating Community and Sharing Experiences01:12:48 Hope and Faith in the Journey of Parenting Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

There are so many myths about the NICU and while most come from a place of love, they can leave families feeling confused, unprepared, or even ashamed for not matching someone else’s expectations. In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 5 NICU myths I hear most often, including big ones like “all NICU babies are preemies,” “NICU babies can’t be breastfed,” and “once you go home, everything goes back to normal.”Together, we’ll talk through what’s actually true, what’s outdated, and what families really need to know to feel more confident and supported. My goal is to replace fear and misinformation with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based guidance so whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, nurse, or support professional, you can better understand what NICU families are facing.By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what NICU care looks like today, how to support bonding and breastfeeding in the NICU, and why discharge is the beginning of a whole new chapter, not the end of the story.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyGet NICU informed before the end of the year with special pricing on my Navigating the NICU course! Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Myths02:50 Understanding NICU Experiences07:37 Myth 1: Prenatal Preparation Can Prevent NICU Stays08:57 Myth 2: All NICU Babies Are Premature12:53 Myth 3: NICU Babies Can't Be Breastfed17:08 Myth 4: NICU Babies Are Too Fragile to Be Held21:24 Myth 5: Life Returns to Normal After NICU Discharge27:17 Empowering Families and ProfessionalsLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

When a pregnancy becomes high-risk, fear can take over — for both families and the professionals supporting them. But with the right tools, mindset, and communication, confidence and calm are still possible.In this episode, I’m joined by Cassandra Kobiltz, a labor and delivery nurse, doula, and the founder of Hakuna Matata Mamas. Cassandra blends medical knowledge with mindfulness-based support, helping families prepare for birth when circumstances feel uncertain or out of their control.We’ll talk about what “high-risk” really means, how to navigate shifting birth plans, and why emotional safety is just as important as physical safety. Whether you’re a doula supporting a complex pregnancy or a parent preparing for a birth that looks different than you expected, this episode will leave you grounded, informed, and inspired.Guest Spotlight: Cassandra Koblitz BSN-RNCassandra Mae, founder of Hakuna Matata Mama, is a high-risk labor and delivery nurse turned virtual maternal mentor and hospital birth coach who helps women have the best day of their lives, the day they meet their baby, no matter how it happens. With over 13 years of experience supporting women with high-risk pregnancies, she blends clinical expertise with mindset and somatic work to help mamas calm their nervous system, trust their body, and show up with courage and confidence. Through her signature Compass-ionate Framework, Cassandra bridges the gap between medical care and emotional support, like a nurse bestie in your corner, helping women feel seen, supported, and deeply connected every step of the way.Connect with Cassandrawww.hakunamatatamamas.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hakuna.matata.mamasFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555883715054Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hakuna-matata-mama/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hakuna.matata.mamasInside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to High-Risk Pregnancy and Birth02:07 Cassandra's Journey in Nursing and Doula Work05:09 The Impact of Travel Nursing on Perspectives07:53 Understanding High-Risk Pregnancy11:21 Coping with High-Risk Labels16:25 Mindfulness and Nervous System Regulation20:59 The Importance of Self-Care and Intuition24:23 Advocacy and Trusting Your Instincts25:48 The Importance of Intuition in Healthcare Conversations26:43 Navigating High-Risk Birth Scenarios29:57 Coping Mechanisms for Expecting Parents31:34 Acknowledging Loss in Birth Expectations33:56 Balancing Medical Protocols and Patient Wishes37:03 The Human Element in Medical Care39:45 Processing Trauma in Healthcare43:59 Empowering Parents in High-Risk SituationsLinks, Resources & Mentions:Get Cassandra’s free resource, “5 Things You Need to Know When Your Pregnancy Becomes High-Risk,” a short, powerful audio series designed to help mothers move from fear and uncertainty to feeling informed and supported. The series was made to remind women that even with a high-risk diagnosis, they still have a voice, a choice, and the ability to have the best day of their lives, the day they meet their baby.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

If you’ve never heard of a NICU doula, you’re not alone — even many birth professionals don’t know this role exists. But NICU doulas are filling a huge gap in support for families navigating the NICU, and their impact can be life-changing.In this episode, I’ll explain what a NICU doula does, why families deserve one, and how they can make the NICU journey less overwhelming for parents — and more collaborative for care teams. Whether you’re a parent, a doula, or a hospital leader, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Hear my journey in episode one on The NICU Translated Podcast: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/episodes/1-welcome-to-the-nicu-translated-podcast Listen to episode 6 with Shayna, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/episodes/6-the-art-of-advocacy-in-the-nicu-how-to-build-the-right-care-team-for-your-babyListen to episode 8 with Jillian, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/episodes/8-from-nicu-mom-to-bedside-doula-how-one-parent-is-changing-nicu-careNICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to NICU Doulas01:01 Understanding the Role of a NICU Doula03:22 The Importance of Emotional Support in the NICU07:06 The Impact of NICU Doulas on Family Well-being10:10 Supporting Families Through the NICU Experience12:22 The Role of NICU Doulas in Preventing Burnout14:37 Continuity of Care: NICU Doulas from Prenatal to Postpartum17:43 Preparing Families for the NICU Experience21:22 Post-Discharge Support and Transitioning Home25:39 The Future of NICU Doula Work and Community ImpactLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Most parents leave the NICU hoping they’ll never have to return. For Jillian, walking back into those hospital doors meant something entirely different — she was returning as a NICU doula, hired to support families right at the bedside.In this inspiring interview, Jillian shares her journey from NICU parent to professional advocate, the steps she took to step into her new role, and how her work is already making an impact for families and staff alike. If you’ve ever wondered what a NICU doula can do or dreamed about turning your personal NICU story into a career that changes lives, this conversation is for you.About Jillian:Jillian is a former NICU parent who turned her own long and challenging NICU experience into a mission to support other families walking a similar path. She trained as a NICU doula through Mary’s NICU Doula Academy and is completing her certification. Jillian will soon be working part-time in the hospital, where she’ll walk alongside NICU families, offering comfort, understanding, and guidance through this tender season.Connect with Jillian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/one.redeemed.mama/NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyThe future of NICU support is here — and Jillian’s story shows what’s possible.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Jillian's NICU Journey04:25 The Unexpected NICU Experience07:10 Memorable Moments in the NICU09:53 Support Systems and NICU Family12:40 Transitioning Home from the NICU15:34 The Challenges of Homecoming18:11 Exploring the Role of a NICU Doula25:29 Understanding the NICU Experience29:43 The Role of a NICU Doula33:58 Implementing Change in NICU Care39:13 The Future of NICU Support46:41 Connecting with the NICU CommunityLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU bedside support, NICU advocacy, NICU parent story, becoming a NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU career change, supporting NICU families, NICU Doula Academy.

Advocating for your NICU baby doesn’t have to mean conflict — in fact, the best advocacy builds bridges and strengthens your baby’s care team.In this episode, NICU parent and NICU Doula Academy graduate Shayna Abraham shares her practical, compassionate approach to finding the right providers, recognizing when things aren’t working, and making changes with confidence and respect. You’ll learn the signs of a strong provider relationship, how to address concerns effectively, and tips for building a support network that truly meets your baby’s needs.Whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, or other birth professional, this conversation will leave you feeling more confident in your role as your baby’s advocate.Take Shayna’s survey here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxwGLTdKVD-qz_Fk3j0IFwTtCUiez4wzZZ-aYqjVoIiU3XPg/viewformNICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyAdvocacy in the NICU isn’t just possible — it’s powerful.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to NICU Journeys04:00 Shayna's NICU Experience and Advocacy06:41 Navigating Post-NICU Care09:04 Finding the Right Care Team11:42 Red Flags in Healthcare Providers14:16 Effective Communication with Providers16:49 Building a Support Team Post-Discharge19:20 The Importance of Community Support21:57 Survey for NICU Families24:23 Conclusion and ResourcesLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.SEO Keywords: NICU advocacy tips, NICU care team, finding the right NICU providers, NICU parent resources, NICU support network, NICU doula advice, advocating for NICU baby, NICU provider relationships

“When can my baby go home?” If you’ve ever been in the NICU, you’ve probably asked it — or thought it. It’s a natural question, but the answer is rarely simple. In this episode, I’m breaking down the key milestones babies need to reach before discharge, what can speed up or slow down that process, and how parents can be actively involved in getting their baby ready for that big day.You’ll leave with a clearer picture of what “ready to go home” really means — and how to celebrate each step along the way.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academyTimestamps: 00:00 Understanding NICU Discharge: The Big Question02:00 Key Milestones for NICU Discharge07:42 Feeding Challenges and Solutions12:41 Preparing for Discharge: Checklists and Education17:18 The Journey Beyond NICU: Transitioning HomeLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.Keywords: NICU discharge, when can baby leave NICU, NICU milestones, NICU going home checklist, preemie going home, NICU discharge criteria, NICU parent support

Stepping into the NICU can feel like landing in a completely different world — one with its own language, routines, and cast of characters. In this episode, I’m breaking down the essentials so you can start feeling more confident, informed, and ready to be an active part of your baby’s care team.We’ll cover what the NICU is, who’s on your baby’s care team, the most common terms you’ll hear, and how to get oriented so you feel less like a visitor and more like the vital parent or support person you are. Whether you’re here for your own baby or to better support the families you serve, this episode will give you a solid foundation.NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5thingsDownload my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplanLearn more about how you can become a Certified NICU Doula (C-ND) here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academySuggested NICU Journals:The NICU Notebook: https://thenicunotebook.com/Your NICU Story: https://a.co/d/0iPbVRDTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to the NICU Experience01:56 Understanding the NICU: Definition and Purpose03:42 Levels of NICU Care Explained07:17 Meet the NICU Care Team11:46 Navigating the NICU Environment15:35 Establishing Routines and Communication19:11 The Importance of Parental Involvement22:01 Preparing for the NICU: Birth Plan TemplateLoved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.Until next time, remember:The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.Keywords: NICU 101, NICU basics, NICU explained, NICU terminology, NICU care team, NICU orientation, preemie care basics, navigating the NICU, NICU support tips