In this heartfelt episode, Diane explores what true postpartum recovery looks like — beyond the six-week checkup. From honoring rest and nourishment to building community and seeking support, you’ll learn how to navigate this sacred season with compassion, confidence, and care. In this episode, we cover: Why the traditional six-week postpartum model isn’t enough How midwifery care nurtures the whole woman — body, mind, and spirit The cultural wisdom of postpartum rest and what modern mothers can learn Practical ways loved ones can support a new mom The importance of emotional and mental health after birth How community care and support groups can transform your recovery Local Listeners: Join our Willow Rooted Postpartum Circles — monthly gatherings at Willow Birth Centers designed to help mothers feel seen, supported, and grounded. Learn more: willowbirthcenteraz.com/wellness Follow us on Instagram: @willowbirthcenteraz Free Workshop — November 8: If you’re craving rest, renewal, and reconnection, join Diane for Midwifing Your Life: Cultivating Community & Embracing Transformation. It’s a free virtual experience where women in every season of life can slow down, reconnect, and rediscover what’s being born within them. Join the free Nov 8 workshop → themidwifelife.co/workshop Go Deeper — The Rebirth Journey Coaching Experience: For those ready to midwife their own transformation — body, mind, and spirit — Diane’s 12-week coaching program, The Rebirth Journey, offers personalized support, guided reflection, and soulful strategy for women navigating major life transitions. Apply or learn more: themidwifelife.co/rebirth Resources for Postpartum Support National & Online Resources: Postpartum Support International (PSI) — Find helplines, therapist directories, and online support groups. Postpartum Progress — A peer-led community raising awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. The Motherhood Center — Online therapy, support groups, and educational resources for postpartum mental health. Seleni Institute — Evidence-based support for maternal mental health and women’s emotional well-being. The Momwell Podcast — Conversations about identity, boundaries, and self-care for modern moms. Arizona-Based Resources: Willow Midwife Center for Birth & Wellness AZ — Comprehensive postpartum care and midwifery services in Mesa and Gilbert. Willow Rooted Circles — Monthly community gatherings for mothers in the fourth trimester. Women’s Health Innovations of Arizona — Counseling and psychiatric services specializing in perinatal mental health. 4th Trimester Arizona AZ Coalition — Providing resources for All families to be embraced by their communities in their transition to parenthood. If this episode resonated with you… Please take a moment to leave a review or share it with a friend who’s in her postpartum season. Your support helps us reach more women who need these conversations.

Take a deep breath with me. (exhale) This episode is an invitation to slow down, to stop rushing and listen for what’s rising within you. Because something new is being born… not just in the world, but inside you. Lately, so many women have been whispering the same truth: “I don’t even know who I am anymore.” But what if that disorientation isn’t the end of your story, what if it’s the beginning of your Rebirth? In this episode, Diane reflects on: The sacred in-between — the space between who you were and who you’re becoming Why so many women are feeling called into a collective Rebirth How to honor the transitions in your life instead of rushing through them Her own story of unraveling, remembering, and becoming An invitation to reconnect with yourself through the free workshop: Midwifing Your Life: Reconnecting With the Woman You’re Becoming Because you’re not broken — you’re becoming. And something new is waiting to be born. Join the free workshop on Saturday, November 8 · 10 AM (AZ time). Sign up here: https://themidwifelife.kit.com/3ab7ef713a Key Quote: “You’re not lost. You’re in a Rebirth.” – Diane Ortega

What if your nervous system could believe—deeply, fully—that it’s safe? In this episode, Diane explores the concept of nervous system safety, why it matters for women and mothers, and how we can begin to rebuild it. Through the story of a mother who transformed her second birth experience by shifting from fear to safety, Diane illustrates how safety in the body is not just emotional—it’s physiological. You’ll learn about Polyvagal Theory, practical nervous system regulation tools, and reflection prompts to help you reconnect with safety in your own life. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: A story of a mother who went from a traumatic first hospital birth to a healing second experience rooted in safety. The science of the nervous system: how the vagus nerve and Polyvagal Theory explain our states of safety, fight-or-flight, and shutdown. Why nervous system safety is essential for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond. Simple practices—breathwork, orienting, safe connection, and affirmations—that can help you return to calm. Reflection prompts to explore the last time you felt truly safe in your body. Workshop Invitation: Join Diane for her upcoming live experience: Midwifing Your Life: Reconnecting With the Woman You’re Becoming, a 90-minute workshop designed to help you rebuild safety in your nervous system, reconnect with yourself, and step into your next chapter with confidence. Reserve your spot here: https://themidwifelife.kit.com/3ab7ef713a

Is midlife burnout just the price of success? Not if Karen DiGenova has anything to say about it. In this episode of The Midwife Life, Karen joins Diane to talk about reframing midlife from a season of decline into a time of powerful transformation. A former global HR leader for brands like Deloitte, Nike, and Columbia Sportswear, Karen knows firsthand how professional women get stuck in go-mode—until their health forces a full stop. She shares her own journey through perimenopause, Hashimoto’s, and PCOS, and how it inspired her to leave corporate life and launch Ms. Midlife, a wellness company built to help women thrive instead of just survive. We dig into Karen’s signature framework, the Seven Branches of Midlife Wellness, and talk practical, bio-individual strategies for energy, sleep, movement, and hormone balance. Whether you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or just ready to feel better in your body, this episode will leave you feeling clear and empowered. Karen DiGenova is the founder of Ms. Midlife, a wellness company that helps high-achieving women become the CEOs of their health. After 30+ years in HR leadership and her own lived experience with autoimmune and hormonal challenges, Karen created the Seven Branches of Midlife Wellness Framework—a personalized system designed to transform burnout into sustainable vitality. She offers 1:1 and group coaching, corporate workshops, and retreats, all grounded in evidence-based lifestyle strategies that work in real life. What we cover: Why midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s a revolution The moment Karen ditched the prescriptions and chose true healing How her Seven Branches system helps women identify what’s actually out of balance The connection between sleep and everything (energy, food cravings, hormones, motivation…) Strategic protein + fiber intake (and what to expect when you skip them) What kind of movement matters most for longevity—and why it's not what you think The truth about hormone therapy and why only 7% of women use it Reclaiming your nervous system, setting boundaries, and moving beyond burnout Why community is just as important as supplements (and how Ms. Midlife programs build it) Prompts for reflection: Which of the seven branches feels weakest for you right now? How does your current routine support (or sabotage) your energy and clarity? What’s one micro-action you can take this week—like going to bed at the same time or doing 20 air squats at lunch? Are you making decisions for your future self—or just pushing through another day? Who’s in your community that supports your wellness? Links + resources: Connect with us: Instagram: @the.midwife.life.co Website: themidwifelife.co Take the Sacred Reset Quiz: Here Apply for the 12-week coaching program: I AM A MOTHER…NOW WHAT? Apply Here Connect with Karen: ⁠msmidlife.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠@msmidlifeofficial⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Karen DeGenova⁠ Karen’s Free Quiz: Seven Branches Quiz Want to work with Karen? ⁠Book your free discovery call →⁠ Resources: Othership App – guided breathwork (Karen’s favorite!) Andrew Huberman’s breath technique (inspiration for stress resets) Sauna research from the Finnish longevity study Karen’s upcoming retreats and group programs: Visit msmidlife.com Like this episode? Share it with a friend who’s navigating midlife—and hit subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation. Midlife isn’t the beginning of the end—it’s the start of a whole new chapter. Let’s make it a powerful one.

In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, I sit down with Brielle Jenson, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a midwife with over 20 years of experience, an IBCLC, and the author of the stunning new book Confessions of a Midwife. Brielle has worked in hospitals, home births, and birth centers, bringing a rare, unfiltered perspective on the challenges, triumphs, and deeply human moments of birthwork. Her work has been recognized in the field of midwifery, including a nomination for the ACNM Media Award in 2025, highlighting her dedication to sharing authentic stories and elevating maternal health conversations. In this episode, we dive into: The raw realities of being a midwife—beyond the perfect Instagram birth stories The emotional toll and healing power of birthwork Insights into perinatal mental health and supporting mothers through complex postpartum experiences Brielle’s journey to writing her book and why sharing these stories matters The balance of professional expertise and deep compassion in modern midwifery This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the human side of birth, whether you’re a parent, a birth professional, or simply fascinated by the art and science of midwifery. Key Takeaways / Reflection Prompts: What myths about birth and midwifery have you believed that might need reframing? How can compassion—for yourself or others—transform challenging experiences? In what ways can storytelling and shared experiences help heal communities of mothers and birth professionals? Next Step: Take the Sacred Reset Quiz Feeling inspired to reflect on your own energy, growth, and next steps? Try my Sacred Reset Quiz to discover: Which area of your life is ready for a reset Personalized insights to help you release what no longer serves you Clear guidance on the next steps for your transformation 🎯 Take the quiz here: What are you ready to reset? Resources & Links: Brielle Jenson’s Book: Confessions of a Midwife Good News: More Data on the Use of ADHD Medications During Pregnancy - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications © - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Withdrawal Symptoms in Newborns Exposed to SSRIs - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Study Supporting the Reproductive Safety of Gabapentin During Pregnancy - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Allison Baker, MD on the Specialized Care of Pregnant and Postpartum Women with ADHD - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Essential Reads: Breastfeeding and ADHD Medications - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Psychiatric Disorders During Pregnancy - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Psychiatric Disorders During Pregnancy - MGH Center for Women's Mental Health Fact Sheets - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Exposures | MotherToBaby Twin Cities Midwifery | Planning your Best Postpartum Babymoon Good Moms, Scary Thoughts – Happiest Baby Changes in your relationships after having a baby | NCT Psyched Mommy Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts – MOMBOX The Modern Mom: Embracing Motherhood In 2024 | Motherhood Center Order | Sanity School® for Parents the essential guide to raising complex kids - Search Shopping Home - Dr. Shefali 🎧 Check out more episodes of The Midwife Life: Listen Here 🌿 Connect with Diane & The Midwife Life Community: Check it out!

What if you could move through your next life transition like a birth — held, supported, and deeply trusted? In this powerful episode, Diane invites you into the Midwifing Your Life framework — a model of transformation rooted in the wisdom of midwifery. Whether you're starting something new, navigating the messy middle, or releasing what no longer fits, this episode is for you. You’ll explore: Why birth is the ultimate metaphor for personal growth The difference between hustling and healing How to recognize what this season of your life is truly asking of you Journal prompts to help you reconnect with your own inner wisdom What it looks like to be midwifed through your becoming — not pushed, not fixed, but held This isn’t about productivity. This is about presence. This is about becoming — with grace, courage, and support. Journal Prompts from the Episode: Light a candle. Take a breath. Reflect on these: 1. What is this season of your life really asking of you? 2. What kind of support are you craving—but not currently receiving? 3. What would it feel like to be held, instead of holding it all? 4. Who are you becoming… if you stopped hustling and started healing? Listen to this if you're… In a season of transition, reinvention, or rebirth Craving clarity, connection, and softer support Tired of hustling and longing for something deeper Ready to explore a new way of being in your life Links Mentioned: Join the live workshop: Midwifing Your Life – Oct 4th, $0! Bring a Friend! https://themidwifelife.kit.com/3ab7ef713ahttps://themidwifelife.kit.com/3ab7ef713a Take the Sacred Reset Quiz: ⁠https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/688e71b12541f0610fceaf59 Apply for the 12-week coaching program: I AM A MOTHER…NOW WHAT? https://forms.gle/hfrbsNZPGsBvZWGCA Stay Connected: Instagram: @the.midwife.life.co Website: themidwifelife.co More episodes: https://themidwifelife.co/the-midwife-life-podcast/

September is a season of transition, and a perfect time to pause, reflect, and reset. In this special birthday-themed episode, I guide you through a soulful end-of-summer reset, helping you release what no longer serves you, reflect on growth and lessons from the past year, and set clear intentions for the season ahead. You’ll experience: A release practice to let go of limiting beliefs, fears, or patterns Reflection prompts to celebrate your wins, breakthroughs, and growth A guided intention-setting exercise to invite new energy and possibilities A meditation to integrate release, reflection, and reset, leaving you grounded and aligned Whether it’s your birthday or not, this episode gives you the tools to do your own “birthday reset” and step into your next chapter with clarity, purpose, and soul-aligned energy. ✨ Plus: Stick around until the end to learn how you can deepen this work in my “Midwifing Your Life: Cultivating Community & Embracing Transformation” workshop. Journaling & Reflection Prompts from the Episode: 1. What’s one thing I want to release this year? 2. What’s one thing I want to invite in? 3. What do I celebrate about myself right now? 4. What lessons or breakthroughs from the past year can I carry forward? 5. Which habits or practices will support my intentions for the next season? 6. What small, meaningful step can I take today to align with my reset? Resources & Links: 🌿 Join the waitlist for the “Midwifing Your Life” workshop: https://forms.gle/Vxj3xbYJvLNVNYVf6 💌 Sign up for my newsletter: https://themidwifelife.co/

In this bonus replay of The Midwife Life, host Diane Ortega is joined by Alyssa Leon, founder and CEO of Cherry Blossom Doula Services. Together, they discuss Alyssa’s unexpected journey into the doula profession and the evolution of her solo practice into a thriving doula team. Alyssa opens up about the joys and challenges of supporting families through birth and postpartum care, and how her work has shaped both her career and her life. From establishing a successful practice to creating a sustainable work-life balance, Alyssa shares invaluable insights and experiences that will resonate with anyone passionate about birthwork and supporting women. Listeners will gain an in-depth look at how Alyssa has expanded her offerings, founded Root & Rice Collective, and how she’s now empowering other birth professionals through mentorship and community collaboration. This candid conversation highlights the importance of aligning integrity and sustainability within the doula community while emphasizing the need for self-care and balance. Key Takeaways: A Doula’s Origin Story: Discover how Alyssa’s love for birthwork began, from early childhood inspiration to becoming a childbirth educator and, ultimately, a sought-after doula. Creating a Sustainable Practice: Learn how Alyssa built and expanded Cherry Blossom Doula Services, navigating challenges in finding like-minded team members and creating a supportive, collaborative environment for doulas. Root & Rice Collective: Explore Alyssa’s philanthropic venture dedicated to accessible community support and education in Mesa, Arizona, emphasizing equity in birth and postpartum care. Work-Life Balance in Birthwork: Alyssa candidly shares how she manages the emotional, physical, and psychological demands of running a doula agency, with practical tips on maintaining boundaries, self-care, and resilience. Empowering Women Through Advocacy: Hear how Alyssa empowers families to make informed decisions and why advocating for oneself and others is crucial in the birth space. Did you enjoy this episode?  Subscribe to The Midwife Life for more empowering conversations about birth, postpartum care, and women’s health. Leave a review and share with friends who would benefit from these inspiring stories and expert insights. Your story matters—reach out and share it with us! Resources Mentioned: ⁠Cherry Blossom Doula Services⁠: ⁠https://cbdoulaservices.com⁠ ⁠Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern Lima⁠: https://amzn.to/3YDUC91 ⁠What Got You Here Won't Get You There: How Successful People Become Even More Successful by Marshall Goldsmith and Mark Reiter⁠: https://amzn.to/4fclDrg ⁠Be Her Village⁠ Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/ Website: themidwifelife.co Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/

What happens when you’ve grown, healed, shifted, and expanded… but your outer life still looks the same? In this soul-stirring episode, Diane explores the tension between internal transformation and external reality. If you’ve ever felt like you’re living in the gap—the sacred space between who you were and who you’re becoming—this conversation is for you. Through story, reflection, and ritual, you’ll discover how to honor the in-between, trust the unseen, and stabilize as your life catches up to your growth. What You’ll Learn 🌿 Why the “in-between” season is not failure but integration 🌙 Signs you’re in this tender transition space 🕯 Rituals + practices to honor your becoming without rushing it ✨ A guided reflection to help you root into who you are becoming Reflection Prompt Before September begins, light a candle and ask yourself: How do I want to feel about the woman I am becoming? Let that answer guide how you step into the new month. Share the Love If this episode spoke to something deep in you, share it with a friend who needs to hear: you are not behind, you are stabilizing.

In this bonus replay, Diane Ortega is joined by guest, Kari-Ann Hubbard, LAc, MSOM, a national board-certified acupuncturist and herbalist specializing in women's health, fertility, and perinatal care. Kari-Ann shares her extensive knowledge of Chinese medicine, explaining how this ancient practice takes a holistic approach to wellness by considering the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and environment. She also discusses her personal journey into this field and how it has helped her and her clients find balance and healing. Key Topics: Overview of acupuncture and Chinese medicine concepts Kari-Ann's personal experiences with anxiety and IBS as a child, and how that led her to discover the power of Chinese medicine Common issues Kari-Ann treats, including fertility, postpartum mental health, pain, and stress The role of herbs, food, and lifestyle practices in Chinese medicine for overall health and wellness Benefits of acupuncture and herbal medicine, including their ability to support the body's natural healing processes Simple self-care practices people can do at home, such as acupressure and breathwork What to expect during an initial acupuncture consultation and treatment If this episode has inspired you to explore the world of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, be sure to share it with a friend. Resources & Connect with Kari-Ann: To find a provider:  ⁠https://www.nccaom.org⁠ (National Board certification)  ⁠https://aborm.org⁠  (Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive medicine)  ⁠https://www.Acufinder.com⁠  Music effects on Perinatal mental health and labor pains:  ⁠https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32763833/⁠ Yang, et al (2021) "Effectiveness of acupuncture on anxiety disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials."  ⁠https://annals-general-psychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12991-021-00327-5⁠ ⁠https://lunaacupunctureaz.com/⁠ Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/⁠ Website: ⁠themidwifelife.co⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/⁠ Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/⁠

Your message is already inside you; it’s not something you have to chase down or force into existence. In this episode of The Midwife Life, Diane Ortega, midwife, mama, and sacred space holder for your becoming, guides you through the process of midwifing your message, from the first quiet spark to the moment you’re ready to share it with the world. Through personal stories, practical tools, and a guided visualization, you’ll learn how to honor the timing of your message, protect it while it grows, and release it into the world without rushing or over-polishing it into something unrecognizable. If you’ve been feeling the nudge to speak up, tell your story, or share your work, but you’re not sure where to start, this episode will remind you: the real magic happens when you speak from your scars, not just your successes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The three stages of message-birthing: Conception, Gestation, and Birth Why protecting your message while it’s tender is just as important as sharing it How to know when your message is ready for the world A 4-minute guided visualization to help you connect with and embody your message A practical “Message Protection Plan” to keep your ideas safe as they grow A soulful reflection practice to uncover the one thing you most want to say right now Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Take the Sacred Reset Quiz – Discover what season you’re in and how to honor it (https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/688e71b12541f0610fceaf59) Join the Waitlist for the Midwifing Your Life half-day workshop (https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/) Explore 1:1 Coaching with I AM A MOTHER… NOW WHAT? (https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/) 💬 Let’s Continue the Conversation: If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Tag me on Instagram @the.midwife.life.co and tell me: 💭 What’s the message you’ve been carrying that’s ready to be born? Listen now and start midwifing your message into the world—one truth-filled breath at a time.

What if your “new beginning” doesn’t look like a vision board or a sprint toward reinvention, but instead feels like a soft exhale? In this episode of The Midwife Life, Diane guides you through the energy of The Sacred Reset—a kind of beginning that doesn’t demand hustle, but rather honesty. This is for the woman who is burned out on doing, craving rhythm instead of rigidity, and ready to begin again… but different. Diane explores: The difference between performative rest and real pause How nervous system cues can guide aligned rebirth Why it’s okay to start again inwardly before anything changes externally Rituals and reflection prompts to help you feel your next step before forcing it Connect + Continue Take the Sacred Reset Quiz Subscribe for weekly episodes, sacred tools & reflections Sign up for upcoming Midwife Your Life workshops: https://themidwifelife.co/events/ DM me @the.midwife.life.co on Instagram and share your reset word for the season Listener Love Prompt ✨ If this episode spoke to a tender part of you, pause and share it with a woman you love. We rise better when we rise together. ✨

**BONUS REPLAY** In this compelling episode of The Midwife Life, host Diane Ortega sits down with Dr. Cara English, CEO of Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies and an expert in perinatal mental health. Together, they explore the often overlooked but critical subject of mental health for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. English shares her expertise on recognizing, understanding, and addressing perinatal mental health conditions, offering actionable advice and insights on building supportive systems that promote well-being for women at every stage. Key Takeaways: Understanding Perinatal Mental Health: What perinatal mental health encompasses, how it differs from postpartum depression, and why the distinction matters. Barriers to Care and Advocacy: Insights into the systemic challenges women face in receiving adequate mental health care and the innovative solutions being implemented in Arizona. Screening & Early Detection: Why early screening is critical and how providers can create safe spaces for open conversations about mental health. Building Community Support Systems: The role of peer support, community circles, and safe spaces for women to connect and find strength during challenging times. Self-Care Strategies and Beyond: Practical self-care approaches, counseling considerations, and the importance of support for partners and families. Did you enjoy this episode? If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Midwife Life for more insightful discussions on women’s health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. Share this episode with a friend or leave a review to help us reach more listeners on their health and wellness journeys. Together, we can make a difference. Resources Mentioned: Universal screening: ⁠https://policycentermmh.org/universal-screening-for-maternal-mental-health-disorders-issue-brief/?emci=94c440c6-0787-ef11-8474-6045bda8aae9&emdi=aa3abac5-3287-ef11-8474-6045bda8aae9&ceid=8744634⁠ Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS): ⁠https://www.cope.org.au/health-professionals/health-professionals-3/calculating-score-epds/⁠ Patient Health Questionnaire and General Anxiety Disorder (PHQ-9 and GAD-7): ⁠https://uhs.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu1651/files/docs/PHQ-9%20and%20GAD-7%20Form_a.pdf⁠ Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ): ⁠https://novopsych.com.au/assessments/diagnosis/mood-disorder-questionnaire-mdq/⁠ Adverse Childhood Experience Questionnaire for Adults: ⁠https://www.acesaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/ACE-Questionnaire-for-Adults-Identified-English-rev.7.26.22.pdf⁠ Somatic Therapies: ⁠https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-somatic-therapy-5190064⁠ SNOWBALL Mental Health Tips: ⁠https://birthwellbirthright.com/snowball-a-new-mothers-guide-to-postpartum-wellness/⁠ Recommended Reading: What Happened to You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce D. Perry: ⁠https://amzn.to/3YqrAto⁠ The Pain Gap: How Sexism and Racism in Healthcare Kill Women by Anushay Hossain: ⁠https://amzn.to/3YhqTCK⁠ Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype: ⁠https://amzn.to/3BYtp9F⁠ It’s Not Hysteria: Everything You Need to Know About Your Reproductive Health (But Were Never Told) by Karen Tang, MD, MPH: ⁠https://amzn.to/3Ur8wtZ⁠ Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Certificate, Women's Health ⁠Specialty⁠: ⁠https://cgi.edu/ibh-women/⁠ Trauma Informed Care Certificate: ⁠https://cgi.edu/tic/⁠ Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/ Website: themidwifelife.co Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/

In this vulnerable solo episode, Diane shares her transformational journey to Avalon—the mystical heart of Glastonbury, England—and how it became the sacred turning point she didn’t know she needed. While Diane has long guided women to release overwhelm and receive support, Avalon revealed a deeper truth: she was still holding far more than she allowed herself to admit. Through ceremony, sisterhood, and spiritual reckoning, Diane came face-to-face with the old pattern of over-responsibility—and made the choice to finally lay it down. This episode is a sacred reflection on self-devotion, feminine leadership, and what happens when we remember who we were before the world told us who to be. If you’ve been carrying too much, disappearing from your own life, or quietly asking “When is it my turn?”—this episode is your permission slip to come home to yourself. Resources + Links: Read the full Avalon blog post: https://themidwifelife.co/avalon-cracked-me-open-a-sacred-reflection-on-responsibility-rebirth-and-remembering-myself/ Join the Midwife Life newsletter: https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/ Follow Diane on Instagram: @the.midwife.life.co Subscribe to The Midwife Life Podcast: https://themidwifelife.co/the-midwife-life-podcast/ Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Tag @the.midwife.life.co on Instagram and tell us: What are you ready to lay down?

**BONUS REPLAY** This week on The Midwife Life, Diane sits down with Chelsie Bruggeman, the powerhouse CEO and founder of MOMentum, an organization dedicated to supporting mothers as they navigate the delicate balance of work, family, and self-care. A mom of two and one of Phoenix Business Journal's 2024 40 Under 40, Chelsie shares her journey from raising millions in scholarships at Arizona State University to building a thriving community that empowers working moms during matrescence. What We Cover in This Episode: ✨ Redefining Motherhood: Chelsie’s inspiring transition from gold-star achiever to creating a life that embraces the messiness and beauty of motherhood. ✨ The Power of Community: How MOMentum workshops, retreats, and monthly meetups provide moms with the validation and support they need to thrive. ✨ Navigating Work-Life Balance: Insights into the struggles moms face in the workforce and how to redefine success on your terms. ✨ Reclaiming Self-Care: Why finding time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential—and how to start small, whether it’s a yoga class, journaling, or a walk in nature. ✨ Creating Equity for Moms at Work: Chelsie’s vision for transforming workplaces to better support mothers through policies like paid leave, work-from-home flexibility, and building inclusive communities. Key Takeaways for Moms Everywhere: You’re exactly the mom your kids need, and every decision you make is valid. The village you’re seeking starts with finding a community that validates and uplifts you. Confidence grows when you surround yourself with people who remind you: “You’re doing great—it’s just that hard.” Small, intentional steps toward self-care can create a ripple effect in your family and career. About Chelsie Bruggeman: Chelsie Bruggeman is a mother of two little boys and the founder/CEO of MOMentum, an organization committed to supporting mothers in the workforce through community, resources, and professional development. During her time at Arizona State University, Chelsie raised over $15 million and established numerous scholarships, demonstrating her dedication to creating educational opportunities. In 2024, she was honored as one of Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. Her mission with MOMentum is to provide economic security and confidence to mothers during matrescence, transforming how we view and support motherhood. Learn More About MOMentum: Website: ⁠momentumforworkingmoms.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠@working_with_momentum⁠ Let’s Connect: Follow The Midwife Life on Instagram: ⁠@the.midwife.life.co⁠ Visit our website: ⁠themidwifelife.co⁠ Join the Conversation: If you loved this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Together, we can create a world where mothers feel empowered, supported, and celebrated at every step of their journey.

In this powerful solo episode, Diane Ortega, CNM, DNP—midwife, mom of four, and founder of Willow Midwife Centers—pulls back the curtain on her chapter in Six-Figure Chicks: Phoenix, Vol. 2. With honesty and heart, Diane shares what it took to write her story, the fears she overcame, and the legacy she’s building—one bold decision at a time. She opens up about what it means to be a late bloomer, the reality of being in “draft mode,” and why sisterhood was essential in bringing this book to life. You’ll hear the story behind the story—and walk away reminded that it’s never too late to rise. What You’ll Hear In This Episode: Why Diane calls herself a “career hummingbird”—and what finally made her land What it’s really like to write your truth when you’re still living the messy middle The moment she knew midwifery was her calling (even without a degree in hand) Her favorite line from the chapter—and why it’s a love letter to late bloomers Why this book is more than a launch—it’s a movement to amplify women’s voices How you can support Six-Figure Chicks: Phoenix Vol. 2 and join the ripple effect Ways to Support This Movement: Grab the ebook on Amazon for just $0.99 during launch week Share this episode and the book with a friend or group chat Leave a review for the book on Amazon—it makes a huge difference DM Diane after you download it—she’d love to send a personal thank you! Quote to Remember: “I became what some might call a late bloomer. But blooming later meant I had richer soil—life experience, clarity, grit. I wasn’t behind. I was right on time.” Links & Resources:📕 Get the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FDGPBTDB

In this intimate solo episode, Diane Ortega invites you into a powerful solstice reflection and shares the behind-the-scenes of her personal transformation. From the grief of letting go of a long-held vision to the light of spiritual rebirth, she offers a raw and radiant look at what it means to midwife yourself through change. She also opens up about her upcoming journey to Avalon—the sacred land of the Divine Feminine—and what she hopes to remember, release, and reclaim along the way. This is a story of light returning, purpose reawakening, and the beauty of trusting your sacred mess. In This Episode: The symbolism + power of the summer solstice Diane's personal “dark night” and the loss of Willow Rebloom What it means to midwife your own transformation The intention behind her Avalon pilgrimage A closing solstice reflection + journal prompt Mentioned in This Episode: Diane’s Avalon journey The Midwife Life community ✨ Journal Prompt:What is being illuminated in my life right now? What truth am I ready to see more clearly? What am I ready to release so I can rise?

This week we're throwing it back to the premiere episode of The Midwife Life where Diane sits down with Michelle Ludwig, an experienced birth doula and passionate advocate for women’s health. Together, they delve into the vital roles of midwives and doulas, how they work hand-in-hand to support birthing parents, and the unique benefits they bring to pregnancy and postpartum journeys. Michelle shares her personal journey from client to doula and offers insights into the collaborative dynamic between midwives and doulas in various birth settings. This episode emphasizes the transformative impact of feeling supported and empowered during childbirth and explores why every birthing parent deserves access to a nurturing birth team. Key Takeaways: Defining the Roles: Learn the key differences and unique contributions of midwives and doulas, and how these roles complement each other to provide holistic support. Empowerment Through Advocacy: Discover how informed choice and patient-centered care elevate the birth experience, empowering parents to make decisions that feel right for them. Navigating the Birth Journey: Michelle breaks down how doulas assist in different birth settings—home, birth centers, and hospitals—and the importance of being seen as an asset to the healthcare team. Building a Supportive Birth Team: Why every birthing person deserves a midwife and doula, and how to find the right team to support your unique journey. Addressing Fear and Reframing Pain: Exploring cultural narratives around childbirth, the impact of fear, and strategies for reframing pain as a productive part of the process. Did you enjoy this episode?  Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who would benefit from feeling empowered and supported through their own birth journeys. Your story matters—reach out and share it with us! Resources Mentioned: ⁠Modern Mama Doula⁠: http://www.modernmamadoula.com/ ⁠The motherhood co.⁠: https://www.themotherhoodco.com/contact Connect with Michelle on Instagram: ⁠@modernmamadoula⁠: https://www.instagram.com/modernmamadoula/ ⁠@the.motherhood.co⁠: https://www.instagram.com/the.mother.hood.co/ Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/ Website: themidwifelife.co Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/

In this heart-centered conversation, Diane sits down with Nikki Brewer—ayoga instructor, doula, birth educator, and mom of three—to explore thepowerful connection between yoga, birth, and the motherhood journey. With over 15 years of yoga experience and a background supporting laboring women, Nikki brings deep wisdom and compassion to every class she teaches. From embracing strength and surrender during pregnancy tobuilding community in postpartum recovery, Nikki shares how yoga canguide women through the physical, emotional, and spiritual transformationsof motherhood. What We Cover: Nikki’s story: from yoga teacher to mother, doula, and studio owner How yoga prepares the body, mind, and breath for labor What it means to “sink and surrender” in birth The critical role of community in postpartum recovery Simple, grounding practices any mom can do today Why motherhood and yoga are both acts of connection—mind, body, and spirit Memorable Quotes:“The first thing I learned about yoga is that it’s a connection of mind, body,and spirit. Motherhood taught me the same thing.”– Nikki Brewer “Strong women empower one another—and that’s exactly what our postnatal yoga space is all about.” Resources & Links: Learn more about Willow AZ Midwife Centers → https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/ Follow Diane on Instagram → @the.midwife.life.co Listen + Share:If this episode inspired you, share it with a mama you love! Subscribe, rate, and review The Midwife Life wherever you listen to podcasts.

Postpartum is more than physical healing—it’s a complete transformation. In this Q&A episode of Midwife Life, Diane Ortega answers powerful listener questions about healing, identity, and navigating life after motherhood. From pelvic health and cycle wisdom to the sacred mess of personal rebirth, Diane offers grounded, soulful guidance for women in every season of becoming. What You’ll Learn: What’s normal at six months postpartum How to use cycle tracking as a self-care tool Essential pelvic health tips after birth Navigating identity shifts in motherhood and business How to know when it’s time to let go and evolve What it truly means to midwife your life If you’ve ever felt lost, in-between, or unsure how to move forward—this is your permission slip to honor the season you’re in. 🎧 Listen now and share with a mama or friend walking through her own sacred becoming. Resources Mentioned: Follow Diane on Instagram: @themidwifelife.co (https://www.instagram.com/themidwifelife.co) Submit a question for the next Q&A: https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/