Stop posting educational content.
Use custom AI tools for everything.
Say something controversial to grow faster.

But much of this advice is coming from people who are selling to coaches, creators, and influencers not people working in healthcare-adjacent professions like birth work.

In this episode, Niamh Cassidy (IBCLC, antenatal educator and business coach for birth workers) unpacks three pieces of popular business advice currently circulating online and explains why birth workers should think twice before following it.

Because strategies that grow quickly online can sometimes damage credibility and trust, and in birth work, trust is everything.

In This Episode

Niamh discusses:

• Why the advice to “stop posting educational content” doesn’t make sense for birth workers
• How educational posts build trust, authority and credibility with expectant and new parents
• Why parents actively search for evidence-based information about birth, breastfeeding and newborn care
• The growing trend of custom AI tools and AI-generated advice in business
• Why relying on someone else’s AI tool can dilute your voice and professional judgement
• Practical ways birth workers can use AI as a tool without outsourcing their expertise
• The rise of controversial or polarising content designed purely to drive engagement
• Why “hot takes” and debate-driven content can undermine credibility in a trust-based profession
• How viral reach is not the same as attracting aligned clients
• Why sustainable growth for birth workers comes from consistency, clarity and trust

What Actually Works for Birth Workers

Instead of chasing online trends designed for influencers, Niamh shares three principles that support sustainable, ethical business growth in birth work:

1. Trust grows birth businesses

Families choose birth professionals they feel safe with. Clear, grounded, evidence-aware communication builds that trust.

2. Consistency matters more than going viral

Showing up regularly with useful information is far more effective than chasing occasional viral posts.

3. Strategy should match your stage of business

The advice that works for someone with a fully booked practice may not be right for someone just starting out.

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With over 17 years’ experience in coaching women, Louise shares her personal journey from competitive boxing to running a female-only gym, and now coaching women worldwide through her online platform. Her approach blends fitness, mindset, and real-life strategies to help women prioritise their wellbeing—even when life is full on.

Together, we explore:

• The real reasons birthworkers struggle to prioritise their health
• Why strength and mobility are essential for longevity, especially for women over 30
• How mindset is the missing piece in most health and fitness plans
• Sustainable health strategies for mums, doulas, and perinatal professionals
• The truth about six-week challenges, restrictive diets, and burnout culture
• Small daily wins and the “big rocks” planning method that keeps you sane

Whether you’re a doula on call, a lactation consultant juggling clients, or a tired mama trying to show up for both your business and yourself—this episode will help you rethink self-care, motivation, and what it means to be strong in body and mind.

🔗 Connect with Louise O’Brien
Instagram: @louise_badasscoaching
Email: badasscoachinginfo@gmail.com

👋 Join the conversation on Instagram:
@preg_and_postnatal_collective

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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A collaboration, a speaking gig, a brand opportunity, a new direction for your work — and instead of excitement, you felt unsettled, conflicted or quietly uncomfortable.

If you’re a doula, lactation consultant, antenatal educator or birth worker, this experience is far more common than you might realise.

In this episode, I’m talking about mission, principles and values in your birth work business — what they actually are (not the fluffy corporate version) and why they quietly shape every decision you make, whether you realise it or not.

This is not about branding or writing something pretty for your website.
 It’s about clarity, alignment and confidence in how you run your business.

Episode Timestamps: Mission, Principles & Values in Your Birth Work Business

01:10 – “It looks good on paper but feels wrong”
Why so many birth workers struggle with business decisions despite being highly skilled

02:40 – Why strategy alone isn’t enough in a birth work business
The missing foundations beneath marketing, pricing and Instagram tactics

04:10 – What mission, principles and values really are (not the fluffy version)
Why this is about clarity and alignment, not branding

06:00 – What happens when your business feels misaligned
How saying yes to the wrong things slowly disconnects you from your calling

07:30 – Using your mission and values as a decision filter in business
How to decide what to say yes and no to as a birth worker

11:10 – My own mission statement as a birth worker
How evidence-based care, human rights and social justice shape my work

13:30 – Why your mission is more than a website statement
How it guides your services, marketing and long-term direction

15:10 – What values are (and what they are not)
Why values are not personality traits or buzzwords

18:40 – Fear vs misalignment in business decisions
How to tell the difference between nerves and true value conflict

20:30 – What happens when you ignore your values
Cognitive dissonance, regret and ethical drift in business

22:40 – What a values-driven organisation looks like in real life
Lessons from working in a homeless charity with lived organisational values

25:10 – Stewardship and quality as working business values
How real values guide everyday decisions, not just big ones

27:30 – How this shaped how I run my own business today
Applying organisational values to a solo birth work business

29:00 – Saying no to misaligned opportunities (even good ones)
Why I declined a major speaking opportunity on ethical grounds

34:00 – How values guide content and visibility decisions
Why I sometimes don’t post things that don’t align, even if they’d perform well

36:20 – Why mission and values make business simpler, not harder
Reducing decision fatigue and overwhelm in self-employed birth work

38:00 – Using your mission and values when you feel unsure
How written clarity helps you decide whether something is fear or misalignment

40:00 – Invitation to reflect on your own mission and values
Why every doula, lactation consultant and antenatal educator needs this foundation

41:30 – Support inside Your Birth Biz & closing thoughts
Building a sustainable birth work business from the inside out

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Most marketing advice was written for people selling software, shoes, or supplements, not for the care that you provide. And if you've ever read a marketing tip and thought I literally cannot do that, this episode is for you.

In this episode I'm breaking down five reasons why marketing in birthwork is genuinely different and why the tactics that work elsewhere can feel completely wrong in our industry. That friction you're feeling isn't a sign you're doing it wrong.

In this episode:

• Why your professional ethics rule out tactics most marketers use without a second thought
• The level of connection clients need before they'll ever consider booking you
• Why your window to reach potential clients is shorter than almost any other industry
• The buying competition you're up against before families have even heard of you
• The cultural reason spending money on women's support feels hard for your clients and for you

If you've ever felt like you're playing the marketing game with one hand tied behind your back, this one will make a lot of sense.

If this episode resonated, please leave a review wherever you listen — it helps other birthworkers find the podcast.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Whether you're a doula, IBCLC, antenatal educator, or any kind of birth worker trying to figure out what to charge — this one's for you.

In this episode:

• How each guest decided what to charge when they started out — and what they'd do differently
• The burnout that comes directly from undercharging in your doula business (and why it's not just about the money)
• Emma on female altruism being weaponised against birth workers — and why our industry keeps absorbing it
• Why "it's a calling" might be the most damaging phrase in birth worker marketing
• Natalie's moment: the client who said, post-birth, "I can't believe you were so cheap"
• The pricing visibility debate — should your doula rates be on your website or saved for the discovery call?
• The societal double standard: €250 for a 15-minute consultant appointment vs. €170 for an hour-and-a-half lactation home visit
• What happens to the whole doula/IBCLC pricing landscape when experienced birth workers encourage newcomers to work for free
• Why building a sustainable birth business means pricing like you need to actually live

This is the birthworker business conversation that usually only happens in private. It deserves to be out in the open.

About the guests:

Natalie Abuce — Natnat Your Doula Natalie is a woman-centred birth doula supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and the maternity system with confidence and informed choice. Based in the southeast and southwest of England, she's passionate about reminding women that their voice matters, their instincts matter, and they deserve to birth feeling powerful, heard, and respected. 🌐 www.natnatyourdoula.co.uk | 📧 natnatyourdoula@gmail.com | @natnatyourdoula (all socials)

Emma Fitzsimons — The Marathon Doula Emma is a Birth and Postpartum Doula and Fitness Instructor based in Cavan and Meath. Drawing on her own experiences with maternity services, she qualified as a doula in 2023 and brings over a decade of fitness instruction alongside a deeply personal understanding of what women need in birth and postpartum. She also brings the perspective of 15 years as a single mum. 📱 @emmathemarathondoula on Instagram

Audrey McEntee — Hug and Hold Postpartum Doula Support Audrey is a postpartum doula, maternity night nanny, newborn care specialist, and International Certified Infant Massage Instructor based in Ireland. Founder of Hug and Hold Doula Support, she specialises in supporting families through those precious and sometimes overwhelming early days — creating calm, answering questions, and holding space so parents can thrive (not just survive) postpartum. 🌐 hugandholddoula.com | 📧 audreymcentee@gmail.com | @hugandholddoulasupport on Instagram

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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In this episode, I explain how 15 years in social care shaped how I coach birth workers and how I support families as an IBCLC lactation consultant. You’ll hear how to build a sustainable birth business that fits around your children, your health and your values, without hustle culture or burnout.

In this episode:

• How to choose a business coach as a doula, lactation consultant or antenatal educator, plus the questions to ask on a discovery call
• Why a business strategy that ignores your family life leads to burnout, and how to avoid it
• How to grow a birth work business around school hours, caring responsibilities and limited time
• The difference between a stretch and something that goes against your ethics, including whether to use AI in your business
• Why self-employed birthworkers need a plan for sick pay and reserves
• How therapeutic crisis intervention helps with stress triggers and safety on home visits
• Why good coaching is listening and strategy

Free download: Safety Guide for Birth Workers → https://yourbirthbiz.com/safety

Interested in one-to-one business coaching for birthworkers? DM me on Instagram or email hello@yourbirthbiz.com 

Keywords

• business coach for birth workers
• business coaching for doulas
• business coach for lactation consultants
• how to choose a business coach
• questions to ask a business coach
• sustainable birth business
• doula business burnout
• birthworker burnout
• balancing motherhood and business
• mum in business / mother entrepreneur
• self-employed sick pay Ireland
• how to grow a doula business
• antenatal educator business
• postpartum doula business

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What We Cover in This Episode:

• Why mindset matters: Tackling mindset blocks is the foundation for business growth. Without this work, strategies like pricing or marketing often hit a wall.
• Temporary Thought Patterns (TTPs): Learn how to identify and challenge fleeting, negative thoughts that can derail your confidence, such as imposter syndrome and self-doubt.
• Real-life breakthroughs: Hear inspiring stories from NEST participants who overcame mindset blocks related to pricing, self-worth, and transitioning from volunteer to professional roles.
• Practical mindset exercises: Join Niamh in uncovering your core positive beliefs and challenging limiting beliefs that might be holding you back.

Key Takeaways:

1. Mindset work starts here: Identifying and addressing temporary thought patterns is essential to building sustainable, thriving businesses.
2. Positive reframing: Learn how to reframe limiting beliefs like "I can't charge for this" or "I don't have time" into empowering statements that support growth.
3. The power of visualisation: Niamh guides listeners through a short, impactful visualisation to imagine their future success and reflect on what steps they need to take.

Episode Highlights:

• Stories from participants who overcame pricing guilt and self-doubt to feel confident in charging for their services.
• Niamh shares her personal journey of balancing volunteer work with paid business efforts and the mindset shifts that helped her succeed.
• Exercises you can do now to identify both positive core beliefs and limiting beliefs—and how to flip the latter into supportive thoughts.

Links and Resources:

• Follow Amy Crumpton (@your.mamaera) for updates on her new baby journey.
• Join The NEST Programme waitlist to dive deeper into mindset work and business strategies tailored for birthworkers. Learn More Here.

Get Involved:

We love hearing from our listeners! Share your mindset breakthroughs or struggles by tagging Niamh on Instagram @preg_and_postnatal_collective.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your birthwork community.

Let’s build thriving, heart-led businesses together!

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I’ll walk you through how to train ChatGPT to reflect your style and personality, so it feels like an extension of you. We’ll also cover crafting prompts that actually work, using AI ethically, and avoiding some common pitfalls like losing your voice or, worse, breaching client confidentiality.

This episode is packed with actionable tips that will help you maximise the benefits of AI in your content creation and business growth—without compromising your integrity or values.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How AI tools like ChatGPT can make creating content faster and easier.
• Why your unique voice is non-negotiable and how to keep it intact.
• The simple process of “training” ChatGPT to understand your business.
• Why clear and specific prompts are the secret to getting great results.
• The importance of fact-checking everything ChatGPT gives you.
• How AI can help you stay on top of trends in the birthwork industry.
• The golden rule: Protecting client privacy when using AI.
• Why AI should enhance your expertise—not replace it.
• The value of experimenting with prompts to find what works best for you.
• How to stay ethical and client-centred when using AI tools.

If you’ve been curious (or cautious) about integrating AI into your work, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to give it a go. Ready to take your business to the next level while staying true to yourself? Let’s do this!

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We chat about practical strategies to ensure your income continues to flow, how to set up support systems, and the mindset shifts needed to feel confident taking time off. Whether you're already pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or want to future-proof your business, this episode is packed with actionable tips you don’t want to miss.

Guest Bio:
Amy Crumpton has been featured in major publications such as the Daily Mail, Marie Claire, and Business Leader. She’s also shared her expertise on BBC Radio and Channel 5. After 2.5 years of travelling abroad, Amy is back in the UK and is preparing for her next exciting journey—motherhood, as she expects her first baby boy in January.

Follow Amy:
IG: @your.mamaera
IG: @socialcactuscoaching

Tune in now and learn how to safeguard your business during one of life’s biggest transitions!

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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• What is email marketing?
• What are the benefits of email marketing?
• How do you get started?
• How to nurture your subscribers 
• Using email marketing to book clients
• Making the tech side easy

Crystal specializes in guiding neurodivergent entrepreneurs through the maze of online business tech and design. With a strong focus on those with ADHD, Autism, C-PTSD, POTS, and other chronic conditions, she offers a range of services such as website design, and email marketing course, and a comprehensive 1-year group program for neurodivergent business owners who don’t feel tech savvy. Crystal is dedicated to making email marketing, social media presence, and website creation, accessible and manageable for everyone. Through her program, she aims to transform the overwhelm of tech and design into a journey of empowerment, enabling her students to build their online presence with confidence and authenticity.

https://crystalbantel.com/

Your Tech Fairy on Instagram

10 Steps to Stand Out & Get More Bookings 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Discover How To Get Back to Loving Birth Work - Free Guide

Doulas, Midwives, and Nurses Overcoming Burnout Facebook Group  

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Free 30-minute webinar on symptoms and screening of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders for anyone working in the perinatal world and having contact with mothers. http://gem.godaddy.com/signups/e422494f4bd04086b30b82a910933c89/join

Rebecca's website www.mindfulrootscounselling.com

10 Steps to Stand Out & Get More Bookings Guide 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What does it actually look like to build a birthwork business from scratch — with three children under six, no reliable childcare, and no business background?

In this episode Niamh is joined by Orla Nealis, a birth and postpartum doula, birth reflections facilitator and antenatal educator in training. Orla's story starts where so many birthworkers' stories start — with a difficult personal experience that ignited her passion for supporting other families. What makes her story even more amazing is how quickly and intentionally she has built her business since then.

Sixteen months ago Orla was grateful to book one or two clients a month. Today she's fully booked. 

This is an honest, warm and inspiring conversation about what that journey actually looked like (including the hard bits!).

In this episode Niamh and Orla cover:

— Orla's journey from becoming a mum during the pandemic to training as a breastfeeding counsellor, doula and antenatal educator — and why that experience drove everything — The moment she realised she needed to transition from volunteer to paid work — and how uncomfortable that felt — The money mindset blocks that show up when you start charging for work you've been doing for free — What she actually did that got her clients — and why she says mindset was the biggest game changer, not marketing — How she built her business while pregnant, then with a newborn, then with three children under six — Why she stopped following generic business advice from men and started learning from women who actually understood her reality — The systems she set up during quiet months that are paying off now she's fully booked — Her advice for birthworkers who are earlier in the journey and wondering when it's going to click — Why she had to "think big and be a bit delusional" — and how that drove her forward faster than anything else

Who this episode is for:

This one is for you if you're a doula, IBCLC, antenatal educator or any other birthworker who:

— Is earlier in your business journey and wondering if it's actually possible — Has been doing volunteer or low-paid work and is struggling to make the transition to charging properly — Feels like you're putting in loads of effort and not seeing results yet — Is trying to build a business around a young family and wondering how anyone actually does it — Needs to hear a real, honest story from someone who has recently been exactly where you are

About Orla:

Orla Nealis is a birth and postpartum doula, birth reflections facilitator and antenatal educator in training based in Ireland. You can find her at takesavillagedoula.ie or on Instagram @takesavillagedoula.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Patricia started out as a postpartum doula and sleep consultant on a Navy base in Japan, took her work online the year before the pandemic, and slowly realised more people were asking her for help with their websites and captions than their babies. In this conversation she and Niamh get honest about why marketing feels performative when the actual work feels so intimate — and what closes that gap.

Inside the episode:

• Why the "professional version of you" isn't fake — and how showing up in public slowly makes it real
• The permission slip to do less: choosing the one or two channels that actually fit your life
• Why Facebook group posts can out-earn your Instagram (and why your grid still matters)
• Social media as a practice ground — how low engagement is a feature, not a failure
• Using AI as a second brain and a collaborator, not an intern you hand things off to and give up on
• Why "using AI is cheating" is the same tired story as "an epidural is cheating"

Whether you're a doula, IBCLC, antenatal educator or sleep consultant, you'll leave with a calmer, more doable way to be visible.

Connect with Patricia: Website PatriciaGrenseman.com · Instagram @ai.marketing.engine · Grab her Calm Marketing System for low-lift visibility.

Want help building the business behind the marketing? Niamh coaches birth workers on creating a sustainable business without the burnout — details and how to work together are linked below.

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Aoife shares her journey from nearly 20 years in secondary teaching to building a values-led birth work business, shaped by her own birth experiences, motherhood, and a powerful shift in priorities. We talk honestly about fear, identity, financial risk, mindset work, and what it really takes to step away from a “safe” career and back yourself.

This episode goes deep into themes that so many birth workers grapple with but don’t always say out loud:
 – feeling called to this work but unsure how to make it sustainable
 – the emotional weight of leaving a pensionable job
 – the importance of community (or “the village”) in both motherhood and business
– why not everyone needs to like you ... and why that’s actually a good thing
– leaning into your authentic voice online, even when it feels uncomfortable

Aoife also speaks candidly about building her business slowly and steadily, charging her worth, and the role that mindset and peer support have played in helping her stay the course. This is a conversation about courage, feminism, motherhood, and redefining success on your own terms without the hustle-bro nonsense.

If you’re a doula, lactation consultant, antenatal educator or birth worker who’s ever thought “there has to be another way”, this episode will land right in your chest.

Connect with Aoife:

• Instagram: @bumps_and_bainne
• Website: www.bumpsandbainne.ie

If this episode resonated with you, send us a DM and let us know what landed. These conversations matter — and you’re not meant to do any of this alone.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Tune in and explore Niamh's journey to help you make informed decisions in your own mentoring and coaching journey, and to find out how you can take your business to the next level.

And join over 100 other birth and postpartum workers who are growing their businesses though the Collective. 

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But when it comes to our own businesses, many of us stop using this powerful tool altogether.

In this episode, I explore how visualisation can support you as a birth worker not just in birth preparation, but in business growth, confidence, decision-making and sustainability. We look at why so many of us under-utilise visualisation in business, how it’s used in sports psychology, and how belief often needs to come before evidence.

The episode finishes with a guided future visualisation designed specifically for birthworkers, helping you connect with your future self and the business you’re building.

In this episode, we explore:

Why visualisation already works in birth work

• How birthworkers use visualisation to support confidence, reduce fear and build trust in the body
• Why “the mind rehearses and the body follows” is something we already believe in
• The parallels between birth preparation and business growth

Why birthworkers often abandon visualisation in business

• The pull towards logic, strategy and constant action
• Waiting for proof before believing in ourselves
• Confidence being tied to bookings, income or external validation

Visualisation is a core, evidence-based tool in sports psychology – not something considered “woo” or vague.

We discuss:

• Mental rehearsal and neural pathways
• Why athletes visualise the process, not just the win
• How the brain responds to imagined experience as if it were real

Why this matters for birthworkers in business

• Visualising staying grounded when things don’t go to plan
• Preparing your nervous system for visibility, pricing, launches and quieter periods
• Moving from hoping things will work out to trusting that they will

Visualisation as identity work, not wishful thinking

Guided visualisation for birthworkers

The final part of this episode is a guided future visualisation created specifically for birthworkers building their businesses.

You’ll be invited to:

• Gently move one year into the future
• Connect with the version of you whose business feels aligned, sustainable and abundant
• Notice what matters most to you – values, impact, ease and fulfilment

This is a practice you can return to again and again:

• before launching a new service
• during periods of uncertainty
• when confidence dips
• or whenever you need clarity and grounding

Just like birth preparation, repetition matters.

Key takeaways

• Visualisation is not about pretending or bypassing reality
• It’s about training your nervous system and decision-making for where you’re going
• Birthworkers already know how powerful this tool is – this episode invites you to use it for yourself

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love to hear what came up for you during the visualisation.
You can always pop into my DMs on Instagram and share what you’re dreaming into being 💛

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It was the most popular guest episode I’ve ever shared on the podcast, and listening back, it’s easy to see why.

In this conversation with Annie Frisbie (IBCLC, private practice owner and educator), we dive into what it really takes to build a sustainable birth work business, one that supports your clients and your life.

Because here’s the reality…

So many birth workers are incredible at the work itself but struggle to make the business work in a way that feels manageable, profitable, and aligned with family life.

This episode is about changing that.

We talk about moving out of the “helper” mindset, setting boundaries without guilt, and creating systems that actually give you your time back so your business doesn’t end up feeling like an exhausting, expensive hobby.

If you want a business that allows you to show up fully for your clients without burning yourself out, this episode is essential listening.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

•  Why coming from a volunteer or caregiving background can make business feel harder than it needs to be 
•  The mindset shift from “helping” to running a professional, sustainable service
•  How to set clear boundaries (without feeling like you’re letting clients down) 
•  Why being constantly available can actually increase client anxiety, not reduce it 
•  The real cost of undercharging — especially when it comes to your time, family and energy
•  How simple systems (booking links, templates, automations) can completely change your workload 
•  Why your business needs to pay you consistently, not just “what’s left over” 
•  The importance of building a business that supports your life — not one that takes over it 

🔗 Links & Resources

•  Annie Frisbie’s website: https://paperlesslactation.com

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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But here's the thing: this is not a one-size-fits-all answer. The stage your business is at matters enormously — and getting this wrong is one of the most common and costly mistakes birth workers make.

In this episode Niamh covers:

• Why trying to do too much too soon is the number one mistake early-stage birth workers make — and how it leads to confused buyers, divided messaging, and burnout before you've even got started
• The "10 things on the website" trap — and why a confused buyer doesn't buy
• When diversifying your offers actually makes sense, and the three green light questions to ask yourself before adding anything new: Do I have the time and capacity? Am I genuinely passionate about this? Does it complement what I already do?
• How to think about expanding across the pregnancy to postnatal journey to increase the time you spend with existing clients
• The live-first method: why you should always run a workshop or course live before recording or producing anything — and how Niamh's own back-to-work and breastfeeding workshop is a real example of this in action
• The passive income myth — why there's no such thing as making money in your sleep without serious ongoing marketing or a significant ad budget
• What actually sells for birth workers (and what doesn't)
• Why PDFs, eBooks and resources need to be genuinely high value in a world where so much is available for free — including from AI

Key takeaways:

• If you're early stage: stop, focus, get really good at your one thing and get consistent clients first
• If you're established: run the capacity, passion and fit questions before adding anything new
• Test before you invest — run it live, sell the recording, then decide if a full production is worth it
• Passive income requires either consistent marketing effort or a solid ad budget — factor that in from the start
• Too many offerings = confused buyers = people leaving your website without booking

Have a question or topic you'd like covered? DM Niamh on Instagram.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Discover why courage is the true driving force behind entrepreneurial success. Explore how taking action, even when you're not feeling confident, can lead to incredible growth and self-assurance. Niamh shares personal stories and actionable strategies that will empower you to embrace courage and step out of your comfort zone.

Don't miss this episode, where you'll learn why confidence is a by-product of courageous action, not the other way around. Tune in and unlock the transformative power of courage in your entrepreneurial journey. It's time to rewrite your story and embrace the fearless entrepreneur within!

What not join our free courageous community today?  

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Anke spent over 25 years working in the tech industry, managing global teams and climbing the career ladder — all while raising three children. When she was made redundant in 2023, she was gifted a rare opportunity: the pause she didn’t know she needed. What followed was a bold career pivot into the world of doula work and parenting support.

We talk about:

• How a career in tech shaped her skills as a doula and coach
• The emotional (and financial) realities of leaving a “stable” job to follow your purpose
• How to know if it’s the right time to make a change
• The mindset blocks that come with career transition — and how to move through them
• Why asking for help is one of the most important things we can do as business owners and parents

Whether you’re at the start of your own birthwork business journey, considering a major shift, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone — this one is for you.

Follow Anke @ankerothdoula

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Maybe it did once. Maybe you built it from real passion — but somewhere along the way it started to feel heavy, off, not quite you. This week Niamh is joined by Lety Martínez, a Soul-Led Business Mentor and Akashic Records Practitioner based in Mexico, who spent over 25 years building and leading businesses (including directing 250+ franchisees) before walking away from all of it the moment it stopped feeling coherent with who she'd become.

Lety's whole philosophy is that business is inner work as much as it is strategy and systems — and that when your business isn't working, the answer usually isn't more. More marketing, more hustle, more followers, another new strategy. It's often that the foundation underneath it all needs realigning with the person you actually are now.

This is a beautiful conversation for any birthworker who followed their heart into this work, fell in love with supporting families, and then found themselves running a business they were never really taught how to build.

In this episode:

• Why Lety left a 25-year career the moment it stopped feeling "coherent" — and how she navigated the transition
• The "house with no walls" problem: why a new strategy can't hold if your foundation is unstable
• What the Akashic Records actually are, explained simply — and how root-cause patterns quietly run our businesses
• Lety's New Era Values Framework: swapping inherited values like hustle, control and competition for ease, conscious growth and collaboration
• The trap of constantly chasing the next strategy instead of realigning what's already there
• Why thousands of followers doesn't equal a business — and how marketing dissonance keeps us pushing in ways that don't feel authentic
• The systems that free you from the hustle (and the simple daily planning ritual both Niamh and Lety swear by)
• Using AI as a trained "VA" — for communication, systems and finally getting eyes on your numbers
• Niamh's honest confession about pulling her own stats (relatable if you also "fall off the wagon")

About Lety:
Lety Martínez is a Soul-Led Business Mentor and Akashic Records Practitioner based in Mexico. She helps entrepreneurs whose lives have changed — through inner growth, transition, or simply becoming someone new — realign their business with the person they've actually become. Her work lives at the intersection of real business strategy and deep soul work, so clients leave with clarity on what actually needs to change, and why more hustle usually isn't the answer.

Find Lety:

• Website: letymartinez.com 
• Quiz: letymartinez.com/quiz
• Instagram: @lety.martinez.urrea

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Brónagh shares openly about the surprising path that led her here:
 – her background in psychology, coaching, fitness and even cybersecurity
 – the fertility scare that changed everything
 – the shift from service-based work to launching her very first product
 – building a business between nap times
 – and how a simple personal need became a product hundreds of parents now treasure

We dive into the realities of creating a physical product — the costs, the risks, the samples, the trial and error — and the mindset that kept her going when most people would have backed away. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could sell a product alongside your services, or you’re curious about how “ordinary moments” can spark extraordinary businesses, this is a gorgeous episode to soak up.

In this episode, we cover:

• The moment a fertility appointment shifted the direction of Brónagh’s life and future business
• How journaling during pregnancy helped her connect deeply with her babies before they were even born
• The behind-the-scenes of creating a physical product from scratch (what no one tells you!)
• Navigating fear, finances and the early investment that product-based businesses require
• Why community and collaboration matter more than ever when launching something new
• The mindset shifts that supported her through uncertainty, change and early motherhood
• Practical advice for birthworkers or service providers who are thinking about developing a product
• The power of trusting your own story — and letting that guide your business decisions

Who this episode is for

Birthworkers, mums in business, creative entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how real-life experiences can spark beautiful, sustainable businesses. If you’ve ever felt the pull toward creating something that’s missing in the world, this conversation will light a gentle fire under you.

Connect with Brónagh

Website: mypregnancyjournals.com
Instagram: @mypregnancyjournals

Listen Now

Tune in for an honest, heart-led conversation about motherhood, mindset and making something meaningful and leave feeling inspired to follow that little nudge of your own.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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We dive deep into the emotional challenges birthworkers face, from perfectionism and imposter syndrome to shame and unworthiness, and explore how to build resilience while growing a sustainable business.

🔹 In This Episode, We Discuss:
✔️ Jenny’s path from NHS psychologist to private practice
✔️ The fears and mindset blocks that hold people back from starting their own business
✔️ Why burnout is so common in caring professions and how to prevent it
✔️ The power of self-compassion in business and personal growth
✔️ Understanding shame, comparison, and perfectionism in birthwork
✔️ Practical strategies to shift from self-criticism to self-care

✨ Key Takeaways:

• Burnout often follows birthworkers from salaried roles into self-employment. Learning to set boundaries and prioritise self-care is crucial.
• Self-compassion isn’t about adding more to your to-do list—it’s about how you speak to yourself and the kindness you allow.
• Recognising and addressing shame is a game-changer in building confidence and resilience as a business owner.
• Even small shifts, like staying mindful of your basic needs (sleep, hydration, light), can have a profound impact on your well-being.

📍 Connect with Dr. Jenny Turner:
📸 Instagram: @DrJennyPsychologist
📝 Substack: Mind Body Soul Psychology
🌐 Website: mindbodysoulpsychology.co.uk

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
Make sure to subscribe to The Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective Podcast for more conversations on mindset, business, and sustainability in birthwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review—it helps more birthworkers find this support!

💬 Join the Conversation:
What part of this discussion resonated most with you? Send me a DM on Instagram or share your thoughts in our Facebook group!

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Together, Niamh and Lorraine explore practical strategies for self-care, the value of emotional support, and why collaboration over competition is the key to building a thriving and harmonious birth community. From running as a form of self-care to travelling to gain fresh perspectives, Lorraine shares actionable tips for maintaining mental health and emotional balance in this demanding but rewarding field.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why self-reflection is vital for both personal and professional growth.
• Essential self-care practices to prevent burnout and improve well-being.
• The power of building a supportive network of peers in the birthwork community.
• How collaboration enhances the community and eliminates the fear of competition.
• Lorraine’s favourite self-care tools, including running and travelling.
• The importance of setting boundaries in client relationships to maintain emotional health.
• How prioritising self-care ultimately benefits your clients and your practice.

Whether you're a seasoned birth worker or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to prioritise your own care as much as you care for others.

Resources and Mentions:

• Connect with Lorraine Lozano
  • Website
  • Instagram
• For more support and resources, join the Entrepreneurs Collective Facebook Group
• Follow Niamh on Instagram for more birthworker tips

Subscribe & Review:
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow birth workers. Your support helps us continue to bring you valuable content to grow your business and enhance your well-being.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What I loved most about this conversation was Parnuuna's tone  - calm, warm, and deeply respectful of the fact that visibility can feel genuinely hard, especially for birth and postpartum professionals. There’s no pushing, no “just get over it”, and no one-size-fits-all strategy. Instead, we explore visibility as something that can be built incrementally, at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.

We talk about how many people say “social media just isn’t for me”, and how often that belief is tied not to capability, but to fear, past experiences, or a lack of safety -  both online and in real life. Parnuuna brings a nervous-system-aware lens to visibility, reminding us that if your body feels unsafe, forcing yourself to show up more will only create resistance or burnout.

A big part of the conversation centres on why blindly following someone else’s strategy doesn’t work for so many people. While structure and guidance can be helpful, growth rarely comes from copying, instead , it comes from being supported to develop your own way of showing up. This is where coaching becomes so valuable: not to remove fear entirely, but to stop fear from keeping you invisible and stuck.

We also name something that often goes unspoken, the reality that there are genuinely unsafe things in the world, and it makes sense that visibility can trigger fear. At the same time, we explore how much energy gets lost worrying about what friends, family, or the imaginary person in the corner might think...the people who were never meant to be your clients in the first place!

Instead, this episode invites you to gently shift your focus:
 away from posting for posting’s sake,
 away from external pressure,
 and towards relationship-building, connection, and service.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why visibility feels easier for doulas, lactation consultants, antenatal educators and women in general when it’s calm, gentle and incremental
• How a lack of safety — not laziness or confidence — often sits under resistance
• The nervous system’s role in showing up online
• Why following someone else’s strategy can disconnect you from yourself
• The difference between fear that needs compassion and fear that needs boundaries
• Letting go of worries about friends, family, or imagined judgement
• Why visibility works best when it’s about relationships, not performance

It’s a reminder that visibility doesn’t have to be loud, constant or performative — it can be human, relational, and rooted in safety.

🎧 Listen now and explore what visibility could look like when it’s built on trust rather than pressure.

Parnuuna has kindly shared a free calming 3 day reset, to boost your sense of
confidence, time and energy, you can sign up here:
https://feelgoodrebel.kit.com/0d761c0f86

Connect with Parnuuna

Website: feelgoodrebelacademy.com

Instagram: @feelgoodrebel 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Two business owners get honest about mentorship, investment, structure and building a business that actually works 

What does it actually take to build a business that works — and keeps working?

In this episode Niamh Cassidy sits down with Louise O'Brien, women's wellness coach and business mentor at Badass Coaching, for a genuinely honest conversation between two business owners about what makes the difference. Not the polished version. The real one.

Louise closed her physical gym, started from scratch with €5k in the bank, invested all of it in a business mentor and made it back within two months. Since then she has built a thriving online coaching business that she has runs entirely on her own terms, and grown almost exclusively through referrals. 

This episode covers the business decisions, mindset shifts, systems and support structures that actually move a business forward — and why most business owners stay stuck without them.

In this episode Niamh and Louise cover:

— Why Louise invested her last €5k in a business mentor — and what happened within two months — The difference between working in your business and working on your business — and why getting stuck in one kills growth — Why AI is a useful tool but will never replace the value of a mentor or community who truly gets your work — The GPS analogy for mentorship that will change how you think about getting support in your business — How Louise structured her business to work from Thailand for six weeks while signing eight new clients — without running a single ad — The role of accountability in keeping a self-employed business owner moving forward consistently — Why surrounding yourself with the right people is one of the most powerful business growth strategies available — What Louise would tell any service-based business owner who is just starting out

Who this episode is for:

This episode is for any self-employed birthworker, doula, lactation consultant, antenatal educator or service-based business owner who:

— Is trying to build a business without any real support structure around them — Has wondered whether investing in a business mentor or coaching programme is actually worth it — Wants to build a business that gives them genuine freedom — not just a different kind of busy — Is struggling to find time to work on the business rather than just in it — Needs to hear an honest account from someone who has built something from nothing

About Louise:

Louise O'Brien is a women's wellness coach and business mentor at Badass Coaching. She works with women all over the world on health, fitness, mindset and business growth. Find her on Instagram @louise_badasscoaching 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Cultivating Referrals:
Discover the power of word of mouth and referrals. Niamh shares insights into creating satisfied clients who become your greatest advocates. Learn about implementing referral programs to keep those recommendations pouring in.

Staying Present on Social Media:
Maintaining an active online presence is vital. Tune in to understand how engaging with your audience and showcasing your expertise on social media can attract potential clients and keep your services top of mind.

Navigating Business Lulls

Financial Planning:
Prepare for the inevitable by setting aside a financial cushion. Niamh provides practical tips on how to plan financially, giving you peace of mind during slower periods and allowing you to focus on your clients.

Bouncing Back Stronger

Reconnect with Your Network:
After a lull, reconnecting with your network is crucial. Learn how reaching out to past clients, colleagues, and collaborators can jumpstart your business and open up new opportunities.

Showcase Your Expertise:
Reignite your clients' trust by showcasing your expertise. Niamh discusses the importance of sharing success stories, testimonials, and updates on your professional development to reaffirm your value.

Surviving business lulls isn't just about getting by—it's about thriving. Join Niamh as we empower birth and postpartum professionals to navigate challenges, plan for success, and bounce back with resilience. Remember, in the birth and postpartum industry, you're not just a service provider; you're a thriving business owner. Stay empowered!

What to learn how to stand out in this ever growing industry? Download my 10 Steps to Standing Out & Getting Bookings now. 

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Her story is powerful for anyone working in the birth, postpartum, and family support industries — especially if you’ve ever wondered:

• Am I ready to grow?
• Who am I to hire help?
• How do I charge properly for the care work I do?
• What would it look like to expand while staying ethical and values-led?

We talk about:

✨ The bravery it takes to start before you feel ready
✨ Building a business model based on actual community need
✨ Why she chose to hire nannies as employees, not contractors
✨ The link between care work being undervalued and feminism
✨ How to charge your worth when your work feels “heart-led”
✨ The importance of company culture when building a team
✨ How she scaled to multiple locations without burning out
✨ Why community, mentorship + support matter at every stage

This conversation is especially relevant for doulas, lactation consultants, childbirth educators, postpartum doulas, nanny agency owners, newborn care specialists, and anyone offering hands-on care.

If you're currently working solo but feel the nudge that something bigger is possible — this one will speak to you.

Connect with Carson

Website: https://lifetimeoflovenannies.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carson-wagner-17a96b197/

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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• Get help in meeting your goals with our free 90 Day Success Planning Training  & Workbook
• And if you want to continue the discussion and get support as you plan your exit? Then join is in our free Facebook Group

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Ros's inspiring career journey and passion for chiropractic care.
• How her personal birth experiences informed her approach to maternal health.
• The pivotal lessons learned from navigating the healthcare system as a mother.
• The role of proper nutrition in recovery and overall well-being for postpartum women.
• Insights into her business, Mama's Golden Food, and the challenges of creating a product line for mothers.
• The impact of COVID-19 on her work with pregnant clients.
• How Ros overcame personal loss and professional obstacles with resilience.
• Why traditional postpartum care and community support are crucial for mothers.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone passionate about maternal health, postpartum care, and the importance of community support. Ros’s journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of mothers and the life-changing power of following your intuition.

Follow Ros below
https://www.instagram.com/drake_chiropractic/
https://www.instagram.com/mamas_golden_food/

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Jo shares her personal journey from postnatal exhaustion and overwhelm to feeling energised and grounded, all through small but mighty changes to her nutrition and lifestyle. If you’ve been ignoring your own health while running your business or supporting new parents, this conversation is your permission slip to reset, refocus and feel good again.

Whether you're a doula, lactation consultant, antenatal educator, or any kind of birth or postpartum worker, you’ll come away with practical tips to nourish your body, support your gut, and sustain your energy—without fancy fads or unrealistic routines.

We cover:

• What gut health really means—and why it affects your mood, hormones and energy
• Easy ways to eat for a healthier gut (yes, even when you’re on call or working 12-hour days!)
• The link between rest, the nervous system and digestion
• Why movement matters—but not in the way diet culture told us
• Probiotic foods and simple strategies for when your gut needs a reset
• How connection, community and mindset influence your overall wellbeing

If you’ve ever thought, “I know what I should do, I just can’t seem to do it”—this one’s for you. Expect compassionate, relatable advice that meets you where you’re at.

🎧 Tune in, take what resonates, and start putting yourself back on the priority list. You deserve to feel good—full stop.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Jo on Instagram: @jo_live_life_well
• Visit Jo’s website: www.livelifewellness.co.uk
• Find out more about Jo’s 1:1 coaching, 30-day gut reset, and retreats

💬 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or message me on Instagram @preg_and_postnatal_collective. I love hearing what’s resonated for you.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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I’m joined by financial coaches and business partners Shana and Vanessa (aka the Budget Besties), who help women create simple, realistic budgeting systems that actually work in real life... not the restrictive, spreadsheet-heavy versions most of us have been taught to dread. Together we unpack how to manage money confidently even when your income isn’t predictable, and why budgeting doesn’t have to mean cutting out everything you enjoy.

We chat about:

• why so many women avoid looking at their finances (and how to change that)
• the simple budget structure anyone can set up in under an hour
• how to pay yourself consistently from a business with fluctuating income
• separating business and personal finances in a way that actually makes sense
• why “not tracking every transaction” might be the system that finally works for you
• how to remove guilt around spending money on yourself
• the mindset shift that helps you feel like a real business owner, not just someone with a hobby that sometimes pays

This conversation is especially helpful for birth workers, freelancers, and anyone self-employed whose income changes from month to month. If you’ve ever worried about slow seasons, irregular payments, or feeling like money disappears as soon as it arrives, you’ll walk away with practical strategies you can implement straight away.

Resources & Links

• Listen to Shana & Vanessa’s podcast: Financial Coaching for Women
• Learn more about their budgeting system: budgetbesties.com/niamh

Loved this episode?

Take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me so I can hear your biggest takeaway. Your messages genuinely make my day and help more people find the show.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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“Things feel quieter.”

Fewer enquiries.
Fewer bookings.
Calendars that suddenly feel lighter than they did a few months ago.

Doulas, lactation consultants, antenatal educators and other birth professionals have been reaching out asking if I’m seeing the same thing.

And the honest answer is… yes. I’ve noticed it too. Normally when business slows down, we reach for the obvious explanation: the economy, the cost-of-living crisis, families having less disposable income. Those things may well play a part.

But in this episode I explore another possibility that I think many of us are experiencing but not always naming out loud.

Right now we are living and working through a moment of collective emotional heaviness. We are witnessing war, humanitarian crises and rising violence against immigrants, women and LGBTQ+ people in real time through our phones and social media feeds.

For empathetic, care-centred professionals like birth workers, that emotional weight doesn’t just stay in the background. It can affect our energy, motivation and creativity. And when our energy shifts, it naturally changes how we show up in our businesses.

In this episode that I just had to make I talk about the possible connection between global events, emotional burnout and quieter bookings, and why this may be affecting birth workers across the world right now. Most importantly, we talk about the importance of community, solidarity and supporting each other through times like this.

Because birth work has always been rooted in community. And in difficult moments, community matters more than ever.

In This Episode We Explore

• Why many birth workers are noticing slower bookings right now
• The natural ups and downs of running a birth work business
• Why the economy might not be the only explanation
• How global events and collective trauma can affect our energy and visibility
• The emotional impact of constantly witnessing suffering in the world
• Why empathetic care professionals often carry this weight deeply
• Reflections around International Women’s Day and women’s rights globally
• Why community and connection with other birth workers is so important right now
• Ways we can support one another while continuing to support the families who need us

A Reminder for Birth Workers

If your business feels quieter right now, or your energy has been lower than usual, you are not alone. Most of us are navigating the emotional weight of the world while continuing to care for families in our communities right now. 

This episode is an invitation to reflect, to reconnect with the bigger picture of the work we do, and to remember that none of us are meant to do this work in isolation.

Community, solidarity and mutual support have always been at the heart of birth work and they are just as essential for sustaining our businesses as they are for supporting the families we serve.

If this episode resonated with you, I’d genuinely love to hear your thoughts.

You can connect with me on Instagram or learn more about my work supporting doulas, lactation consultants and antenatal educators to grow sustainable businesses through Your Birth Biz.

And if you know another birth worker who might need to hear this conversation, please share this episode with them.

Because birth work was never meant to be done alone.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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I’ll open up about my own experiences with volunteering (the good, the bad, and the lessons learned), how to set boundaries that protect your time and energy, and why financial empowerment is key to giving back sustainably. We’ll also chat about why it’s perfectly fine to prioritise yourself and your business—even if it means saying “no” sometimes.

This episode is all about removing the guilt, finding joy in volunteering again, and recognising that it’s okay to also benefit from the work you do.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to clearly communicate expectations when volunteering.
• Why so many women feel guilty about charging for their services—and how to shift that mindset.
• Why volunteering should never come at the expense of your well-being.
• The importance of setting boundaries (and sticking to them).
• How financial security can actually enhance your ability to volunteer.
• Why it’s okay to say no (even when it’s hard).
• How to enjoy volunteering again—and the difference it can make in your engagement.

Sound Bites You’ll Love:
💬 “Don’t say yes when you want to say no.”
💬 “You can benefit from volunteering too—and that’s okay.”
💬 “I started to enjoy volunteering again when I let go of the guilt.”

Take a Listen:
Whether you’re a birth worker who loves volunteering but struggles to find the time or you’re feeling a little burnt out and unsure how to move forward, this episode will help you prioritise yourself while still giving back in a way that feels aligned and joyful.

👉 Let me know what resonates most with you by tagging me on Instagram @preg_and_postnatal_collective —I love hearing your thoughts!

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Something I hear all the time from birthworkers is that the business side of things feels so much harder than it should. And I feel that — because I've lived it.

In this episode I'm having an honest conversation about why so many passionate, qualified birthworkers end up quitting the profession — not because they stop caring, but because the business side grinds them down. Including the story that really lit a fire in me recently: a client told me she's the only one still practicing out of the 18 people she trained with. Every single one of the others quit because they couldn't get the business off the ground.

That's not a talent problem. That's a support and direction problem. And it's one we can fix.

In this episode I cover:

— Why your training prepared you brilliantly for the work — but not for running a business — The four reasons generic business advice doesn't fit birthwork (ethics, emotional labour, on-call reality, community dynamic) — Why not wanting to follow pushy advice isn't weakness — it's integrity — The three things that actually move a birthwork business forward: clarity over volume, consistency over perfection, and the support that changes everything — Why doing more is rarely the answer — and what is

This is the first in a series of episodes I'm doing on this topic over the coming weeks, so if it resonates, make sure you're following or subscribed so you don't miss what's coming.

Links mentioned:

🌸 The Birth Biz Quiz — find out what stage your business is in and get your next best steps: yourbirthbiz.com/quiz

📱 Come say hi on Instagram: @yourbirthbiz

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Do we really all have the same 24 hours in a day? Technically yes. But in real life — with caring responsibilities, client work, family life, emotional labour, and everything else on your plate — time does not feel equal. In this honest and grounding episode, Niamh unpacks the myth behind the popular phrase and shares a more realistic, compassionate way to think about productivity, growth, and success as a birth worker or service-based business owner.

This conversation explores why comparing your pace to someone else’s rarely tells the full story, how your current life season impacts your business capacity, and why slower growth doesn’t mean you’re failing — it often means you’re building sustainably.

You’ll also hear a powerful reframe: instead of chasing perfect balance, think of your life and work like a pendulum that naturally swings depending on what needs you most. And if you’ve ever felt like your business demands constant attention, Niamh shares a reassuring analogy that will change how you view your growth journey.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why “we all have the same 24 hours” is misleading advice
• The difference between time equality and capacity equality
• How caring roles impact business growth (and why that’s normal)
• Why balance isn’t the goal — and what to aim for instead
• The pendulum approach to managing work and life seasons
• How to recognise what stage your business is in right now
• Why effort still matters — even when life is full
• A healthier way to measure progress without burnout or comparison

Key Takeaway

You don’t need more strategies. You need clarity about your real capacity and permission to grow at a pace that fits your life.

Continue the conversation:
Come join us in the free community and share — what season are you in right now, and where is your pendulum today?

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I share my own struggles with visibility, the mindset shifts that helped me overcome my fears, and practical steps you can take to start showing up with confidence. We cover common fears like imposter syndrome, fear of judgment, and perfectionism—and how to move past them.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear, actionable challenge to help you take small but powerful steps toward being more visible. Let’s get you out there, connecting with your ideal clients and growing your business!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

✔️ Why so many birthworkers struggle with visibility (and why it’s totally normal!)

✔️ How fear of judgment, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism might be holding you back   

✔️Why visibility is crucial for attracting clients and growing your business 

✔️ How to reframe social media marketing as connection, not performance 

✔️ Practical steps to start overcoming fear and showing up with confidence 

✔️ A simple visibility challenge to get you started today

Resources & Links: 

➡️ Grab my FREE social media guide for birthworkers: HERE

➡️ Connect with me on Instagram: @preg_and_postnatal_collective

➡️ Want high touch personalised support? Check out The NEST programme: HERE

Join the Conversation: What’s your visibility challenge? DM me on Instagram and let me know—I’d love to cheer you on! If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to share it with your fellow birthworkers. And if you enjoyed the episode, please leave a review—it helps more birthworkers find this podcast and build their dream businesses!

Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss an episode! And if you have a moment, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts/Spotify—your support helps this podcast reach more amazing birthworkers like you.

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In this episode, I’m sharing the full story behind my recent rebrand to Your Birth Biz, why I moved away from The Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective, and what the process taught me about fear, confidence, and allowing your business to evolve as you do.

I also take you back to the very beginning, to when I was naming my antenatal education business, My Baby Beginnings, and how I deliberately chose a name that could grow with me over time. From there, I explore the common tension between choosing a strong “brand” name versus a more SEO-friendly, descriptive business name...and why there isn’t one right answer.

This episode is part personal story, part practical guidance, and part permission slip. Whether you’re naming your business for the first time or wondering if the name you chose no longer fits, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why I originally chose the name Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective
• How fear and a desire to “include everyone” can influence business naming
• The difference between a brand name and an SEO-friendly name (and the pros and cons of each)
• Practical tips for naming your business when you’re starting out
• Why your business name is not a lifetime sentence
• How to recognise when it might be time to rebrand
• What Your Birth Biz stands for now, and who it’s for

This episode is for you if:

• You’re stuck trying to name your birth or postpartum business
• You’re worried about choosing the “wrong” name
• You feel disconnected from your current brand or business name
• You want to build a business that’s ethical, sustainable, and aligned with your values

At its core, this episode is about permission — permission to grow, to change, and to choose what supports you now, not just what felt safe at the beginning.

✨ Explore the new website at yourbirthbiz.com
✨ Join the conversation in the Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective discussion group

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Rachel shares her journey from traditional employment to building a flexible, fulfilling business after becoming a parent. We dive into the mindset shifts, strategies, and practical steps birthworkers need to move from inconsistent income to a sustainable, thriving business.

🔹 The common mistakes that keep birthworkers stuck at 1-2K months
 🔹 Why passion alone isn’t enough—and what to do about it
 🔹 The key business foundations that create consistent income
 🔹 How to balance meaningful work with financial sustainability

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why aren’t more people booking my services?” or “How do I make my business work for me?”—this episode is a must-listen!

📢 DM us on Instagram (@preg_and_postnatal_collective) and let us know your biggest takeaway!

Want Rachels 5K Roadmap? Get is for free here 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Additionally, Niamh talks about how prominent female service-based entrepreneurs have effectively used storytelling to connect with their audiences and build thriving businesses. Listeners will gain insights into how they can incorporate storytelling into their social media and website content and take actionable steps to create a powerful brand narrative that resonates with their audience.

Whether you are a birth or postnatal worker who is building your business, or an entrepreneur in any other industry, this episode will provide valuable tips and strategies to help you use storytelling effectively in your marketing and build a stronger connection with your target audience.

Join the free Collective Facebook Group to build your Community here 

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Christine, a seasoned International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and childbirth educator and the creator of the transformative "First 100 Hours Masterclass." which has has empowered countless professionals working with postpartum families to optimize early lactation, making her an authority in her field.

Not only is Christine an expert in her own right, but she's also the driving force behind Baby Café Bakersfield, California's inaugural licensed Baby Café, since 2014. As if that weren't enough, she hosts the Evolve Lactation Community, a membership and coaching program that nurtures aspiring and novice lactation consultants, is the host of the "Lactation Training Lab" podcast and serves as a faculty member at the prestigious GOLD Lactation Academy. In other words, when it comes to lactation, and speaking, Christine is the go-to source.

In this episode, Christine generously shares her invaluable insights on how she embarked on her speaking journey and spills the beans on the tips and tricks to secure speaking opportunities that'll have you booked solid. Whether you're a seasoned speaker looking to up your game or a novice eager to break into the world of birth & postpartum conferences, this episode is packed with wisdom that can elevate your speaking career.

Join us as we explore the importance of speaking, not just as a means to share knowledge but as a powerful tool to elevate your professional profile, reach a broader audience, and positively impact the lives of pregnant & postpartum families. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to step into the spotlight as a sought-after speaker!

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the field. Hit play, and let's dive into the world of speaking excellence with Christine Staricka.

Find out more about Christine below
Evolve Lactation Community 
Lactation Training Lab Podcast

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What We Cover in This Episode:
✔️ Katy’s journey from holistic therapist to doula and podcaster
✔️ How her personal birth experiences shaped her work
✔️ The surprising way she launched The Mother Gaia Birthy Pod
✔️ What tools she uses to record and edit her episodes
✔️ How podcasting has impacted her birth work business
✔️ Tips for birth workers considering starting a podcast

Katy’s Top Advice for Aspiring Podcasters:
💡 Guest on other podcasts first to get a feel for it
💡 Don’t stress about the tech—just start and learn as you go
💡 Don’t get caught up in listener numbers—it takes time to grow
💡 Use your podcast as a resource for your clients

Connect with Katy:
🎧 Listen to The Mother Gaia Birthy Pod – mother-gaia.co.uk
📍 Find her on Spotify & YouTube

About Katy Bolton
Katy Bolton is a doula, holistic therapist, and passionate advocate for women's rights and birth rights. Her mission is to empower birthing women to create transformative birth experiences through education, doula support, and compassionate guidance. In addition to working directly with families, Katy is involved in larger-scale birth advocacy and education, contributing to local NHS trusts on the importance of doulas in maternity care and participating in the National Birth Trauma Inquiry. Through her podcast and activism, she is dedicated to ensuring that women have access to the information and support they need to navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with confidence.

Like this episode?
✨ Subscribe to The Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective Podcast
✨ Leave a review & share with fellow birth workers
✨ Follow me on Instagram for more tips: @preg_and_postnatal_collective

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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If you've ever introduced yourself by saying "I do a bit of doula work" or "I run a few classes" — this episode is for you.

In Ep 82 of the Pregnancy and Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective podcast, Niamh Cassidy explores one of the most important and most overlooked conversations in the birthwork business world: the identity shift from birthworker who charges to business owner who does meaningful work.

This isn't about becoming a different person or losing the values that brought you into birthwork. It's about understanding why how you see yourself changes everything about how your business behaves — your pricing, your boundaries, your visibility, your income, and ultimately how long you stay in this profession.

In this episode Niamh covers:

— Why so many qualified, capable birthworkers feel uncomfortable calling themselves business owners — and where that discomfort actually comes from — The three things most of us have absorbed that make this identity hard to claim: our training, our money stories, and the word "entrepreneur" itself — The small moment in a mentoring session that shifted everything for Niamh — and what changed after it — Why being a good business owner is not in conflict with being a good birthworker — it's what allows you to keep being one — The four things Niamh consistently sees in birthworkers who have made this shift: how they talk about their work, how they price, how they protect their time, and how they invest in their growth — Why the statistic that the average working life of a doula is just two years is not inevitable — and what actually changes it — One small, practical thing to do this week that costs nothing and starts the shift immediately

Key quote from this episode:

"Your ability to earn well from this work is what keeps you available to the families who need you."

This episode follows on from Ep 81 — Why Birthworkers Quit (And What Actually Keeps Them Going) — and is the second in a series Niamh is running on what actually makes a birthwork business work. If you haven't listened to Ep 81 yet, start there first.

Who this episode is for:

This episode will resonate if you are a doula, IBCLC, lactation consultant, antenatal educator, hypnobirthing instructor, postnatal doula or any other birth or postpartum professional who:

— Finds it hard to talk about your business confidently — Undercharges or over-delivers because charging properly feels wrong — Treats your business time as the last priority — Struggles to invest in business support even though you'd happily invest in clinical training — Has ever wondered if running a business is really "for someone like you"

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I share my personal experiences with underestimating time, including a major wake-up call when I took back full control of editing this podcast. I’ll walk you through the eye-opening strategies I’ve developed to manage time more effectively, plan my week with more accuracy, and stop feeling constantly behind.

If you struggle with time management, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you structure your workdays, avoid overload, and feel more in control of your schedule.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ What time blindness is and how it affects your productivity
✔️ Why birthworkers (especially those with ADHD or in perimenopause) may struggle with it
✔️ My personal experience with underestimating time and the impact it had on my work
✔️ Key strategies to improve time management, including:

• Tracking your tasks in real time
• Weekly and daily planning with buffer time
• The ‘three tasks per day’ rule to avoid overload
• Breaking tasks into clear, manageable steps
• A simple action plan to help you take control of your time today

Resources & Next Steps:
🔹 Get on the waitlist for The NEST programme if you want to improve your productivity and run your business more efficiently: HERE
🔹 Connect with me on Instagram: @preg_and_postnatal_collective – DM me or tag me in your stories if you're implementing these strategies!
🔹 Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. If you found this helpful, I’d love for you to leave a review—it helps others find the show too!

Next Episode Preview:
We have an exciting guest episode coming up that I know you’re going to love! Stay tuned and make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

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What happens when you do everything right in business — the funnels, the followers, the retreats, the courses — and it still costs you everything?

That's exactly what happened to Bron Watson. Nurse, educator, entrepreneur, and mother of five, Bron built a thriving online business from the ground up. But behind the success, her cup was running empty. In 2017, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Five years later, an incurable blood cancer.

In this episode, Bron and I talk about what those diagnoses forced her to face — and what she wishes she'd known before building a business that nearly broke her.

We cover:

• Why high-achieving caregivers are especially vulnerable to burnout
• The moment Bron realised her business had become a sabre-tooth tiger she couldn't get off
• What self-care actually means (hint: it's not serums and massages)
• Why filling your cup isn't selfish — it's the foundation of sustainable work
• How birth workers and perinatal professionals can protect themselves before adversity forces them to stop

This one is for every birth worker, doula, lactation consultant, and perinatal professional who gives everything to their clients and has nothing left for themselves.

About Bron Watson
Bron Watson is a nurse, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of The Serenity Project — a space where science meets soul for people living through cancer and navigating uncertainty.

Connect with Bron:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

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In this week’s episode of the Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective Podcast, I’m joined by Sarah Davis — The Parenting Copywriter. Sarah is the author of Baby Daze and a former teacher turned copywriter who now helps small business owners whose clients are parents.

Together we chat about:

• What copywriting really is (and why it’s not just for big brands).
• The most common mistakes birthworkers make when writing copy for parents.
• Why your story matters — and how to share it without feeling like you’re bragging.
• How to keep your website and social media clear, concise and parent-friendly.
• Practical tips for writing promotional posts and class descriptions that actually connect.
• The power of passion and personality in your copy (and why that builds trust).

Whether you’re a doula, IBCLC, antenatal educator or baby massage teacher, this episode will give you practical advice to help your words feel natural, authentic, and clear — so parents know exactly how you can support them.

🔗 Connect with Sarah Davis:

• Website: theparentingcopywriter.co.uk
  
  
• Facebook group: Parenting Business Connections
• Instagram: @sarahdavis_writer
  
  
• LinkedIn: The Parenting Copywriter

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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The Birth Biz Breakthrough Event

10 Steps to Get More Clients 

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Most traditional business planning frameworks just don’t land for us in birthwork. Our schedules are unpredictable, our lives are full, and the work is deeply seasonal. This episode walks you through a more realistic, more humane way to map out your year so you feel grounded, focused and ready — not frazzled before January even arrives.

Whether you're a doula, lactation consultant, antenatal teacher or any other birth and postpartum professional, you'll take away a framework you can actually use.

What We Cover in This Episode

✨ Why planning ahead matters for birthworkers

How getting organised before January helps you feel grounded, motivated and ready to start the year strong.

✨ The real planning challenges in birthwork

We look at seasonality, on-call unpredictability, childcare, and why standard business calendars rarely work for doulas, LCs and antenatal educators.

✨ A simple reflection process

The key questions to review what worked this year, what didn’t, and what you want more (or less) of next year.

✨ Choosing meaningful priorities

Instead of creating dozens of goals, we narrow it down to 2–3 priorities that actually move your birthwork business forward.

✨ Understanding your capacity

How to map out the year based on your real availability — emotional, energetic and logistical — so you’re not setting yourself up for overwhelm.

✨ The Four-Month Planning Framework

Why quarterly planning fails for most birthworkers and how a gentler four-month structure keeps you consistent and flexible.

✨ Planning with flexibility

Your plan is a guide, not a rulebook. You’ll learn how to stay aligned while life, clients or seasons shift.

If You Want to Take This Further…

This episode shares the high-level framework. But if you want the practical, sit-down-and-get-it-done version of this planning process — with guidance, accountability and a workbook — this is the next live training inside Your Birth Biz The Membership.

Members will:

• Map out their full year
• Create a detailed plan for the first four months
• Get support, feedback and accountability
• Leave with a personalised, sustainable plan

If you’re listening before the live session in early December, you can join us in real time. If you’re listening afterwards, the full workshop lives in the Training Library for you.

Full details on joining the membership are here.

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We’re covering:
 ✅ Why strategy alone isn’t enough—your mindset needs to come first
 ✅ The hidden protective beliefs keeping you from success (and how to reframe them)
✅ How to overcome the two biggest mindset blocks: time and money
✅ Practical ways to shift self-doubt and finally take bold action in your business

🚀 If you’ve been holding yourself back, this episode is your permission slip to step up and grow.

🔗 Links & Resources:
📖 Just Start Now by Vicky Shilling
🎧 Freebie: Paralysis to Progress - Identify & shift limiting beliefs
🌐 Find Vicky at vickyshilling.com 

🔥 Loved this episode? Tag me @preg_and_postnatal_collective on Instagram and share your biggest takeaway!

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What happens when everything you built your identity around stops fitting?

In this episode Niamh Cassidy is joined by Tina-Marie Bruton, antenatal educator, birth and postpartum doula, pregnancy Relax Stretch & Breathe instructor and founder of The Birth Alchemist for one of the most honest and moving conversations this podcast has had.

Tina-Marie is also one of Niamh's longest-standing clients. She was part of Niamh's very first coaching programme, went on to join The NEST group coaching programme, and continues to be supported inside the Your Birth Biz Besties membership. So this isn't just a guest episode it's a conversation between two people who have walked a significant part of this journey together.

Tina-Marie spent 12 years in the pharmaceutical industry, earned a PhD in chemistry, and built what looked like a very successful career. Then burnout hit. Her blood pressure went through the roof. She was at risk of heart attack or stroke. And everything she thought she knew about herself (and who she was supposed to be) started to come undone.

What emerged from that chrysalis was something she hadn't expected. A later-in-life autism and ADHD identification. A complete identity shift. And a birthwork business built entirely on her own terms.

This is the story of how she got there.

In this episode Niamh and Tina-Marie cover:

— Tina-Marie's journey from PhD chemist and pharma trainer to antenatal educator, doula and pregnancy yoga instructor — Why burnout was the turning point — and what it physically cost her before she listened to it — The identity crisis that came with leaving a career she had worked so hard to build — What it felt like to have her entire belief system challenged during antenatal educator training — and why that was both terrifying and transformative — Her later-in-life autism and ADHD identification — and why she uses the language "later in life identified" rather than "late diagnosed" — How understanding her neurology gave her permission to do things her own way — and why that turned out to benefit everyone she works with — The word "should" — and how recognising it as someone else's expectations changed everything — The chrysalis metaphor — what it means to become mush before you reform into something new — The weaving metaphor — how the threads of her life were always pointing here, even when she couldn't see it — What she would tell anyone who is still dipping their toe into something and wondering whether to take the leap — Why she believes we can do anything when we are properly supported

If you're at the beginning of your own journey and wondering what's possible this episode is a really good place to start. 

About Tina-Marie:

Tina-Marie Bruton is an antenatal educator with Antenatal Ireland, birth and postpartum doula, birth reflections facilitator, and pregnancy Relax Stretch & Breathe instructor based in Cork. She is a later-in-life identified AuDHD mum to two neurodivergent kids and founder of The Birth Alchemist. Find her on Instagram @the_birth_alchemist and at antenatalireland.ie for upcoming workshops.

Links mentioned:

🌸 Tina-Marie on Instagram: @the_birth_alchemist 

🌸 Antenatal Ireland workshops: antenatalireland.ie 

🌸 Cuidiu — National Parent Support Charity: cuidiu.ie

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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We dive into the real story of how Kristin went from working in political fundraising to running a thriving doula agency offering birth and postpartum care, sleep consulting, and education. She shares candidly about her transition from solo practice to co-founding an agency, how she navigated imposter syndrome in early collective work, and what it took to stand out in her local market.

Whether you're just starting out or growing a team, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and behind-the-scenes insights on:

• Why Kristin left the collective model and started her own doula practice
• How to know when it’s time to expand and build a team
• The power of niching and branding (even if you’re not the “typical doula”)
• The systems and mindset shifts needed to run a successful agency
• Tips on hiring help before burnout kicks in
• Writing and publishing a book as a birth professional
• How quarterly planning and vision-setting has shaped her business growth

This conversation is a must-listen if you’re a birthworker who feels like you don’t quite “fit in” or you're wondering if scaling up is possible in this field.

🎧 Listen in to hear:

• Kristin’s journey from “not your typical doula” to building an award winning doula agency
• Why she wishes she’d launched before things were perfect
• Her top advice for outsourcing, marketing, and running a business sustainably
• The role of mindset and community in staying resilient as a business owner

📚 Mentioned in the episode:

• Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby – by Kristin Revere & Alyssa Veneklase
• Traction by Gino Wickman (EOS business model)

Connect with Kristin:

• Gold Coast Doulas 
• Ask the Doulas podcast
• Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby book
• Becoming A Mother Online Course

✨ If you loved this episode, screenshot and tag us @preg_and_postnatal_collective and @goldcoastdoulas to share your biggest takeaway.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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If you're feeling pressure to be louder, more provocative, or more controversial to succeed as a doula, lactation consultant, or antenatal educator, this one's for you.

We talk about:

• Why controversy in birth work is almost always fear-based (and what that costs your clients)
• The difference between reach and actual clients
• How ordinary pregnant and postpartum people choose birth workers
• Why a sustainable birth business doesn't need to scare anyone
• Real examples of how this plays out in our industry

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Crawford, life and business coach, parent educator, mentor and doula trainer, with over 15 years’ experience supporting families and shaping skilled, grounded birth workers across Ireland. Between us, we’ve:

• trained and mentored hundreds of birth workers
• supported thousands of families
• built and scaled sustainable birth-work businesses
• and seen far too many brilliant practitioners leave this work unnecessarily due to burnout, lack of support, or unrealistic expectations.

In this honest, grounded and at times possibly controversial conversation, we’re coming together as two of Ireland and Europe’s leading voices in birth work and birth-business to share what we both wish we’d known when we were starting out, and what we now know makes the biggest difference.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why birth work may be a calling, but it still needs to be a viable career
• The foundations every birth worker needs before worrying about visibility or marketing
• Mindset shifts that help you move from passion to sustainability
• Values, boundaries and energy management in emotionally demanding work
• Why “there’s not enough work” is a myth, and what actually matters instead
• The dangers of black-and-white thinking and fear-based narratives in birth work
• Collaboration vs conflict within maternity systems
• How to protect yourself from burnout and stay in this work long-term
• The role of support, community and professional guidance when you’re starting out

This episode is for you if:

• You’re considering training as a doula, lactation consultant, antenatal educator or other birth worker
• You’re newly qualified and wondering “Why is this harder than I thought?”
• You love the work but feel unsure about how to make it sustainable
• You want a values-led, ethical approach to birth work and business
• You’re tired of absolutist advice and want nuance, realism and encouragement

Jen and I both believe that there is plenty of work for everyone and that birth work is really just a fledgling industry with so much more growth potential. We are both hurt by seeing good birth workers quit and this conversation is about changing that, starting from the very beginning.

About Jen Crawford

Jen is a life and business coach, parent educator, mentor and doula trainer with over 15 years’ experience. She has trained and mentored hundreds of doulas, supported thousands of families, and co-founded Ireland’s first national doula agency. In 2026, she continues to lead group doula trainings and coach birth workers across Ireland and internationally.

You can connect with Jen here:

Website: jen-crawford.com

Doula training: @jencrawforddoulawisdom

Coaching: @jencrawfordcoaching

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

✨ A look back at how the podcast started and how it has evolved
 ✨ Why I created this podcast specifically for birth and postpartum professionals
 ✨ The challenges I’ve seen in our industry and how this podcast helps you build a sustainable business
 ✨ My favourite episodes and guest conversations so far (hint: community over competition & mindset deep dives!)
 ✨ Exciting award nominations (including a HUGE one for supporting breastfeeding professionals!)
 ✨ A sneak peek at something NEW coming soon for The Collective 🚀

Links & Resources Mentioned:

📌 Join my Facebook group for free business support
📌 Submit your business & mindset questions for the live Q&As → DM me on Instagram: @preg_and_postnatal_collective
📌 Listen to some of my favourite past episodes:

• Community Over Competition with Fiona Rea 
• Self-Compassion, Shame & Sustainable Business with Dr. Jenny Turner 

💡 How You Can Support the Podcast:
To celebrate this 50th Episode I would LOVE if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen). Your support helps this podcast reach more birthworkers who need it.

Let’s celebrate together—thank you for being part of this journey! 🎉

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• Last year was full of growth and significant challenges.
• We can't always control what happens, but we can choose our response.
• Investing in health is crucial for overall well-being.
• Scheduling time for loved ones is non-negotiable.
• Planning helps to stay on track amidst life's challenges.
• Reflection is essential for personal and professional growth.
• It's important to honour commitments made to oneself.
• Health impacts patience, creativity, and resilience.
• Taking stock of wins and challenges is transformative.
• Showing up for ourselves is key to success.

Mentioned in the episode: Reflect & Reset: Your Birthwork Business Year in Review

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I’m answering three brilliant and very relatable questions from our members:

🔐 What policies and procedures does a birthworker really need?
From GDPR to client agreements, I break down the essentials — including what helps protect your business and your clients.

🎯 How do I get clearer on my dream client without using manipulative 'pain point' marketing?
We’re talking values-based messaging, connecting with the right people (not everyone), and ditching fear-based tactics for good.

💸 How should I actually pay myself from my birth biz income?
Let’s chat about money mindset, practical payment strategies, and why paying yourself something — even if it’s small — matters.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to tighten things up behind the scenes, this episode will help you feel more confident and capable as a self-employed birthworker.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• Why having clear policies isn’t just about ticking boxes
• How to identify your ideal client without feeling gross about marketing
• The mindset shift that helps you actually take a wage from your work

👉 Plus, if you're listening before 19th June, you’ll be the first to hear about the doors opening to Your Birth Biz – The Membership. Come join us if you want grounded, ongoing support to grow a thriving, ethical birth business — with a lovely crew of likeminded birth pros by your side.

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In this solo episode, I’m sharing an honest reflection on my 2025: the moments that nourished me, one major low point that changed the pace of everything, the lessons I didn’t expect to learn, and the intentions I’m carrying forward into 2026.

This isn’t a strategy episode or a highlight reel. It’s a conversation about connection, ethical business, nervous system regulation, and what happens when we do too much doing and not enough being — something I know many birth and postpartum professionals will resonate with.

If you’re feeling tired, reflective, or unsure how you want to move into the new year, this episode offers space to slow down and take stock.

In This Episode, I Talk About:

• Why reflection matters more than rushing into goals
• What genuinely nourished me in 2025 — travel, creativity, community and strength
• Launching the Your Birth Biz membership and building meaningful visibility
• Navigating a major personal crisis when my husband was seriously injured
• What happens when business growth doesn’t match effort
• Hustle, nervous system dysregulation, and feeling disconnected from your work
• My honest reflections on over-relying on AI instead of my own thinking
• Why output doesn’t equal service — and visibility doesn’t equal connection
• Reconnecting with my body, mind and intuition
• My 2026 intention: connection is key
• Creating content as service, not obligation
• Why the podcast is becoming my primary way of supporting birth workers

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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We dive into:
 🌸 What Mizan therapy is and how it supports reproductive, digestive, and emotional health
 🌸 The inner seasons of the menstrual cycle (winter, spring, summer, autumn) and what they mean for energy, mood, and productivity
🌸 Practical tips for cycle charting — apps vs paper tracking
🌸 How to sync business tasks, self-care, and even exercise with your cycle phases
🌸 Why period pain is common but not normal, and how traditional practices can help
🌸 How women without a bleed (due to birth control, menopause, or hysterectomy) can still benefit from cycle charting with the lunar cycle

I learned a lot from this conversation about reclaiming your body’s wisdom, challenging societal stigmas, and finding balance in both work and life.

🔗 Connect with Tayba:
 Website: https://nurturingheartandwomb.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/nurturingheartandwomb

✨ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the podcast. Share it with a birthworker or business-owning friend who needs to hear this!

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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In this conversation, I’m joined by Charlie Cleary, a marketing simplification strategist who helps women build businesses that actually work for their lives — not ones that leave them burnt out or glued to the algorithm.

We talk about what’s really going on when marketing feels hard, why so many women struggle with pricing and visibility, and how to create a marketing approach that feels aligned, sustainable and actually works.

Because the truth is — it’s not that you’re bad at marketing. It’s that you’ve probably been trying to do too much, in ways that don’t suit you.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why marketing feels so overwhelming (especially for birth workers)
• The problem with “should-based” business advice
• Why doing less can actually grow your business faster
• The link between pricing, confidence and visibility
• How your mindset impacts your marketing (more than any strategy)
• Why women often undercharge — and how to start shifting that
• The importance of putting more money into the hands of women
• How to choose marketing strategies that suit your energy and lifestyle
• What to do if you hate social media (yes, really)
• How to repurpose your content instead of constantly creating more
• Why storytelling is one of the most powerful marketing tools you have

Key Takeaway:

You don’t need to be on every platform.
 You don’t need a complicated strategy.
 And you definitely don’t need to burn yourself out trying to grow your business.

You need a way of marketing that feels good, fits your life, and allows you to show up consistently — as yourself.

A Few Lines That Might Stick With You:

• “You’re not bad at marketing — you’re just doing too much.”
• “The safest job you can have is one you’re in control of.”
• “If you don’t feel confident in your prices, you won’t sell them.”
• “Tell your story — it can never be wrong.” 

Connect with Charlie:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-clarey-marketing-consultant/

https://www.instagram.com/charlieclareyconsulting/

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Discover how to make your booking process stress-free, communicate effectively, and go above and beyond to delight your clients. From personalized treats to thoughtful follow-ups, Niamh shares actionable tips that will leave your clients singing your praises.

Don't miss this episode, where you'll learn the art of asking for feedback and reviews and why they're essential for your business growth. Join us on this journey of turning ordinary clients into extraordinary advocates who champion your services.

Tune in and get ready to create a thriving community of advocates who'll help your business soar to new heights. It's time to turn your clients into your biggest fans!

Want to continue the conversation? Join us in our free Facebook Group
Interested in learning more about our signature programme BirthProBoost? Find out more & join the waitlist here 

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• Katy's Time Block Schedule
• Niamh's 90 Day Success Planning Training 
• Katy's Podcast - Ginger Biz
• Katy & Co VAs

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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We explore what imposter syndrome is and how it can impact both our work supporting families and building our businesses. We discuss the common fears of not feeling good enough, educated enough, or experienced enough and how these feelings can hold us back from taking on new clients or growing our businesses.

But we also dive into strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome. We discuss the importance of acknowledging our feelings, building a support network of peers and mentors, and focusing on our strengths and accomplishments. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with imposter syndrome or who wants to gain insights into how to build a successful business while providing excellent care and support to families. Join us as we support and inspire our community of Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs.

Join the free Collective Facebook Group to build your Community here 

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Takeaways
Embrace feelings of inadequacy; they are normal.
Building local relationships is crucial for attracting clients.
Networking can lead to referrals and business growth.
Start learning business skills while in college.
Focus on your mindset as a future business owner.
You don't need to be the best to mentor others.
Taking breaks can help combat burnout and inspire creativity.
Use tools to find out what your audience is asking.
Exciting changes are coming to Niamh's business.
Engagement with the audience is key for future episodes.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Ask Me Anything Format
03:10 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Teaching
05:59 Building Client Relationships as a New Doula
09:15 Networking and Business Skills for Future Midwives
11:56 Mentorship and Course Creation for Experienced Practitioners
15:16 Finding Inspiration and Combating Burnout
16:42 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

If you would like to have your questions answered on a future episode click here!

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From an unexpected pregnancy in 2012 to becoming a fully booked lactation consultant, childbirth educator, and a business mentor for birthworkers, I’m walking you through the journey that brought me here. You’ll hear how my experience as a new mum led me to the Cuidiú community, the role that peer support played in my parenting and professional life, and how that foundation inspired the work I do today—supporting doulas, IBCLCs, antenatal teachers and other perinatal professionals to build ethical, thriving businesses.

I also talk about:

• Why I found the early months of parenting so tough—and what helped
• How breastfeeding support groups changed my life
• The unexpected way my closest friendships began
• The importance of community when you're building a business from scratch
• Why doing business in an ethical way is the foundation of everything
• A brand new low-cost membership I’ve quietly launched for birthworkers who want business support without the big investment

This episode is for you if:

• You’re a new or aspiring birthworker looking for inspiration
• You’ve ever struggled with isolation in early motherhood
• You want to hear a real, behind-the-scenes story of business growth in the birth world
• You believe in community-led care and the idea that it takes a village—not just to raise a child, but to support a parent

✨ Interested in the new low-cost business membership I mentioned?
It’s currently invite only and open just to podcast listeners this week (ending 18 May 2025). DM me on Instagram @preg_and_postnatal_collective to learn more or grab one of the few remaining founding member spots.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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In this episode, I’m catching you up with a quick life update, before diving into:
 ✨ Why the summer slump is normal (and not a sign your business is broken)
✨ How to create stability by paying yourself consistently, even when income dips
✨ Why September has that “mini new year” energy — and how to harness it without burning out
✨ The one-thing rule for rebuilding momentum gently and sustainably
✨ My brand-new 4-Month Planning Framework — designed to help you set goals, reflect, and take action in a way that actually works for birthworkers

This is your invitation to reset, refocus, and set yourself up for the rest of the year — without the overwhelm.

💡 I’d love to hear from you: after listening, DM me on Instagram @preg_and_postnatal_collective
and tell me your one focus for the next 4 months.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Join the waitlist for The NEST Programme (my 6-month small group coaching for birthworkers) 
• Follow me on Instagram for more free resources → @preg_and_postnatal_collective
  
  

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Episode Highlights:

Today, Niamh reflects on what she would do differently if she were starting her birthwork business from scratch. Whether you're just launching or need a fresh perspective, these insights are a must-hear.

She’ll be covering three pivotal things that could make all the difference for your business—and spoiler alert—they're things most birthworkers overlook!

Why You Need to Listen:

• Struggling to balance passion with running a business? Niamh has some practical tips that will change how you approach your work.
• Unsure who your real ideal client is? You’ll learn how to attract the people you actually want to work with.
• Afraid of showing up on social media? Niamh shares her own experience and how to break through that fear.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• The Nest Programme – A supportive group mundset & business coaching programme for birthworkers looking to grow their business.
• 1:1 Coaching with Niamh – Tailored business guidance for birth and postpartum professionals.

Connect with Niamh:

• Instagram
• Website

This episode is full of insights that could transform your approach to your business, so make sure to tune in and take notes! Don’t forget to share and tag Niamh on social media to continue the conversation. You won’t want to miss this one!

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In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Mariana Henninger of BrandMagnetic. Mariana is not your average storyteller – she's an EMMY® Award-winning documentary filmmaker who has seamlessly transitioned her skills into helping online businesses thrive.

With many years of experience, Mariana has mastered the art of crafting emotion-driven brand videos. These aren't just any videos; they are the kind that builds trust at lightning speed and boosts sales for businesses across the globe. Imagine condensing your brand's essence, values, and mission into a single 2-4 minute masterpiece that leaves a lasting impact on your audience!

In this episode, we explore:

📽️ The Science of Emotion: Discover how Mariana leverages the power of emotions to create brand videos that connect deeply with viewers.

🎬 Crafting Your Narrative: Get insights into the storytelling techniques Mariana uses to captivate and engage your target audience.

💼 Building Trust Faster: Learn why a well-crafted brand video can help birth and postpartum workers like you establish trust and credibility in the competitive business landscape.

💰 Boosting Sales: Uncover the secret sauce behind using brand videos as a strategic tool to increase your revenue.

Whether you're a doula, lactation consultant, or any other birth and postpartum professional, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that can transform the way you communicate your services to the world.

So, grab your earbuds and join us as we embark on a journey into the world of visual storytelling, where Mariana Henninger shares her expertise on creating a brand video that leaves a lasting impression. Get ready to harness the incredible power of video to grow your business and connect with your audience on a whole new level.

Tune in now and start crafting your brand's cinematic masterpiece! 🍿🌟

I'd love to hear what you thought of the episode, tag us in a story or send me a DM on Instagram! 

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Niamh and Annie discuss their journeys from volunteering to establishing successful private practices in the realm of birth and postpartum care. They share their experiences in balancing the heartfelt desire to help others with the realities of running a business. Together, they explore the importance of setting boundaries, building efficient processes, and nurturing your business to ensure it takes care of you.

Annie's insights shed light on how to create a business that not only meets your financial goals but also empowers you to lead a balanced life. Learn how implementing automation, embracing professionalism, and fostering resilience in your practice can enhance your clients' trust and provide a calming presence during their transitional phases.

Discover the secrets to sustaining a supportive business that truly supports you, and why it's not just about the money, but also about preserving your well-being. Listen in as Niamh and Annie provide valuable tips and practical strategies for professionals in the birth and postpartum care industry, helping you transform your business into a source of strength and satisfaction. Don't miss this episode on growing your business, setting ethical standards, and cultivating a money mindset that ensures both you and your clients thrive.

Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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That's the thread running through this week's episode — and once you see it, you can't unsee it.

In this honest, story-led conversation, Niamh shares the part of her own story she doesn't usually tell on the podcast. The unplanned pregnancy in her early 30s. The friendship group that fell away. The antenatal class her now-husband signed her up for because he could see how lonely she was. The breastfeeding group that gave her her closest friends 13 years on. And the baby link group she set up when nobody else in the room would put their hand up.

From there, the episode traces how the same lesson — sometimes you join a community, sometimes you create one, but you don't get to skip community altogether — shaped her entire business as an antenatal educator, lactation consultant and mentor for birth and postpartum professionals.

Niamh talks honestly about:

• The community she had as a new birthworker — and the missing piece that nobody had figured out yet
• Why she joined a generic, expensive women-in-business membership when she couldn't afford to (and what 30% of it taught her)
• How history shows us self-employment is a relatively new and structurally lonely way of working
• Why birthworkers are more isolated in their work than at any point in human history — even with all the communication tools we have
• Why so many people walk away from birthwork within a year of training (and what keeps the ones who stay)
• The role of "someone a little further along" — at the breastfeeding group, in business, in life

This is the most personal episode of the podcast so far. And the one that explains, more clearly than anything else has, why the work Niamh does the way she does it.

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Discover the perks of becoming an expert in a particular area, from gaining trust to being the go-to person for a specific service. We share real-world examples, like the Instagram account dedicated solely to cooking potatoes, proving that embracing a niche can build a dedicated following.

But it's not all sunshine – we discuss the challenges, whether you're working in-person or online. Is there a big enough population for your niche in your area? Can you stand out in the vast online space? We get real about the potential hurdles.

And what if your niche doesn't take off as expected? We emphasize the importance of giving it time and being open to change. Not everyone needs to niche down, but if you decide it's for you, be strategic, be adaptable, and don't be afraid to switch things up if needed.

Tune in for a laid-back, conversation-style discussion on the ins and outs of niching down in the birth and postpartum support world. Whether you're a doula, lactation consultant, or childbirth educator, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in your unique niche.

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In this episode of The Pregnancy & Postnatal Entrepreneurs Collective Podcast, Niamh Cassidy — IBCLC, antenatal educator, and business coach for birth workers — shares the three most important actions you can take today to start building momentum and growing your client base. These are practical, low-barrier strategies that don’t require a big budget, a slick website or thousands of followers.

You'll learn:

• Why networking (without the ick!) is your secret superpower
• How to use your existing connections to spark referrals
• Simple tips to help you show up consistently on social media without getting stuck in perfectionism
• What kind of content actually helps build trust and attracts your ideal clients
• The real reason most birth workers get stuck — and how to avoid that trap

Whether you’re brand new or trying to revive a quiet season in your business, this episode is full of gentle but effective encouragement to help you get visible and stay in motion.

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In this episode Niamh shares her own framework for getting through summer without burning out or dropping the ball — and without trying to hustle, launch, or "maximise" anything. This is about survival with your business, health and family intact, not productivity for its own sake.

She covers:

• How to figure out your "minimum viable summer" — the baseline income, client numbers and one non-negotiable marketing activity you need to keep ticking over
• Why summer is the wrong time to launch, start something new, or add offers
• How to map your actual working hours around childcare, camps and family support before the summer starts
• Sorting childcare for client-facing work versus the deep-focus time you need to work on your business
• Setting boundaries with older kids who are home during work hours (including Niamh's "office door open or closed" system)
• Why batching and time-blocking matter even more when your time is short
• Managing client expectations and communicating your summer availability to your community
• The guilt that comes with self-employed parenting — and why running at 60% capacity over summer doesn't make you a bad business owner or a bad parent

If you want help getting your content sorted before summer hits, Niamh mentions her workshop on batching eight weeks of social media content in three hours — link in the show notes.

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

Get the Easy Content Creation - Summer Edition training

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

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Niamh gets personal.. sharing stories not just from her early career in youth justice and youth homelessness in Dublin, but her own pregnancy journey and the loss of her friends because of it. All of this so she can share what she's learned across decades of working with families in crisis and families who were simply left without enough support.

And she connects all of it to one big idea: supporting families through pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period might be one of the most powerful things we can do to change the world.

In this episode Niamh talks about:

• What her years working with young men in homelessness taught her about unsupported families
• Why the modern village has scattered, and what that means for new parents
• Maslow's hierarchy of needs and why so many new parents never get to flourish
• A real client story that shows exactly what's at stake when a birthworker shows up
• Why so many birthworkers are invisible, and the real cost of that invisibility
• Why charging your worth isn't about money, it's about sustainability and impact
• Why you are part of the solution to everything that's broken and why the world needs you to keep going 

This one is worth sharing with every birthworker you know.

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Emma is mum to a six year old and a qualified NLP, mBIT and Practical Magic Coach and full time post 16 educator. She is the editor of Positive Wellbeing Zine for Mums and host of the Self Care and Motherhood Edit podcast. Her passion is to support busy mums to have more time and energy for the all the things they enjoy and to have the tools to support and nurture themselves.

Website - Emmabenyoncoaching.co.uk 

Instagram - @emmabenyon.coach  

Facebook - @emmabenyon.coach 

Podcast - Self Care and Motherhood Edit

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Working alone in clients' homes comes with risks most birth workers aren't prepared for. Niamh created this free guide to share the 8 safety protocols she learned over two decade of home visits (first in social care services, then in birth work) from what to ask on your intake form to positioning yourself for safety. It takes 2 minutes to read and might be the one thing that matters.

Download free: yourbirthbiz.com/safet

Get the Easy Content Creation - Summer Edition training

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• Why resolutions fail (hint: it’s not you—it’s them).
• How connecting your goals to your “why” makes all the difference.
• The magic of focusing on how you want to feel instead of what you should do.
• Why breaking your big goals into bite-sized steps leads to bigger wins.
• The role of support and accountability in sticking with your plans.
• How reflecting on the past can help you shape a better future.
• Systems, routines, and why they’re your secret weapon for achieving goals.
• Why visualising success isn’t just fluff—it’s a powerful motivator.

If you’re ready to say goodbye to the same old resolutions and start the year with clear, meaningful intentions, this episode is for you. Let’s do this together!

Get the Easy Content Creation - Summer Edition training

Connect with Me 

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Facebook

Linked In