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Losing a baby in or after the NICU is a grief few can imagine — and one that deserves more compassionate, trauma-informed support than most families receive. In this episode, I’m joined by Ashley Inclima, a doula specializing in perinatal loss and bereavement. Ashley is the founder of Tides of Life Doula, where she supports families through pregnancy, birth, and infant loss with presence, ritual, and heart-centered care. Together, we talk about what it means to improve the bereavement experience for NICU families — from how healthcare professionals and doulas can show up with sensitivity, to the small actions that make an enormous difference in moments of loss.  You’ll hear insight on:  🌿 What compassionate presence really looks like when there are no right words  🕯️ How to honor a baby’s life — even when it feels unbearably short  💬 Simple ways to communicate with families navigating grief in the NICU  💡 How doulas and care providers can partner with hospital teams to improve bereavement care This is a powerful and deeply needed conversation for anyone who supports NICU families — and a reminder that even in the hardest moments, there are ways to bring gentleness, respect, and light. Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator   Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount. Guest Spotlight: Ashley Inclima Ashley Inclima is a Birth and Bereavement Doula, Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Tides of Life Doula & Perinatal Bereavement Services LLC, specializing in pregnancy and infant loss, as well as pregnancy after loss. With over a decade of personal and professional experience, she supports bereaved families and provides guidance for the professionals who care for them. Ashley also educates doulas and healthcare providers to feel more confident and equipped to hold space for families through grief, love, and healing. Connect with Ashley: Tides of life doula Services Instagram: @tidesoflifedoula Inside This Episode: 00:00 - Introduction to NICU grief and Ashley’s personal story 02:22 - Ashley’s journey into bereavement doula work 06:14 - Educating healthcare professionals and doulas for better family support 10:39 - Common themes: guilt, regret, isolation, and the out-of-order loss 15:11 - Supporting families in moments of silence and unspoken pain 20:09 - Unique challenges of NICU loss and secondary grief experiences 27:43 - Balancing joy and grief, gratitude and sadness 30:02 - Memory making: why photos, keepsakes, and rituals matter 39:30 - Supporting families in transition: advocating for the environment, visitation, and personal rituals 46:20 - The one essential takeaway for supporting families in grief 50:44 - The role of support providers: holding space, guiding, and collaborative care   Links, Resources & Mentions: Check out Ashley’s Self-Paced Course on Supporting Perinatal Loss Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep   Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.   Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.   SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Some NICU journeys begin long before delivery — and Natascha Bohmann’s story is one of them. After a high-risk mono-mono twin pregnancy, a lengthy inpatient hospitalization, and a NICU stay for her daughters, she walked through every chapter of uncertainty a family can face: fear, waiting, grief, advocacy, and rebuilding life on the other side. In this episode, Natascha shares how her experience as a NICU mom, combined with her deep background in yoga therapy, grief support, end-of-life care, and healthcare communications, shaped her calling to become a NICU doula. Her story is a powerful reminder that the NICU doesn’t end at discharge — and that families need more emotional, informational, and integrative support than our current system offers.   We explore what it’s really like to prepare for an inpatient stay, navigate high-risk pregnancy, transition home after NICU, and rediscover your voice as both a parent and a professional. Whether you’re a NICU parent or a doula building NICU-informed skills, Natascha’s wisdom offers grounding, clarity, and a path forward.   Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount.   Guest Spotlight: Natascha Bohmann; MBA, Yoga Therapist, Ayurveda Wellness Counselor, NICU Doula, Grief + Bereavement Specialist, End-of-life Doula  Natascha is mom of mono-mono twins. After a lengthy antepartum stay due to a high-risk pregnancy and NICU stay for her girls, as well as navigating the transition home and beyond, she felt called to find meaningful ways to support other families faced with a similar journey. She participated in the beta cohort of the NICU Doula Academy and is working toward certification. In addition, Natascha is a yoga therapist, Ayurveda wellness counselor, grief and bereavement specialist, and end-of-life doula for people and companion animals. She also has a background in healthcare in both marketing/communications and sales. These various experiences have given her insights both from a patient perspective as well as a view of the challenges clinicians face, fueling her inspiration to be the change, and finding a way to bridge the gaps. Her vision is to provide peer-to-peer support to families from inpatient to the transition home and beyond, while weaving in foundational and sustainable yoga-inspired tools to buoy through uncertain and challenging times. She is currently building her offerings and providing support both in-person and virtually.     Specific to her NICU doula work, Natascha is looking to create a collaborative network of birth and postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, PTs/OTs, speech therapists and other holistic professionals to help provide supportive resources to families (both in the Pacific Northwest and virtually). Connect through social media or [email protected] if interested.    Connect with Natascha:  www.nourishedbeingnow.com Instagram: @_nourishedbeing_ Facebook: Nourished Being   Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Journey 05:42 Discovering the Pregnancy and NICU Reality 10:34 The Birth Experience and Initial NICU Stay 15:37 Navigating NICU Life and Logistical Challenges 20:04 Mindset and Coping Strategies During NICU 24:43 The Role of Community and Support 29:32 Advocacy in the NICU 34:07 Transitioning Home After NICU 38:54 The Future as a NICU Doula   Links, Resources & Mentions: Check out the NICU Doula Directory mentioned in the episode.  Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Waiting is one of the hardest parts of the NICU — waiting for updates, waiting for milestones, waiting to finally bring your baby home. But in those quiet, uncertain moments, families and siblings are living their own version of the NICU journey, too. In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by Emily Rosen — mom, creative director, and author of the new children’s book Waiting for Max: A NICU Story — to talk about what it means to live in “the waiting” and how we can help siblings and families cope with the emotional side of the NICU. We explore the inspiration behind Waiting for Max, how storytelling can help children process what’s happening, and practical ways parents can stay connected with their NICU baby (and their older kids) even when they’re apart. Whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, or healthcare provider, this episode offers gentle, creative ways to make the waiting a little less heavy — and a little more hopeful.   Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to feel more confident supporting families through the NICU? Learn more about Navigating the NICU for Doulas here!   Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started   Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount. Guest Spotlight: Emily Rosen Emily Rosen is a mom, a freelance creative director and copywriter, and a children’s book author. She has built her career working for top advertising agencies and brands and strives to use her creativity for good––especially to empower women, mothers, and kids. Inspired by her son Max’s time in the NICU, she wrote her first children’s book, "Waiting for Max: A NICU Story" to help families like hers.   When Emily’s not writing, she loves going for a run around the neighborhood, singing karaoke with friends, and reading to her two kids. Proudly born and raised in Cleveland, OH, she now lives in Los Angeles, CA, with her husband and their family. Learn more about Emily and her work at emilyrosencreative.com.   Connect with Emily Guest website: emilyrosencreative.com Instagram: @emilyrosencreative TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.rosen.creative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyozanrosen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilyozan   Inside This Episode: 00:00 The Art of Waiting in the NICU Journey 10:50 Coping Mechanisms During Waiting 20:26 The Importance of Storytelling for Siblings 31:12 Support Systems for Families in Waiting 40:54 Finding Joy in the Journey of Waiting   Links, Resources & Mentions: Get a copy of Waiting for Max here: https://thecollectivebook.studio/products/waiting-for-max   Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.   Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.   SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Stepping into the NICU can feel like landing in a completely different world — one with its own language, routines, and cast of characters. In this episode, I’m breaking down the essentials so you can start feeling more confident, informed, and ready to be an active part of your baby’s care team. We’ll cover what the NICU is, who’s on your baby’s care team, the most common terms you’ll hear, and how to get oriented so you feel less like a visitor and more like the vital parent or support person you are. Whether you’re here for your own baby or to better support the families you serve, this episode will give you a solid foundation. Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator   Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started   Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount.   Guest Spotlight: Amanda Newstetter, MSW Amanda spent her whole first career as a Social Worker and Trainer in the HIV/AIDS Epidemic starting in 1984 when it was a death sentence. She has 2 daughters and two grandchildren and she and her partner Donna have been together 40 years. She thought that working in the Birth world with new life would nicely balance her early career which focused on illness and death. She has always been drawn to life's thresholds and is in the Threshold Choir which sings at bedside to people who are sick and dying and lullabies to new babies. She lives in San Francisco with her partner.  Connect with Guest PPDoula.com Instagram: @amanda_as_postpartum_doula   Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Journeys 04:02 Amanda's NICU Experience and Emotional Journey 07:00 Navigating Postpartum Healing in the NICU 09:59 The Role of Support and Connection in the NICU 12:40 Transitioning Home: The Challenges of NICU Discharge 15:36 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on NICU Families 18:39 Mental Health After NICU: Amanda's Journey 23:00 The Importance of Processing Birth Trauma 25:58 Thresholds: Supporting Families Through Transitions 28:51 Advice for NICU Families: Healing and Trusting Yourself 32:02 Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey Beyond the NICU   Links, Resources & Mentions: Want a gentle place to process your NICU experience? Start with The NICU Notebook. Want to reflect on and reclaim your NICU journey? Explore Your NICU Story. Preparing for a high-risk or NICU birth? Download the NICU Birth Plan Template.   Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.   SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rachael Carreon — a pediatric physical therapist and infant development expert who has supported babies and families for more than a decade. Together, we break down some of the most common challenges NICU graduates face after discharge, including oral ties, feeding difficulties, torticollis, plagiocephaly, body tension, and early motor delays. Rachael has such a gift for translating complex information into simple, empowering explanations. We talk about how to spot concerns early, why feeding and movement are so closely connected, and what parents and doulas can realistically do to support babies during those crucial first months at home. If you’ve ever felt unsure about head shape, feeding cues, oral ties, or developmental milestones — or you support families who do — this conversation is full of practical, confidence-building takeaways you can start using right away. Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started   Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount. Guest Spotlight: Dr. Rachael Carreon PT, DPT Dr. Rachael Carreon is a pediatric physical therapist and infant development expert with over 11 years of experience. She specializes in supporting babies with oral ties and feeding challenges, torticollis, plagiocephaly, body tension, and gross motor delays. Rachael believes every child deserves the chance to thrive, and she’s passionate about empowering parents with the knowledge and confidence to support their baby’s development during the most critical early years.   www.foundationspediatricpt.com Instagram: @foundations_pediatricpt YouTube: @FoundationsPedsPT Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Support and Development 04:20 Understanding Feeding Challenges in NICU Graduates 07:15 Addressing Tension and Movement in NICU Babies 10:23 Exploring Oral Ties and Their Impact on Feeding 13:19 Holistic Approaches to Feeding Interventions 16:22 Supporting NICU Families During Transition 19:32 Encouraging Positive Touch and Connection 26:54 Understanding Baby's Needs and Family Bonding 32:48 Transitioning from Bottles to Breastfeeding 37:43 Managing Expectations in Feeding Journeys 42:51 The Importance of Pooping for Babies 47:51 Milestones and Adjusted Age for Preemies 52:48 Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Babies   Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.   Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

The NICU may end at discharge, but for many families, the journey is far from over. Life after the NICU often means learning to navigate complex medical needs, therapies, and emotions that don’t fit neatly into anyone’s discharge plan.   In this episode, I’m joined by Michele Salmons, mom of two and one of my former NICU doula clients, whose story is one of courage, advocacy, and deep love. After a uterine rupture during her son Harvey’s birth, Michele and her husband were told he had very little chance of survival. But their journey — from transferring NICUs to building a life of medical care, therapy, and blended feeding at home — has become a testament to what it means to move from crisis to confidence.   We talk about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, how to rebuild life and identity after trauma, and the ways families like Michele’s redefine what thriving looks like.   Whether you’re a NICU parent walking a similar path or a doula wanting to better understand life after discharge, this episode offers perspective, honesty, and so much heart. Stay Connected with Mary: Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started  Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount.   Guest Spotlight: Michele Salmons Michele is the mother of two young boys. During her second birth with her son, Harvey, Michele sustained a uterine rupture. Harvey was born with an APGAR score of 1 and given very slim chances of living. Amidst the devastation, Michele and her husband quickly learned to advocate for Harvey ultimately transferring him to a different NICU. After over a month, Harvey was discharged home and the family's journey of complex medical care, early intervention and intensive therapy, and living life through a new perspective began. Today, at nearly two, Harvey is a Cerebral Palsy warrior and Infantile Spasms and Lennox Gastaut Syndrome fighter (along with several other diagnoses). Michele turned to blended tube feeding for Harvey, continues to seek out nationally renowned therapy, and says she will "stop at nothing to give Harvey the best life possible".    Connect with Michele Instagram: @hehasmiracles He HAS Miracles was founded to honor the journey and witness the miracles of a little boy named Harvey. Harvey's first month+ on earth began in the NICU as a HIE survivor. Today, at nearly two, Harvey is a CP warrior and IS and LGS fighter. Harvey has defined many of the odds and is living proof that miracles exist. Harvey's family envisions He HAS Miracles morphing into a non profit supporting advocacy, awareness, education, research and resources in the complex medical, brain injury, blended g-tube feeding, and special needs spaces.    Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Michelle's NICU Journey 01:59 Harvey's Birth and NICU Admission 09:01 Initial NICU Experience and Parental Advocacy 18:37 Transitioning to a New NICU 24:08 Life After NICU: The Transition Home 30:35 Navigating Home Health Nursing 37:35 Evolving Needs and Family Dynamics 39:39 Navigating the Complexities of Caregiving 44:49 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges 49:38 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents 55:50 Managing G-Tube Care and Nutrition 01:07:50 Creating Community and Sharing Experiences 01:12:48 Hope and Faith in the Journey of Parenting  Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Sleep after the NICU is complicated — not just for babies, but for parents, too. Preemies have different developmental timelines, different sensory needs, and often, different medical journeys that shape how (and when) they sleep. Add in parental trauma, nighttime anxiety, and navigating life after the NICU, and sleep can feel like one of the hardest parts of bringing your baby home. In this episode, I’m joined by Jamie Ortiz, NICU mom, sleep consultant, and founder of Little Ones Sleep Society. Jamie brings her professional expertise and her deeply personal story as a NICU and loss mom to help families understand what healthy sleep really looks like after the NICU. We talk about the realities of preemie sleep, how to support medically complex babies overnight, breaking out of NICU habits, and why sleep is truly a family system, not just a baby schedule. Jamie also shares the role of her work offered on I Help Moms, a platform offering accessible support from sleep experts, grief counselors, mental wellness providers, lactation experts, and more. Whether you're a NICU parent craving rest, a doula supporting families after discharge, or a provider wanting language that’s grounded, compassionate, and realistic, this episode offers clarity, validation, and hope. Stay Connected with Mary:Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access to the 2026 cohorts and a special enrollment discount. Spots are limited, and the waitlist is the best way to be the first to know when doors open. Guest Spotlight: Jamie OrtizJamie is a mom of 2 (proud NICU mom), a sleep consultant for over 4 years and has a passion for helping little ones and their parents get the rest that's needed. Owner of Little Ones Sleep Society and head coach for the parenting platform I Help Moms...Jamie is able to work with anyone from anywhere. You can find her articles via her site and all different types of parenting magazines such as Joovy Magazine.  Connect with Jamie:www.littleonessleepsociety.com Instagram: @littleonessleepsocietyParents and professionals can also find me on https://ihelpmoms.com/consultants/consultant/458/jamie-ortiz Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Experiences and Sleep Challenges 04:19 Understanding Preemie Sleep Needs 07:14 The Importance of Adjusted Age in Sleep 10:18 Transitioning from NICU to Home 13:18 Sleep Shaping for Medically Complex Babies 16:25 Creating a Positive Sleep Environment 19:06 Navigating Sleep Expectations and Patterns 29:46 Creating a Soothing Environment for Babies 32:10 The Importance of Routine and Parental Regulation 35:51 Navigating NICU Experiences and Parental Anxiety 39:22 Understanding Baby's Needs and Parental Support 42:10 Encouraging Bonding and Trust in Caregiving 46:41 Resources and Support for NICU Families 48:27 Empowering Parents to Trust Their Instincts Links, Resources & Mentions:Check out Jamie’s Preemie Sleep Guide here!  Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

There are so many myths about the NICU and while most come from a place of love, they can leave families feeling confused, unprepared, or even ashamed for not matching someone else’s expectations. In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 5 NICU myths I hear most often, including big ones like “all NICU babies are preemies,” “NICU babies can’t be breastfed,” and “once you go home, everything goes back to normal.” Together, we’ll talk through what’s actually true, what’s outdated, and what families really need to know to feel more confident and supported. My goal is to replace fear and misinformation with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based guidance so whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, nurse, or support professional, you can better understand what NICU families are facing. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what NICU care looks like today, how to support bonding and breastfeeding in the NICU, and why discharge is the beginning of a whole new chapter, not the end of the story. Stay Connected with Mary:Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started!  Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist Get NICU informed before the end of the year with special pricing on my Navigating the NICU course!  Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Myths 02:50 Understanding NICU Experiences 07:37 Myth 1: Prenatal Preparation Can Prevent NICU Stays 08:57 Myth 2: All NICU Babies Are Premature 12:53 Myth 3: NICU Babies Can't Be Breastfed 17:08 Myth 4: NICU Babies Are Too Fragile to Be Held 21:24 Myth 5: Life Returns to Normal After NICU Discharge 27:17 Empowering Families and Professionals Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

When one baby is in the NICU and another is at home, parents face a kind of split that’s hard to describe — the heart wants to be in two places at once. In this episode, I’m joined by Julia Kraemer, founder of Kangaroo Cozies and mom of two, who knows this journey firsthand. Julia spent three months navigating life between home and the NICU after her daughter’s 27-week birth, and she’s here to share what helped her family stay connected, grounded, and cared for along the way. We talk about the practical strategies that can make a big difference — from preparing siblings before visits to maintaining routines, managing emotions, and finding small ways to nurture both children during a season of uncertainty. Whether you’re a NICU parent trying to juggle home life or a doula supporting a family through it, this episode offers encouragement and tools for finding balance in the midst of the chaos. Stay Connected with Mary:Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount. Get NICU informed before the end of the year with special pricing on my Navigating the NICU course!  Guest Spotlight: Julia KraemerJulia Kraemer is the founder of @kangaroo_cozies and a mom of two. She spent 3 months juggling the back and forth of having one child in the nicu and her older child at home. Take a listen to get some strategies that can help parents currently navigating a similar journey! Connect with Juliawww.kangaroocozies.comInstagram: @kangaroo_coziesInside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to NICU Sibling Support 05:50 Julia's NICU Experience 10:44 Navigating the NICU with Siblings 15:39 Creative Connection Strategies for Siblings 20:23 Emotional Support and Resources for Families 25:42 Navigating NICU Emotions and Sibling Involvement 30:57 The Joy of Homecoming: Transitioning to Family Life 35:55 Building a New Family Rhythm Post-NICU 42:20 Giving Back: Supporting the NICU Community Links, Resources & Mentions:Use code NICUBABY212 at KangarooCozies.com for 10% off your purchase of any of Julia’s incredible designs to make the NICU a little more bearable  Bonding scent hearts NICU Journey Journal Paper Chain Countdown Template Skin-to skin shirts and pajamas for mom Books: The Invisible String Welcome to the NIC ZOO  Waiting for Max Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

When a pregnancy becomes high-risk, fear can take over — for both families and the professionals supporting them. But with the right tools, mindset, and communication, confidence and calm are still possible. In this episode, I’m joined by Cassandra Kobiltz, a labor and delivery nurse, doula, and the founder of Hakuna Matata Mamas. Cassandra blends medical knowledge with mindfulness-based support, helping families prepare for birth when circumstances feel uncertain or out of their control. We’ll talk about what “high-risk” really means, how to navigate shifting birth plans, and why emotional safety is just as important as physical safety. Whether you’re a doula supporting a complex pregnancy or a parent preparing for a birth that looks different than you expected, this episode will leave you grounded, informed, and inspired. Stay Connected with Mary:Instagram: @thenicutranslator Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist for early access + an exclusive discount. Guest Spotlight: Cassandra Koblitz BSN-RNCassandra Mae, founder of Hakuna Matata Mama, is a high-risk labor and delivery nurse turned virtual maternal mentor and hospital birth coach who helps women have the best day of their lives, the day they meet their baby, no matter how it happens. With over 13 years of experience supporting women with high-risk pregnancies, she blends clinical expertise with mindset and somatic work to help mamas calm their nervous system, trust their body, and show up with courage and confidence. Through her signature Compass-ionate Framework, Cassandra bridges the gap between medical care and emotional support, like a nurse bestie in your corner, helping women feel seen, supported, and deeply connected every step of the way. Connect with Cassandrawww.hakunamatatamamas.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hakuna.matata.mamasFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555883715054Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hakuna-matata-mama/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hakuna.matata.mamas Inside This Episode:00:00 Introduction to High-Risk Pregnancy and Birth 02:07 Cassandra's Journey in Nursing and Doula Work 05:09 The Impact of Travel Nursing on Perspectives 07:53 Understanding High-Risk Pregnancy 11:21 Coping with High-Risk Labels 16:25 Mindfulness and Nervous System Regulation 20:59 The Importance of Self-Care and Intuition 24:23 Advocacy and Trusting Your Instincts 25:48 The Importance of Intuition in Healthcare Conversations 26:43 Navigating High-Risk Birth Scenarios 29:57 Coping Mechanisms for Expecting Parents 31:34 Acknowledging Loss in Birth Expectations 33:56 Balancing Medical Protocols and Patient Wishes 37:03 The Human Element in Medical Care 39:45 Processing Trauma in Healthcare 43:59 Empowering Parents in High-Risk Situations Links, Resources & Mentions:Get Cassandra’s free resource, “5 Things You Need to Know When Your Pregnancy Becomes High-Risk,” a short, powerful audio series designed to help mothers move from fear and uncertainty to feeling informed and supported. The series was made to remind women that even with a high-risk diagnosis, they still have a voice, a choice, and the ability to have the best day of their lives, the day they meet their baby. Loved this episode?  Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know! Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

If you’ve ever walked into the NICU and seen your baby wearing a little hat and tubing on their nose, you’ve likely seen CPAP — one of the most common (and misunderstood) forms of respiratory support. In this quick The NICU Translated episode, Mary breaks down what CPAP actually is, how it helps your baby breathe, and why it’s often one of the first steps toward coming off more intensive support. She even shares her favorite “balloon” analogy that makes this whole concept finally click. You’ll learn: What CPAP stands for and how it worksWhy babies need it (premature or full-term)What it looks and sounds likeHow to comfort and connect with your baby on CPAPWhy it’s a positive step forward in recovery🎧 Listen now and feel more confident in your NICU journey. Resources & Links: Follow Mary on InstagramJoin the waitlist for NICU Doula AcademyWant to learn more about how to best support support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started! Chapters:00:00 Introduction to CPAP in the NICU02:38 Understanding CPAP: Mechanism and Purpose10:48 Reasons Babies Need CPAP13:03 Different Modalities of CPAP15:28 Bonding with Your Baby on CPAP SEO Keywords:CPAP NICU, bubble CPAP, NICU breathing support, preemie oxygen, NICU equipment explained, NICU education for doulas, NICU parents support

If you’ve never heard of a NICU doula, you’re not alone — even many birth professionals don’t know this role exists. But NICU doulas are filling a huge gap in support for families navigating the NICU, and their impact can be life-changing. In this episode, I’ll explain what a NICU doula does, why families deserve one, and how they can make the NICU journey less overwhelming for parents — and more collaborative for care teams. Whether you’re a parent, a doula, or a hospital leader, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Resources & Links: Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community. Hear my journey in episode one on The NICU Translated Podcast.  Listen to episode 6 with Shayna, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate. Listen to episode 8 with Jillian, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate.  Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Doulas 01:01 Understanding the Role of a NICU Doula 03:22 The Importance of Emotional Support in the NICU 07:06 The Impact of NICU Doulas on Family Well-being 10:10 Supporting Families Through the NICU Experience 12:22 The Role of NICU Doulas in Preventing Burnout 14:37 Continuity of Care: NICU Doulas from Prenatal to Postpartum 17:43 Preparing Families for the NICU Experience 21:22 Post-Discharge Support and Transitioning Home 25:39 The Future of NICU Doula Work and Community Impact SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.

Guest: Dr. Jessica Smith, PT, DPT — Pediatric Physical Therapist & Founder of Rocketship PT 🌐 https://rocketshippt.com 📱 Instagram → @rocketship_pt 🎥 YouTube → Rocketship PT Description:Many NICU graduates leave the hospital with a few extra things to monitor — and motor development is one of the biggest. From torticollis (tight neck muscles) to flat spots on the head (plagiocephaly), these are common issues for NICU babies, but with the right support, families can make huge progress at home. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jessica Smith, a pediatric physical therapist and founder of Rocketship PT. Jessica specializes in early intervention and helps parents feel confident supporting their baby’s development through play, movement, and simple, realistic exercises. We talk about why NICU babies are more prone to these challenges, what early signs parents and doulas can look for, and how to prevent overwhelm by focusing on small, consistent steps that make a big difference. Whether you’re a parent wanting to understand your baby’s unique needs or a doula supporting families after discharge, this conversation will leave you feeling informed and empowered. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Development and Support05:25 The Journey to Pediatric Care10:19 Understanding NICU Challenges: Torticollis and Plagiocephaly14:45 The Importance of Early Intervention18:08 Tummy Time: Myths and Realities21:50 Practical Tips for NICU Parents25:10 Navigating NICU Transitions30:37 Finding Your Family's Rhythm34:49 Understanding Developmental Milestones38:40 The Helmet Debate: To Wear or Not to Wear?42:52 Sifting Through Products and Solutions45:05 Resources for NICU Families Key Topics Covered: Why NICU graduates are at higher risk for torticollis and plagiocephaly. The connection between positioning, muscle tone, and early motor development. How to support tummy time in ways that feel safe and achievable for NICU babies. Early red flags of flat spots and when to seek professional help. How physical therapy can empower families, not intimidate them. Jessica’s mission behind Rocketship PT and how her online resources are helping families everywhere. Resources & Links:Rocketship PT Self-Guided Course → https://rocketshippt.mykajabi.com/offers/55vpddcM/checkoutVirtual 1:1 PT sessions available through Rocketship PTGet my free guide: 5 Things Every Doula Needs to Know About NICU Babies and Their FamiliesConnect with me on Instagram Keywords:NICU motor development, torticollis in preemies, plagiocephaly in NICU babies, pediatric physical therapy tips, NICU baby milestones, tummy time after NICU, early intervention for preemies, Rocketship PT Click here to view the episode transcript.

Most parents leave the NICU hoping they’ll never have to return. For Jillian, walking back into those hospital doors meant something entirely different — she was returning as a NICU doula, hired to support families right at the bedside. In this inspiring interview, Jillian shares her journey from NICU parent to professional advocate, the steps she took to step into her new role, and how her work is already making an impact for families and staff alike. If you’ve ever wondered what a NICU doula can do or dreamed about turning your personal NICU story into a career that changes lives, this conversation is for you. Resources & Links:Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlistConnect with me on Instagram Connect with Jillian on Instagram  The future of NICU support is here — and Jillian’s story shows what’s possible. About Jillian: Jillian is a former NICU parent who turned her own long and challenging NICU experience into a mission to support other families walking a similar path. She trained as a NICU doula through Mary’s NICU Doula Academy and is completing her certification. Jillian will soon be working part-time in the hospital, where she’ll walk alongside NICU families, offering comfort, understanding, and guidance through this tender season. Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Jillian's NICU Journey04:25 The Unexpected NICU Experience07:10 Memorable Moments in the NICU09:53 Support Systems and NICU Family12:40 Transitioning Home from the NICU15:34 The Challenges of Homecoming18:11 Exploring the Role of a NICU Doula25:29 Understanding the NICU Experience29:43 The Role of a NICU Doula33:58 Implementing Change in NICU Care 39:13 The Future of NICU Support46:41 Connecting with the NICU Community SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU bedside support, NICU advocacy, NICU parent story, becoming a NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU career change, supporting NICU families, NICU Doula Academy.

The NICU journey is full of emotions — joy, grief, gratitude, trauma, and everything in between. For some families, those emotions continue long after discharge, especially when facing loss or long-term medical complexities. In this episode, I’m joined by Mahaley Patel, LMFT, PMH-C — a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, grief, trauma, and infant/child loss, and the co-author of Your NICU Story. Mahaley shares her perspective as both a clinician and a bereaved parent, and offers families and professionals tools for processing their NICU experience in ways that honor both the heartbreak and the hope. We’ll talk about why storytelling matters in healing, how to support grieving families with compassion, and the power of reflective practices like journaling to make sense of the NICU journey. Whether you’re a parent, doula, or professional, this conversation will invite you to see the NICU story as something worth telling — and worth holding with care. Resources & Links:Get my free guide: 5 Things Every Doula Needs to Know About NICU Babies and Their Families Connect with me on Instagram Learn more about Mahaley’s work Connect with Mahaley on Instagram  Check out Mahaley’s book: Your NICU Story: Reflecting on Your Family's Experience is a guided journal and healing tool to help NICU families process the emotions, questions, and memories that shape their NICU story. With compassionate prompts, parent stories, and reflections for partners, this book is an invitation to process grief, gratitude, and everything in between. Whether your child is thriving today or forever held in your heart, this book is for you. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Stories 01:55 Mahaley's NICU Journey06:32 Creating Your NICU Story09:10 When to Use the NICU Story Tool12:48 Micro Moments of Healing18:30 The Partner's Experience in the NICU26:48 Supporting Families as Healthcare Providers30:24 The Impact of Care in the NICU34:17 Emotional Connections and Lasting Memories38:33 Navigating Grief and Support40:44 Practical Support for NICU Families45:16 The Importance of Presence and Acknowledgment52:05 The Power of Connection in Healing SEO Keywords: NICU grief support, NICU family mental health, NICU storytelling, perinatal trauma, infant loss support, NICU journaling, healing after the NICU, NICU parent resources, NICU doula