Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The NICU Translated Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26. Season One Finale: Rehumanizing the NICU: A Vision for the Future of Care | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:29:21 | |
The NICU is a place of extraordinary medicine — where fragile lives are stabilized and miracles unfold every day. But survival is only part of the story. In this final episode of Season One, I share my hopeful vision for the future of NICU care, one that honors both medical excellence and emotional wholeness. What would it look like if trauma-informed practice was standard? If nurses were supported as humans? If families were integrated instead of accommodated? If roles like NICU doulas became collaborative bridges instead of afterthoughts? This episode is not about tearing systems down. It’s about evolving them. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of hope and practical ways you can be part of the next chapter of NICU support.
NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5things Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Inside This Episode: 00:00 Season One Reflection and Future Vision Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources.
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| 25. Pumping with Confidence: Tips and Tools for NICU Parents | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:59:29 | |
Pumping in the NICU is about so much more than milk. It’s about logistics, exhaustion, hope, grief, and doing the best you can in one of the most intense seasons of parenthood. In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa Myers, founder of Ceres Chill, to talk about the real-life challenges NICU parents face when pumping — from storing and transporting milk to navigating work, long hospital days, and emotional overwhelm. Lisa shares her own journey through unmet breastfeeding goals and how that experience inspired her to invent a patented breast milk chilling thermos and build a company rooted in advocacy for breastfeeding parents. We also talk about Ceres Chill’s HERO programs, milk donation and donor milk, and how companies can meaningfully support NICU families and staff — not just with words, but with action. Whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, nurse, or employer, this conversation offers compassion, validation, and practical insight into what real support can look like. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5things Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Lisa Myers is the Founder of Ceres Chill, a company dedicated to ensuring the success of breastfeeding parents and protecting the health of the world’s most vulnerable infants. In just a few years, Lisa became a mother of two, was promoted to equity partner at an international law firm, and built a mission-driven company — all while navigating universal breastfeeding challenges. After struggling to meet her own breastfeeding goals, she was inspired to create an innovative solution to protect breast milk and support pumping parents everywhere. Lisa is a passionate advocate for working parents, NICU families, and systemic change in how we support lactation. Connect with Ceres Chill Website: CereschillCeres Chill — The Breastmilk Storage Game-Changer (use code NICULOVE for 15% off your order): https://www.cereschill.com/ Instagram: Instagraminstagram.com/cereschill Facebook: Facebookfacebook.com/cereschill Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:28 Lisa’s Background and Inspiration 02:34 The Rage-Fueled Launch of Series Show 05:34 The Impact of Personal Challenges on Innovation 06:18 Overview of Series Show Products 08:26 Features and Benefits of the Series Show Chiller 10:10 Design Philosophy and Aesthetic of the Product 14:05 Pumping in the NICU: Challenges and Solutions 17:57 The Role of Donor Milk in NICU Care 23:36 Supporting Milk Donation and Community Impact 29:10 The Ripple Effect of Donating Milk 36:14 Supporting NICU Families and Self-Care 44:03 Guidelines and Safety in Milk Storage 49:10 The Power of Breast Milk and Practical Tips 53:59 Empowering Parents and Building Resilience 56:58 Closing Remarks and Community Support Links, Resources & Mentions: Support for NICU Families through Ceres Chill:
Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning — and together, we can make this journey less overwhelming and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources | |||
| 24. From Burnout to Impact: Helping Nurses Change Systems Without Leaving the Bedside | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:44:28 | |
So many nurses feel the tension between caring deeply and feeling powerless inside broken systems — especially in high-stakes environments like the NICU. Burnout isn’t a personal failure; it’s often a systems problem. But what if nurses didn’t have to leave healthcare to create meaningful change? In this episode, I’m joined by Claire Phillips, DNP, RN — a nurse leader, systems thinker, and founder of Nursing the System — to talk about how nurses can influence change without burning out or walking away from the work they love. Claire brings a unique lens shaped by emergency care, hospital leadership, health innovation, and global health tech. We explore how nurses can map their impact, identify where they actually have influence, and shift from feeling stuck to becoming strategic change-makers. Whether you’re a bedside nurse, NICU nurse, educator, or leader, this conversation offers a refreshing, empowering way to think about leadership, advocacy, and sustainability in healthcare. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5things Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Guest Spotlight: Claire Phillips, DNP RN Claire Phillips, DNP, RN, is a nurse leader, educator, and systems strategist with a background in emergency care, hospital leadership, and healthcare design. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Innovation and Leadership and currently manages a team of clinicians at a health tech company in Amsterdam. Claire is the founder of Nursing the System, where she teaches nurses how to think in systems, lead strategically, and influence meaningful change without burning out. Through her teaching, courses, and tools, Claire helps nurses reclaim agency, build sustainable careers, and make impact from exactly where they are.
Connect with Claire: Instagram: @nursing.the.system: https://www.instagram.com/nursing.the.system/reels/ Apple Podcasts - Nursing the System Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-the-system/id1788479433 Spotify - Nursing the System Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/31O3ui2ES00PsdrpDYqGwd Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Nursing and Systems Thinking 06:26 Understanding Systems Theory in Healthcare 09:53 The Impact of Burnout on Healthcare Providers 14:51 Mapping Your Impact in the NICU 22:15 Navigating New Roles and Embracing Frustration 25:27 Integrating into Established Systems 29:05 Understanding Stakeholder Dynamics 31:16 Sustaining Change in Healthcare 34:57 Designing for Ease and Efficiency 38:38 Empowering Change Makers in Healthcare
Links, Resources & Mentions: Check out Claire's "What’s Your Change Maker Move? Quiz": https://nursingthesystem.outgrow.us/nursingthesystem-nursing-career-pathway-quiz Check out Claire's Map Your Impact Mini Course: https://nursingthesystem.thinkific.com/courses/map-your-impact
Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 23. Tubes and Wires and Tape, Oh My! How to Manage the Logistics of Taking Your NICU Baby Home with Medical Equipment | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:57:40 | |
For many NICU families, discharge doesn’t mean leaving the medical world behind — it means bringing it home. Oxygen tanks, feeding tubes, monitors, supplies, and endless instructions can turn a long-awaited homecoming into a new kind of overwhelm. In this episode, I’m joined by Christine Herndon, a NICU mom who spent years navigating infertility before welcoming identical twin girls born at 32 weeks after a high-risk MO-DI pregnancy. When her twins came home on oxygen, feeding tubes, and pulse oximeters, her home became a mini NICU — and she learned firsthand how much preparation, advocacy, and resilience it takes to thrive in that transition. We talk about the logistics of bringing babies home with medical equipment, navigating insurance and supply companies, what families should ask before discharge, and practical hacks that made life at home more manageable. Whether you’re a NICU parent preparing for discharge or a doula supporting families through this transition, this episode offers grounded, real-world guidance — and reassurance that you are not alone.
Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Want to learn more about how to best support NICU babies and their families before, during and after a NICU experience? Grab the FREE guide here to get started: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/5things Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Christine Herndon is a NICU mom who spent ten years on a long road through infertility before welcoming her daughter and later identical twin girls born at 32 weeks. When her twins came home on oxygen and feeding tubes, she learned firsthand what it means to bring the NICU home—and now shares her story to support other parents navigating that journey.
Connect with Christine You can Connect with Christine on WhatsApp through this number: 702 271 4673 Inside This Episode: 00:00 Navigating the NICU Journey 10:10 The Emotional Rollercoaster of NICU Life 19:45 Preparing for Discharge: The Transition Home 30:56 Navigating the Transition from NICU to Home 38:32 The Challenges of Feeding and Fortification 45:42 Life After the NICU: Thriving and Growing 50:59 Advocacy and Support for NICU Families Sponsored by: This episode was sponsored by Ceres Chill. You can get 15% off with code NICULOVE at https://www.cereschill.com/?ref=flqmeqez Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 22. Maternity Benefits Made Simple: Navigating Insurance for Families & Doulas | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:47:53 | |
Insurance is one of the most confusing — and emotionally charged — parts of pregnancy, postpartum, and the NICU experience. Bills pile up, coverage feels unclear, and families are often left making financial decisions during moments of deep stress and vulnerability. In this episode, I’m joined by Pachet Bryant, founder of MINE Maternity, to break down maternity benefits in a way that actually makes sense. We talk about what families can do when insurance doesn’t cover enough, the hidden financial costs no one warns you about (especially when mental health support goes untreated), and practical advice for families who are pregnant or currently navigating the NICU. We also explore the other side of this work — how doulas can expand access to care and create more sustainable income by becoming insurance-credentialed providers. This conversation is about clarity, advocacy, and helping families enter parenthood with more peace of mind and fewer unanswered questions. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Guest Spotlight: Pachet Bryant Pachet Bryant is the Founder of MINE Maternity and has 10 years of experience in the women's and maternal health industry, serving as a Benefits Navigator, Care Coordinator, Maternal Health Researcher and Advocate. Through her years, she has realized the importance of providing clarity on financial resources, especially for parents going through a major life event Every family deserves peace of mind when entering parenthood. MINE Maternity is here to help unlock financial resources and make the complexities of insurance and benefit navigation less complex. The Insurance Check Report allows individuals to clearly understand their benefits for specific services they are interested in from a insurance, FSA/HSA and employee assistance program perspective. The Reimbursement Maximizer is direct support from our Benefit Navigators to get as much money back into the hands of our clients as possible.
Intake form: https://www.minematernity.com/navigating-care-benefits Connect with Pachet Guest website: www.minematernity.com Instagram: @minematernity: https://www.instagram.com/minematernity/ Inside This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Pashay Bryant and MINE Maternity 02:53 Understanding Your Insurance Power 05:51 Navigating NICU Insurance Challenges 11:25 Building Relationships with Healthcare Providers 15:29 Exploring In-Home Care Options 20:15 Preparing for Maternity: Key Insurance Steps 24:17 Mental Health Support for NICU Families 27:17 The Importance of Self-Care and Support 29:03 Practical Resources for NICU Families 30:12 Understanding Maternity Leave Options 32:47 Legislative Changes and Hope for NICU Families 35:27 The Role of Doulas and Insurance Coverage 40:08 Activating Your Benefits and Support Systems 45:36 Final Thoughts on Worth and Support
Links, Resources & Mentions: Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/ Hand to Hold: https://handtohold.org/ Project NICU: https://www.projectnicu.org/ Alliance for Black NICU Families: https://blacknicufamilies.org/ Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 21. Holding Space in the Hardest Moments: Supporting NICU Families Through Loss | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:51:54 | |
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.
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. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan 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: https://www.tidesoflifedoula.com/services Instagram: @tidesoflifedoula: https://www.instagram.com/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: https://tides-of-life.mykajabi.com/self-paced-perinatal-loss-course Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep: https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/
Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 20. Inside the Mono-Mono Twin NICU Experience: Trauma, Resilience & Becoming a NICU Doula | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:56:26 | |
Some NICU journeys begin long before delivery — and Natascha Bohmann’s story is one of them. After a high-risk mono-mono twin pregnancy, a lengthy inpatient hospitalization, and a NICU stay for her daughters, she walked through every chapter of uncertainty a family can face: fear, waiting, grief, advocacy, and rebuilding life on the other side. In this episode, Natascha shares how her experience as a NICU mom, combined with her deep background in yoga therapy, grief support, end-of-life care, and healthcare communications, shaped her calling to become a NICU doula. Her story is a powerful reminder that the NICU doesn’t end at discharge — and that families need more emotional, informational, and integrative support than our current system offers.
We explore what it’s really like to prepare for an inpatient stay, navigate high-risk pregnancy, transition home after NICU, and rediscover your voice as both a parent and a professional. Whether you’re a NICU parent or a doula building NICU-informed skills, Natascha’s wisdom offers grounding, clarity, and a path forward.
NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Guest Spotlight: Natascha Bohmann; MBA, Yoga Therapist, Ayurveda Wellness Counselor, NICU Doula, Grief + Bereavement Specialist, End-of-life Doula Natascha is mom of mono-mono twins. After a lengthy antepartum stay due to a high-risk pregnancy and NICU stay for her girls, as well as navigating the transition home and beyond, she felt called to find meaningful ways to support other families faced with a similar journey. She participated in the beta cohort of the NICU Doula Academy and is working toward certification. In addition, Natascha is a yoga therapist, Ayurveda wellness counselor, grief and bereavement specialist, and end-of-life doula for people and companion animals. She also has a background in healthcare in both marketing/communications and sales. These various experiences have given her insights both from a patient perspective as well as a view of the challenges clinicians face, fueling her inspiration to be the change, and finding a way to bridge the gaps. Her vision is to provide peer-to-peer support to families from inpatient to the transition home and beyond, while weaving in foundational and sustainable yoga-inspired tools to buoy through uncertain and challenging times. She is currently building her offerings and providing support both in-person and virtually.
Specific to her NICU doula work, Natascha is looking to create a collaborative network of birth and postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, PTs/OTs, speech therapists and other holistic professionals to help provide supportive resources to families (both in the Pacific Northwest and virtually). Connect through social media or hello.nourishedbeing@gmail.com if interested.
Connect with Natascha: Instagram: @_nourishedbeing_: https://www.instagram.com/_nourishedbeing_/ Facebook: Nourished Being: http://facebook.com/nourishedbeing
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: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/find-a-nicu-doula Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 19. The Art of Waiting: Helping Siblings (and Ourselves) Through the NICU | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:44:59 | |
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.
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.
NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan 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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 18. From Crisis to Care: A Social Worker’s Journey Into Postpartum & NICU Support | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:44:05 | |
Stepping into the NICU can feel like landing in a completely different world — one with its own language, routines, and cast of characters. In this episode, I’m breaking down the essentials so you can start feeling more confident, informed, and ready to be an active part of your baby’s care team. We’ll cover what the NICU is, who’s on your baby’s care team, the most common terms you’ll hear, and how to get oriented so you feel less like a visitor and more like the vital parent or support person you are. Whether you’re here for your own baby or to better support the families you serve, this episode will give you a solid foundation. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
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 Instagram: @amanda_as_postpartum_doula: https://www.instagram.com/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: https://thenicunotebook.com/ Want to reflect on and reclaim your NICU journey? Explore Your NICU Story: https://a.co/d/0iPbVRD
Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 17. Supporting Tiny Bodies: Understanding Oral Ties, Motor Delays & Early Intervention for NICU Graduates | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:55:47 | |
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.
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 me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan 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: https://www.instagram.com/foundations_pediatricpt YouTube: @FoundationsPedsPT: https://www.youtube.com/@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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care.
Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 16. More Than Survival: Parenting a Medically Complex Baby After the NICU | 31 Dec 2025 | 01:15:24 | |
The NICU may end at discharge, but for many families, the journey is far from over. Life after the NICU often means learning to navigate complex medical needs, therapies, and emotions that don’t fit neatly into anyone’s discharge plan.
In this episode, I’m joined by Michele Salmons, mom of two and one of my former NICU doula clients, whose story is one of courage, advocacy, and deep love. After a uterine rupture during her son Harvey’s birth, Michele and her husband were told he had very little chance of survival. But their journey — from transferring NICUs to building a life of medical care, therapy, and blended feeding at home — has become a testament to what it means to move from crisis to confidence.
We talk about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, how to rebuild life and identity after trauma, and the ways families like Michele’s redefine what thriving looks like.
Whether you’re a NICU parent walking a similar path or a doula wanting to better understand life after discharge, this episode offers perspective, honesty, and so much heart. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health or your baby’s care. Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU support, trauma-informed NICU care, NICU parent support, navigating the NICU, doula education, preemie parent resources. | |||
| 15. Sleep After the NICU: Building Healthy Rest Routines for Preemies & Medically Complex Babies | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:51:58 | |
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.
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. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Guest Spotlight: Jamie Ortiz
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: Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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. | |||
| 14. The Top 5 Myths About the NICU—Busted! | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:30:03 | |
There are so many myths about the NICU and while most come from a place of love, they can leave families feeling confused, unprepared, or even ashamed for not matching someone else’s expectations. In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 5 NICU myths I hear most often, including big ones like “all NICU babies are preemies,” “NICU babies can’t be breastfed,” and “once you go home, everything goes back to normal.” Together, we’ll talk through what’s actually true, what’s outdated, and what families really need to know to feel more confident and supported. My goal is to replace fear and misinformation with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based guidance so whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, nurse, or support professional, you can better understand what NICU families are facing. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what NICU care looks like today, how to support bonding and breastfeeding in the NICU, and why discharge is the beginning of a whole new chapter, not the end of the story. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Get NICU informed before the end of the year with special pricing on my Navigating the NICU course!
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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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. | |||
| 13. How to Manage the NICU with Siblings at Home | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:52:12 | |
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.
NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Guest Spotlight: Julia Kraemer Connect with Julia 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: Bonding scent hearts: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1856929883/bonding-scent-hearts?ref=shop_home_active_7&logging_key=400d669adbf89059496e281836feaf050c2eee23%3A1856929883 NICU Journey Journal: https://www.amazon.com/Pages-Strength-NICU-Journey-Journal/dp/B0FR964CGH/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RD46RQGTT62Z&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PQ-Mzor4YiNetfD85i9st4Yqo-o40il5Uu-fs_h2agANa1tTRcf0Qx_yG3nZ63Nzuv0QrlR9VBZCtyv8dGZSpemeUuLF0u2RaqgCvJwoh4EsGv8E8u_68fWbncxLy4m8Jfc3JEwCYoQsldlviN_8QW2shqgpsR0lbe-2kquchPk.hjhlNTqqvaafkoIBgWabSVhg5y11hHFq5eFd4Rwm7hM&dib_tag=se&keywords=pages+of+strength+nicu+journal&qid=1760726826&sprefix=pages+of+strength%2Caps%2C533&sr=8-1 Paper Chain Countdown Template: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4379440606/nicu-baby-countdown-paper-chain?ref=shop_home_active_5&dd=1&logging_key=20a316ad9abc22dd944bedc0995a8fa62f913c99%3A4379440606 Skin-to skin shirts and pajamas for mom: https://www.kangaroocozies.com/shop-for-mom The Invisible String: https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-String-Patrice-Karst/dp/031648623X Welcome to the NIC ZOO: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGDPGT61?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzthenicut-20&creativeASIN=B0DGDPGT61&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.W2H63K7NX6W2&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_Y2VT1AATFQAP8NDAYBZW_asin | |||
| 12. High-Risk Pregnancy Support: An L&D Nurse + Doula’s Guide to Confident Birth | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:46:52 | |
When a pregnancy becomes high-risk, fear can take over — for both families and the professionals supporting them. But with the right tools, mindset, and communication, confidence and calm are still possible. In this episode, I’m joined by Cassandra Kobiltz, a labor and delivery nurse, doula, and the founder of Hakuna Matata Mamas. Cassandra blends medical knowledge with mindfulness-based support, helping families prepare for birth when circumstances feel uncertain or out of their control. We’ll talk about what “high-risk” really means, how to navigate shifting birth plans, and why emotional safety is just as important as physical safety. Whether you’re a doula supporting a complex pregnancy or a parent preparing for a birth that looks different than you expected, this episode will leave you grounded, informed, and inspired. Guest Spotlight: Cassandra Koblitz BSN-RN Connect with Cassandra Inside This Episode: 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: NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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. | |||
| 11. The NICU Translated: CPAP | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:17:12 | |
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.
🎧 Listen now and feel more confident in your NICU journey. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Chapters: Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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: | |||
| 10. What the Heck is a NICU Doula (and Why Families Deserve One) | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:36:11 | |
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.
Listen to episode 6 with Shayna, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/episodes/6-the-art-of-advocacy-in-the-nicu-how-to-build-the-right-care-team-for-your-baby Listen to episode 8 with Jillian, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/episodes/8-from-nicu-mom-to-bedside-doula-how-one-parent-is-changing-nicu-care NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan 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 Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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. | |||
| 9. Flat Spots & Torticollis: A Pediatric PT’s Guide for NICU Families | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:47:36 | |
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. Guest: Dr. Jessica Smith, PT, DPT — Pediatric Physical Therapist & Founder of Rocketship PT Rocketship PT Self-Guided Course → https://rocketshippt.mykajabi.com/offers/55vpddcM/checkout Timestamps: 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.
Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
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| 8. From NICU Mom to Bedside Doula: How One Parent is Changing NICU Care | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:48:44 | |
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.
About Jillian: Connect with Jillian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/one.redeemed.mama/ Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan The future of NICU support is here — and Jillian’s story shows what’s possible. Timestamps: 39:13 The Future of NICU Support Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU doula, NICU bedside support, NICU advocacy, NICU parent story, becoming a NICU doula, NICU doula training, NICU career change, supporting NICU families, NICU Doula Academy. | |||
| 7. Finding Light After Loss: Mahaley Patel on Creating Your NICU Story | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:59:00 | |
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.
Connect with Mahaley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahaleyhpatel/ 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.
Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Stories 01:55 Mahaley's NICU Journey Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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 grief support, NICU family mental health, NICU storytelling, perinatal trauma, infant loss support, NICU journaling, healing after the NICU, NICU parent resources, NICU doula | |||
| 6. The Art of Advocacy in the NICU: How to Build the Right Care Team for Your Baby | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:37:54 | |
Advocating for your NICU baby doesn’t have to mean conflict — in fact, the best advocacy builds bridges and strengthens your baby’s care team.
Whether you’re a NICU parent, doula, or other birth professional, this conversation will leave you feeling more confident in your role as your baby’s advocate. Take Shayna’s survey here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxwGLTdKVD-qz_Fk3j0IFwTtCUiez4wzZZ-aYqjVoIiU3XPg/viewform NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. SEO Keywords: NICU advocacy tips, NICU care team, finding the right NICU providers, NICU parent resources, NICU support network, NICU doula advice, advocating for NICU baby, NICU provider relationships | |||
| 5. The Top 5 Things You Should Know About Preemies | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:20:37 | |
Preemies are incredible — but their journey in the NICU looks very different from that of a full-term baby. From learning how to breathe and eat, to staying warm and conserving energy, every step is a milestone worth celebrating. In this episode of The NICU Translated Podcast, I’m sharing the top 5 things I want every parent and professional to know about preemies while they’re still in the NICU. We’ll talk about why breathing takes practice, why feeding is often the last big hurdle, and how even simple acts like your voice or your touch play a powerful role in your baby’s healing and development.
NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
00:00 Understanding Premature Babies 00:59 Common Myths About the NICU 02:18 Breathing Challenges for Preemies 06:20 Temperature Regulation in Premature Infants 08:35 Feeding Difficulties and Milestones 11:53 Energy Conservation in Preemies 15:40 The Importance of Bonding 19:15 Conclusion and Resources for Support
Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: 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: preemie facts, preemie care basics, premature baby development, adjusted age preemie, bonding with preemie, preemie growth, NICU preemie tips, preemie parent support. | |||
| 4. When Can My Baby Go Home? The #1 Question NICU Parents Ask | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:21:58 | |
“When can my baby go home?” If you’ve ever been in the NICU, you’ve probably asked it — or thought it. It’s a natural question, but the answer is rarely simple. In this episode, I’m breaking down the key milestones babies need to reach before discharge, what can speed up or slow down that process, and how parents can be actively involved in getting their baby ready for that big day. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of what “ready to go home” really means — and how to celebrate each step along the way. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan
00:00 Understanding NICU Discharge: The Big Question 02:00 Key Milestones for NICU Discharge 07:42 Feeding Challenges and Solutions 12:41 Preparing for Discharge: Checklists and Education 17:18 The Journey Beyond NICU: Transitioning Home
Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. Keywords: NICU discharge, when can baby leave NICU, NICU milestones, NICU going home checklist, preemie going home, NICU discharge criteria, NICU parent support | |||
| 3. From Birth Center to the NICU: A Micro-Preemie Mom’s Journey of Hope and Healing | 24 Sep 2025 | 01:05:13 | |
Because the NICU is only the beginning — and together, we can make this journey less overwhelming and more empowering.
Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Guest Bio:
https://www.instagram.com/momsalignd/
My ebook is a love letter to NICU moms, weaving my own story with gentle tools and reminders to help you move through the whirlwind of emotions that come with the NICU. It’s here to help you feel grounded, trust yourself, and find moments of peace and empowerment, even in the middle of uncertainty. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to NICU Journeys 02:33 Leela's Pregnancy Experience and NICU Reality 06:07 The Birth Experience: Expectations vs. Reality 10:11 Connecting with Spirit Babies 14:20 Navigating Emotions in the NICU 20:11 Establishing a Routine in the NICU 30:23 Support Systems and Relationships During NICU Stay 36:47 Navigating Support During NICU Challenges 40:07 Finding the Right Kind of Support 42:57 Cherished Moments in the NICU 46:03 Transitioning Home from the NICU 52:05 The First Year Home: Challenges and Growth Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering.
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| 2. The NICU 101 Crash Course: What Every Parent and Birth Professional Should Know | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:24:38 | |
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 me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Suggested NICU Journals: Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the NICU Experience 01:56 Understanding the NICU: Definition and Purpose 03:42 Levels of NICU Care Explained 07:17 Meet the NICU Care Team 11:46 Navigating the NICU Environment 15:35 Establishing Routines and Communication 19:11 The Importance of Parental Involvement 22:01 Preparing for the NICU: Birth Plan Template
Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. Keywords: NICU 101, NICU basics, NICU explained, NICU terminology, NICU care team, NICU orientation, preemie care basics, navigating the NICU, NICU support tips | |||
| 1. Welcome to The NICU Translated Podcast: My Journey from NICU Nurse to NICU Doula | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:28:57 | |
In this very first episode, I’m sharing my story — from my early NICU days to launching The NICU Translator — and the “aha” moments that shaped my mission to bring more joy and less trauma to the NICU experience. I’ll also give you a peek at what’s to come in this podcast and how it can support you, whether you’re a parent, a doula, or another professional working with NICU families. NICU Support & Resources for Families and Professionals: Stay connected with me @thenicutranslator on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ Download my free NICU Birth Plan Template to help your clients feel more prepared, ask informed questions, and navigate the unexpected with confidence. A supportive, easy-to-use tool for doulas, professionals, and NICU families alike: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the NICU Experience 01:08 Mary's Journey to Nursing and the NICU 07:02 The Special Nature of NICU Nursing 09:55 The Importance of Empowered Education 11:32 Personal Experiences and Insights as a Parent 17:16 Founding the NICU Translator 21:01 The Role of NICU Doulas 23:35 The NICU Translated Podcast Overview Loved this episode? Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community or leave a 5-star review and let me know: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nicu-translated-podcast/id1838158332 Disclaimer: Until next time, remember: The NICU is only the beginning, and together we can make this journey less overwhelming, and a lot more empowering. Keywords: NICU nurse story, NICU doula, navigating the NICU, NICU podcast, NICU advocacy, NICU support for parents, NICU doula training, NICU emotional support | |||
| The NICU Translated - Official Trailer | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:01:39 | |
Whether you’re a doula looking to better support NICU families, a healthcare professional seeking deeper understanding, or a parent preparing for or living through a NICU journey, you’ll find actionable tips, evidence-based guidance, and heartfelt stories to inspire and empower you. Each week, we’ll explore topics like:
With episodes featuring expert advice, list-style guides, and real-life interviews, The NICU Translated Podcast is here to equip you with the tools and knowledge to make the NICU journey less overwhelming and more empowering.
Let’s navigate this journey together. | |||