2 Dope Black Doulas

May 14, 2026 · 20m

In part 1 of this episode of 2 Dope Black Doulas, we’re joined by returning guest Iman Boykin to have a real, necessary conversation about postpartum care.Because the truth is postpartum is not an afterthought. It’s not something you just “get through.” It’s a critical part of the birth experience that deserves intention, support, and care.We’re talking about:🖤 Why postpartum is often overlooked🌿 What true rest actually looks like (beyond “sleep when the baby sleeps”)🔥 The harm of “bounce back” culture🤱🏾 Rituals and practices that support real healing🧠 What doulas need to understand about postpartum supportWhether you’re a doula, a parent, or preparing for birth, this episode will shift how you think about recovery and remind you that healing is not optional.✨ Want to go deeper?We created a companion guide to help you reflect, plan, and protect your postpartum experience.📘 Download the Postpartum Is Not Optional – Reflection & Recovery Guide for $12 at https://dopeblackdoulas.gumroad.com/l/hqsuzgq💸 Subscribe to 2 Dope Black Doulas on Youtube and Spotify or Apple Podcasts + DM us a screenshot to receive a discount code for $9📲 Follow us on all platforms @2DopeBlackDoulas⭐ Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode

Mar 2, 2026 · 24m

In part 1 of this episode of 2 Dope Black Doulas, we sit down with Nakia Lawson, former President of DONA International, for an honest conversation about what it means to be a Black doula navigating, and leading, in national spaces.We talk about the realities of representation, the challenges of leadership in systems not built with Black doulas in mind, and the tension between professionalization and protecting community-rooted care. This conversation goes beyond the birth room and into board rooms, policy spaces, and positions of power.In this episode, we explore:• Being a Black leader in national doula organizations• Representation versus real power and accountability• Certification, professionalization, and cultural autonomy• How Black doulas can step into leadership without losing themselves• The future of Black leadership in birth workIf you’ve ever wondered whether you belong at the table, this episode is a reminder that you do.

Feb 4, 2026 · 14m

In this reflection episode of 2 Dope Black Doulas, we’re getting real about the lessons we wish we knew when we first started birth work. From learning how to say no, to setting boundaries, charging our worth, and preventing burnout—this conversation is honest, affirming, and rooted in growth.We talk about: • Why you don’t have to say yes to every client • The power of presence over perfection • Burnout, rest, and sustainability in birth work • Money, boundaries, and protecting your joy✨ Whether you’re a brand-new doula, years into the work, or simply feeling called to birth work, this episode is a reminder that growth is part of the journey—and you’re allowed to evolve.📘 Episode Companion Workbook Available We created a guided reflection workbook, What We’d Tell Our Younger Doula Selves, to help you go deeper into the themes from this episode. The workbook is available for $12 and includes journal prompts and reflection pages focused on boundaries, burnout prevention, sustainability, and self-trust. Download it by clicking on this link https://dopeblackdoulas.gumroad.com/l/ujkcoj.💸 Subscriber Discount Subscribe to 2 Dope Black Doulas on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, DM us a screenshot of your follow, and we’ll send you a discount code to purchase the workbook for $9.📲 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube @2DopeBlackDoulas, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a doula who needs to hear it.#2DopeBlackDoulas #DoulaLife #BirthWorkIsSacred #BlackBirthWorkers #ReflectionEpisode

Oct 9, 2025 · 14m

Thinking about becoming a doula but not sure where to start? In this episode, we’re breaking down the path to birth work—what doulas actually do, the different training and certification options, how to start building your practice, and why Black doulas are needed now more than ever.We talk about:What it really means to be a doulaTraining and certification options (and whether you need them)Business basics: contracts, marketing, and charging your worthWhy representation in birth work matters for our communities✨ If you’ve ever felt called to support birthing people, this one’s for you.🔗 Resources Mentioned:National Black Doulas Association: https://www.blackdoulas.orgBirthing Advocacy Doula Trainings: https://www.badoulatrainings.orgAncient Song Doula Services: https://www.ancientsongdoulaservices.comDONA International: https://www.dona.org

Aug 18, 2025 · 26m

In this episode of 2 Dope Black Doulas, your three favorite doulas Brittany, Danielle, and special guest Iman dive into the practice, purpose, and power of belly binding. Rooted in global postpartum traditions, belly binding is more than just a trend, it's a form of sacred bodywork and healing.Together, we break down:🔸 What belly binding actually is (and what it’s not)🔸 The cultural history and ancestral roots of binding practices🔸 Physical + emotional benefits for postpartum healing🔸 When, how, and who should offer belly bindingWhether you're a new parent, a fellow birth worker, or just curious about traditional postpartum care, this episode is full of gems that reconnect us to rest, recovery, and ritual.💜 Because healing is sacred, and our ancestors already gave us the blueprint.

Jul 24, 2025 · 11m

In this episode of 2 Dope Black Doulas, we’re breaking down the truths, myths, and emotional weight behind C-sections, VBACs (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), and the unpredictable turns birth can take. Whether your baby comes through your belly or your birth canal, your story deserves honor, support, and choice.We talk about:Why C-sections happen and how to prepare for themThe real deal on VBACs and how to advocate for oneReframing birth plan changes as powerful pivotsThe doula’s role in every kind of birth journey✨ Remember: your power isn’t in the plan—it’s in the knowing, choosing, and being held through it all.🔗 Resources Mentioned:ICAN – International Cesarean Awareness Network: https://www.ican-online.orgEvidence Based Birth – VBAC Info: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/category/vbac/

Jun 24, 2025 · 17m

In this episode we explore the importance of rest in the postpartum period, especially for Black women. We explore how rest is revolutionary and ways that Black women can plan their postpartum period similar to how they plan the birth of their baby.

Apr 24, 2025 · 17m

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, we’re diving into the systemic disparities, lived experiences, and powerful advocacy shaping the landscape of Black maternal health. This episode features raw conversations exploring the impact of racism in healthcare, the importance of culturally competent care, and the beauty of community-led solutions. Whether you're a parent, provider, or ally, this episode will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to push for change.

Mar 12, 2025 · 19m

Black History Month continues into Women's History month as we continue to celebrate black nurse midwives with our special guest certified nurse midwife, doula and childbirth educator Venus Standard. Our conversation this episode focuses on Venus' experience working with Vice President Kamala Harris in educating the world about doulas and the benefits of having a doula. We also talk about Venus' new initiative and Venus' push to get equitable pay for doulas in North Carolina.