The Power of In-Person Events for Doulas - Retreats, Summits, and Putting Yourself in the Room with Doula Darcy & Jodi Congdon

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Power of In-Person Events for Doulas – Retreats, Summits, and Putting Yourself in the Room

Podcast: The Doula Darcy Podcast
Host: Darcy Sauers
Guest: Jodi Congdon
Date: February 21, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode explores the transformative power of in-person events for doulas, focusing on retreats, summits, and the importance of physically being in a supportive, like-minded community. Darcy and Jodi share personal stories, insights, and practical advice drawn from hosting and attending a range of industry and business events. They address why these gatherings are essential for professional and personal growth, how they’ve shaped their own doula journeys, and why every doula—whether new or seasoned—should "put themselves in the room."

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Spark: First In-Person Doula Events

• Both Darcy and Jodi recount attending their first major doula conferences, describing the energy, connection, and motivation they drew from being among passionate doulas.
• Darcy's First Event: DONA International Conference, Boston, 2010. "I remember just like coming home, feeling like I had a rocket on my back. I was like, yes, I am totally doing this." (04:29)
• Jodi's First Event: CAPPA Conference, Kansas City or Tucson. She describes flying solo and the impact of suddenly having 'her people' around her. (05:15)

2. The Unique Magic of In-Person Gathering

• Shared passion and instant connectivity are highlighted: "The thing about an event is they're strangers that share your same passion." (06:14, Darcy)
• Seeing others' success in real life raises your own vision. "Here I thought I was, like, reaching for the stars, but like, now I know I'm playing small." (06:41, Jodi)
• Validation and expansion:"Business is business. Mindset is mindset. So whatever kind of event you're going to, you're going to get something out of it 100%." (08:00, Darcy)

3. Investing in Yourself and Events

• Jodi emphasizes the discomfort and necessity of spending money on in-person events even when business income feels tight: "If your business is in a place where you're like, okay, I'm not generating the revenue that I want to be generating...should I be spending on something like this? And my answer is always going to be yes." (09:18, Jodi)
• Investing in yourself signals value to your clients: "If you don't invest in yourself, why is anybody going to invest in you?" (10:43, Darcy)
• The difference between live events and passive learning: "You do not get that same motivation. You do not hear things the same as when you're sitting and it's live and other people are hearing it also." (10:25, Jodi)

4. Hosting Your Own Events

• Both discuss how their signature events mirror their personalities and how you can create exactly what you're missing, rather than waiting for someone else.
• "I can't find what I'm looking for, so I create it and then I know other people are probably looking for it if I'm looking for it." (15:07, Jodi)
• Types of events: ocean retreats, boardroom summits—“someone could go to both…they’re completely different” (15:51)

5. Handling Disappointment and Learning from “Failures”

• They acknowledge that not every event will live up to expectations, but every experience is valuable: "You learn more from your failures than successes." (17:38, Darcy)
• Even a 'wasted' investment can sharpen your future decisions and help you avoid mistakes in your own event planning.

6. Inspiration Beyond the Birth World

• Drawing analogies from unexpected sources (Alex Honnold, free climber): "If it's mediocre, I'm putting it out there, because then I have an opportunity to learn more." (19:45, Jodi)
• Entrepreneurial growth is fast-tracked by stepping into new environments that challenge comfort zones.

7. Community Support & Accountability

• Real progress is observed in return attendees at the Birth Worker Retreat: "We always set our intentions…then, like, the next year, like, did you do the thing?...there's always tears." (29:41, Jodi)
• Sharing business dreams with peers gets honest, actionable feedback—a self-selected “focus group” who will cheer you and also deliver tough truths. (32:02, Darcy & Jodi)

8. Modeling Entrepreneurial Life for Family

• Integrating business with family: bringing children to events, exposing them to entrepreneurial life, and leveraging business for family experiences. (33:36)
• The value of demonstrating the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment of entrepreneurial careers.

9. Evolving and Tailoring Events

• Retrospective improvement: “At the end of each year, we'd be like, okay, this was great, this wasn't great. Let's change this…we only evolve to make it better.” (27:52, Jodi)
• Community grows along with the event - both hosts and attendees. “Some people have come every year and are already registered for the next.” (29:01)

10. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

• The myth of “saturated markets”—Darcy: "There's not enough doulas. If you actually look at the statistics, there's more people that need care than there are actually caretakers." (50:47)
• Creating what you need because "there's other people looking too." (50:27, Darcy)

11. Upcoming Event Highlights

• Darcy’s upcoming Main Doula Retreat and mastermind experience (39:15, Darcy)
• Jodi’s upcoming Birth Boss CEO Summit: “Super boardroom style…your business will be different at the end of the three days.” (41:58, Jodi)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the power of connection:
  “The power of putting yourself in a room with people who are doing and being what you want.” (06:14, Darcy)

• On leveling up:
  “It's so possible. Like, it's. All these things are there for the taking. You just have to figure out how to do it." (08:49, Jodi)

• On going all in:
  "An investment in yourself is an investment in your business. Like, you have to be in this room." (09:18, Jodi)

• On personalized event creation:
  "You can create something that is perfect for you, and I feel like that's a big reason why I create stuff." (15:07, Jodi)

• On learning from failure:
  "I never consider that, like, a waste of money because I learned a lot." (17:38, Darcy)

• On inspiration from outside the industry:
  "I jot down, like, little bits and pieces of things I hear. And I use those for, like, social media posts...it's just inspo for. I make it like my own." (22:34, Jodi)

• On accountability and growth:
  "We always set our intentions… then, like, the next year, like, did you do the thing?...there's always tears because… you have, like, did you…" (29:41, Jodi)

• On saturated markets:
  "There's someone for every doula. There's a doula for every client. Like, absolutely...there's not enough doulas." (50:47, Darcy)

• "Mic drop" moment:
  "We can say how good they are and we can talk about them, but, like, literally, the people who attend, like, here's where they were and here's where they are...I don't have to give an explanation. Like, it's right in front of you." (49:54, Jodi)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• First In-Person Events: 04:29–05:52
• The Power of Shared Passion: 06:14–07:00
• Business, Mindset, and Growth at Events: 08:00–10:25
• Investing in Yourself: 09:03–11:05
• Creating Your Own Events: 15:07–15:36
• Learning from Failed Events: 17:36–18:33
• Alex Honnold Analogy & Self-Discovery: 19:45–24:09
• Return Attendees’ Success Stories: 29:01–31:04
• Honest Feedback and Peer Support: 31:39–32:46
• Family, Career, and Modeling Entrepreneurship: 33:36–38:20
• Upcoming Event Highlights: 41:58–44:42, 39:15–41:34
• On Market Saturation Myth: 50:47–51:45
• Concluding Lessons: 52:22–53:07

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Takeaways for Doulas

• In-person events are a catalyst for both business and personal growth.
• The willingness to invest in yourself is mirrored back in your clients’ willingness to invest in you.
• If you can't find a supportive event or community, create your own—for yourself and others.
• Growth is amplified when you share space and ideas with others at different stages of the journey.
• Difficult or disappointing experiences are stepping stones, not wasted time or money.
• Commitment to continuous learning and risk-taking is a core part of successful entrepreneurial life.

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Final Thoughts

Darcy and Jodi deliver an energizing, honest, and action-inspiring conversation packed with practical advice, insider anecdotes, and encouragement for doulas ready to step outside comfort zones. Whether you attend, host, or create your own event, the message is clear: don't wait for permission or the “perfect” moment. Take the leap—in person.

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Links to mentioned events and sign-up details can be found in the episode’s show notes.

Transcript

[A]

Welcome to the Doula Darcy Podcast. I'm your host, Darcy, a business coach for doulas, and I love helping my fellow doulas master the art of marketing so that they can grow their businesses and help more families. On the podcast, I combine my decade of experience in Advertising with 14 years as a doula to empower other doulas with the marketing strategies and mindset shifts they need to attract more clients and create successful, fulfilling doula careers. Whether you're just starting out as a doula or you're looking to take your doula business to the next level, you're in the right place. Let's go.

[B]

Hey. Hey. Welcome to the Birth Boss Society podcast

[C]

and the Dula Darcy Podcast. We're trying something new and recording today. Yeah, we'll see how this goes.

[B]

You're. I don't know if there's a name of it. A4 Pete on my podcast, I think. I think we've already done.

[C]

I think it's called a quadruple Lutz quad.

[B]

You're a quadruple? It sounds rude.

[C]

I've been watching a lot of Olympics.

[B]

I know, I know, I know. Yeah. I've been. I. I've been. I'm fascinated by curling because, I mean, what. I don't even. What is it? I don't understand it. Are you trying to make it smooth? Are you trying to make it. What are you trying to do with it?

[C]

I know. And. And why is it an Olympic sport?

[B]

And how does someone get into that? Like, do they say, you know, that looks pretty crazy. Should I try? Like, where do you even go for a curling facility in your area?

[C]

Well, it's so funny that you say that, because just yesterday I was watching some curling, and I was like, this must have originated in, like, Norway or something. And it's what Norwegian kids do, and I get it. And then I was like, because there's no American curling facilities. But then there was an American team, and then I thought, well, yeah, okay, if you can't hack it speed skating or flipping around on skis, it's pretty smart to just be like, I'm gonna go curling, because maybe that's how I'll get to the Olympics, because it. Does it require any physical.

[B]

I. You know, I bet it's like one of those things where I did this, like, surfing simulator. And I was like, how hard could this really be? Like, I mean, get up. You do a little thing, whatever. I can't even tell you how difficult it. And it was so embarrassing. Fairly athletic, right? And I'm Like, I could not even get up. You're, like, being washed to the top thing. So I'm. I'm willing to bet this is probably very difficult. And we just are like, you go with your thing and then you get to the, you know, middle, and you're good. I don't know.

[C]

I have to tell my funny surfing simulator story because I felt the same way. And then I fell and it was so hard. And then I. Then I got it and I was up there on, like, riding the wave, and I'm like, I look really cool. And then you leave and they're like, hey, check out the pictures from your sess. I'm like, I'm totally gonna buy mine because I was nailing it. I forget that they have you in elbow pads and a helmet.

[B]

Oh, I wasn't.

[C]

Oh, God, we were. Oh, I looked so ridiculous.

[B]

They always say if you, like, sometimes when you get, like, sucked up to the top like your bathing suit, bottom flies off. So, like, I was wearing, like, a tankini. So I tuck it in real, like, tucked in all the parts. I probably looked ridiculous. Yeah. No, it was not easy. And I'll never do it again because I don't like to do things that I'm not good at.

[C]

Yeah. Okay, so here we are on a tangent.

[B]

Anywho, enough about curling. That is not what we came on to talk about. We came on to talk about the power of in person events and the power and the energy of being face to face and how we got to this place in our business. Like, I always love. I like to hear people talk about different things, but then I like to hear them say, like, why? Why is this part of your business? How did you get here? Like, what sparked this in you? And I think for you and I, like, we. We did it first with someone else. Like, we paid to go to these other events to, like, test the waters. And I don't. I don't remember exactly, but if I know myself, I didn't go into it with the intention of being like, let me see what this is all about, and maybe I could host one. I did it because I needed something. Like, I'm always kind of looking for something else in my business, you know, something to learn more about or just, I just like to be with people.

[C]

Well, I think that's what it comes down to. I was trying to think of, like, the first event I ever went to. And I know what it was. It was in 2010, the year I trained to be a doula. The Dona International Conference was in Boston. So I went. So I was this brand new baby doula surrounded by hundreds of other doulas. And the energy and excitement from that was so cool. I remember just, like, coming home, feeling like I had a rocket on my back. I was like, yes, I am totally doing this. I just was in a ballroom with 400. I can't remember how many people. There were hundreds of people there that had been doulas forever. So I. That was my first, like, hit.

[B]

Yeah, I. I think mine was the same. It was a Kappa conference. It was in Kansas City. I think it was either in Kansas City or Tucson. So now here I am. Okay. Like, you're kind of in the New England area. I'm like, you know, I'm flying somewhere, like, you know, solo as, like, a new doula, being like, oh, my God, I have, like, no doula friends.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

I don't really know anybody. Like, I knew the people who I was, like, in my initial training with, but, like, I don't even remember if they were there, but the feeling, you're right. You come home and you're just like, I mean, I was meant for all of this.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

I can do anything. And the great part is every person at your table feels the exact same way. Like, you not only meet them and say, oh, like, we're all doulas. Like, you now just have this, like, wild vision of what, like, your career is going to be like, and you're sharing it with strangers, but they're not strangers anymore. They're like your. Your. Your people now.

[C]

Well, the thing about an event is they're strangers that share your same passion. So at a doula conference, like, everybody's a doula. So everybody's obsessed with helping perinatal families. Like, there's magic in that. And this is why I just will not ever shut up about. You know, we say it all the time. The power of putting yourself in a room with people who are doing and being what you want.

[B]

And the best is when they're doing it better than you. So.

[C]

Yes.

[B]

Oh, okay. Like, I remember being at. It was like a. It wasn't like a doula thing. It was like a, like, women's in business thing, whatever. And, you know, it's like you go somewhere and you're like, I'm doing good. Like, I can't remember if it was like, you know, I think I wanted to make, like, $30,000 a month or something. I can't even remember what it was. And I was like, I'm gonna say it out loud. Like, One of those things. Someone next to me was making, like, 300,000 dol. Like, oh, okay. Well, here I thought I was, like, reaching for the stars, but, like, now I know I'm playing small. Like, yeah, what else? Like, what are you doing? And. And they weren't in the birth industry, but. And honestly, I've learned over the years that it doesn't matter. Like, I do a lot not in the birth industry because I bring it back to our community, and it doesn't matter if they're in our line of work or not. Like, it's all. It all applies. Like, it's all applicable, whether it's your membership community online, or it's mine for doulas or your retreat, or it's mine for, like, what, you can have a retreat for bankers. I mean, it doesn't matter. It's what you do in your retreat and what you're teaching them in the way that they feel after I. It's the same that we do. It's different topics, but they're not always different topics.

[C]

Like, well, I mean, at the end of the day, business is business.

[B]

Right? Right.

[C]

Mindset is mindset. So whether you're, you know, whatever kind of event you're going to, you're going to get something out of it 100%.

[B]

And everybody started at zero. That's like the. Yeah, everyone started wherever you are. Someone in the room was also there. Everybody was also there at some point, right?

[C]

Yeah. I think there's so much power in looking around a room like that and realizing, like, oh, my God. I remember when I was back at that level, that. That lady over there in the red swe. And like, oh, my gosh.

[B]

Wow. And then you want to maybe be like, I was there. Yeah.

[C]

And you'll be like, it's gonna. It's gonna be okay. And you're gonna get there. And then. But then the lady with the blue sweater, you're like, oh, my God, maybe I should try to have $300,000 a month. That's what you're doing. Like that. Great idea, random lady.

[B]

I can do it. I mean. Yeah, it's like, it's. It's so possible. Like, it's. All these things are there for the taking.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Like, you just have to figure out how to do it.

[C]

And it just. I was just gonna say it gets faster and easier to do that when you're literally sitting next to someone who's doing it and you're talking to them. Like, zoom is great. Right? Zoom is great. But, like, meeting someone in person in

[B]

the flesh, take it out for coffee or you take it out for dinner, which is like, you know, I love, I love, you know, like creating a relationship with someone and then taking it out of that space and like, you know, having a conversation still about business, whatever, but like over dinner, over a drink, or over coffee. And it's, it's, I mean, it's so powerful. And I think the hardest part is, is that initial, okay, like I, I want to do this. And then you have to pay for it. Like, if your business is in a place where you're like, okay, I'm not generating the revenue that I want to be generating. You know, I'm trying to figure, should I be spending on something like this? And my answer is always going to be yes. You know, I, yeah, I hate when people like blindly say, you know, you have to spend a little to make a little. Like, yes, duh, we get it. But like, it's not that. It's like an investment in yourself is an investment in your business. Like, you have to be in this room.

[C]

You.

[B]

It's not the same as reading a book. It's not the same as doing a self paced course. Like, right. You don't get that same. At least I don't. You do not get that same motivation. You do not get. You do not hear things the same as when you're sitting and it's live and other people are hearing it also.

[C]

Yeah. And if you don't invest in yourself, why is anybody going to invest in you? Like, that's what it comes down to for me. If I, every event I've gone to, like business wise, every coaching or mastermind program I've signed up for, I. Even when it's like a scary amount.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I just think this is worth it. I'm investing in myself, I'm investing in my growth. And it's like this energetic exchange of like, if I see that about myself, my clients, my, you know, so, because

[B]

you're gonna tell the story, you're gonna say, I, I totally understand why this feels like, you know, a big jump for you. Five years ago when I was doing, you know, and it's like, then you have that connection. Like, you're not only like talking the talk because you have walked the walk. And like, I think that's so important. I like recorded a podcast episode about this. You know, I can't stand when people are like, you know, let me mentor you. And I'm like, you've been doing this for a minute. Like, you don't. You Know, doing the things. How are you going to answer my questions? Like, you don't know. And I think the other.

[C]

My favorite. Sorry I have to say this. My favorite other, like, Instagram, like, let me help you grow your business. And then you look and like, it's like, you have 200 followers, dude.

[B]

Like, I know.

[C]

Not that that's important, but I'm like, I'm not going to. I don't want to learn marketing from someone who seems to not be good at it.

[B]

I know, I know. Only, it's only like an excuse if the person is like, I feel like, like social media people, like, they never have a big following because they're never working on their own. They're always working on yours.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

So I feel like that's the only, like, excuse.

[C]

But, yeah, that doesn't fly with me. Anyway, so what. What I was thinking is, like, when, you know, you hear doulas talk about, like, oh, no one in my area wants to pay. No one wants to know. No one believes in the value of the, of a doula.

[B]

Like, oh, no, there are people for sure.

[C]

Yeah. But like, those are the same people that are like, oh, you know, I can't spend a thousand dollars to go to this training because I don't see the worth in it. Or they're the same people that are on Instagram or, you know, the doula groups. Like, what's the cheapest, fastest, most affordable doula training? Like, what do you think you're gonna get?

[B]

And it's funny because I'm a doula trainer and I'm like, skip. Like, I'm not even. You know, it's. It's funny. I. It's rare that I respond.

[C]

So I actually, A business event that I just attended, they were just talking about how. Well, actually, they were talking about profitability and how as a business owner, hosting in person events is not like, a profitable thing and, like, why you shouldn't do it and blah, blah, blah. So this was an example of a. I was like, I'm out. Like, I. Yeah, like, my whole being. I was like, nope. I. I know. So I have built my business and I know you have too. Like, events are a big. In person. Events are a big part of it. I host a retreat twice a year for my members of my membership. You and I together host the birth worker retreat in Clearwater. In.

[B]

Yep.

[C]

Those are like the highlights of my year.

[B]

Yeah, I have one coming up in April and it's like, wait. And you wait all year for it and it's like, Yeah, I. Whoever said that.

[C]

Bye.

[B]

Bye.

[C]

I mean, yeah, like, on paper. Sure. I could run a webinar. And then, you know, you're not paying for a hotel. You're not. I know. And especially now with AI and, you know, everything's just online and.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

You know, I think in person, events are even more important.

[B]

And the impact that you have, who attend, it's like you. You can't get that anywhere else.

[C]

Right.

[B]

And there's, you know, I love it because A, it is, you know, generates revenue, but B, like, you're in charge of all the planning. Like, you. I love planning and.

[C]

Oh, God.

[B]

Oh, I love it. I love it.

[C]

But this is why we're a good team. But.

[B]

Yes, but your retreats, I feel like, mirror your personality. Yes, my summit mirrors my personality.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

And then the birth worker retreat is

[C]

like, a little bit of you, a

[B]

little bit of me. Like.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

So it's great. Like, you can create something that is perfect for you. And I feel like that's a big reason why I create stuff. I'm like, I'm looking for this and yes. I can't find it. You know, exactly. I know you're not going to find something exactly, you know, perfect for you, but, like, I can't find what I'm looking for. Like, so I create it and then I know other people are also probably looking for it if I'm looking for it.

[C]

Right.

[B]

And like, your retreats are, like, by the ocean, you know, minor, like, boardroom. Like, I think it's. It's very. It speaks to, you know, someone who, you know, they would benefit from both things.

[C]

Right. Someone could go to both.

[B]

Yeah. And they look forward to yours. They look forward to mine because they're completely different.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Well, mine is a retreat.

[C]

Mine is a retreat. Yours is a summit. I mean, that's what they're. Yeah, we've named them correctly. But I think, you know, this goes down to just. Even as a doula in your community, you need to be hosting, like, in person. Doula Tease. Like, have a way for people to come get to know you.

[B]

Yeah, we do it for the parents. Like, why aren't we right for ourselves? Like, we have all sorts of support groups and classes and a series for this and a this for this, an expo for this. And it's like, we. We plan all this stuff for, like, you know, our clients. But, like, what. Who's planning this stuff for us? Well, we are. You have to, you know, we preach, like, you know, you have to care for the caretaker and like, yeah. You know, we're not doing that. Well, we are, but.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. And, you know, to speak to your point, too, like, you said this before, how you walked out on that, you know, talk.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, have you paid for something? Have you attended something that, you know, was a waste of money? Um, yes, I have, for sure. And I think that's why people are, like, you know, a little shy to, you know, spend. But it only makes you realize, like, it just. It sharpens your, you know, list of things you want in a retreat or a summit or whatever. Like, now you know what you don't want and you can better pinpoint and for next time. And I find that to be very valuable. I almost, you know, you, like, when you mess up and you buy a course that, like, you really didn't get a lot out of, because now, you know the questions to ask for next time or now, you know, not to

[C]

structure your own course.

[B]

Yes.

[C]

Yes, that's what I was going to say. Like, I don't even think even this event I went to where that happened, like, I never consider that, like, a waste of money because I learned a lot. And I think that's the, you know, kind of what you were saying. Like, we learn more from our failures than our successes. So I think, like, anything I go to any. At this point, I mean, it took me a while to get here. At this point in my business, I. Anytime I'm spending money, I know I'm gonna get something from it. It's either gonna be like, golden nuggets of information or amazing strategies that are gonna change my life or mistakes or, like, the regret. Yeah.

[B]

Or going, like, you meet a person that, like, is now, you know, valuable to your business, or you just flew somewhere and stayed at a hotel and got a little break and got to do your work.

[C]

Didn't have to cook dinner for three.

[B]

A different. A different four walls.

[C]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. There's. And I think as a business owner, you have to approach everything with that mindset. Like, you are going to. You're at the end. You're going to be a different person at the end of it than you were when you got there. And that's a good thing. And you have to. A good business, a good entrepreneur, looks back and looks at those lessons and grows from it.

[B]

Yeah. I was listening to an interview yesterday with. I can't remember his name, the climber. Like, the freestyle. Oh, yeah. And he was saying his mom was a perfectionist, and his mom always taught him to wait, wait, wait until something's perfect before, you know, you put it out there. And he's like, I so disagree. He's like, I. I. If it's mediocre, I'm putting it out there because then I have an opportunity to, like, learn more and, you know, let someone, you know, give me a valuable piece of information about how I should have done something better. And he's like, you know, if you wait till it's perfect, you know, you may not ever get there. So what? You just have wasted so many opportunities. So he's like, I love my mom, and, you know, she brings a lot to the table, but this is not one of them. And I was like, I wholeheartedly agree with you. Freestyle climber guy. Alex, maybe.

[C]

That's so. Alex. Yeah. And it's funny. My boys are obsessed with him, so I've watched a lot of documentaries. He's fascinating. And I was gonna. I thought you were gonna say something complete. I haven't heard this interview you're talking about, but he.

[B]

Diary of a CEO, it just came out yesterday.

[C]

I want to listen. But he. Alex, the climber, I mean, he free soloed El Capitan and then in Yosemite, and then also a building. So he is.

[B]

For 10 years, he is a total

[C]

perfectionist in when he's climbing without ropes. So. But, like, anyway, he's a fast person.

[B]

He does it with ropes, you know, 700 times.

[C]

Yes.

[B]

And makes a lot of mistakes because, like, safety reasons. But he. His dad left him and his sisters the entirety of his retirement when he died, and his sister paid off college loans or, you know, did stuff with it. He. He invested it, banked it, and lived off of, like, 300 bucks. He lived in his car for a van for 10 years, and he put money into the van and, you know, whatever. So from, like, I think 19 to 29 or 19 to 30, he lived in this van off 300 bucks a month. And, you know, he always said he's like, you know, I don't think my mom's that proud of me, you know, for the things that I'm not accomplishing. But in a way, she is proud of me because I'm doing all the things. Like, I don't have all this responsibility, and in a way, it is smart to invest the money. So he's like, I never know if she is proud of me or not proud of me. But, yeah, he's like, it was the best years of my life. He's like, I don't look back and regret one moment of it. He's like, I had a blast. I figured out who I was. I could do all these, you know, if I saw something that was great to climb, I could just pump the brakes and stop and do it. And, you know, people don't. They don't get that opportunity. And they would be like, ew. Like, you lived in your car for 10 years. And he's like, ew. It's a yes, right?

[C]

He had total freedom. I've also heard him talk about how people criticize him. Like, you're. You're an idiot for free, soloing up this giant face of rock like, you're gonna die.

[B]

Don't do it well.

[C]

And he's like, listen, we're all gonna die. Like, I. Yeah, yeah. So I'd rather. And he says he'd rather live his life taking risks than sitting in a cubicle and being safe. Yeah. And like, you gotta respect that.

[B]

The interviewer was like, you know, are you just, like, not afraid? Like, I think the general public thinks you just have no fear. He's like, oh, no. He's like, it's. It's scary. For sure. It is. Like, and then they did like the.

[C]

They also have studied his brain.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And then he just. It processes fear differently than somebody else. But he's like, no, it's like, I'm not a robot. Like, I do have feelings, right? Yeah, no, it's very interesting.

[C]

He's a very interesting guy. I love.

[B]

I take. I don't know if you do this. And I picture me doing this like, you know, at 11 o' clock at night in my pajamas, I watch these interviews and I, I go to my notes on my phone and I jot down, like, little bits and pieces of things that I hear. And I use those for, like, social media posts, or I use those for emails, or I use those for. And it could be a quote, it could be like a million things there. It could be a thought that someone had or like, you know, something they learned. And I jot it down and I. It's just inspo for. I make it like my own. But I do that very frequently. And if you actually looked at my notes, you'd be like, what does that mean? Like, that makes no sense. That is in no order. Like, that is not even in English. Like. Yeah, but it's. It makes, you know. And then I delete them because, like, next week it wouldn't make sense to me, like, even down there. But yeah, no, I do a lot. Like, I, I get a lot from random. That's not about birth Work.

[C]

I was just going to say, well, case in point, like, you and I both have learned so much from this rock climber.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah.

[C]

But there's so. It's. I don't know. That's why I like being an entrepreneur, because you can do anything you want. You can build anything you want. But James Wedmore says, like, it's this, like, if you want to do some, like, self discovery. Yeah. Self healing work, like, start your own business, because that's the fastest way to confront your own personal issues. And it's so true.

[B]

But it's funny, if you don't confront them and you know they're still there, like, your business is not gonna succeed.

[C]

You're not gonna make any money.

[B]

Yeah, right, right. It's so interesting. It's so interesting.

[C]

So I think back to the topic we're supposed to be talking about. I think putting yourself in a room with other people is the fastest way to, like, get to your personal issues that maybe are keeping you stuck, holding you back, keeping you playing small.

[B]

So it is hard too. Like, it's. It's painful sometimes to confront those and, you know, we don't want to for sure.

[C]

It's easier, though, in a hotel in Tucson than your own living room while your kids are watching you with other

[B]

people who are like, I get it. Like, you know, you just need someone to say, I get it. And you're like, oh, okay. It's like being a new mom.

[C]

Exactly.

[B]

Yeah. Looking around through this, someone else is like, I get it. And you're like, oh, okay. And then you, you move past whatever, you know, block you have for sure.

[C]

Absolutely.

[B]

There's power in numbers. There's. Oh, my God. And you're. Anyone who thinks they're the only one going through something is foolish, you know, like, yes. You're not. You're not special in any way.

[C]

Right.

[B]

You're just. A lot of other people have the same things going on as you.

[C]

Right.

[B]

And, like, this is how they work through them or this is what they didn't do and they're still stuck. And then you look at that and you're like, oh, I don't want to be like that. Like, I don't want to stay stuck. Like, you are like, yeah, you know, you have something great going on. You could be here, but you're not. And then it makes you. It propels you to get over whatever you're getting over and move forward. Like, it doesn't matter how. What propels you to move forward? Like, it's something it could Be positive or negative, but.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, and then, you know, you see the other people in the room doing the things, and you're just like, there's no way I'm being left behind. Like, yeah. There's no way that I'm not going to do those things now.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, keep up with the Joneses. Right? It's fine. It's.

[C]

Yeah. You know, I love it.

[B]

People. People throw a negative. They throw shade on the Joneses. But gotta. Gotta keep up with them. You gotta do better than them, actually. Like.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Don't just.

[C]

You gotta live in a different world than the Joneses. You got to build your own. Build your own world. But.

[B]

And that's entrepreneurial, like, mindset.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

F. The Joneses.

[C]

Right. So you and I, I love telling this story about the birth worker retreat and building something that you need. We literally started the birth worker retreat because you and I were on a zoom in the depths of a cold winter in New England.

[B]

I was telling you about my chiropractor.

[C]

Yes. And then I said, chiropractors go to these conferences and learn about marketing.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

And this is what I love about you. We both were like, why doesn't do the world have that? Like, oh, my God. And then in the same sentence, we were both just like, well, let's do it. Let's build it.

[B]

Yeah. And what's interesting, too, is it started as something very different than it is now. Like, you know, it's like, I'm watching, and don't judge me for this. I just watched the America's Next Top Model, that documentary. And I mean, that is just like. Oh, it's like you could vomit watching it. It's so awful. But, you know, it's like you start off with 11 people, and then it's 10, and then it's nine. It's like the one person becomes Top Model. You know, we started off with a very different group doing this, and then it's like, slowly, you know, for whatever reason, it didn't fit for their lives. And it's like, you know.

[C]

Oh, you mean the. Like, the hostesses founders. Yeah.

[B]

Yep, yep, yep. And, you know, and here we are. And I feel like, you know, this is what we do.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

This is what we do. Like, we know what people are looking for. I feel like at this point, we know how to do it. We do it together, we do it separately.

[C]

And it.

[B]

And it works.

[C]

Yeah. And it works. You know what?

[B]

It evolved from something very different.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Into, like, you know, at the end of each year, we'd be like, okay, this was great. This wasn't great. Let's change this. And now it's like, you know, it's. It's great. Let's do it again next year. It's fabulous. Let's do it again next year. Like, there's little. There's little. Little negativity and little change that we make. We only evolve to make it better.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, so it's like, I feel like we've pared it down to something that. That is fantastic and that works. And. And that's. It's the location, it's the people, it's the speakers, it's the vibe, it's the free time. It's all of it.

[C]

All. Yeah. It's the time of year. I mean, this is another reason we started it was to. To get to Florida in the winter and get some vitamin D and, like,

[B]

right after the new year. Also, like, very strategic. It's very strategic.

[C]

Write it off. But one thing I love is that even though the, like, the founders and the hosts of the event have changed and evolved and, like, for their own reasons, like, no drama, some of the attendees have not. Like, we have some people that have come every. All three years, and they're going to be.

[B]

They're already registered for the fourth year.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, you. You pay for your ticket next year before you leave. Like, if that doesn't say that you're doing a good job, like, I don't know what else you could ask someone for. Like, you know, we always give the dates for the next year before they leave, and then, like, ticket sales come in.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, and so that is, like, validation that we're doing something right.

[C]

Yeah. Oh, my gosh.

[B]

And the best part about that is really quickly, we can see year to year what their progress is. Like, I was just gonna say, that's literally the best part of it. Like, we started this in. What did I say, 20, 24, 25, 26. Yeah. Yep, yep, yep.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

And it's like they were baby business owners. And then it's like, 2025. You know, we always set our intentions, like, before we leave. And then, like, the next year, like, did you do the thing? And then, you know, you check that box and then there's always tears because, you know, the people are like, I never in a million years ever thought like, that I would have you for the year being like, you know, I'm supporting you. Do do this. And it's not just us. It's like, no, the whole group of people like, you have, like, did you

[C]

see yesterday Carla Ward?

[B]

Yes.

[C]

Launched at the birth worker retreat. She was like, I. I really am being called to be, like, a menopause doula, and they're all like, let's do it. She just launched it yesterday.

[B]

She, like, I feel like at the retreat, she, like, started her Instagram account. Yes. She did, like, follow, follow, follow, follow, follow. And it's like it has now morphed into something, like, much bigger than she thought it was going to be. Yeah.

[C]

But, you know, she's got a logo and everything.

[B]

Like, what if you weren't at the retreat, like, would. This probably would still be, like, an idea that you had that you are. Are wanting to move forward with and, like, you know, you think it'll stick, but you're not sure and. But no, it's done. Like, she has done it.

[C]

Yes. And how about Leslie Owens, who came in 2024 on a scholarship and she has completely transformed her business.

[B]

Amazing.

[C]

And she was a speaker.

[B]

I know. Yes. Like, yes. And she built something so incredible.

[C]

And she attributes a lot of her success to, like, being in that room, putting herself in there with you and I coaching her, and the group mentality of there. I think that's another thing about putting yourself in a room with the people that. Doing what you want to do, like, saying your idea out loud maybe to your husband or your kids or like, your friend in town, and they're like, oh, yeah, that's great. You know, but saying your business idea to a room full of other doula business owners. Yeah.

[B]

Like, you will get honest feedback.

[C]

Yeah. And if 20 of them are like, go for it.

[B]

I think of the people at the retreat, and there is absolutely people who would be like, that's the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Like, yes. They're not the yes people. They're like the real people. They will tell you, like, you know, that's amazing. That will work. Because A, B and C. Or like,

[C]

that that's not a good idea. But how about you try this? How about you try this? Or like, what if you tweak that? Yeah. It's like, have. It's also like having a focus group because you get a bunch of really smart people.

[B]

And we have ample opportunities, too. Like, in the retreat, like, you could go have coffee in the lobby. Like, you know, there's hot tub networking time where you could take the people who are, like, giving you the feedback and be like, you know, can we sit with this for a minute? Can we talk more about this? Of course. Because you, you have time. Like we build that time into it

[C]

because it's, it's the particular reasons that was feedback we got the first year was that people liked the, those pockets

[B]

of time, free time to like, you know. No, I don't want, not network because it's not what you're doing. But like continue the conversations from the speakers.

[C]

You're talking. Yeah, we, we joke and we call it, they called it, they named it hot tub networking. Like, yeah, I loved how that this year somebody was like, all right, are we doing hot tub networking on the first night or the second night? Like, yeah, yeah, the con. And I can never go because I'm asleep. But they're up late at night, like having the best conversations in the hot tub. Maybe with a strawberry daiquiri.

[B]

Who knows? Yes, yes. Well, that's why my youngest. I took my family's here and oh yeah, he was like, you know, I know they're, I know they're in the hot tub. Like, I want to go down there. I'm like, it's grown up time. Like, there's, there's drinks. You're not going in the hot tub. Like, my kids are up late at 11 o' clock at night with grown ups drinking. Nope.

[C]

Yeah. Yes, let's talk about that. Like, how cool was that that you brought your family famous.

[B]

Four out of five of us went because my oldest and was like, no, thank you. But yeah, no, it's like you, for the record, you can do all the things. Like, you can do all the things. You don't ever have to choose. I don't have to choose. Sometimes I choose. Like, I just came back from Louisville. I was speaking at a conference and I didn't bring anyone because I wanted to go by myself. But they want to go to Florida. I mean, great. Sit in the pool, go to the beach, do all the things. I'm working.

[C]

They were so cute running around with their volleyball. Like they had the best time. Yeah. And they did it. I think that is such a great thing to model that you can build a business with that funds a family vacation to Florida. Yeah.

[B]

And it's like they see you, they. Yes, doing, doing your job, like working. And they see all these happy people that you're, you know, working with. Working, you know, and it's like you also can dip your toes in the sand and go in the ocean. Like there's. What is better than that? Like that.

[C]

Oh my God.

[B]

Ultimate like role model, you know, like my mom makes money and works and helps people on vacation. Like, Right.

[C]

You know what. What a gift for you to give those girls. Yeah. I'm just. You saying that just had me thinking. I remember going to visit my dad at work. He was an engineer at this, like, antenna company. And, like, he had this whole horrible office in a warehouse, and it was just piled with books, and everything smelled like oil. Like, I remember as a kid being like, I. I don't want to do this. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. And that stays with us, like, the teacher. And I remember, like, I thought for my whole life I wanted to be that. Like, because I got to go with him in the beginning of the year and give everyone the crayons and the ruler. And I went on, like, the. Back in the day, like, he took me on all the kids. The field trips with his kids, and it was, like, great. When we were the same age, he taught.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Fifth grade. He was, like, grading papers, and I was like, man, that red marker. You're doing all the things my.

[C]

That's so funny. My mom was a teacher, and she would let me correct papers sometimes when I was, like, 10. And I just.

[B]

But, yeah, I'm like, this is great. But then, like, you know, I remember him being like, you know, after my first career switch, you know, like, he did the same thing for 35 years. Like, yeah. You know, and he started. And he was like. And I was like, I. I've. I'm gonna switch 10 times, probably. Like. And it's. It may not have been acceptable, like, back in the day, you know, but, like, now it's. I mean, yeah. My degree is in hospitality, hotel and restaurant management, and I have a minor in business. Like, I was doing events, you know, at a hotel, weddings, Grandma's was all the things. And what I do now is very similar. Like, it's not very different. It's just not, you know, put together like that, you know, so it's. But, yeah.

[C]

Principles. You're using the principles.

[B]

I mean, hospitality. Do you use it every single day?

[C]

Oh, my gosh. Yeah. I do use my marketing degree. So I was gonna say I did invite my teenage boys to come to Florida, and they were like, yeah.

[B]

My oldest. No.

[C]

They were like, no, thank you. But my daughter, who's in. Also in college, I brought her to the Dona Summit in Seattle, and it was really cool for her because I think she sees my stuff on Instagram and she's. She'll, like, mess me and be like, mom, you're so cringy.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

But, like, to have her come to this conference with me and have people be like, oh, my God, your mom is great. She's kind of like, oh, wow.

[B]

Yeah. And it's nice, too. And they see you in a little bit of a different light. Like, you are, you know.

[C]

Yeah. Like, oh, you are doing this. And the other cool part was you talking about changing careers. Reminded me, you know, she's about to graduate from college and she's so stressed that she doesn't know what she wants to do, and maybe she didn't pick the right major. And so I had her ask everybody at Dona and thank you if you were there and talk to her. Everybody was like, oh, my God, no, I'm. I'm not doing anything near what I did in college. And I've had 17 different jobs and

[B]

I've said that to my daughter.

[C]

I'm like, they don't. But, Jody, they don't believe it or my kids don't listen to me when someone else tells them. They're like.

[B]

They're like, oh, truth. Yeah.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

But I say that to my daughter all the time. I'm like, you. You know, whatever you're learning, it will be valuable for whatever you do. And it may not be like, you. She's in marketing, communications. Like, it may not be that. And that's fine. Like, the experience that you're having in college. And I'm not saying go for, like, the social scene, but, like, she's having a great time, like, outside of the academic part of it, and she's doing well also. But, like, that means a lot. Like, that. That means a ton. And the fact that she's in Boston is amazing.

[C]

Yeah. She.

[B]

Her and her roommate are doing some stuff for me for my summit. So, like, I got them, like, a room at the hotel. And then her other friend is doing all the videography. Nice. I mean, because she goes to, like, you know, there's performing arts and all. Like, that's. She's, you know, at school, and that's what everyone's major is. So I'm like, a person wants to make some money, you know?

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

But also, like, you know, they're going to do, like, an incredible job because they're like, you know, so, like. Like, the fire is there for them, right? Yeah, but, yeah, no, it's so it's like, hire your children, guys.

[C]

Yeah. Put them on the payroll. Put them on the payroll early.

[B]

If you use them. If you use them on social, that's your marketing. You can put them on the payroll. All sorts of things you can do with your children in your business.

[C]

Yeah. Oh, my God. It's a great, great strategy, for sure.

[B]

Yeah. Do you want to talk about. What's your next. What do you got coming up?

[C]

My next. Well, my next event is our main doula retreat in May. So I'm finalizing the details for that. And it's just. It's awesome because it's.

[B]

The house is, like, absurd.

[C]

The house is amazing.

[B]

Ridiculous.

[C]

It's so beautiful. It's on this point of land. So literally, you look out three windows, three directions, and you see the water. Yeah. And then we can walk to the beach, and it has a heated pool and a hot tub and just. So I like retreats because when I host them and when I attend them, and this is going to sound a little crazy, but I think for me personally, half of the magic is that I'm out of my house. I don't have to plan what's for dinner. I don't have to do any laundry. I don't have to get my kids to school. Like, it's like. And that I have three kids that frees up six hours a day. And then you're there surrounded by other amazing doulas, and it's like. So I always say to them, three days away is kind of like six days away because you. We have all this extra time because everything's just taken care of, and we can actually think about our businesses in a different way than when you're dealing with all your household stuff and working with your clients. So I. And the. Another cool part is that this is only for members of my doula village. So everybody who comes, like, it's great to go to a conference in Tucson and meet new people. It's also great to go to a house in Maine with 12 people that you already know really well from our Zoom office hours in our Facebook group. Like, it's like, we show up, we walk in the door, and it's like. Like instant, like, hugs and, oh, my God, you're so much taller than I thought you were. And, you know, like, everybody already knows each other's business. I don't know. It's just purely magical. So I am counting the days. Oh, and actually, before that, I am attending. I'm in a mastermind. I'm attending that mastermind retreat in a couple weeks in Destin, Florida. So I'm really looking forward to that.

[B]

Destin's nice.

[C]

Oh, it's so nice.

[B]

There was a cap conference down there. I actually forgot about that. That was the first conference. I think I took my family to my kids, too, with my stepmother Is

[C]

Kappa having a conference in 2026?

[B]

Philly.

[C]

Oh, yep. Cool.

[B]

July, I think. All right. They're just. Yeah, they're nailing down the dates now.

[C]

And so what's coming up for you?

[B]

I have The Birth Boss CEO Summit, April 10th through 12th. It's in Boston at a hotel. It is, like, super boardroom style. It is three days. There's, like, four speakers every day. It's, like, super intimate, low tech. Like, you are, like, executing stuff. Like, you're not. You're learning, and you're not, like, scribbling down a few notes, whatever. It's like your business will be different at the end of the three days. And, you know, we have, like, a lunch and learn, too. Like, we have someone coming in, talking about building up your LinkedIn profile. And what's funny is, like, there's so many doulas, like, who aren't on LinkedIn, and I'm like, why? Why? They're like, it's so professional, and you need a resume. No, no, no, no. Like, it has evolved a lot, and you should be on it for different things. Like, if you're. I guess if you're a doula who's only taking, you know, birth and postpartum clients, like, maybe not like that, you know, fruitful for you, but, like, if you have a course, if you're a speaker, if you train anything or whatever.

[C]

Right.

[B]

Anybody get on there. But yeah, I mean, it reflects. It reflects my personality. I like, when I'm. When it's my time, I like to, like, put my head down, and I like to just work with no interruptions. And, like, you know, we have lunch, like, right there, and then at the end of the day, we do, like, a sip and strategize. So we go down to, like, the. The lobby, and I pick, like, a signature drink each day, so everybody gets the same drink. But it's like, you know, you're out of the boardroom, you're out of your chair and whatever, but, like, you're still kind of talking about, like. And the speakers stay and they come down and they, you know, kind of chat with you. But the hotel itself, it's, like, dark, lit, and, like, so it's definitely. It's the. It's. It's where I would want to be. Like, it's. That is, like, the. The conference I would want to attend, and I like it. I think you will agree with me here. I actually know you well. I'm in, like, a time of my life where I want to spend more to get More like I want to spend more on a conference where it is upscale. Everything feels included. It's, you know, in a nice hotel, in a nice area. I am now like, and I, I did. This is not like a deal breaker. But like, if I can and I'm flying somewhere myself for like a retreat, I will treat myself to first class. Like, yeah, I want to do it. Like, you're only on this trip one time, right?

[C]

Like, you might as well fly first class.

[B]

You might as well do it up.

[C]

I love that.

[B]

Yeah, I like a little champagne for takeoff. I mean, I'm not gonna lie. Like, it just, it sets the tone. It sets the tone for, you know, the, the trip. But like, it's. Yeah, it's.

[C]

Well, you know what.

[B]

And you look forward to these things too. Like, and that I'm already looking forward to Florida matter.

[C]

Right. And that matters. Like you. This is gonna sound like kind of woo woo, but that how you treat yourself and how you carry yourself and actually like, makes a difference on who you attract into your business. I just, I just.

[B]

What you put out is what you get.

[C]

So like, this is why it drives me crazy when I see people in the Facebook groups, like, what's the cheapest, fastest, you know, training that I can take, that I won't have to do any client work? Like, what. But another way I think about this in my business, like, I just had my heating unit serviced and the guy was awesome. He's very sweet. Like, came in very clean, did thing. Like, didn't leave a mess. Yeah. And then I got attacked. That was like, hey, rate your service. And at first I was like, I don't have time for this. And I was like, yes, I do. I have time to leave a five star review for now.

[B]

Yes.

[C]

Yes, now. Because it's like the energetics of that. I want people to leave reviews for my agency.

[B]

So you just want to let someone know that you appreciated the service that they, like gave to you.

[C]

They did a good job. Like, let's reward that. So it's like this upward cycle of success. Like if you're flying first class, leaving good reviews. Sorry, there's a delivery guy in my driveway. I almost hit my car.

[B]

No, for sure. Yeah. And it's like there. It's not even, it's not even woo woo. It's just, it's like, I mean, it's. Yeah, you, you. What is it?

[C]

You.

[B]

You get what you give. Like, yes. You know, treat people how you want to be treated. And it's not just like the actual, like, Treating someone, you know, nice. It's like the treat yourself nice. Like you're treating that, you know, you're like, you're. You're doing something nice for them, and it comes back and it's. Yeah, it's funny. I was out for brunch with my oldest. I brought the little kids. They're on break. And so, you know, two of her friends from school, we all met. And so after we left the restaurant, we're standing on the sidewalk, and this older lady, someone touched my back. And I was like, what? Like. Because everybody I knew was in front of me.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

And she's like, oh, my God. She's like, you guys are so cute. Do you want me to take your picture? That is something I do to people. If I see someone in a group taking a picture, I'll be like, let me just take it for you. Like, get in. And my kids are like, don't talk to strangers. Like, why? You know, they're like, you shouldn't do that. It's like intrusive if. No, it's not. No, you're being. Or they're trying to take a selfie, and there's like eight people. I'm like, you're not going to get everyone in. So I was like, guys, I'm like, this is. This is like. This is literally karma. Like, I do this for other people. You guys always think it's, like, weird, whatever, but you would not have this picture. And she was old, so she, you know, did it a couple times, and she's like, did it come out good? I'm like, it didn't come out at all. The last picture was still of, like, one, you know, my daughter took of herself in the morning. Yeah. I was like, no, you have to press the button. It was, like, so cute. It was so cute. But it was like, now I. We have that memory.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

And I sent it to, like, one of the girls moms, you know, she lives out in California. Like, so it's just like, everything about life, what you put out there, you will receive. If it's negative, good luck to you. Like, if it's.

[C]

It's so true, like, it's gonna come back. Karma, baby.

[B]

Yeah. I.

[C]

You talking about flying first class reminded me. Another favorite memory from the birth worker retreat this year is Heather, who has come, I believe, all three years. This year, she. She flew first class and treated herself to a massage at the spa. And she was like, I got two treatments. She. And so she just.

[B]

Oh, I think she got three treatments.

[C]

I think she Actually, now that I'm saying that, I think she did, too, but she was just like.

[B]

She was on my flight and it was, like, delayed a little bit and she was losing it. She's like, I. I hope I don't miss the treatments. And my. My. My youngest was very concerned about her missing the treatments because we rented a car. And I was like, I would obviously offer to take you, but, like, Uber, because it takes some time, you know? Yeah. They were like, did she make her treatments? They saw her later. They're like, did you make your. I was like, you're very concerned about Heather and her massage and facial and all the things. It was so funny. But yes. No, she made them. She made the appointment by, like. Yeah, literally, like, 10 minutes. She, like, dropped her bags and, like, ran.

[C]

Yeah, but I just. It was such growth for me to see, like, her coming the first year.

[B]

And I trained her as a doula.

[C]

You did?

[B]

Yes, I trained her as a baby doula. She worked for my. For a while and now she's like, now she flies first class, attending conferences. Like, yes, I'm obsessed. And yes. I mean, she was at your main retreat.

[C]

Yeah. Oh, yeah.

[B]

She was at my CEO summit last year and is coming back this year. She does the birth worker retreat. So it's like that attending those things, I mean, a.

[C]

That's makes a difference.

[B]

Makes a huge difference. But the fact that you have the time in your schedule and the resources to do those things, I mean, that speaks volumes.

[C]

Yeah. Yeah.

[B]

So amazing. So, yeah, it's like, we can say how good they are and we can talk about them, but, like, literally, the people who attend, like, here's where they were and here's where they are. So it's like, you don't even have to say. I mean, I don't have to give an explanation. Like, it's right in front of you.

[C]

Right? Yeah. I think it's mic drop, if you will. Mic trap. Yeah.

[B]

So, yeah. So think about attending, you know, retreats, and if there's something that is not out there that you're looking for, make it, create it, do it.

[C]

Yeah, for sure. Absolutely.

[B]

Because there's other people looking too. That's the thing. Like, don't you. Don't be like, who's going to attend it. There are people, just like the people who you think are not in your town, who can't afford your services, know they're there.

[C]

They're there there.

[B]

Maybe you're not articulating the value of them.

[C]

Maybe they don't know you exist.

[B]

And you can't find them. They can't find you. Like, but there's. There is people. There's someone for every doula. There's a doula for every client. Like, absolutely. There's not enough doulas. Like, if you actually look at, like, the statistics, there's more people that need care than there are actually caretakers.

[C]

Oh, I talk about this all the time. I tell every doula, like, if you're concerned about that there's too many doulas in your town, call your local hospital.

[B]

Yeah. Don't be. Yeah.

[C]

See, how many babies are born in a year and then look up how many.

[B]

All of us. I'll bet you there's no need to, like, feel like you need to compete. And, you know, what people think is, like, what's it called? Like, where there's too many people, Like, a what market? What's called I'm losing.

[C]

Saturated.

[B]

Saturated market. It's not. It's not.

[C]

No.

[B]

I mean, Boston is a mature market. It's not a saturated market. It's a mature market. We've been here for a long time. People know what doulas are. They know the value of them.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

You don't have to sell it hard. You know, it has to be a good match. But, like, it's definitely. There's a lot of.

[C]

You don't have to educate them about what a dealer does.

[B]

A mature market. There are still times where, you know, people will be like, oh, my God, I have this inquiry, and it's. It's someone who wants to spend, you know, 20, $30,000. Like, we cannot. I don't have anyone available. Like, other agencies. Like, there's nowhere. There's. Yeah, doulas we need.

[C]

Well, get out there and start training them, Jody. I know you do. I'm just teasing you.

[B]

But, yeah, so events are Events. Events are invaluable to your business. I think you can attest to that. I can attest that the people who attend them say the same thing.

[C]

Well, if I look back, honestly, I'm not just saying this. If I look back on my own business, I mean, I've been a doula for 15 years. I've had, like, the online portion of my business for, I don't know, eight years. The thing that has always moved the needle on both businesses is going to events, putting myself, stretching myself, and going to the donut conference my first year as a doula, like, and then everything after that. And then I see it now for my own clients, the things. The ones that are having the most. What's the word? Exponential growth in their businesses are the ones who are coming to the events that.

[B]

Because they're putting in the time.

[C]

Yes.

[B]

They understand the value and then look what happens on the other end. Yeah.

[C]

So we'll put all the links to all the events we mentioned in the show notes. Yes. And we hope to see you at all of them. I might come crash your CEO summit.

[A]

Thank you for tuning in to the Dua Darcy podcast. I hope you found this episode valuable and I'd love for you to join me on the next one. Let's keep the conversation going. Shoot me a DM on Instagram thedula Darcy or join my free Facebook community, the Doula Marketing Group, where we dive deeper into growing your doula business. If you enjoyed the episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on your favorite platform. Your feedback will help more Doula doulas discover the show, which in turn helps more families find the doula support that they need. And I believe that that is how we save the world.