Totally Booked with Zibby: Episode Featuring Carson Meyer on "Growing Together"

In the August 15, 2025 release of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes Carson Meyer, the author of Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood – A Week by Week Companion. This insightful episode delves into the genesis of Carson's book, her journey as a doula, and the profound impact of community support in motherhood.

1. The Genesis of "Growing Together"

Carson Meyer begins by explaining the multifaceted meaning behind her book's title. Growing Together not only reflects the evolving relationship between mother and child but also signifies the communal growth among the hundreds of moms participating in her Growing Together circles. She emphasizes, “I consider myself, you know, as a doula and author and at times teacher to be growing together with the mamas who I have the honor and privilege of serving” (04:17). Carson acknowledges that with every birth she attends, her own knowledge deepens, highlighting the reciprocal nature of her work.

2. Carson’s Path to Becoming a Doula

When asked about her journey into doula work, Carson shares a personal narrative that traces back to her own birth experience. At 22, an age earlier than most, she embraced the role of a doula, inspired by a transformative event during her college years. “I saw the business of being born when I was in college, and that rocked my world” (05:25). This experience unveiled the stark realities of the healthcare system and maternal mortality rates, driving her commitment to support and educate expectant mothers.

3. Understanding the Role of a Doula vs. a Midwife

Zibby Owens prompts Carson to clarify the distinct roles of doulas and midwives. Carson elucidates, “The doulas and midwives are different in that a doula's role is not clinical” (10:40). While midwives handle the medical aspects of pregnancy and birth, doulas provide emotional support, education, advocacy, and hands-on comfort measures. Carson underscores the universal benefits of having a doula, regardless of the birthing setting or medical interventions involved.

4. Balancing Personal Life with Doula Responsibilities

Carson candidly discusses the challenges of balancing her professional duties with personal motherhood. “I have a two and a half year old, so I'm also working on the, like, not rushing her, taking three hours to get from the door to the car” (20:43). She reflects on the natural tendency to crave stillness and presence, lessons she learns daily from her child that inform her approach to supporting other mothers.

5. Addressing Fears and Anxieties Around Birth

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around mitigating the fears that expectant mothers often harbor. Carson emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and understanding these fears: “We don't have to suppress or pretend that we don't have fears” (23:16). Her book incorporates activities and journal prompts designed to help mothers identify and address their anxieties, fostering a more empowered and informed birthing experience.

6. The Importance of Community and Postpartum Support

Carson highlights the critical role of community in the postpartum period. She shares her experiences with her doula clients, now dear friends, illustrating how shared experiences and mutual support can significantly enhance a mother's journey. “Having that cheerleader and that encouragement and it was so sweet that it came from, yeah, a mom and a friend who I'd been there for on the other side” (16:02). Her Growing Together circles are a testament to the strength and resilience found in communal support.

7. Guidance for Grandparents and Supportive Family Members

Addressing the role of grandparents, Carson offers practical advice on how they can effectively support new mothers without overstepping boundaries. “It's okay to have boundaries and, and space and to welcome them in when you feel ready” (27:08). She advocates for respectful support that honors the newest parents' needs, emphasizing actions like helping with household tasks over direct baby care in the immediate postpartum period.

8. The Writing Process and Future Endeavors

Carson shares insights into her writing process, describing it as an act of vulnerability that parallels the birthing experience. “It's such an honest and vulnerable portrayal of motherhood that I don't think I could have written at any other time” (29:38). She expresses gratitude for the support received from fellow authors and the community, which has been instrumental in bringing her book to fruition. Looking ahead, Carson plans to continue expanding her Growing Together community and explore additional book projects.

9. Conclusion and Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with warm expressions of mutual admiration and support between Zibby and Carson. Carson's dedication to nurturing and empowering mothers shines through, leaving listeners with a sense of calm and inspiration. Zibby aptly summarizes the essence of the conversation by acknowledging Carson's wisdom and the soothing effect of her presence.

Notable Quotes:

• Carson Meyer on mutual growth: “I consider myself, you know, as a doula and author and at times teacher to be growing together with the mamas who I have the honor and privilege of serving” (04:17).
• Carson on addressing fears: “We don't have to suppress or pretend that we don't have fears” (23:16).
• Carson on community support: “Having that cheerleader and that encouragement and it was so sweet that it came from, yeah, a mom and a friend who I'd been there for on the other side” (16:02).

This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the profound connections and support systems that define the journey of motherhood, guided by Carson Meyer's expertise and compassionate approach.