Episodes

  • Preparing to Be an IBCLC©, Not Just Pass the Exam

    Preparing to Be an IBCLC©, Not Just Pass the Exam
    Apr 17 2026
    *I am in no way affiliated with the IBCLC Commission or IBLCE (other than actively holding the IBCLC credential) and do not purport to speak on their behalf. You can find information about the IBCLC credential at www.ibclc-commission.org.It may be helpful to consider the process of becoming an IBCLC© in terms of “hard and soft skills.” *Preparing to actually be a board-certified lactation consultant takes so much more than just meeting the requirements to sit for and pass the exam. Think of the requirements as the “hard skills”: the lactation-specific education, the health science knowledge, and the clinical hours.The soft skills are what make you effective. Your ability to counsel someone, your approach to teaching people, your communication skills and methods - these are the building blocks of skilled lactation care. You may have acquired these in the process of earning your current qualifications or licenses.Clinical lactation care adds more to the equation.Almost anyone could memorize some lactation facts and pass an exam. But the practice of skilled lactation care as an IBCLC isn’t about memorizing facts.We don’t tell our clients what to do, and in that way, we are pretty different than many other health care professionals. We educate and offer suggestions, we teach clinical skills and techniques, we create plans with our clients for navigating their lactation journeys, and we provide encouragement and human connection.Behind the scenes, we read and interpret research using critical reasoning and thinking skills, we apply and integrate knowledge about the current public health environment, and we endeavor to practice ethically and without conflicts of interest that would bias our care.Skilled, clinical lactation care combines the ability to listen; to teach important skills that people need in order to breastfeed, express their milk, and feed their babies away from the breast; to give the right information at the right time in a manner that a person can receive it; and to communicate effectively, ethically, and responsibly with clients, the health care team, and the general public.We have to remain open to new knowledge, new concepts, and new ways to help people. This humility sets us apart and allows us to work in relationship with our clients rather than as authoritarian figures.Thank you for reading Evolve Lactation with Christine Staricka IBCLC. This post is public so feel free to share it.Acquiring and practicing this particular set of skills is designed to be included in the work you are doing during the lactation-specific clinical experience portion of your exam preparation journey. By working with a mentor, you will have the opportunity to observe their abilities in the consult room, and you will develop your own as you begin to practice under their supervision. Their feedback will allow you to improve those skills over time, and by the end of your clinical experience hours, you should have demonstrated to them that you are a very competent counselor, educator, and consultant and that you can provide skilled, clinical lactation care with a global worldview.Here I will outline some useful ways to make the most of your lactation-specific clinical experience hours, regardless of your Pathway or the setting in which you will be in contact with breastfeeding families.This is especially important in the case of Pathway 1 candidates. If as a Recognized Health Professional you plan to obtain your clinical hours through your job or work setting or through independent clinical practice, here’s how to transform your clinical hours into an experience that serves you AND your clients better.* Market your services clearly and ensure your clients understand that you are preparing to be an IBCLC, which means that if their lactation concerns or problems exceed your scope of practice or expertise, you will be referring them to a current IBCLC. (Keep in mind that the term “IBCLC” is not permitted to be used in any way by an individual who has not earned the credential as stated here.)* Define your precise parameters for referral to an IBCLC. This will likely be a big list of lactation situations and scenarios. After all, you are not an IBCLC, and if your client needs one, you have not yet qualified to provide that level of care. Creating your list of parameters for referral includes determining exactly how you will be learning from these cases: will you be able to accompany your client for their IBCLC appointments? Will you be communicating with the IBCLC directly about the care plan they create with the client? Will you be following up with the client after the IBCLC releases them from their care?* Identify at least 1 IBCLC with whom you can discuss clinical cases and questions. Include in your financial budget the expectation that you will pay them for their time as they are providing you with a professional service that is part of your investment in learning and preparing for your IBCLC...
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    13 mins
  • Podcast | The Hidden Power of Hand Expression in Breastfeeding Success

    Podcast | The Hidden Power of Hand Expression in Breastfeeding Success
    Apr 6 2026

    The Hidden Power of Hand Expression in Breastfeeding Success

    Olena Dobczansky and Christine Staricka are back sharing practical insights from how to normalize hand expression for both professionals and parents to the urgent need for clear language and community-based support that honor the embodied experience of breastfeeding. We break down how current marketing, technology, and policy choices often undermine natural breastfeeding processes. Maternal and infant health suffer when we neglect simple, free, effective tools like hand expression and skin-to-skin that can profoundly impact long-term breastfeeding outcomes. This episode reinforces the importance of manual techniques rooted in intuition and embodiment—crucial not only for immediate relief but for nurturing confidence and resilience in new moms. This episode is essential listening for professionals aiming to elevate care, parents seeking empowerment, and advocates committed to preserving the ancestral wisdom of breastfeeding. If you're ready to challenge the status quo and embrace a more embodied, practical approach—this is your blueprint. Christine Staricka, IBCLC, is a holistic lactation expert known for her advocacy of embodied breastfeeding practices and systems-level change. Olena Dobczansky is an experienced RN and IBCLC dedicated to integrating science, communication, and community to improve lactation support worldwide.

    Note: This episode emphasizes the importance of embodied support tools like hand expression, systemic communication, and community-based practices to foster a healthier, more inclusive breastfeeding culture. Be sure to share your thoughts and contribute to ongoing dialogue!

    http://www.thefirst100hours.com - Book & Free Guide

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    1 hr
  • Podcast | What the IBCLC Actually Is and Why It Matters

    Podcast | What the IBCLC Actually Is and Why It Matters
    Mar 4 2026

    What the IBCLC Actually Is and Why It Matters

    In this episode, Christine Staricka IBCLC discusses the significance of IBCLC Day and the unique role of IBCLCs in supporting breastfeeding. She emphasizes the professional achievement represented by the IBCLC credential, the extensive training required, and the challenges faced in the lactation field, including the influence of commercialism and the emotional labor involved. Christine calls for systemic change and encourages IBCLCs to engage actively with the community to foster a supportive environment for breastfeeding families.

    https://ibclcinca.substack.com/about - Join Evolve Lactation Pros

    http://www.thefirst100hours.com - Book & Free Guide

    Evolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.

    You’re invited. You belong here.

    What we build together is going to change the field.

    What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.

    You are so welcome to join us at https://ibclcinca.substack.com/.

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    23 mins
  • Podcast | Breaking Down the US Breastfeeding Landscape with Kelly Durbin

    Podcast | Breaking Down the US Breastfeeding Landscape with Kelly Durbin
    Feb 13 2026

    Kelly Durbin's book, Protecting Your Potential for Breastfeeding

    In this conversation, Christine and Kelly Durbin discuss the multifaceted challenges and opportunities surrounding breastfeeding. They emphasize the importance of data in understanding breastfeeding trends, the need for improved education and community support, and the role of lactation consultants in protecting breastfeeding potential. They also address the decline of community support post-pandemic and the necessity of reframing breastfeeding education to better prepare parents. The conversation highlights the ethical considerations in lactation support and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for breastfeeding families.

    Takeaways

    Data is crucial for understanding breastfeeding trends.

    States should collect breastfeeding data at local levels.

    Community support for breastfeeding has declined post-pandemic.

    Prenatal education on breastfeeding needs to be improved.

    Lactation consultants play a vital role in supporting breastfeeding.

    Breastfeeding education should be reframed to focus on real experiences.

    Protecting breastfeeding potential is essential for mothers.

    Conflicts of interest in lactation support must be addressed.

    Community knowledge of breastfeeding is vital for success.

    The breastfeeding culture in the U.S. needs significant upgrades.

    Titles

    Breastfeeding: Data, Support, and Education

    Navigating the Challenges of Breastfeeding

    sound bites

    "The data is incredibly important."

    "We need to strengthen our outcomes."

    "This isn't a get rich field."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Breastfeeding Conversations

    02:49 The Importance of Data in Breastfeeding

    05:47 Challenges in Breastfeeding Support

    08:29 The Need for Improved Education

    11:31 Community Support and Its Decline

    14:28 Reframing Breastfeeding Education

    17:30 Protecting Breastfeeding Potential

    19:55 The Role of Lactation Consultants

    23:03 Navigating Conflicts of Interest

    25:44 Future Directions in Breastfeeding Support

    https://ibclcinca.substack.com/about - Join Evolve Lactation Pros

    http://www.thefirst100hours.com - Book & Free Guide

    Evolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.

    You’re invited. You belong here.

    What we build together is going to change the field.

    What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.

    You are so welcome to join us at https://ibclcinca.substack.com/.

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    55 mins
  • Podcast | Health Literacy, the Postpartum, and Beyond

    Podcast | Health Literacy, the Postpartum, and Beyond
    Feb 7 2026

    We have thoughts.

    From the recent NYT opinion piece on marriage equality and formula feeding to the difference between an AI chatbot answer and lactation care from a qualified healthcare practitioner, we need to talk about what is going on in the infant feeding world.

    Let’s get into it.

    https://ibclcinca.substack.com/about - Join Evolve Lactation Pros

    http://www.thefirst100hours.com - Book & Free Guide

    Evolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.

    You’re invited. You belong here.

    What we build together is going to change the field.

    What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.

    You are so welcome to join us at https://ibclcinca.substack.com/.

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    51 mins
  • Podcast | Milk Production & The Ethics of Breastfeeding Devices

    Podcast | Milk Production & The Ethics of Breastfeeding Devices
    Jan 12 2026
    As we prepare for 2026, we encourage you to let go of outdated practices and embrace new opportunities for growth and community support. https://ibclcinca.substack.com/about - Join Evolve Lactation Proshttp://www.thefirst100hours.com - Book & Free GuideI thought I would start off the year with an episode building on one of Evolve Lactation’s 3 Pillars: Physiologically-Grounded Practice. But don’t worry: there’s also some Sustainable Ethics in here!In fact, this episode is part of the 3rd Pillar as well. Putting this information out is part of Public Health Integration. We’ve kept these kinds of presentations behind the closed doors of lactation consultant training for too long.We lament how new parents aren’t being educated about lactation, but then we paywall the best information? How does this make sense?If we are committed to making sure that everyone understands how breastfeeding works and the science of human lactation, we’ve got to break down the paywalls, open the gates wide, talk to the masses the way we talk amongst ourselves.Let’s get into it.This is an exploration of milk production in breastfeeding. I emphasize the importance of understanding the process of milk production rather than just focusing on the concept of milk supply. This understanding is essential for mothers and care providers alike to support successful breastfeeding journeys.Section 1: The Process of Milk ProductionLet’s clarify a common misconception: milk supply is not a finite resource. Instead, it is a dynamic process that can be influenced and manipulated. This perspective is vital for mothers who may feel overwhelmed by the pressures of breastfeeding.Understanding that in most cases, milk production can be supported and maintained through various techniques, rather than relying solely on tools or devices, empowers them to take control of their breastfeeding experience.Section 2: Techniques Over ToolsThe podcast highlights the distinction between using techniques and relying on tools to support milk production. Knowledge about the lactation process is key to helping mothers meet their breastfeeding goals.For example, care providers can and should foster conversations with mothers about their unique situations and challenges, rather than pushing generic solutions or products.This personalized approach ensures that mothers receive the most relevant information to help them succeed in their breastfeeding journeys.Section 3: Ethical Considerations in Lactation ProductsAs many mothers are marketed a plethora of products that claim to enhance breastfeeding, care providers must approach recommendations with a mindset of scarcity.This means prioritizing evidence-based practices and only suggesting tools when a clear need has been established.By advocating for a critical evaluation of marketing claims and ensuring that mothers are not pressured into using unnecessary products, we can all do a better job supporting breastfeeding.Section 4: The Role of Lactation ConsultantsAs lactation consultants, it is essential to provide evidence-based information, critique the effectiveness of devices, and understand the physiology of lactation.It is not enough to be knowledgeable about products; lactation consultants must also be aware of how these products interact with the natural breastfeeding process.This responsibility includes avoiding biases and potential conflicts of interest when engaging with product companies, ensuring that the well-being of mothers and babies remains the priority.Section 5: Supporting New Mothers & Parents in Their JourneyMany mothers come with a wealth of information they have gathered from various sources, and it is the role of lactation consultants to support and guide them. By validating mothers’ commitment to do the best for their baby and providing tailored advice on infant feeding, lactation consultants, educators, and counselors can help mothers navigate their unique challenges and enhance their milk production through informed techniques.In summary, understanding milk production as a process rather than a fixed supply is crucial. By focusing on techniques that support milk production, approaching lactation ethically, and providing personalized support, we can empower mothers to achieve their breastfeeding goals. Remember, every mother’s journey is unique, and we must all strive to provide compassionate and evidence-based guidance.Chapters00:00 Understanding Milk Production04:21 Ethics in Lactation Products09:19 Bias and Assumptions in Lactation Care17:52 The Science of Lactation35:24 Managing Milk Production53:49 Simplifying Breastfeeding PracticesEvolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.You’re invited. You belong here.What we build together is going to change the field.What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.You are ...
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Podcast | Wrapping 2025, The Year When the Pump Companies Were in Our DMs and Inboxes

    Podcast | Wrapping 2025, The Year When the Pump Companies Were in Our DMs and Inboxes
    Dec 20 2025

    In this 2025 wrap-up episode of the Evolve Lactation Podcast, hosts Christine Staricka and Olena Dobczansky reflect on the significant events and themes of 2025, emphasizing personal growth, the importance of foundational knowledge in lactation, and the ethical responsibilities of lactation consultants. We discuss the impact of commercialism on breastfeeding narratives, the need to influence other clinicians, and the power of personal experiences in shaping the conversation around lactation. As we prepare for 2026, we encourage you to let go of outdated practices and embrace new opportunities for growth and community support.

    Evolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.

    You’re invited. You belong here.

    What we build together is going to change the field.

    What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.

    You are so welcome to join us at https://ibclcinca.substack.com/.

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    59 mins
  • Podcast | Navigating the Complexities of Lactation Support: The Power of Active Listening and Self-Reflection

    Podcast | Navigating the Complexities of Lactation Support: The Power of Active Listening and Self-Reflection
    Dec 10 2025

    In this episode, I discuss the importance of building trust through active listening in lactation consulting, the role of personal experiences in professional practice, and the need to identify and address hidden biases that can affect clinical decisions. I also talk about my upcoming workshop aimed at helping lactation professionals examine their beliefs and improve their practice.

    Takeaways

    Building a relationship with clients requires active listening.

    Sharing personal stories can sometimes detract from client focus.

    Trust is built through understanding and listening, not just sharing experiences.

    Practitioners should not feel obligated to share their personal stories.

    Personal experiences can create blind spots in professional practice.

    Identifying hidden biases is crucial for effective lactation support.

    The hardest work in lactation is self-examination of biases.

    Training often lacks focus on personal beliefs affecting practice.

    Workshops can help practitioners uncover their hidden biases.

    Real confidence comes from self-awareness and understanding biases.

    Evolve Lactation Pros is building a space where practitioners can admit uncertainty, examine their assumptions, make mistakes, and grow - together.

    You’re invited. You belong here.

    What we build together is going to change the field.

    What you will gain and how you will grow is going to change your practice and your career trajectory.

    You are so welcome to join us at https://ibclcinca.substack.com/.

    Follow, Rate, and Review the Evolve Lactation Podcast right here!

    Thanks for listening and sharing!

    You can get the book Evolving the Modern Breastfeeding Experience: Holistic Lactation Care in the First 100 Hours now at this link!



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibclcinca.substack.com
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    14 mins