• BONUS REPLAY: MOMentum for Moms: Transforming Work, Life, and Self-Care with Chelsie Bruggeman
    Jul 14 2025
    **BONUS REPLAY** This week on The Midwife Life, Diane sits down with Chelsie Bruggeman, the powerhouse CEO and founder of MOMentum, an organization dedicated to supporting mothers as they navigate the delicate balance of work, family, and self-care. A mom of two and one of Phoenix Business Journal's 2024 40 Under 40, Chelsie shares her journey from raising millions in scholarships at Arizona State University to building a thriving community that empowers working moms during matrescence. What We Cover in This Episode: ✨ Redefining Motherhood: Chelsie’s inspiring transition from gold-star achiever to creating a life that embraces the messiness and beauty of motherhood. ✨ The Power of Community: How MOMentum workshops, retreats, and monthly meetups provide moms with the validation and support they need to thrive. ✨ Navigating Work-Life Balance: Insights into the struggles moms face in the workforce and how to redefine success on your terms. ✨ Reclaiming Self-Care: Why finding time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential—and how to start small, whether it’s a yoga class, journaling, or a walk in nature. ✨ Creating Equity for Moms at Work: Chelsie’s vision for transforming workplaces to better support mothers through policies like paid leave, work-from-home flexibility, and building inclusive communities. Key Takeaways for Moms Everywhere: You’re exactly the mom your kids need, and every decision you make is valid. The village you’re seeking starts with finding a community that validates and uplifts you. Confidence grows when you surround yourself with people who remind you: “You’re doing great—it’s just that hard.” Small, intentional steps toward self-care can create a ripple effect in your family and career. About Chelsie Bruggeman: Chelsie Bruggeman is a mother of two little boys and the founder/CEO of MOMentum, an organization committed to supporting mothers in the workforce through community, resources, and professional development. During her time at Arizona State University, Chelsie raised over $15 million and established numerous scholarships, demonstrating her dedication to creating educational opportunities. In 2024, she was honored as one of Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. Her mission with MOMentum is to provide economic security and confidence to mothers during matrescence, transforming how we view and support motherhood. Learn More About MOMentum: Website: ⁠momentumforworkingmoms.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠@working_with_momentum⁠ Let’s Connect: Follow The Midwife Life on Instagram: ⁠@the.midwife.life.co⁠ Visit our website: ⁠themidwifelife.co⁠ Join the Conversation: If you loved this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Together, we can create a world where mothers feel empowered, supported, and celebrated at every step of their journey.
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    54 mins
  • 28: From Career Hummingbird to Six-Figure Storyteller: Behind the Scenes of My Book Chapter
    Jul 7 2025
    In this powerful solo episode, Diane Ortega, CNM, DNP—midwife, mom of four, and founder of Willow Midwife Centers—pulls back the curtain on her chapter in Six-Figure Chicks: Phoenix, Vol. 2. With honesty and heart, Diane shares what it took to write her story, the fears she overcame, and the legacy she’s building—one bold decision at a time. She opens up about what it means to be a late bloomer, the reality of being in “draft mode,” and why sisterhood was essential in bringing this book to life. You’ll hear the story behind the story—and walk away reminded that it’s never too late to rise. What You’ll Hear In This Episode: Why Diane calls herself a “career hummingbird”—and what finally made her land What it’s really like to write your truth when you’re still living the messy middle The moment she knew midwifery was her calling (even without a degree in hand) Her favorite line from the chapter—and why it’s a love letter to late bloomers Why this book is more than a launch—it’s a movement to amplify women’s voices How you can support Six-Figure Chicks: Phoenix Vol. 2 and join the ripple effect Ways to Support This Movement: Grab the ebook on Amazon for just $0.99 during launch week Share this episode and the book with a friend or group chat Leave a review for the book on Amazon—it makes a huge difference DM Diane after you download it—she’d love to send a personal thank you! Quote to Remember: “I became what some might call a late bloomer. But blooming later meant I had richer soil—life experience, clarity, grit. I wasn’t behind. I was right on time.” Links & Resources:📕 Get the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FDGPBTDB
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    10 mins
  • 27: From Darkness to Light: A Solstice Story + My Journey to Avalon
    Jun 30 2025
    In this intimate solo episode, Diane Ortega invites you into a powerful solstice reflection and shares the behind-the-scenes of her personal transformation. From the grief of letting go of a long-held vision to the light of spiritual rebirth, she offers a raw and radiant look at what it means to midwife yourself through change. She also opens up about her upcoming journey to Avalon—the sacred land of the Divine Feminine—and what she hopes to remember, release, and reclaim along the way. This is a story of light returning, purpose reawakening, and the beauty of trusting your sacred mess. In This Episode: The symbolism + power of the summer solstice Diane's personal “dark night” and the loss of Willow Rebloom What it means to midwife your own transformation The intention behind her Avalon pilgrimage A closing solstice reflection + journal prompt Mentioned in This Episode: Diane’s Avalon journey The Midwife Life community ✨ Journal Prompt:What is being illuminated in my life right now? What truth am I ready to see more clearly? What am I ready to release so I can rise?
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    8 mins
  • BONUS REPLAY: Midwives + Doulas: Building the Dream Birth Team with Michelle Ludwig
    Jun 23 2025
    This week we're throwing it back to the premiere episode of The Midwife Life where Diane sits down with Michelle Ludwig, an experienced birth doula and passionate advocate for women’s health. Together, they delve into the vital roles of midwives and doulas, how they work hand-in-hand to support birthing parents, and the unique benefits they bring to pregnancy and postpartum journeys. Michelle shares her personal journey from client to doula and offers insights into the collaborative dynamic between midwives and doulas in various birth settings. This episode emphasizes the transformative impact of feeling supported and empowered during childbirth and explores why every birthing parent deserves access to a nurturing birth team. Key Takeaways: Defining the Roles: Learn the key differences and unique contributions of midwives and doulas, and how these roles complement each other to provide holistic support. Empowerment Through Advocacy: Discover how informed choice and patient-centered care elevate the birth experience, empowering parents to make decisions that feel right for them. Navigating the Birth Journey: Michelle breaks down how doulas assist in different birth settings—home, birth centers, and hospitals—and the importance of being seen as an asset to the healthcare team. Building a Supportive Birth Team: Why every birthing person deserves a midwife and doula, and how to find the right team to support your unique journey. Addressing Fear and Reframing Pain: Exploring cultural narratives around childbirth, the impact of fear, and strategies for reframing pain as a productive part of the process. Did you enjoy this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who would benefit from feeling empowered and supported through their own birth journeys. Your story matters—reach out and share it with us! Resources Mentioned: ⁠Modern Mama Doula⁠: http://www.modernmamadoula.com/ ⁠The motherhood co.⁠: https://www.themotherhoodco.com/contact Connect with Michelle on Instagram: ⁠@modernmamadoula⁠: https://www.instagram.com/modernmamadoula/ ⁠@the.motherhood.co⁠: https://www.instagram.com/the.mother.hood.co/ Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/ Website: themidwifelife.co Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/
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    1 hr
  • 26: Yoga, Birth, and the Power of Connection: A Conversation with Nikki Brewer
    Jun 16 2025
    In this heart-centered conversation, Diane sits down with Nikki Brewer—ayoga instructor, doula, birth educator, and mom of three—to explore thepowerful connection between yoga, birth, and the motherhood journey. With over 15 years of yoga experience and a background supporting laboring women, Nikki brings deep wisdom and compassion to every class she teaches. From embracing strength and surrender during pregnancy tobuilding community in postpartum recovery, Nikki shares how yoga canguide women through the physical, emotional, and spiritual transformationsof motherhood. What We Cover: Nikki’s story: from yoga teacher to mother, doula, and studio owner How yoga prepares the body, mind, and breath for labor What it means to “sink and surrender” in birth The critical role of community in postpartum recovery Simple, grounding practices any mom can do today Why motherhood and yoga are both acts of connection—mind, body, and spirit Memorable Quotes:“The first thing I learned about yoga is that it’s a connection of mind, body,and spirit. Motherhood taught me the same thing.”– Nikki Brewer “Strong women empower one another—and that’s exactly what our postnatal yoga space is all about.” Resources & Links: Learn more about Willow AZ Midwife Centers → https://willowbirthcenteraz.com/ Follow Diane on Instagram → @the.midwife.life.co Listen + Share:If this episode inspired you, share it with a mama you love! Subscribe, rate, and review The Midwife Life wherever you listen to podcasts.
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    47 mins
  • 25: Healing, Identity, and Rebirth After Motherhood: Listener Q+A
    Jun 9 2025
    Postpartum is more than physical healing—it’s a complete transformation. In this Q&A episode of Midwife Life, Diane Ortega answers powerful listener questions about healing, identity, and navigating life after motherhood. From pelvic health and cycle wisdom to the sacred mess of personal rebirth, Diane offers grounded, soulful guidance for women in every season of becoming. What You’ll Learn: What’s normal at six months postpartum How to use cycle tracking as a self-care tool Essential pelvic health tips after birth Navigating identity shifts in motherhood and business How to know when it’s time to let go and evolve What it truly means to midwife your life If you’ve ever felt lost, in-between, or unsure how to move forward—this is your permission slip to honor the season you’re in. 🎧 Listen now and share with a mama or friend walking through her own sacred becoming. Resources Mentioned: Follow Diane on Instagram: @themidwifelife.co (https://www.instagram.com/themidwifelife.co) Submit a question for the next Q&A: https://themidwifelife.co/contact-us/
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    18 mins
  • BONUS REPLAY: Mindful Motherhood: A Look at Perinatal Mental Health
    Jun 2 2025
    **BONUS REPLAY** This week host Diane Ortega welcomes back Dr. Cara English, CEO of Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies. Together, they explore the critical and often overlooked topic of women’s mental health, including maternal mental health, perinatal care, and the role of midwives and healthcare providers in supporting holistic wellness. Key Topics Covered: The State of Women’s Mental Health: Why women are 2-3 times more likely than men to experience a mental health condition and the societal, hormonal, and cultural factors behind this disparity. Effective Screening Tools: Discussion on tools like the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and MDQ, and why a comprehensive approach is crucial to identifying depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in women. Cultural Competence in Mental Health Care: The importance of matching women with providers who understand their unique experiences, with a focus on BIPOC and culturally congruent care initiatives in Arizona. Addressing Trauma and PTSD in Women: How trauma, including birth trauma and sexual trauma, impacts women’s health, and why somatic and body-based therapies, like EMDR, are game-changers for recovery. Self-Care Beyond the Surface: Practical self-care approaches like the “Snowball Tips” and how they can be applied to improve mental well-being and prevent burnout. Join the Conversation: If you found this episode valuable, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and community. Your voice helps us reach more women, create a stronger support system, and spread the knowledge we all deserve. Remember: You’re not alone in your journey—together, we can foster a community of empowered, informed women. Resources Mentioned: Postpartum Support International (PSI) Get Help- Find Support - Resources: ⁠https://www.postpartum.net⁠ Perinatal Mental Health Training: ⁠https://www.postpartum.net/training/⁠ Postpartum Support International – Arizona Chapter: ⁠https://psiarizona.org⁠ 4th Trimester Arizona-Parent resources & support villages: ⁠https://4thtrimesteraz.org/parent/⁠ MOPS: ⁠https://www.themom.co/home⁠ Arizona Perinatal & Pediatric Psychiatry Access Line (APAL): 888-290-1336 for free clinical guidance for obstetric & pediatric providers M-F 8:30am-4:30pm National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (call or text 24/7) Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS): ⁠https://www.cope.org.au/health-professionals/health-professionals-3/calculating-score-epds/⁠ Recommended Reads: Nobody Told Me About That: Surviving and Thriving the Early Weeks of Parenting by Ginger Breedlove The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality by Kimberly Johnson Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers by Karen Kleiman Seven Sisters for Seven Days: The Mothers’ Manual for Community Based Postpartum Care by Michelle Peterson The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Certificate, Women's Health ⁠Specialty⁠: ⁠https://cgi.edu/ibh-women/⁠ Trauma Informed Care Certificate: ⁠https://cgi.edu/tic/⁠ Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the.midwife.life.co/⁠ Website: ⁠themidwifelife.co⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midwife-LifeCo/61559303575840/⁠ Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/themidwifelife/
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    47 mins
  • 24: Hummingbird Wisdom: Sobriety, School Integration, and Somatic Sex Education (Part 2)
    May 26 2025
    In part two of this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Diane welcomes Anna Lodder to The Midwife Life. A self-described “career hummingbird,” Anna shares the wisdom she’s gathered from a life of transformation—moving from addiction recovery and early motherhood to grassroots education activism and, most recently, to the healing path of somatic sex education. Together, they unpack what it means to parent for the collective, not just the individual, how grief and loss can shape legacy, and why telling the truth about abortion, desire, and embodiment is an act of reclamation. Anna’s story is honest, hilarious, heartbreaking, and holy—a reminder that our healing helps heal the world. Topics We Cover: The hummingbird metaphor: embracing nonlinear careers and layered identities Recovery, resilience, and the power of mentorship Choosing community-centered parenting over perfectionism Public schools as a public good—and what “integration” really means Why “your child is not your brand” is the parenting mantra we all need Telling the truth about abortion, even when it’s hard The beauty and bravery of somatic sex education Reclaiming pleasure, voice, and the divine feminine after disconnection How healing our bodies allows us to show up more fully for community Links & Resources: Learn more about Integrated Schools: https://integratedschools.org Read: Call of the Wild: How We Heal Trauma, Awaken Our Own Power and Use It For Good by Kimberly Ann Johnson (https://amzn.to/4jYBAnu) Read: Come As You Are: The Surprising Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Cory Silverberg (https://amzn.to/4mk4b8d) Read: Sex Is a Funny Word: A Book About Body, Feelings, and YOU by Robin Wall Kimmerer (https://amzn.to/44ASXpu) Read: Shameless: How I Ditched the Diet, Got Naked, Found True Pleasure…and Somehow Got Home in Time To Cook Dinner by Pamela Madsen (https://amzn.to/43jTqds) If Anna’s story stirred something in you—share this episode with a friend, a fellow parent, or someone navigating their own rebirth. These conversations matter. They help us grieve, heal, and grow—together. Subscribe to The Midwife Life and leave a review to help more women find their way back to themselves.
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    45 mins