Hi, I'm Betsy Schwartz!
Postpartum Doula Trainer, Founder of Birth In the Know, Creator of Doula Quest and Down The Canal- the Game of Birth.
Let's chat!
Becoming a postpartum doula, a postpartum doula trainer and a lactation counselor was far from my mind as a little girl.
I loved climbing trees and playing in the swamp; running barefoot through the dandelion-filled grass. My dream was to be the first woman President. I didn’t know then about the way politics worked.
Babysitting, dolls, and anything girlie was not my thing. I was the first girl to wear pants to school when the rules changed. Of course, I have never been afraid of changing or bending the rules.
I have finally learned that life is about standing out, not fitting in.
In 1989 I was married, 7 months pregnant and alone. My now-deceased ex-husband was a drug addict and chose to leave over getting help.
My main fear was how I was going to take care of this baby when he (didn’t know the sex at that time!) was born. I knew NOTHING.
That first birth was a real test; a test of faith, stamina, personal power, surrender, acceptance, and trust.
With support from my Mom, and friend, Sue, I labored for 36 hours and gave birth vaginally with the help of Stadol.
Oh, and I had a Pitocin drip for 20 hours and no epidural!!
A Mother Was Born, Along With Her Son. I Found Home; A Purpose And Meaning I Never Knew Before.
Two years later, in 1991, I answered an ad that called for help taking care of new mothers. I had been searching for a job with meaning and purpose.
Who knew that someone could be paid to mother another mother?
That was the moment my life changed again forever. This was the beginning of my career as a postpartum doula, which led me to be a postpartum doula trainer.
The second time I gave birth, in 1997, I was at home surrounded by my 2nd husband, Steven, my Mom, son Matthew, two midwives, and two student midwives.
This birth was a real test of faith, stamina, personal power, surrender, acceptance, and trust. Sound familiar? All the same stuff, yet a different time, different place, different circumstances, and environment.
I knew so much more about birth because in between I had become a postpartum doula. I had loving support and felt confident in my ability to give birth. I trusted the process totally.
So, here we are now. I consider myself a pioneer and a visionary; going where no one has gone before. I am not afraid to take risks and speak my truth. At the same time, I'm so passionate about serving others and making a difference in the world. I'm glad you're here and if you're reading this... welcome!
In the course of my years of being a birth worker, I have served hundreds of families as a birth doula and postpartum doula, and served hundreds of DOULAS since 1991 as a Postpartum Doula Trainer.
Along the way, I also became a certified lactation counselor (CLC), board game creator, and Reiki Master.
Teaching and sharing wisdom comes naturally to me, and I do it daily as I live my life. I offer courses, accept speaking engagements, sell my original creation, Down the Canal – the Game of Birth, and share the powerful practice of Reiki.
So, that's me and that's what I'm about. Thank you for being here. If you want to hang out or get in touch with me, you can find me on social media. I'd be thrilled to talk to you in real life!
Looking for expert podcast guests?
It's been an honor and privilege to be featured on so many podcasts over the years and I truly love doing it! If you're a Maternity Professional, Maternal Health Advocate or Doula and are looking for engaging conversation for your podcast, then get in touch!
Want to go on a Doula Quest?
Doula Quest is my signature offering; it's a transformational 4 month mentorship, coaching and certification program intentionally designed to help you become a thriving, confident, abundant Certified Postpartum Doula. There's no other program like it...
Curious about becoming a postpartum doula?
Let's hang out! Join my fun, inspiring Facebook group to get instant access to free PDF's/training videos and connect with other new and aspiring doulas and birth pros who are on your same journey. You'll be able to talk to me in real life and get all your questions answered!
Learn about becoming a STANDOUT postpartum doula!
Get my best tips and tools sent straight to your inbox, plus updates and special offers!
Mindful Mama
"What Parents Really Need to Know About Postpartum" ft. Betsy Schwartz + Jenni Kula
Looking for a podcast guest?
To learn more about my philosophy on life, childbirth, mothering and postpartum, tune in to any of the interviews above. If you're seeking an engaging expert guest for your podcast, then contact me through the form on my website and I'll get back to you as soon as possible. Let's have some fun!
MY MISSION
The mission of Birth in the Know is to recreate the lost village through mentoring and training confident caregivers to guide women in early matrescense (process of becoming a mother).
