In this weeks blog, we introduce Beth! Beth has joined our team as an experienced Labor doula. We are so glad she’s with us. She is well loved, fun, and super easy to talk to. Keep reading to learn more about Beth.
What is your doula “path” story?
I began my journey as a teacher working with infants and families in a childcare setting. Supporting new moms and babies was something that came naturally to me. I completed my bachelors degree in early childhood education in 2004 at Rochester College. I journeyed down the path of being a doula in 2005 after a friend suggested that I be present for the birth of her son as her labor support person. After doing a little research about what a doula is and what one does, I joined my friend for her son’s birth. It was truly amazing! Afterwards I knew that being a doula was definitely my calling and I haven’t looked back.
My family is AWESOME! I’ve been with my high school sweetheart since 1997. We’ve since married and have the pleasure of raising 4 beautiful, spirited daughters. We also have the luxury of having my mom live with us full time since her retirement. Our pets include a Flemish Giant (a breed of rabbit) named Franklin and our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, named Ladybug.
I love supporting women and families as they transition into parenthood. There is nothing else more moving than supporting a new life’s entrance into the world. Being a part of a lifelong memory is something I feel honored to be a part of. – Beth Smith
If we turned on the radio in your car, what would we hear?
Top Pop amongst other things! I love listening to music that you can sing and dance to. The 80’s, 90’s and today’s best music – I’ll listen to it all! Things I have in my play list include: Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, Radiohead, Muse, Pink, The Black Keys, Twenty One Pilots, and Luke Bryan (yes, even country).
What are some positive comments made by others about you?
That I have the ability to remain calm and serene in the face of chaos.
Caring, Warm, Confident
What are you reading now?
I just finished reading Big Sexy Love by Kirsty Greenwood. It was a fast read, and quite entertaining.
What is your philosophy for birth & supporting women and their partners through labor?
I believe what families need most is nurturing and gentle support. I believe that each labor and birth is a unique and miraculous experience and the emerging family is the center and focus of that experience. While the course of labor and birth is unpredictable, each family should be able to choose for themselves how they would like to respond to it – where they feel safe, who they want to deliver their baby, who else they want with them and whether they want to use pain medications and other medical interventions.
Favorite Show: This is Us
Favorite Vacation: We try to go to Topsail Beach, NC every other summer. My family has also taken a liking to Grand Haven, MI.
Favorite Food: Pizza, anything with buffalo sauce and cake.
Favorite Hobby: Reading, Gardening, Crafting
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
What is this “day off” you are speaking of and where can I find it? I enjoy keeping busy, starting my day at the gym before my kiddos are awake and sneaking a cup of coffee before they’ve started their day. My dream “day off” would be sleeping in a bit, reading a good book in a quiet café, and getting a massage.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why?
The ability to clone myself so I can be in 2 places at one time.