The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Comparing myself to others has definitely been a challenge along the way. Measuring myself against other birth workers, especially those with years more experience running established businesses with beautiful websites and seamless online booking systems inevitably leads to imposter syndrome creeping in. I think, Why would anyone choose me over someone who’s been doing this longer with a more professional online presence?
But I remind myself that birth work is deeply personal. People choose their birth educator based on connection; finding someone who makes them feel seen, heard, safe and understood. Birth work is about creating a space where people feel empowered to bring their babies into the world in a way that feels right for them, their body and their baby.
As a natural “completer-finisher,” I crave the end result, making it challenging to embrace the winding journey of building a business. I’m learning that entrepreneurship isn’t a sprint to the finish line but a meandering path with unexpected turns – much like birth, really!
I’m constantly reminding myself that I can’t, and don’t, have to do everything all at once. Some initiatives I take will flourish while others won’t take root at all, and I’ve made peace with that reality.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
In all honesty, I completely underestimated all the “other stuff” involved in running a business! I dove in thinking, I just want to help prepare expectant parents for birth! – without realising I’d also need to become a marketing expert, social media strategist and website engineer overnight! Navigating these areas has been slow, and definitely not my specialty – but I’m (trying) to practise patience and to work with what I have.
Financial uncertainty presents another challenge. While no job offers 100% security, the unpredictable cycles of client work and income require flexibility and adaptability. Working from home alone can sometimes feel isolating, but those moments when I connect with expectant parents and become part of their birth journey make it all worthwhile.
The biggest advantage has got to be being my own boss. As an American, I always felt guilty about requesting time off from work. Now I oversee my schedule without reporting to anyone. My natural discipline serves me well; when something needs doing, it gets done. I love weaving work around life’s simple pleasures, like extended afternoon walks with Toby in the sunshine without a hint of guilt.
And time is just so precious it seems – especially once you have children, you realise just how quickly time passes. I often felt a bit ‘stuck’ in my old job, in front of a screen in a stuffy office for hours on end. Now I get to use my time in a way that feels so fulfilling and purposeful while also being able to spend more time with my family and to be more present with Gabe as he grows up.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
We have just welcomed our second baby, Olive, into the world! Gabe is excited to be a big brother, and Toby is already anticipating more belly rubs and food from under another highchair.
For Birth By You, I’m excited to keep planting seeds and watching what blooms. I have ideas for how to expand my course offerings alongside my full private hypnobirthing courses and mini sessions, calm caesarean preparation, group courses and weekly pregnancy relaxation classes, both in-person and virtual. Completing my website remains a priority to help establish my presence more firmly.
Looking ahead, I envision creating workshops and retreats, safe spaces where expectant parents can connect with each other and with themselves. My mission remains: helping to prepare parents for one of life’s most transformative experiences, one birth at a time.
Visit the Birth By You website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
