40 - Back to Work: Easing the Transition After Maternity Leave

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In this powerful episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb peels back the curtain on one of the most under-prepared-for moments of early parenthood: going back to work after maternity leave. Spoiler alert—it’s not just about logistics, it’s an identity shift.

Deb opens with her own (very real) story: trying to jump back into overnight doula work while leaking milk, crying on her commute, and coaching her husband through baby care via text—only to crash hard and realize, “I wasn’t ready.” It’s the kind of raw honesty and insight that sets this episode apart. When she did go back later, on her own terms, everything changed—and she shares how you can create that same shift.

This episode is packed with straight-talking, compassionate tips for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the return-to-work whirlwind. Top five tips for going back to work: 

• ✨ Run a dress rehearsal before Day One (because chaos loves to show up uninvited)
• 🍼 Prep your feeding game—whether you’re pumping, formula-feeding, or combo feeding
• 🧺 Share the dang load at home and stop being the default parent and the snack planner and the emotional support human
• 🎵 Build drop-off and pick-up rituals that help you and baby feel grounded
• 💤 Protect your sleep like it’s sacred, even when you’re not getting much of it

And perhaps most importantly, Deb debunks the “back to normal” myth with warmth and clarity: You’re not going back. You’re evolving.

💡 Resources You’ll Want to Grab:

• ✅ Free Postpartum Logistics Checklist: Get your ducks in a row without losing your mind.
• ✅ Baby Soothing Guide: Quick, practical tools to help during transitions.

All freebies and program info can be found at douladeb.com/free-resources-sign-up

🎧 Who Should Listen:

• New parents returning to work soon
• Partners wondering how to be more supportive
• Anyone feeling stretched thin and unprepared
• Clients needing a loving push to actually prepare instead of panic

🫂 Need More Support to Plan Going Back to Work? 

• ✅ First Year Support Program: Personalized, judgment-free support for feeding, sleep, partner dynamics, and easing back to work.
• ✅ Sleep Coaching Consults: Ideal for prepping your baby’s sleep before your return.

Hit play, share with a friend, and remember—you’re not doing it wrong, you’re doing something new.

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Thank you for listening! Tune in next time for more insights and support on your parenting journey.

Contact Information:
Doula Deb: www.DoulaDeb.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doula.deb/
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doula.deb
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Disclaimer:
The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized advice and information.