SAMANTHA ASHLEY
Founder, Birth Doula & Childbirth Educator
Hey there!
From a young age, I've always had this natural inclination to take care of and support others. I think being the oldest of six kids played a big role in that. It gave me a unique perspective on family dynamics and the challenges of parenthood, both as a daughter, sister, and friend. But it was a transformative moment when I was 14 and got to witness the birth of my second brother via cesarean section. That's when I knew I wanted to pursue a career in this field.
Becoming a doula was kind of a happy accident for me. Before diving into doula work, I worked as a certified nursing assistant in a hospital. It was there that I started asking questions about evidence-based practices, education, and support during the postpartum period. Those questions led me to research doulas, and I couldn't pass up the chance to do a 36-hour in-person training. Little did I know that training would lead me to where I am today, fully immersed in doula work.
Outside of my doula world, I have the best companion in an adorable 12-year-old pit bull named Sadie. She's such a sweetheart and has this amazing nurturing nature. I'm also happily married, and eagerly anticipating the arrival of our first little miracle.
I love Minnesota's seasons, especially summer and fall. There's something so special about them. When I'm not supporting expectant families, you'll find me out in nature, taking care of pollinator and vegetable gardens or going on outdoor adventures like camping and kayaking.
I'm also a big fan of traveling. Exploring new places and cultures is so enriching. It's amazing how much inspiration can come from those experiences, whether they're international or domestic. And on a lighter note, I have a few guilty pleasures like coffee, craft breweries, fine wine, mouthwatering desserts, and I've got this unexpected talent with an axe - axe throwing is just one of those things that adds a little extra spice to life.
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Attendance of 150+ births since 2016
Unmedicated and Medicated Births
Planned and Unplanned Cesareans
Home Births
Freestanding Birth Center Births
Hospital Births with OB and Midwives
Water Births
Low and High-Risk Pregnancies
Pregnancy after 35
IVF
VBAC
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Doula Workshops (80+ hours)
Childbirth Educator (40+ hours)
Lactation Certification (90+ hours)
Body Ready Method® Pro
Pelvic Floor Health
Spinning Babies Workshops
Placenta Encapsulation
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Save $10 with code: DOULAMAE
You will gain confidence, knowledge, and strength for this amazing journey into parenthood. We designed this program to give you the tools to thrive in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. The exercise classes offer you the strength to carry while the educational component covers.
Birth Boot Camp Childbirth & Lactation Classes
Save $25 with code: BBCI25
Birth Boot Camp excels in preparing couples for an exceptional birth and breastfeeding journey through global online classes. Their education and doula programs are rooted in the Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative principles, shaping our curriculum's foundation.