Meet Jess. She’s been a part of the Blooma Doula team for the past several months, all while still working in advertising (busy spring, huh?!). Now with the summer approaching, she’s diving into all things Blooma as a birth and postpartum doula as well as a placenta encapsulator. We’re thrilled to have her on the team and her unique background and perspective is a wonderful addition!

Jess lives in Minneapolis with her husband Colin and Great Dane babe, Phoebe. They live in a 150 year-old home with a big tub a few blocks from the Mississippi—as a triple Pisces, she’s happiest in or near water at all times. We wanted to give you a chance to get to know her a little better, so please take a few minutes to read on.

Please share a little bit about your background.
After getting my degree in Journalism and Marketing at the University of St. Thomas, I spent 12 years with Haberman—a local marketing agency working with mission-based organizations (fun fact, we worked with Sarah years ago!). I played one year of volleyball at UST and coached several years at Minnesota Select. In birth work, I draw a ton on my experiences as a teammate, servant leader, listener, communicator and holder of space.

How did you first find Blooma?
I was first introduced to Blooma through Haberman. Sarah made an immediate impression on everyone—her fiery passion was so evident and inspiring. I’d never heard of a place like Blooma before, and now I know that’s because it doesn’t exist—it’s a magical unicorn! Several friends raved about the prenatal yoga, education and pregnancy groups. And then when I decided to become a doula, serendipitously, Blooma was hosting a training *that weekend*.

What’s your favorite thing about being a doula?
EVERYTHING! Walking alongside a birther (and support person, if present) is the most humbling and rewarding work I’ve ever done. Seeing a bit of anxiety / anticipation for the unknown when we first meet evolve into this sense of empowerment and confidence and peace is amazing. Hearing families tell me they can’t wait for labor to begin, and then that they felt so in control and heard and supported and loved after babe is here … that’s why we do this!

What are you most looking forward to working with the Blooma Doulas?
Sarah was involved with my doula training and led my prenatal yoga teacher training. She’s inspired me so much personally, and played a HUGE role in birth work locally, that to partner with her is a dream come true. Icing on the cake are my incredible and brilliant teammates, Izzy, Jessica and Sarah B—what a gift to learn from and collaborate with them to support our families. Before joining Blooma, I was always referring my families to Blooma’s classes, workshops and bodyworkers—so it’s a treat to officially be a part of the crew 🙂

If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would it be?
I love to travel and experience different cultures, but at this moment in time I’d say our family cabin in Ontario. To be in a completely remote nature setting with my mom, dad, siblings and bonus siblings would be so nourishing for the soul. <3

What’s something you learned this past year?
A shock to me and everyone who knows me, I’m actually an introvert and homebody! Getting off the hamster wheel taught me I truly recharge and value alone time in my space.

What’s the first thing you’ll do once things are back to ‘normal’ (whatever that means!)?
HUG EVERYONE! I’m such a hugger 🙂

Any words of wisdom for someone looking to make a big career change?
Ooh I love this question. Open your heart and listen to what the Universe has to say. Tap into different modalities that can support the discovery process—astrological readings, meditating, yoga, intuitive healers, reading from enlightening teachers, journaling. With patience, a deeper sense of awareness and self will reveal the path. Also, explore what breaks your heart! The answer can lead you to your purpose.

Anything else?
My partners and clients are probably sick of hearing this from me, but Transformed by Birth (by Britta Bushnell, Ph.D.) is my current obsession and top reco for every expecting fam.