Here at The Nesting Place what makes us special is our wonderful team of doulas. We have a group of 20+ people who are all committed to birthwork and making a difference in clients’ lives. No doula better embodies dedication to doula work than Sarah McKee. Feedback from those that have worked with Sarah as ALWAYS so positive, with them raving about her attitude and work ethic. She was nice enough to sit down and answer a few questions about her work, life, and interests outside birthwork.
We’re going to be doing more of these in the coming weeks so you can get to know our team a little better.
What has been the best part of being a doula the last year?
Attending lots of different births and working with such a diverse group of humans. I have a soft spot for those who have used assisted reproductive technology (ART), queer families & single moms by choice – but I’ve never met a family I didn’t fall in love with.
What is your favourite movie?
I definitely spent a few minutes trying to think of films that would make me sound cool, but…The Labyrinth, The Goonies & Girls Just Want To Have Fun (a not very popular teen dance movie feat. SJP and Helen Hunt) have been my top 3 since childhood.
Most used item in your doula bag?
It varies from birth to birth, but probably my instant heat pack or my giant folding fan. Honestly though, there have been births where I never even opened my bag – my hands and voice were enough!
If you weren’t working in birthwork what do you think you’d be doing?
I absolutely love working with people face to face so definitely would never go back to a desk job. Probably some sort of frontline work – I worked in a women’s shelter in my 20s which was really rewarding.
What advice would you give to a client at the start of their birth journey?
Stack your deck as much as you can (hire a doula, choose your provider and birth location carefully, attend prenatal classes and figure out what’s most important to you in terms of your birth preferences) and then just play your cards. Babies and bodies often have their own ideas – you have to be able to let go of control and ride the waves.
What’s your go-to snack?
On a good day: hummus, hard boiled egg, veggies, crackers, olives (dream snack). Most days: cereal, toast or my kid’s leftovers. If you know, you know.
If humans started a colony on Mars, would you go live there?
I think Mars would be a bit cold, even for me!
What pregnancy or birth related book do you always recommend to people?
Birth Without Fear by January Harshe and The Doula’s Guide to Empowering Your Birth by Lindsey Bliss
What’s a hobby you have that people might not know about?
I’ve been a beginner knitter for several decades now – no, I haven’t gotten any better lol
What would you sing at Karaoke night?
Alanis, Whitney or Dolly
Is there a memory with a doula client from the last year that has really stuck with you?
I attended a beautiful homebirth just last week – hands and knees delivery on the bedroom floor and so much love and support in the room. My client later said it was the best day of her life!
What’s the last TV show you binged?
The Letdown – hilarious Australian show about postpartum/parenting challenges. Super relevant to my career and life!
What are your goals for your birth career in the next 5 years?
Most of my goals have to do with continuing education. I’m actually attending a 2 day workshop next month run by an AMAZING educator based out of Philly – all about creating space in the pelvis to allow for more efficient births with fewer complications and interventions.
You can see the full list of all our doulas by clicking here. Make sure to check back in the coming weeks for more doula interviews.