In the coming weeks we’re sharing more about our wonderful team of instructors here at Doula School! Today it’s all about the amazing Jennifer Rogers. She is the Program Director of our Lamaze Childbirth Educator Seminar.

Jennifer is also the proud owner of FITMOM Durham, where she helps women achieve their personal wellness goals and PROMOTES healthy birth experiences for new and expecting moms. With over 10 years in the health & wellness field she brings extensive experience in group facilitation and public speaking, and is skilled in providing enhanced learning and fitness experiences for her clients.

In 2006 she became a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator and a Lamaze Program Director in 2015. She has been teaching prenatal Lamaze classes since then to families across Durham Region. Her background in Adult Education, Group Facilitation and Public Speaking ensures that your group or private series is fun and informative. She is well known for her sense of humour and past participants often say that attending her classes was the highlight of their week! Jennifer is also a DONA trained Doula. She regularly attends workshops and courses to ensure her knowledge regarding fitness and healthy birth practices for the childbearing mother, is current. In her free time, Jennifer, gives back to her community as an active volunteer with the Durham Family YMCA.

Most importantly, she is also known as Mom to two busy, growing boys Ben & Jakob. Jennifer was kind enough to answer a few questions about herself 🙂

What has been the best part of being a doula the last year?

The best part of doula work this year is the same as in previous years. It is truly amazing to be present to support & care for a family as they navigate their labour & welcome their newest member. I learn so much from each individual experience and am forever changed by each family I get to work with.

What is your favourite movie? 

I have too many to pick one!

Most used item in your doula bag?

It’s probably a toss up between my TENS Machine and a heatpack/coldpack……

If you weren’t working in birthwork what do you think you’d be doing?

Hmmmm, if I hadn’t stepped into birth work as a Lamaze Educator (which led me to my eventual role as a Birth Doula) I would likely still be working in the not for profit sector. In my previous life I was a Major Gifts Fundraiser for one of the largest charities in the GTA.

What advice would you give a birth worker starting out?

Build your personal network with other doulas. A group of people, or a handful, that you can lean into for information, reassurance, celebrations, and debrief. Make sure you have a kick-ass back up. Never book a client without making sure you have coverage- just in case!

What’s your go-to snack?

Right now? I am really enjoying fresh veggies with hummus and cheese & nuts, it’s my afternoon pick me up. I also LOVE anything with coconut in it (for a sweet treat)

If humans started a colony on Mars, would you go live there?

I don’t think so. Nothing against Mars, but I really hate moving and vowed never to move again, so I will just have to take my chances here on earth!

What pregnancy or birth related book do you always recommend to people?

I have a couple that are on my short list: Giving Birth With Confidence: The Official Lamaze Guide, Pregnancy, Childbirth & The Newborn and Happiest Baby on the Block.

What’s a hobby you have that people might not know about?

I don’t really have any hobbies….but I do have a practice of daily meditation! That might surprise people. I keep thinking about starting piano again. I used to play as a kid, but I haven’t taken any action steps to start again.

What would you sing at Karaoke night?

I would dominate a Karaoke night. I would sing the whole catalogue. I mean it might be hard to get me off the stage once the mic is in my hand, lol.

What’s the last TV show you binged?

We just wrapped up “The Watcher” on Netflix.

What are your goals for your birth career in the next 5 years?

I have a few courses on the horizon to keep my skills up to date- so that is fun. I am feeling the pull towards postpartum support too. I wouldn’t be surprised if that was one of the newest roles I will offer to further support families.

Check back next week to meet another one of our instructors!