We had the good fortune of connecting with Carolyn Parker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carolyn, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting Your Doula Experience began with one question. “What can I give to the world that will leave a meaningful impact?” Working in healthcare for the past 15 years has allowed me to see many different aspects of patients, families, students, and other healthcare professionals. Providing support, sharing evidence based knowledge, and creating a safe space for everyone is a vow I practice everyday. My interest in Birth work started at a very young age. Becoming a Birth Doula has allowed me to connect with so many mothers, fathers, aspiring parents, other birth workers, and people who are interested about birth. I am happy to hold space for Moms. Their strength is so empowering! When I attended my first birth, I knew that becoming a Birth Doula would allow me to help many families have a positive birth experience.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Your Doula Experience provides physical, emotional, and educational support before, during, and after your birth by optimizing positive outcomes for Mothers and Babies. Your Doula Experience is known for providing evidence-based support to clients. I am excited to help you become informed about what is happening during the course of your labor to ensure that you are always in control of your birth experience. What sets Your Doula Experience apart from others is that continuous education is mandatory for me to provide evidence based support to you and your family. I attend many classes, and trainings to stay informed on current education and methodologies that help you have an empowering birth experience. The one thing that I am most proud about are the positive impacts that I have assisted families to experience. Your Doula Experience has grown so much just within the past year. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, I am still able to provide support to Mothers and their families. Starting, Building, and Sustaining a business is not always glamourous. It is truly hard work. The hours are long, and there may be days where everything goes wrong…in short it is not easy to build a brand and business. You have to get creative and find solutions to your problems. If I could give anyone advice who wants to start a business it would be to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to ask them. Get connected with others who already have a successful business. Do not be afraid to fail. Failing is a lesson that I learned to be something positive. You learn from your mistakes (believe me, you will make mistakes). Once you have learned from your mistake, you will be better prepared if you encounter that same situation. I want the world to know that Your Doula Experience is here to support your needs, assist your family, and help you Experience a Positive, Empowering Birth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
A good time in Houston, Texas includes great food at Lucille’s or The Breakfast Klub (Lindian’s Southern Vegan Kitchen is a bonus for my vegan friends) . Experience history and culture with a tour of “The Texas Southern University”, and of course shopping at The Galleria. If my Bestie is feeling adventurous, a road trip (or a 45 minute flight) to Dallas, Texas is just what is needed. Dallas has amazing brunch spots like TRUE Kitchen + Kocktails. Sweet tooth anyone? Cake Bar will satisfy your craves with delicious treats. North Park Mall is a staple and a must visit in Dallas. After an eventful week, we can get pampered at Pressed Roots Salon. Best Time Ever!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to send a special Shoutout to my Family and Close Friends. The support is unmatched! I can always count on my tribe to be my support system. Here is a HUGE Thank You Guys. You are very much appreciated. It truly takes a village.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourdoulaexperience/

Other: Email: yourdoulaexperienceco@gmail.com

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