Meet Lisa Marandy

We recently connected with Lisa Marandy and have shared our conversation below.

Lisa, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.

I draw my generosity from my family and the values instilled in me by my parents while growing up. They always emphasized the importance of being a good person and helping others whenever possible. Additionally, working in my field has deepened this sense of generosity; being surrounded by moms who need support makes it hard not to want to lend a hand. It’s about creating a positive impact in their lives, just as my family taught me to do.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Hello, my name is Lisa Marandy, and I am the owner of Pregnancy Bestie. As a birth and postpartum doula and newborn care specialist based in Los Angeles, I have the incredible privilege of supporting new parents during one of the most significant moments in their lives.

What makes my work truly special is the opportunity to be present during the delivery process and to guide families through the transition into parenthood. With the overwhelming amount of information available online and in books, I aim to provide clarity and reassurance. I draw upon my experiences with hundreds of families to create tailored solutions that align with their desires and desired outcomes, whether it’s minimizing medical interventions during labor or finding the most effective ways to care for their newborn.

I take great pride in knowing that I have the knowledge and skills to support new parents, while also recognizing that this journey can be filled with uncertainties. My mission is to bring clarity to those uncertainties while making this time intimate and memorable, allowing families to feel supported and understood.

I chose the name Pregnancy Bestie because I believe that expectant mothers need a nonjudgmental friend by their side—someone they can rely on for emotional support and practical guidance. I strive to be that trusted companion, ensuring that they feel safe and empowered throughout their journey, all while respecting the important role of their partner. My goal is to be there for them, providing the understanding and encouragement they need as they embark on this beautiful adventure of parenthood.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that three qualities have been particularly impactful: nurturing, empathy, and a genuine sense of care. Growing up, l often earned the nickname “Mama Lis,” which speaks to my instinct to support and nurture those around me. In my work, these qualities truly make a world of difference and are essential in creating a comforting and trusting environment for families. They allow me to connect with clients on a deeper level, ensuring that they feel understood and supported during such a pivotal time in their lives.

For those early in their journey to becoming a birth and postpartum doula or newborn care specialist, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between educating families and imposing personal opinions. I’ve often observed that some birth workers allow their emotional attachments—whether related to vaccinations or specific practices—to influence the families they support. This approach contradicts my core belief that a successful birth worker must prioritize the family’s experience without judgment.

The key skill in this field is the ability to provide support while respecting each family’s unique journey. It’s about enhancing their experience, not overshadowing it. If you find it challenging to hold back personal opinions or feel compelled to sway someone’s choices, this may not be the right path for you. Embracing a nonjudgmental stance is essential, as it fosters trust and allows families to navigate their journey authentically. Overall, being a great birth worker is about empowering families to make decisions that feel right for them.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I am always eager to partner and collaborate with others in the birth community because I believe there is so much knowledge to be shared. The topics surrounding postpartum depression, newborn care, and the overall journey of parenthood are often not discussed enough, and many people are unaware of the resources available to them.

I frequently hear stories from moms, partners, and families about their experiences during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. It often leaves me wishing I had met them sooner so I could provide some peace of mind and understanding during those challenging times. While healthcare providers do their best within a limited timeframe, and family members offer support based on their own experiences, it often falls short of what new parents truly need.

The vast amount of information available online can be overwhelming, leaving many to navigate this journey alone, which can be a frightening experience. I would love to collaborate with individuals or organizations that have platforms to help spread the word that expecting parents are not alone. Together, we can create a supportive network that fosters positivity and provides answers to the personal questions many have. If you’re interested in partnering, please feel free to reach out—I would be thrilled to connect and explore how we can work together to make a difference!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pregnancybestie.com