Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassie Calderone.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Right out of high school, I knew exactly what I wanted to be — a Stage Manager in theatre. I loved working with people, being a go-to- person, and helping to keep things on track. I pursued this dream through college and many years after. Until this year, I worked as a professional union Stage Manager for theatre companies such as Steppenwolf, Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and most recently on Spike Lee’s film, “Pass Over.”
A few years ago, I experienced a big life transition — the birth of my son.
After reflecting on some of the difficulties throughout my own pregnancy and postpartum, I discussed my need to find a way to help other mothers in similar situations with my own doula.
She suggested that I had the stamina, determination, and desire for a calling to birth work. She was my first supporter in this new endeavor and she helped me put a label on what I wanted to pursue.
I took a leap and decided to become a birth and postpartum doula.
For the past two years, I’ve been a doula in private practice and also volunteering with Chicago Volunteer Doulas. I recently transitioned out of the theatre into being a full-time doula at Advocate Illinois Masonic with Healthy Families. At the Healthy Families program, we provide free home visiting, doula services, prenatal classes and developmental information from birth to age 3.
I also recently was accepted to Health Connect One’s Birth and Equity Leadership Academy and have begun a collaboration project with the leaders for the Global Big Latch of 2018.
The transition from theatre to full-time birth work has been an adventure. Every day is something new, exciting, challenging and definitely rewarding.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
One of the biggest struggles along my path has been finding someone to rely on. Successful working women can often feel alone and finding support people helped me along my journey.
At the beginning of my theatre career, I was able to find a collaborator who I could discuss my own challenges with and that helped immensely.
A few years later, I found a wonderful partner and we decided to grow our family.
As I grew and my life circumstances changed, I needed a support network of friends with similar interests and I joined Chicago Latina Moms.
After finding a strong network of friends through Chicago Latina Moms, I became the co-chair of the group in 2017. We organize play groups, lactation support groups, and cultural events throughout the year. The members of the group keep me engaged and truly lift me up.
As I find people to rely on, I trust more in myself. I trust my instincts, and my support people give me the freedom to make mistakes and find my own voice.
My advice for young women starting off in your journey:
Having a network of friends who value and appreciate you will also urge you to find your own voice and individuality — that makes any leap a lot less scary.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Love, your doula – what should we know?
I’m a birth and postpartum doula. This means I provide support for a family as they make decisions throughout the birth process and immediately postpartum. Sometimes they need evidence-based information, such as information about due dates and pain relief during labor. Other times it’s about emotional support and encouragement. Most importantly, I’m there as a comforting hand and reassurance in those moments everyone experiences when it all starts to feel overwhelming.
I’m definitely known for my ability to remain calm in those highly charged situations where there’s a need for a strong base. I help keep perspective and am often told by parents that they feel very at ease when discussing their concerns with me.
As a provider, I am the proudest of my connection to the Chicago community. I’m a Latina doula who makes an effort to help families find resources to help succeed in parenting. I strive to help create a strong bond between parent and baby and build up the confidence of the entire family unit.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
The biggest barrier to female leadership is fear.
Fear of the unknown. Fear of change. Fear of judgment.
All of these can stop even the strongest of us in our tracks. There isn’t a need for comparison, take those risks and make those strides for a change!
Pricing:
- For births; I am currently working on a sliding scale of $750-$1100
- For postpartum services; $90 for a three hour visit and $28 for every hour after
Contact Info:
- Website: www.loveyourdoula.org
- Email: loveyourdoula@outlook.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/doulacassie
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loveyourdoula
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
