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Today's Interview is with owner and COO of Doulas of Capitol Hill, Emily Smith. To inquire about Emily, please contact us at info@doulasofcapitolhill.com.

1. When did you find your Passion, or when did it find you?

Passion- Some synonyms are enthusiasm, zeal, vigor, fire, energy, spirit, and love.  So, where did I find my passion? I've always had it. This fire has always burned bright in me.  Enthusiasm has never been something which I've had in short supply. However, after my oldest was born, and I walked into motherhood feeling empowered and supported, it was then I felt inspired to support other women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.  Later, when I experienced significant challenges in breastfeeding all three of my babies, I became more aware of the honor to support women and families with non-judgement through the highs and lows of parenthood. Now, my favorite part of my job with Doulas of Capitol Hill is helping expecting and new families get matched up with the best doula for this memorable time in their lives!

2. If a kid walked up to you asking for your advice and you only had a few minutes to give ‘em      your best tip, what would it be?

I love quotes!  So I would probably just start sharing all the best quotes that come to mind.  "Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life." "Do not be afraid." "We can do hard things." "Scatter joy!"  "Rejoice. Pray. Give Thanks!" "Patience is not the ability to wait but how you act while you're waiting." "To be yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you like everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight and never stop fighting."  "The things you are passionate about are not random. They are your calling." "Sometimes you're the mess. Sometimes you're the broom. On the hardest days you have to be both." "Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyways." "In a world where you can be anything, be kind." "Let's tell your story."  

3. What makes you proud of yourself?

I'm proud of myself when my children make good choices.  I'm humble and gentle on myself and them when they do not.  

4. What do you love about your life?

I love that I get to work with so many amazing families at such a pivotal time in their lives.  I love that we built a company that values diversity, inclusivity, and respect for every family.  I love my family and the professionals I get to work alongside in the community.

5. What did you want to be when you grew up?

From the age of 5 through 17 I was going to be an actress who won an Emmy, an Oscar, and a Tony.  Now, older and wiser, I'm glad to know life is about the journey, not just the destination.

6.  What are your top three values?

All are welcome. You are worthy.  Love whole heartedly.

7. Tell me about your favorite book or movie.

Presently my favorite movie is Black Panther. #WakandaForever!  My favorite audio book is Brene Brown's Rising Strong. Someday, when my kids are grown, I'll have time to read actual paper books again.  

8. How do you like to be told you’re doing a good job?

My "Love Language" is definitely words of affirmation.  You actually have to TELL ME I'm doing a good job. It's one of the reasons sarcasm is a second language for me.  Good thing my husband is the most sarcastic person in the world!

9. Who is your role model and why?

My grandma, Frances Young, started tap dancing when she was in her 60s and continued on into her 80s.  "You're never too old to set another goal or to dream another dream."

10. If you had any superpower, what would it be?

 Intuition is my superpower.  That and making coffee or wine disappear.  

11. How would you describe your (doula) style?

My doula style is inspiring, warm, comforting, and informative.  

12. Describe yourself in 5 words

Once I was challenged to write my life story in 5 words.  My answer: "Smile, God works it out."