Getting to Know Laura Tefertiller

Why did you start teaching childbirth classes?
Prior to having children, I worked as a Clinical Social Worker. I worked with pregnant women and teenagers, and on the job, I got trained to be a Birth Doula. It was at this training that I learned about the benefits of natural birth, and fell in love with the idea of being with women during pregnancy and birth. After my daughter was born, I resigned from my job so I could be home with her, but I couldn’t stay away from the community of pregnancy, birth, women, and mothers. I became an accredited La Leche League Leader facilitating local support groups on breastfeeding and volunteering on the local phone line. Shortly after this a friend took me to lunch and tried to recruit me on to her Arbonne team. Afterwards I knew I was not going to join her Arbonne team—I just didn’t have the passion for beauty products that she had, but I did have a passion for birth and empowering women. And then it was like a light bulb went off above my head: I could teach childbirth classes! I became a certified childbirth educator in 2007 and have enjoyed every minute of this amazing journey.

What is your favorite part about teaching?
I love everything about teaching because the subject matter is near and dear to my heart. But if I had to pick one thing, I would say that I love watching my students transform into strong, empowered, confident parents. I love hearing their amazing birth stories, seeing the joy and priceless love enter their every cell as they introduce their new baby to me, I love meeting these precious little humans, and I love being able to witness the birth of a new family.

Tell us about your classes.
I teach a six week series of natural birth classes. I pack in A LOT of information in six weeks, but I promise you will learn everything you need to know to have a successful natural birth. I throw in some holistic practices as well, such as herbs for Pregnancy and Lactation, essential oils, and homeopathy. We watch videos, play interactive games, do relaxation exercises, and practice a Labor Rehearsal. I have put together a comprehensive and evidence based curriculum that covers every topic discussed in the class that students get to keep when the class is over. I have students emailing me years later telling me that they used “the binder” to prepare for the birth of their second (or third) baby and that they were so glad they had it.

Tell us a little bit about you.
I married my “college sweetheart” Ryan. He is my biggest supporter and best friend. I am a mom to two lovely little people: my daughter Delilah is 10 and my son Quinn is 8. They are pure joy, love, and happiness, and being their mom is my most favorite job. I have a Masters in Social Work but haven’t worked as a “social worker” since Delilah was born, but from that change came the birth of my new career and the beginning of Birth’s Journey. In addition to teaching childbirth classes, I am a La Leche League Leader providing information, support, and counseling to breastfeeding women. I am also a Certified Lactation Educator and a Certified Postpartum Doula. I love to spend time outdoors with my family hiking , going on bike rides, playing four square, and walking our dog Katie. I love to read, learn new things, and practice yoga.


Laura teaches her six-week natural childbirth education classes on Thursdays at Enso. She also offers a Newborn Care workshop for parents and caregivers interested in learning the basics of caring for a new baby. Learn more about her company Birth's Journey on her website.

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