From Rest to Nourishment: My Journey from Sleep Coaching to Perinatal Nutrition

McKayla Broadhurst, CPPNP, CPNE

 Transforming Postpartum Care: From Sleep Coaching to Perinatal Nutrition Expert


Nourishing postpartum soup topped with a swirl of cream and fresh microgreens.

Hi all! I’m McKayla, co-owner of Bountiful Doulas. Many of you know me from my years as a Postpartum Doula and Gentle Sleep Coach. In early 2023, I was privileged to become a Certified Postpartum Nutrition Professional through Postpartum University. I initially enrolled in the course to grow my understanding of postpartum nutrition for my clients but unexpectedly embarked on a journey of healing my own body, and changing my client's entire postpartum experience—her words, not mine!

Four years postpartum myself, and a trained postpartum doula, I didn’t realize until sitting in this class with Maranda Bower and Postpartum University that my struggles with ADHD, brain fog (aka Mom Brain), and fatigue were most likely linked to my past and current eating habits - apparently iced coffee isn't a full meal. Let's face it... Who REALLY manages to eat 3-5 balanced meals, and all their servings of fruits and vegetables daily while chasing after a toddler? Not this girl! However, after months of learning, and applying my new knowledge to my own life dramatically shifted my own physical and mental health. The mom brain has slowly disappeared, I'm getting full nights of sleep, and my body feels better than ever - allowing me to be a better mom.

A Nourishing Turnaround

My venture into postpartum nutrition began alongside my role as a sleep coach and doula, where I noticed the link between nutritional habits and the challenges my clients often faced. This realization deepened when I assisted a client suffering from what appeared to be Postpartum Depression. She was very fatigued, wasn’t bonding with her baby the way she’d hoped, was experiencing severe brain fog, and was very disappointed in her postpartum experience. One day we were chatting, and I asked when she last ate - she didn’t remember. I told her I was going to drop off some cookbooks, to pick several meals and snacks, and I would be back to cook them at my next overnight shift. That next shift I spent 10 hours cooking energy balls, bone broth, stews, egg muffins, and salmon—the kitchen smelled AMAZING. I left that morning exhausted but with a full heart, because I knew this mom would no longer skip a meal. She had things to pull out of her fridge and throw into the microwave or oven without having to think about it. When I came back after a few days of prioritizing nourishing foods and self-care, it transformed her completely. I walked into her smiling and holding her baby, telling me she felt like a brand new person. She thanked me a dozen times that evening, and I stayed up diving into more nutrition books while caring for her baby. I was hooked.

Expanding My Expertise

Motivated by this transformative experience, I deepened my expertise by enrolling in The Food Doula’s Perinatal Nutrition Expert program for another 16 weeks of intensive learning, with Lindsay Taylor as a mentor—nothing short of amazing. I continued to learn not just about what to eat in postpartum, but everything from pre-conception to what your baby should be eating in their first year of life.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to help countless families find peace during the delicate postpartum period. This journey has been filled with learning, growth, and connection with incredible parents and their little ones. As I now embrace my role full-time in perinatal nutrition, I aim to help parents thrive, not just survive their postpartum journey.

For those interested, I will offer personalized nutrition planning and coaching, meal plans, food delivery, and both daytime and overnight postpartum doula meal prepping shifts, as well as ongoing support through our community at Bountiful Doulas. I am so excited to continue exploring the healing power of food and creating a nourishing postpartum experience for every family who wants one.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the families I’ve guided through sleep coaching. Your trust and stories have shaped my path, and I look forward to continuing to support many of you in this new capacity.

Thank you for embracing this change with me. Here’s to new beginnings and our continued journey of supporting families in the most nourishing ways possible.

Last but not least, gentle and holistic sleep coaching is NOT going anywhere, while I might be done we’ve hired an amazing Certified Newborn Care Specialist and Gentle Sleep Coach to take my place—ensuring you get full nights of sleep AND healing meals with our team. We’re so excited to introduce her and know she’ll be able to support you all through virtual and in-person sleep support.

For now, I’ll be here supporting my Postpartum Doula Clients, and focusing on nutrition as I continue working on meal plans, cooking in clients' homes (or delivery), and sending out my new postpartum guide to help prepare you for your fourth trimester - there might even be a cookbook in the near-ish future.

Thanks for your support!

McKayla Broadhurst, CPPNP, CPNE





We’re now booking under our expanded brand, Utah Postpartum Care. If you’re looking for overnight support, meals, or real 4th trimester help—this is for you.



A couple sits closely, warmly embracing their newborn wrapped in a blanket.
By Utah Postpartum Care June 19, 2026
Wondering if postpartum support is worth it when your partner is home? Discover how added help reduces stress and protects recovery.
A couple observes their newborn in an incubator, conveying love and concern.
By Utah Postpartum Care June 5, 2026
Learn how to help a NICU family in practical, meaningful ways. Discover what NICU parents really need, what to say, and how to offer support that truly makes a difference.
A woman gently feeds her baby with a bottle, showcasing a nurturing moment between mother and child.
By Utah Postpartum Care May 29, 2026
Struggling with the decision to switch to formula? We want to remind parents that feeding your baby is about love, not guilt. Protecting your mental health matters, and formula can support your family.
An older couple smiles at a young baby, creating a warm and loving family moment.
By Utah Postpartum Care May 27, 2026
Learn how to set healthy postpartum boundaries with family and friends, protect your peace after birth, and confidently say “no” to visitors without guilt using these practical scripts and tips.
A tired mother in a pink shirt rests her head on her hand while tending to her baby on a bed.
By McKayla Broadhurst May 22, 2026
Postpartum resentment is more common than you think. Learn why new parents often feel angry at their partner, what causes the tension, and ways to reconnect in the fourth trimester.
A woman holds a toddler in her arms in a bright kitchen, smiling as another woman washes dishes.
By Utah Postpartum Care May 15, 2026
Outsourcing after baby doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Learn what to hand off, what to keep, and how postpartum support can help you actually rest and recover.
A group of women sitting on the floor, engaging with a baby in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
By McKayla Broadhurst May 13, 2026
Your first outing with a new baby can feel overwhelming. Learn how to plan ahead, lower stress, and actually enjoy getting out of the house together.
Chicken fajitas in a black skillet, placed on a wooden board, with vibrant peppers and onions.
By McKayla Broadhurst May 8, 2026
Easy chicken fajita sheet pan recipe perfect for postpartum meal prep. This high-protein, hands-off dinner is freezer-friendly, customizable, and ready with minimal effort—ideal for busy, low-energy days.
A woman with a stroller walking on a sidewalk, enjoying a pleasant day in a neighborhood setting.
By McKayla Broadhurst May 6, 2026
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn simple, realistic ways to protect your mental health during postpartum with small support systems that make a big difference.
Fresh lettuce wraps filled with beef and vegetables on a wooden cutting board.
By McKayla Broadhurst May 1, 2026
Quick, nourishing postpartum beef lettuce wraps packed with protein, iron, and veggies. This satisfying meal is perfect for recovery, easy to prep, and ready quickly.