Beyond “Breast vs Bottle” Rethinking what Breastfeeding Means: Episode 119

In this thought-provoking episode of the Tongue Tie Experts podcast, host Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC, is joined by Olena Dobchansky, a clinician, educator, and leader in maternal and child health. With decades of experience guiding families and supporting nurses, Olena offers a grounded, compassionate, and deeply informed perspective on the current landscape of infant feeding and postpartum care.Together, Lisa and Olena explore how maternal-child health has evolved within traditional medical systems, and what has been lost along the way. They discuss the commercialization of breastfeeding support, how language shapes our understanding of infant feeding, and why individualized, relationship-centered care matters.Key Topics DiscussedOlena’s journey in nursing and leadership in maternal & child healthHow nursing theory has shifted, and what clinicians are still missingThe difference between “breastfeeding” and “lactation”: words that matterChallenges created by corporate healthcare systemsThe rise of commodified feeding solutions and the “quick fix” mindsetBuilding health literacy and informed decision-making in familiesHow social media influences parents’ feeding choices, stress, and identityThe role of family dynamics and support networks in feeding successWhy understanding the lived experience of each mother is essential to careThe call to return to personalized, respectful, and holistic supportTakeawaysBreastfeeding is not simply a biological act; it’s relational, emotional, and deeply contextual.Healthcare systems often prioritize efficiency over connection—yet connection is where healing and confidence emerge.Families need more than instructions, they need clarity, support, and validation.Professionals must listen not just to symptoms, but to stories.About Our GuestOlena Dobchansky is a clinician, educator, and advocate in maternal and child health. Her work centers on empowering families and elevating the role of nurses and lactation professionals in supporting holistic, evidence-informed, compassionate care.Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.More From Tongue Tie Experts:To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/LinksUse code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.Mentioned in this episode:OI Tape