In this moving episode of Midwife Crisis, host Kelli Zakharoff speaks with midwife Ally, who made the difficult decision to leave private practice and return to the hospital system. Through a candid and emotional conversation, Ally opens up about the challenges that led to her departure—chronic isolation, emotional exhaustion, and the immense weight of responsibility that often comes with working independently.

The episode explores the deep fulfilment private practice can bring, alongside the quiet heartbreak it can leave behind. Ally shares how COVID-19 intensified the pressures, the moment she realised something had to change, and how she’s redefining her relationship with midwifery while prioritising her own wellbeing.

This is a story of honesty, strength, and the bravery it takes to walk away in order to heal.

(01:14) The Challenges of Private Practice
(04:30) Rewards and Realities of Private Practice
(07:40) The Impact of COVID-19
(13:41) The Final Tipping Point
(16:42) Exploring New Career Paths
(16:57) The Addiction to Midwifery
(17:12) The Knowledge and Experience of Midwifery
(18:03) The Emotional Toll of Midwifery
(19:25) Transitioning Out of Midwifery
(20:43) Support Systems for Midwives
(22:48) Advice for Aspiring Private Midwives
(24:04) Systemic Issues in Midwifery
(26:24) Finding Fulfillment Beyond Midwifery
(28:33) Gratitude and Reflections

Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:

https://www.collectivebeing.org/

https://blueknot.org.au/

https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/

https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explained

https://www.nmsupport.org.au

https://www.anmf.org.au/

https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-process

https://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-trauma

https://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/

Griefline 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636

Lifeline Australia

Hours: Available 24 hours

Call 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14

Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife

Instagram - @jess.themidwife

To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.au

Follow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak