After completing undergraduate studies (Psychology) at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, I studied nursing on a Masters level at Vanderbilt University, where I was enrolled in the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program (1998-2000). Following several years in conventional clinical roles, I began attending births as both a private practice doula and a birth assistant in 2007.

In 2015 I fulfilled the requirements established by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) and earned the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential. I am licensed in TN and KY and have attended nearly 1,000 births across middle TN and southern KY. In 2017, I founded Roots Collaborative Care, an integrative healthcare facility that eventually evolved into The ROOTS COLLAB. In addition to overseeing the daily operations of Roots, I also teach the self-authored Roots Childbirth curriculum, serve as a NARM preceptor/Clinical Instructor and serve as the Middle TN rep for TMA (Tennessee Midwives Association). I also host Preg Your Pardon, a pregnancy-focused podcast available on all major streaming platforms. And when the opportunity presented itself to partner up with 2 other amazing midwives to create Music City Midwifery, it was a no-brainer. I was very honored to be part of that creation and remain committed to that practice in a supportive role.

I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Scott, for 30 years. Together, we have three sons—Austin, Bailey, and Casey. Our oldest, Austin, passed away in January 2021 as we held him in our arms. We miss him every second of every day. His loss has deepened our dedication to supporting  grief and healing in our community and nurturing my own grief has given me a unique perspective about life and loss. Both are sacred. 

Outside of midwifery, I enjoy spending time with my family, long-distance running, vegetable and wildflower gardening, tending to our chickens and bees, and nurturing a mindfulness practice through daily meditation and yoga. I also serve as President of The ARM Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that provides a safe and supportive space for those navigating grief.

“It only hurts because you’re alive. And that my friend, is a very precious gift.” ~Gaylea