Leslie Owens is pioneering a more accessible way for birth professionals to become International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), making a lasting impact on maternal health.
For Leslie Owens, RN, IBCLC, the journey to becoming a lactation consultant was never about following the rules. It was about breaking them. As a registered nurse and experienced lactation consultant, she observed a significant gap in how traditional paths to certification in the field of lactation consulting excluded many who could make a powerful impact on maternal and infant health. Determined to change that, Leslie launched the Lactation Consultant Launchpad, a revolutionary program designed to provide aspiring IBCLCs with a flexible, inclusive, and supportive pathway to certification—without sacrificing their careers or personal commitments.
Shifting the Paradigm in Lactation Consulting
In a field where traditional certification processes can be lengthy, expensive, and overwhelming, Leslie Owens recognized the need for something new. The conventional path to becoming an IBCLC often felt like an exclusive club, accessible only to those who had the time, financial resources, and flexibility to navigate the extensive requirements. Many potential candidates, particularly those who were already in healthcare or birth work, found it nearly impossible to manage certification requirements on top of their existing responsibilities.
“I wanted to create an opportunity for those already passionate about breastfeeding support to step into this role without starting over from scratch,” Leslie explains. “It’s not just about becoming certified—it’s about creating a career pathway that honors what professionals are already doing while giving them the tools to move forward.”
Introducing the Lactation Consultant Launchpad
The Lactation Consultant Launchpad offers a completely new approach to IBCLC certification, one that prioritizes flexibility, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Designed especially for individuals who are already working in the fields of birth work, healthcare, or breastfeeding advocacy, the program allows participants to learn at their own pace while receiving personalized guidance and real-time support.
Unlike traditional in-person programs, the Launchpad is primarily online and asynchronous, meaning students can access the curriculum whenever it fits their schedule. Live calls are optional but provide an additional opportunity for interaction. Students also benefit from a thriving community of peers, regular mentorship from Leslie herself, and clinical opportunities that can be completed virtually through lactation support groups, virtual drop in clinics, a warm line, and teaching classes. These elements ensure that participants receive not only theoretical knowledge but practical tools that help them succeed in real-world settings.
Mentorship That Goes Beyond Certification
While many certification programs focus solely on education, Leslie’s Lactation Consultant Launchpad places a strong emphasis on mentorship. After all, the journey to becoming an IBCLC doesn’t end with passing the exam. It’s just the beginning. Leslie recognizes that true success in lactation consulting comes from ongoing learning, support, and real-world experience.
“My goal is not only to help people become IBCLC exam eligible, but to ensure they are ready to thrive in their new role,” Leslie says. “I want my students to feel confident as they step into the world of lactation consulting. I provide them with the tools they need, but more importantly, I give them the mentorship that helps them continue to grow long after certification.”
Through community-based supportand consistent access to Leslie’s expertise, students gain more than just knowledge—they develop the confidence and practical skills to become leaders in the field. Whether it’s through clinical problem-solving, peer collaboration, or direct access to Leslie for guidance, students are always supported on their journey.
Changing the Landscape of Maternal and Infant Care
Leslie’s program is about more than just certification—it’s about reshaping the future of lactation consulting. Through the Lactation Consultant Launchpad, Leslie is addressing critical gaps in maternal and infant healthcare by providing training and support to more diverse, capable professionals. This includes those from underserved communities and those who may not have had access to traditional routes of certification. Leslie’s commitment to making lactation support more accessible is reflected in every aspect of the program.
Additionally, the program is rooted in principles of equity and cultural humility. Leslie is dedicated to developing lactation consultants who are not only skilled but also culturally aware and trauma-informed. Her work is designed to ensure that lactation consultants are equipped to serve all families, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“It’s crucial that lactation consultants understand the communities they serve,” Leslie says. “We need professionals who can address the unique needs of diverse families, especially those from historically underserved communities. This is about more than just teaching breastfeeding techniques—it’s about understanding the broader context of maternal health and providing support that respects and acknowledges each family’s experience.”
Empowering Future Leaders in Lactation Consulting
By offering a flexible and inclusive pathway to IBCLC certification, Leslie Owens is not only empowering the next generation of lactation consultants but also transforming the field itself. Her program is setting new standards for what it means to become a lactation consultant, making it more accessible to anyone who is passionate about improving maternal and infant health.
The Lactation Consultant Launchpad is for those who are ready to make a difference but need a more flexible and supportive way to do so. It’s for those who want to become leaders in their field, serving families and improving health outcomes while staying true to their own values and schedules.
Conclusion
Leslie Owens is changing the future of lactation consulting by breaking down barriers that have long stood in the way of aspiring IBCLCs. Her Lactation Consultant Launchpad is reshaping the process of certification, making it more inclusive, flexible, and supportive. If you are a birth worker, nurse, or breastfeeding advocate looking to take the next step in your career, Leslie’s program offers the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills, and mentorship you need to become a certified lactation consultant without sacrificing your career or personal life.
Visit Mother Nurture Maternity to learn more and begin your journey today.
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