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The Political Doula Podcast
Melissa Acton
15 episodes
4 hours ago
Midwest born and raised—with a message that travels. Melissa’s career—spanning elected office, campaign operations, state government, and congressional service—brings uncommon depth and firsthand insight to the realities of public life. The Political Doula Podcast explores the intersection of politics and personal growth through real stories, grounded encouragement, and practical coaching. Whether you’re a candidate, campaign spouse, officeholder, or a woman simply considering public service, you’ll find perspective, tools, and proof that you can do this on your terms—and enjoy the ride.
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All content for The Political Doula Podcast is the property of Melissa Acton and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Midwest born and raised—with a message that travels. Melissa’s career—spanning elected office, campaign operations, state government, and congressional service—brings uncommon depth and firsthand insight to the realities of public life. The Political Doula Podcast explores the intersection of politics and personal growth through real stories, grounded encouragement, and practical coaching. Whether you’re a candidate, campaign spouse, officeholder, or a woman simply considering public service, you’ll find perspective, tools, and proof that you can do this on your terms—and enjoy the ride.
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Government
Episodes (15/15)
The Political Doula Podcast
The Political Doula LIVE: Interview with Barb Hackman at Association of Indiana Counties 2025 Annual Conference

Interview with Association of Indiana Counties incoming Board President Barb Hackman at the 2025 AIC Annual Conference in French Lick.

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2 weeks ago
29 minutes 55 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Here we go again!

It has been a bit, but it's good to be back! The Political Doula Podcast is bringing you a new episode each week.


Do you have a question for the Political Doula? Politics, wellness, life - anything at all - please ask away! Submit your questions by sending an email or messaging on social media.

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

Instagram: @themelissaacton

LinkedIn: Melissa Acton

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7 months ago
5 minutes 55 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Victoria Garcia Wilburn: Indiana House District 32 Representative

It is my pleasure to welcome Indiana State Representative Victoria Garcia Wilburn! For Victoria, "people over politics" is a guiding principle not an empty platitude, and her love for people shines throughout this conversation.

CONNECT

Victoria Garcia Wilburn on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

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1 year ago
21 minutes 42 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Elise Nieshalla: Indiana State Comptroller

What a pleasure it is to introduce to you Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla! While Elise may have inherited her heart for service from her mother, her dedicated spirit is uniquely hers. Elise discusses her public service story, her family, and her commitment to her work and those she serves with passion, hope, and confidence.

CONNECT

Elise Nieshalla on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

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1 year ago
16 minutes 35 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
The Power of Movement

Sometimes we don't notice the effect of a particular habit until we stop....and then pick it up again. In this episode, Melissa shares three realizations after an injury which caused her to take a break from her daily exercise routine.

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1 year ago
14 minutes 13 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Wendy Dant Chesser: Indiana House District 71 Representative

Please give a warm welcome to Indiana State Representative Wendy Dant Chesser! Although new to elected office, Wendy’s life path has perfectly positioned her for this role. Wendy discusses pertinent issues, valuable to any woman contemplating stepping into the public arena, with enthusiasm and conscientiousness.

CONNECT

Wendy Dant Chesser on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com

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1 year ago
23 minutes 13 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Winning&Losing: Musings on Failure

We all experience wins and losses throughout our lives, and it's the losses that give us the opportunity for growth. Listen for three important takeaways when experiencing a failure.

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1 year ago
7 minutes 8 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Blair Milo: Sagamore Institute

Prepare to be inspired! In big ways or small, Blair Milo is always looking to make a difference in this life. Whether serving in the Navy on the world stage or in her hometown of La Porte, Indiana, Blair is intentional in amplifying her impact.

HIGHLIGHTS

03:19 Blair's service background

05:14 Journey to Mayor of La Porte

10:28 Women in leadership

12:17 Being a young candidate for office

14:16 Relationship with fitness and running

19:56 Gold Star Initiative Athlete at Ironman 70.3 Eagleman Triathlon

26:37 Pivot from international relations to local focus

30:28 Fostering positive lifestyle choices in the City of La Porte

34:11 Gratitude

CONNECT

Blair Milo on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com


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1 year ago
36 minutes 58 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Eating on the Campaign Trail: Avoiding Taco Bell

Learn to set yourself up for success when it comes to fueling your body during a busy campaign. Melissa provides tips, tricks, examples, and how-to's to stay away from the drive thru, maintain your energy, and feel great. This episode will help anyone get on the right track who is on the go and hasn't figured out a system supportive of healthier and better food options.

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1 year ago
14 minutes 58 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
AmyMarie Travis: Judge-Jackson County Superior Court 1

Judge AmyMarie Travis is your thoughtful friend - always ready with an anecdote or advice, when asked of course! She has sat on the bench in southern Indiana for the past six years and is discerning and conscientious by nature. AmyMarie will empower you to choose a path that makes a difference in the world and adds meaning to your life

HIGHLIGHTS

03:21 AmyMarie's professional story

06:43 Social media and kindness

11:08 Hobbies and horses

14:28 Civility

17:55 Substance Use Disorder

20:43 Indiana Graduate Program for Judges

CONNECT

AmyMarie Travis on ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Melissa Acton on ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠www.thepoliticaldoula.com⁠

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com


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1 year ago
23 minutes 36 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Kelly Mitchell: Indiana's 55th State Treasurer

Everyone needs a cheerleader in her corner like Kelly Mitchell! Kelly is a dynamic leader who served as State Treasurer of Indiana and always seeks to repay to others the mentorship she has received throughout her career. She will convince YOU that you are capable and qualified as well.

HIGHLIGHTS

03:37 Kelly's jump into public service

05:32 Mentorship, campaigning, and women serving

09:20 Hatha yoga practice and nutrition

13:29 Make a Difference Day

14:58 Kelly's new ventures

16:43 Kelly's advice to women who want to run for office

CONNECT

Kelly Mitchell on LinkedIn

Melissa Acton on LinkedIn⁠

www.thepoliticaldoula.com

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com


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1 year ago
18 minutes 38 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Mother's Day Message: My Gift to You

An evergreen message to listeners from The Political Doula.


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1 year ago
5 minutes 4 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Conversation with Deputy Mayor Danielle Carey Tolan, City of Westfield

I loved every minute of my talk with Danielle Carey Tolan who is currently the Deputy Mayor and Chief of Staff of the City of Westfield, Indiana. Danielle gets really candid about life in the public arena, wellness, and family. You will notice Danielle doesn't have simply thoughts and ideas - she takes action. And after listening to our conversation, you will be motivated and empowered to take your next step.

HIGHLIGHTS

02:55 Danielle's journey into public service

14:50 Deputy Mayor of Westfield

20:35 Heath and wellness

25:15 Fly fishing and Danielle's relationship with her husband

29:30 Women of Westfield

32:20 Danielle's personal mantra

CONNECT

Danielle Carey Tolan on LinkedIn

Melissa Acton on LinkedIn

www.thepoliticaldoula.com

Email: melissa@thepoliticaldoula.com


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1 year ago
38 minutes 55 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
How The Political Doula was born

Melissa tells the origin story of The Political Doula.

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1 year ago
16 minutes 36 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
The Political Doula Podcast Trailer

Welcome to “The Political Doula,” a podcast hosted by Melissa Acton – a proud Midwesterner with a deep commitment to public service. From elected official to campaign aide, state bureaucrat to congressional staff and even local party leader, Melissa brings a wealth of first-hand experience to the table. Her journey as a woman navigating the political landscape contains numerous peaks and potholes – none of which define her, all of which shape her. Through this podcast, Melissa aims to empower women, offering encouragement and evidence that they can succeed in the political arena on their own terms. Join us as we explore the intersection of politics and personal development with Melissa as our guide.


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1 year ago
6 minutes 7 seconds

The Political Doula Podcast
Midwest born and raised—with a message that travels. Melissa’s career—spanning elected office, campaign operations, state government, and congressional service—brings uncommon depth and firsthand insight to the realities of public life. The Political Doula Podcast explores the intersection of politics and personal growth through real stories, grounded encouragement, and practical coaching. Whether you’re a candidate, campaign spouse, officeholder, or a woman simply considering public service, you’ll find perspective, tools, and proof that you can do this on your terms—and enjoy the ride.