Kimberly Spencer, BS, CPM

Midwifery was a calling for me. I was drawn to be involved in the miracle of pregnancy and birth from the time I learned about the “birds and the bees” as a child. My studies began informally before my college years as my passion for pregnancy and birth led me to educate myself through reading and research projects. I attended college at Tennessee Technological University where I pursued formal education in child and family development with a special focus on human sexuality and reproduction and the mental and psychological effects of childbearing on mothers, families, and infant bonding. My studies in this area convinced me of the importance and efficacy of midwifery care and home birth. I received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Human Ecology from TTU in 2000.

I began midwifery studies parallel to finishing my degree and entered apprenticeship immediately after graduation. I met the requirements to become a Certified Professional Midwife in 2003 and at that time took the opportunity to pursue a Master's degree in nursing at Vanderbilt University. I experienced an intensive and invaluable nursing education but left the program just before finishing the final requirements to become a registered nurse.

In addition to midwifery, I teach private childbirth education classes and have received additional training in lactation education and labor support. I have a strong background in nutrition education as well as a special interest in herbal medicine and health support.

Professional participation and continuing education are very important to me. I have held a position on the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Midwives Association since 2002 and currently serve as the association's president. I regularly participate in peer review and continuing education opportunities.

I grew up in the mountains of east Tennessee but have lived in the Nashville area with my husband for 8 years. When I'm not working with clients or engaging in research, you might find me tracing my family history, making music, tending my herb garden, or participating in dog agility with my border collies.

Marecha Jackson, MSN, CNM

I have always had the intention of working in the medical field. When I was small I wanted to be a nurse like my maternal grandmother, then I wanted to be a forensic pathologist (like Dr. Quincy; I loved that show!), an herbalist, an emergency room physician, an occupational/physical therapist, and a public health educator. The specialties changed but the desire to work in the medical field never wavered. It was during my own experiences with pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding that I found my niche, my true calling, my passion - and so I embarked on my pathway to the mother/baby arena. I began as a breastfeeding support person then certified birth doula (labor support), became a certified lactation educator, and finally a certified nurse-midwife (the position that allows me the freedom to “do-it-all”).

My educational background is extensive including biology (my major during my first three years of college), chemistry, health, psychology, and nursing. I have an Associates of Science degree in Health, PE, and Sports Medicine from Volunteer State Community College, a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology from Oakwood University, and a Masters of Science in Nursing in Nurse-Midwifery from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing.

I am a registered nurse (RN) and Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) licensed to practice in Tennessee.

I am involved in many professional organizations that enable me to stay up-to-date on my professional skills and current research. I enjoy professional conferences and have begun offering workshops to colleagues. I am also a certified CPR instructor.

I was born and raised in Nashville, I am a wife and mother of two, and I love to read, sew, knit, and do all kinds of crafts.

Jennifer Vines, Apprentice

I tremendously enjoy working with birthing families. I believe that giving birth is one of the most important, empowering and transformative experiences in the life of a woman and every family. Each birthing woman is unique and each birth experience is miraculous. I find it an honor to serve birthing women and families.

I began working with birthing families in 1999. In 2000 I became certified as a doula with International Childbirth Educators Association (ICEA) In 2001 I completed Level 1 Midwifery Assistant Training with The Farm Midwifery Center in Summertown TN. In 2002 I completed Level 2 Midwifery Assistant Training with The Farm Midwifery Center. I am also trained in Neonatal Resuscitation and Infant and Child CPR. I am currently a nursing student at Motlow State Community College.

I am the mother of two grown children and live in Murfreesboro, TN.