it doesn’t have to suck! learn how to deal with baby feeding & pumping challenges with tamari jacob, CLC

We get it—feeding your little one is a wild ride! It’s thrilling, unpredictable, and sometimes a bit messy. Whether you’re dealing with pumping woes, breastfeeding hiccups, or just trying to juggle it all, the journey can feel like a rollercoaster. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be a struggle.

This Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we’re thrilled to team up with Tamari Jacobs, Certified Lactation Counselor and founder of One With the Pump. She's here to help answer all your pressing questions about feeding. From everyday feeding hacks to making pumping easy, her expertise is your ticket to making feeding time smoother and more enjoyable! 

So read on to tackle those feeding hurdles with confidence and a little bit of fun! 

 
What inspired you to support new moms in their feeding journey? 
 
After not having the right resources for my first child I knew that something had to change. I was scouring the internet and there was nothing helpful; so I created it!
 
From your years of experience as a Certified Lactation Counselor, what are the biggest concerns moms have when it comes to feeding their little ones?  
 
The biggest concern that moms have when it comes to feeding is most often their breast milk supply. Whether you are nursing or pumping, it can be very difficult if you are not making enough to feed your baby or you are making too much and it can be difficult to manage. 

What’s the secret sauce to using a breast pump like a pro?
 
The secret sauce to pumping like a pro is knowing what the heck you are doing––understanding how to work those buttons, having the right flange size, and being prepared. One With the Pump has a large selection of resources available to help you with this, including the "How to Work Your Pump" course and one-to-one consultations.
 
What are the most common “uh-oh” moments in pumping?

Truly, the most "uh-oh" moments are always when moms are using the wrong flanges. I cannot tell you how many moms come to me with completely wrong sizes. A reminder that your flange size is similar to your shoe size—you need to be using the right one. 
 
I have moms come to me using a 24, and we end up leaving them with a 10. It's crazy to think how much milk they were leaving behind, as well as how uncomfortably they were pumping.
 
If you could create the ultimate breast pumping starter kit, what would be in it?
 
The first would be a primary pump. A primary pump is one that you can use 100% of the time. Some of my favorite options available at buybuy BABY are the Spectra S1 and S2. I used both of those pumps while pumping with all of my children, and they were very, very helpful. 
 

Spectra S1 Plus Portable & Rechargeable Hospital Strength Double Electric Breast Pump

Additionally, you're going to want to get yourself some really good cleaning items, such as the OXO bottle brush, some Dapple soap, and a drying rack.

Boon Lawn Drying Rack
 
What advice do you have for moms who need to breastfeed at work?
 
One of my best tips is to communicate your needs before you go back into the office. Make sure you have a space and the allotted time to feed your baby in place. 
 
Additionally, investing in the right supplies from the start is worth it––to ensure you have everything you need!
 
How can partners, families, and communities support breastfeeding moms?
 
Simply showing up for them helps navigate their days. Pumping, specifically, benefits the entire family, not just the mother. Partners helping by cleaning pump parts, cooking, or bagging milk can be incredibly supportive! 

In the spirit of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, if you could give one golden nugget of advice to all pumping moms out there, what would it be?
 
You are not alone, and you’re not the first or last to go through this. Find your community, connect with your people, and let them help you.
 
Where can our awesome audience find more fun and fabulous resources to support their feeding journey?
 
Scouring the internet is a great place to start. We have tons of resources available for you over at onewiththepump.com, including consultations, courses, and tons of freebies. You can also check out my Instagram @onewiththepump for plenty of pumping information and a really good time. 

Who is Tamari Jacob?

Tamari Jacob is a Certified Lactation Counselor and the founder of One With the Pump. Her journey into the world of lactation support began with her own challenging experience as a new mother. Today, Tamari’s mission is to take the guesswork out of pumping, empowering moms to navigate their unique feeding journeys with confidence and ease.