About Us
Nurturing Traditions offers expert lactation support by International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Leah Segura, who brings over 20 years of professional experience to her clients. We are also proud to be a teaching practice! Our team includes Jess Nehus, a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and lactation intern, who works closely alongside Leah to support the families we serve.
Leah Segura, BSW, IBCLC
Leah radiates a warm and calming presence that made both baby and I feel very welcome and comfortable during our visit. – Jill H.
Jess Nehus, CBS (Intern)
Leah’s Story
For nearly 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting lactating families in the Midland, MI area. My passion for helping parents and their babies began even before I had my own children, stemming from my background in social work with a focus on infant mental health and early childhood development. My own journey as a mother, breastfeeding all my children through various lengths of time and challenges, deepened my understanding and empathy.
I believe that infant feeding looks different for every family, whether it involves exclusive breastfeeding, pumping, bottles, formula, donor milk, or a combination. My goal is to empower you with the information and support you need to make the best decisions for your unique family, achieve your feeding goals, and cultivate a rewarding, confident, and secure relationship with your baby. Just as I’ve done for many clients before you, I am committed to providing a non-judgmental, nurturing, and professional approach to serving your family. I look forward to supporting your family!
Continuing Education
I deeply value professional growth and strongly believe continuing education is vital for improving patient outcomes. When I last re-certified as an IBCLC, I had completed over five times the required continuing education hours. While lactation might seem straightforward, like many advanced practitioners in my field, the more I learn, the more I realize there is to learn! My areas of specialty include low milk supply, infant colic/relux, tongue and lip ties and oral rehabilitation, bottle feeding, weaning, and employment and lactation. For a detailed list of my continuing education, please click here.
Credentials & Experience:
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), 2013-Current
- Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) (Lactation Resources), 2013-Current
- Postpartum Doula certified through DONA International, 2012-2019
- Leader with La Leche League International, 2006-2018
- Bachelor of Social Work, Saginaw Valley State University, 2000, Summa Cum Laude
Affiliations:
Jess’ Story
My journey into lactation support began after having my first baby in 2024. As natural as breastfeeding is, it didn’t come naturally to me. After facing my own challenges, I dove into research, found supportive communities, and realized how many moms struggle to find the help they need.
That experience inspired me to become a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and pursue a career as a lactation consultant. I’m currently working toward my IBCLC certification and completing my mentorship with Leah at Nurturing Traditions.
I’ll be starting the nursing program at Delta College next year and hope to continue supporting families through postpartum care. I’m passionate about helping parents feel confident, informed, and supported – whether you’re exclusively pumping, formula feeding, breastfeeding, or doing a little of everything. Whatever your journey looks like, you deserve support.