MEternal: Recent Episodes

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Because pregnancy is about mom too.

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Welcome to a compelling episode of "MEternal LIVE," from the Marriot Marquee in Times Square NYC where Coach Kenya dives deep into the long-term effects of fibroids and their specific health impacts on Black women. Join us as we sit down with reality TV Star Cynthia Bailey and wellness advocate Mal Bailey, alongside leading specialists from USA Fibroid Centers.

In this insightful discussion, we'll explore:

  • Understanding Fibroids: What are fibroids, and why do they disproportionately affect Black women?
  • Long-Term Health Implications: How do fibroids influence overall health, from reproductive challenges to chronic pain and beyond?
  • Personal Stories: Cynthia and Mal Bailey share their personal journeys and experiences with fibroids, shedding light on the emotional and physical toll.
  • Medical Insights: USA Fibroid Centers provide valuable information on treatment options, management strategies, and the latest advancements in care.
  • Empowerment and Advocacy: How can women take charge of their health, and what resources are available for those struggling with fibroids?

Tune in for a candid conversation filled with expert advice, personal stories, and actionable information that aims to empower and educate. Whether you're living with fibroids or seeking to understand the broader impacts on women's health, this episode is a crucial resource for navigating your journey with knowledge and support.

Don't miss this essential discussion on "Fibroids and Wellness." Subscribe now and be part of the conversation!

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Welcome to a special episode of MEternal in recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, where @CoachKenya and @AngelinaSpicer dive deep into the crucial topic of postpartum depression advocacy and its profound impact on maternal health outcomes. As we observe Black Maternal Health Week and highlight global maternal health issues, our hosts are joined by experts to discuss the intersection of mental health and motherhood. They also explore the pivotal role of nonprofit partners like March of Dimes in improving health outcomes within communities of color. Join us for an insightful conversation that sheds light on the importance of awareness, support, and action in maternal health advocacy.

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The conversation explores the importance of understanding and advocating for maternal health care, particularly for black women with Nathifa Forde the inaugural Executive Director of NYC Her Future and Deputy Executive Director of the Young Men's Initiative. It emphasizes the need for education, community support, and a more holistic approach to birthing. The guest discusses the systemic barriers faced by black women in maternal health care, including weathering of the womb and biases within the healthcare system. The conversation also highlights the significance of doulas and midwives in providing personalized care and empowering women during the birthing process. The future of black maternal health is envisioned as one that prioritizes community education, supports more midwives and doulas of color, and challenges the monetization of the birthing process.

Takeaways

Education and understanding of one's body are crucial for maternal health care.
Community support and connection are important for better experiences and outcomes.
Systemic barriers, such as weathering of the womb and biases in the healthcare system, affect black women's maternal health.
Investing in more midwives and doulas of color is essential.
Advocacy, asking questions, and trusting one's gut are key in navigating doctor's appointments and the birthing process.
The future of black maternal health should prioritize community education, holistic practices, and postpartum care.

Learn more about NYC Her Future here: nyc.gov/herfuture/

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Congressman Jamal Bowman discusses the importance of early voting and the need for active participation in elections. He highlights the significance of knowing your district and representatives and emphasizes the power of individual votes. The conversation then shifts to the issues of Black maternal health and the impact of collective and individual trauma on communities of color. Congressman Bowman discusses the need for comprehensive solutions, such as the Momnibus Bill, to address the racial disparities in maternal health. He also emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing, holding elected officials accountable, and building power within the community. The conversation concludes with a discussion on economic issues, including the need to raise the federal minimum wage and provide universal childcare. Congressman Bowman acknowledges the challenges of implementing policies and emphasizes the importance of local organizing and advocacy. He also addresses the role of political parties in serving the best interests of the Black community and highlights his commitment to listening, learning, and enacting change.

Takeaways

Participating in early voting and being informed about your district and representatives is crucial for active participation in elections.
Black maternal health is a pressing issue that requires comprehensive solutions, such as the Momnibus Bill, to address racial disparities and provide necessary resources and support.
Grassroots organizing and holding elected officials accountable are essential for creating change and addressing the needs of the community.
Economic issues, including raising the federal minimum wage and providing universal childcare, are important for improving the well-being of working-class individuals and families.
Political parties play a role in serving the best interests of the Black community, but there is still work to be done to address racial disparities and advance racial justice.

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Join Kenya Gipson, Dr. Risikat Busari and Busie Matsiko-Andan as they delve into the intricate relationship between parentification and maternal health in the riveting podcast series, "MEternal." In each episode, these seasoned experts explore the profound impact of parentification—the process by which a child is compelled to take on the role of a parent or caregiver—on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of mothers.

Drawing from their wealth of experience in psychology, sociology, and maternal health advocacy, Dr. Busari and Busie Matsiko-Andan dissect the complex layers of parentification, shedding light on its origins, manifestations, and consequences for maternal health outcomes. Through candid discussions, expert interviews, and personal anecdotes, "MEternal" offers invaluable insights into how parentification shapes maternal identity, relationships, and access to healthcare resources.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, a parent, or an individual interested in the intersection of psychology and maternal health, "MEternal" provides a thought-provoking exploration of a phenomenon often overlooked in discussions about women's health. Tune in to "MEternal" and embark on a journey of discovery, empathy, and empowerment as we unravel the profound impact of parentification on the journey to maternal well-being.

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Dr. Amanda Williams, an OBGYN and part of the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative, discusses the Low Dose Aspirin Campaign funded by March of Dimes. The campaign aims to prevent preterm birth and preeclampsia, particularly in black birthing people. Low dose aspirin improves blood flow through the placenta and should ideally be started around 12 weeks of pregnancy. The campaign focuses on community outreach and education to ensure that patients and providers are aware of the benefits of low-dose aspirin. The conversation also highlights the importance of trust-building and communication between healthcare providers and patients.

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Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of MEternal, where @coachkenya delves deep into pressing global issues with influential figures. In this installment, Coach Kenya sits down with esteemed South African politician and @unwomen representative, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. Together, they navigate the intricate landscape of education, women empowerment, and gender equality, exploring their profound impact on maternal health worldwide.

Through insightful conversation, Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka shares her expertise and experiences, shedding light on the interconnectedness of these crucial issues. From the barriers women face in accessing education to the systemic challenges hindering gender equality, every aspect is dissected with clarity and empathy.

Join us as we uncover the root causes of the maternal health crisis, unveiling the vital role that education and women empowerment play in its resolution. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how these fundamental pillars shape the trajectory of societies and pave the way for a more equitable future.

Listen to this enlightening discussion on MEternal, available exclusively on @iheartradio.

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In this episode of MEternal, we delve into the world of fibroid health with Dr. Yan Katsnelson from USA Fibroid Centers. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, affecting millions of women worldwide. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Dr. Yan Katsnelson shares insights into the prevalence of fibroids, common symptoms, and risk factors that every woman should be aware of. Through a comprehensive discussion, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how fibroids can impact daily life and overall well-being.

Moreover, Dr. Yan Katsnelson sheds light on the importance of early detection methods, such as regular pelvic exams and ultrasound screenings, in identifying fibroids before they become symptomatic. By recognizing the signs early on, women can seek timely medical intervention and explore various treatment options tailored to their individual needs.

From minimally invasive procedures to innovative technologies, Dr. Yan Katsnelson explores the advancements in fibroid treatment and emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care in improving outcomes and quality of life.

Tune in to this informative episode as we empower women to take charge of their fibroid health, debunk myths surrounding the condition, and navigate the journey towards optimal well-being with expert guidance from Dr. Yan Katsnelson and USA Fibroid Centers.

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Tatyana Ali shares her personal journey in the black maternal health space and the importance of community support. She discusses her traumatic birth experience and the need for reproductive justice. Ali emphasizes the impact of racism and bias on maternal health outcomes and the need for advocacy and education. She highlights her partnership with March of Dimes and their work in addressing maternal care deserts. Ali also shares her upcoming project of creating and selling blankets to support midwives and doulas in underserved communities.

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Welcome to another empowering episode of "MEternal," where we dive deep into the critical topic of Black maternal health. In this episode, we focus on finding the right healthcare provider, a crucial aspect of ensuring a safe and positive pregnancy journey for Black mothers.

The statistics are stark: Black women in the United States are disproportionately affected by pregnancy-related complications and maternal mortality rates. Often, this disparity can be attributed to systemic issues within the healthcare system, including biases, lack of cultural competence, and inadequate access to quality care.

In this enlightening episode, we'll explore strategies for overcoming these challenges and finding the right provider who understands and respects the unique needs of Black mothers. We'll hear from experts in the field, including healthcare professionals, advocates, and mothers themselves, who share their insights and experiences.

Dr. Peggy Roberts discusses the importance of culturally competent care and how it can positively impact maternal health outcomes. We'll also delve into the role of midwives and doulas in providing personalized support during pregnancy and childbirth, particularly for Black women who may benefit from additional advocacy and empowerment.

Additionally, we'll provide practical tips and resources for Black mothers seeking to navigate the healthcare system, including questions to ask potential providers, red flags to watch out for, and strategies for advocating for their own care.

Join us as we empower Black mothers to take control of their maternal health journey, find the right provider, and receive the quality care they deserve. Together, we can work towards a future where every Black mother receives the support and respect, she needs to thrive during pregnancy and childbirth.

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This episode of MEternal is co-hosted by March of Dimes CEO Dr. Elizabeth Cherot and features Maternal Health Advocate, Filmmaker, and March of Dimes Board Member Tonya Lewis Lee. As a creator, Tonya has used storytelling as an innovative tool to bring the conversation around black maternal health to the mainstream. Tonya continues to create social impact through her synergistic service and work with March of Dimes, by bridging the between access and resources to create more equitable health solutions in communities of color.

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Cardiovascular Complications make motherhood unsafe for African American women. This episode of MEternal with Kenya Gipson @coachkenya, Dr. Elizbeth Cherot of @marchofdimes, and Dr. Joseph Puma of @sorinmedical uncovers what women of color can do to protect themselves and their babies from severe complications during and after pregnancy. Access directly affects health outcomes in communities of color compared to other races. This conversation brings forth these cultural barriers to the forefront.

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MEternal Live from the 2023 Mental Wealth Expo! Co-hosted by Danisha Baughn, we discuss building mental strength, experiencing healing, and gaining a healthier mindset featuring: Dr. Ashley-Lowe Simmons, Minister Vinnette Williams, Ashlee Muhammad and Elena Brown.

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The MEternal Podcast sits down with Busie Matsumoto-Andan who birthed a child with sepsis. We discuss her journey in saving her daughter's life through self-advocacy.

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The MEternal Podcast sits down with moderator Danisha Vaughn and Panelists Cynthia Bailey & Britni Ricard to discuss motherhood and mogulhood at the 2023 Mental Wealth Expo!

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This week we sit down with March Of Dimes CEO, Dr. Elizabeth Cherot, to discuss the March of Dimes Report Card for New York. This conversation discusses why preterm birth rates are higher in communities of color. In addition to the health and socioeconomic determinants mothers of color are most vulnerable to and what March of Dimes is doing to improve health outcomes in communities of color.

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This LIVE podcast took place at Mental Wealth Expo and was moderated by NFL Veteran Marcus Smith. The conversation discussed the important role black father’s play in building a strong foundation in communities of color. This collective group “Dads” (Styles P, Larry Morrow, Dr. Jeff Rocker, Sean Williams, Roger Milliner, Cordney Mac Wilds took on the complexities of parenthood and how the presence of black fathers in a household plays a vital role in changing the societal narrative around black men and their connection to fatherhood.

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The MEternal Podcast sits down Elena D. of Get Well With Elle and Dr. Ashley Lowe-Simmons to talk the connection between maternal health and mental health, as well as holistic maternal health solutions for a healthy pregnancy.

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Live from the Mental Wealth Expo, The MEternal Podcast sits down Tonya Lewis Lee, Shawnee Gibson, and Nastassia K. Harris of the Perinatal Equity Network to talk the black maternal health crisis and self advocacy

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This episode features actress, model and wellness advocate Cynthia Bailey as she shares her story of managing mother and how her experience with fibroids and pregnancy has helped to shape her wellness journey and advocacy.

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This episode features Mental Health and Maternal Advocate Ashlee Muhammad. Ashlee shares her story about motherhood and how she leveraged her insecurities to teach other mothers of color to self advocate and become more confident when expressing their feelings during and after pregnancy.

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Angie Martinez shares her journey through pregnancy, life and motherhood. This episode encourages mothers of color to find the right healthcare and support team during pregnancy and ways moms can overcome the challenges of managing motherhood, career, and life.

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Family Planning plays a vital role in ensuring positive health outcomes in communities of color. This episode of MEternal features Dr. Michael Simoni of Reproductive Medical Associates (RMA) and will teach multicultural mothers about what reproductive health should look like when it comes to women of color.

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This episode features maternal health advocate and March Of Dimes board member Tonya Lewis Lee and this conversation will help healthcare providers and mothers of color navigate the data and resources available as a solution to maternal healthcare deserts.

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All women deserve healthcare that is safe, effective, efficient, and equitable. Joining us on MEternal is March Of Dimes CEO Dr. Elizabeth Cherot. This conversation will address the key findings of the recently published March Of Dimes Maternity Care Deserts Report and the crisis of access and equity in communities of color.

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Joining us on the podcast is Doctor Joe Puma, Founder and President of Sorin Medical. This conversation will cover the complexities of Cardiovascular Health and its correlation to pregnancy throughout each trimester.

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Women of color have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. HIV Maternal Health Director for Black Ladies and Public Health, Deirdre Speaks Johnson, joins us on the podcast to discuss her personal journey with HIV, how it affects maternal health, and how she's working to educate the black community to end stigmas and the criminalization of people living with HIV/AIDS.

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Women of color have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. HIV Maternal Health Director for Black Ladies and Public Health, Deirdre Speaks Johnson, joins us on the podcast to discuss her personal journey with HIV, how it affects maternal health, and how she's working to educate the black community to end stigmas and the criminalization of people living with HIV/AIDS.

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Joining the MEternal Podcast is stand-up comedian and actress Angelina Spicer. Angelina's story on how she became an accidental advocate for maternal health will take mothers through the complexities of postpartum depression and how she is using comedy to reduce the stigma and shame associated with postpartum depression.

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Joining us on the podcast is Stacey Brayboy March of Dimes Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs. We'll be discussing public policy in the maternal health space and how March of Dimes is joining policymakers and local communities to help improve access to care.

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Half of the population menstruates. We all know plenty of women that have a period. But not everyone knows that two in five women struggle to purchase period supplies due to lack of income. This is called period poverty, and chances are we each know someone who has experienced this need – a neighbor, a co-worker, a friend. Joining MEternal is Vanessa Bracetti-Ormsby Founder of Expecting Relief and Jennifer Gaines Program Director for the Alliance for Period Supplies. No student should have to miss school, no adult should have to miss work, and no person should have to miss out on daily life because they are unable to afford the necessities they require to thrive. This conversation will help to ensure that women in need have access to essential period products required to participate fully in daily life.

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Joining MEternal are Nic and Trish Encina, the co-founders of Modelo Health. We'll be discussing the complications of high-risk pregnancy and how Modelo Health is using preventative medicine to improve maternal health outcomes in communities of color. We will also be discussing the benefits of precision medicine and what increases maternal health risks.

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Joining the podcast is Dr. Dawnette Lewis, MD MPH for the Center of Maternal Health at Northwell. As a maternal healthcare leader at one of New York’s largest hospital systems, she’ll be discussing the risk black women face during and after childbirth and the solutions Northwell Health provides for black mothers. Throughout the conversation mothers of color will hear about the support systems Northwell Health has in place to combat the black maternal health crisis and ensure black mothers have an equitable health care experience.

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April marks the start of Black Maternal Health Awareness. In this episode we are joined by March of Dimes VP Mission Operations for March of Dimes, Rahni Jenkins to discuss the importance of Implicit Bias Training and how it helps providers break down the racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health. This conversation was designed to help providers identify racial implications and better equip themselves to serve black moms and babies’ relationships and ways they better help black women have a more equitable healthcare experience. Mothers of color will also learn ways to better prepare for their pregnancy and identify financial support to ensure they are receiving adequate healthcare.

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According to the CDC, between 2020 and 2021 black women had the largest rate increase in maternal mortality tied back to systemic racism as the root cause. Black Maternal Health Advocate and Film Maker Tony Lewis Lee joins the podcast to discuss why it's important to bring black maternal health conversations to the forefront and how storytelling can be used as a tool to educate and empower women of color.

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Establishing a quality relationship with a healthcare provider is vital, and mid-wives have helped to bring that essential quality back to ensure healthier outcomes in communities of color to create change for the better. For this week's conversation we are joined by Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Helena Grant Mid-Wife and Co-Chair of NYC Health and Hospitals Midwifery council. Mothers of color will learn ways to become partners in their care and how to get politically involved to create sustainable change and save lives.

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In this episode, we welcome maternal health advocate Danisha Vaughn to the MEternal platform, along with community nutrition activist Latoya Meaders. We explore access to alternative maternal health care and food disparities in families of color. Mothers will learn about birthing options available in addition to nutritional resources and solutions to feed their family with healthy food options.

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In honor of February’s American Heart Health and Black History Months, we are joined by Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at March Of Dimes, Dr. Elizabeth Cherot. This conversation cover ways mothers of color can prevent cardiovascular disease during pregnancy, some of the barriers women face, and how march of dimes is combating maternal health disparities.

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In this episode, Kenya Gipson and Jaye Wilson and are joined by Dr. Tricia Callender, Head of Diversity and Inclusion for MEternal’s Founding Partner Thinx. This conversation covers healthcare deserts, how systemic inequity affects health care specifically when it comes to black maternal health, and how Thinx has partnered with organization’s like Black Mama’s Matter to cultivate change.

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MEternal hosts Kenya Gipson and Jaye Wilson address the complexities of the black maternal health crisis and how mothers of color can self-advocate towards a more equitable experience when it comes to motherhood. This conversation uncovers the importance of implementing the access and resources necessary so that we as a community can create statistical change and positively alter the maternal health crisis narrative circulating throughout America.

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This episode carries the conversation on the importance of building a sisterhood amongst mothers and the need for women to find communities of support to better equip themselves for motherhood.(INSERT AUDIO QUOTE) The conversation is led by four powerful mothers of color: Chelsea Lewis, Founder of My Mommy Wisdom, Jaye Wilson Founder of Melanated Moms, and Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist La’Shay Crayton. This episode will help mothers of color identify community resources at large and leverage the commonalities of motherhood by having genuine conversations about their experiences and needs, knowing that they have permission to look for the help they seek, and the importance of creating a system of support for one another.

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This episode addresses Black Fathering and Mental Health, and how fatherhood is impacted by the loss of a partner while navigating the challenges and embracing the joys of parenthood. The conversation features four black fathers: Steven Mitchell -MetroPlus Health, Benjamin Calixte -Founder of Therapy for Black Men, Omari Maynard, artist, and single father featured in Hulu Documentary "Aftershock", and Zab Judah, 6x World Champion Boxer, and father of five.

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Kenya Gipson is joined by Xan Coffman, Sleep Trainer and Founder of My Baby Sleepology along with Dr. Pierre Louie of Gotham Health to help mother's of color with sleep solutions for their baby. This episode provides sleep training tips scientifically proven to help babies develop healthier sleeping patterns.

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Discovering Maternal Mental Health Solutions and Creating Equity for Mothers of Color with Kenya Gipson, Thinx Influencer- Katrina Brownlee –Domestic Violence Survivor & Founder of Young Ladies Are Our Future -Educating and Inspiring Young Women at Risk, Hilma Campbell, PMHNP, board certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner Gotham Health, Tricia Callender-Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Thinx

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As Domestic Violence Awareness Month ends, Kenya Gipson sits down with survivor Katrina Brownlee as she shares her story and how she’s helping women of color find their “voice.” Katrina expresses the grieving process and post-partum effects of losing her baby. This transparent conversation will help women identify signs of mental and physical abuse, so they can escape tragic and unhealthy outcomes.

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Maternal Health deserts are prominent in the United States, causing women to travel more than 40 miles while in labor. MEternal hosts Kenya Gipson and Adonica Shaw connect with Jaye Wilson founder of Melinated Moms on ways she and her organization are combating these birthing challenges in communities of color.

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The Black Maternal Health Crisis in America is concerning and complex in communities of color. It’s not always easy for mothers of color to find the information and resources they need to ensure a healthy outcome for them and their baby. In this episode, our Maternal Health expert Adonica Shaw shares her journey as a mid-wife along with other mothers of color (Carolina Bermudez and Kenya Gipson) about the challenges all these women have endured when it comes to their own maternal health experiences specific to Preeclampsia, Gestational Diabetes and more. This conversation introduces the MEternal platform and will help mothers of color discover the resources available to empower them with the tools they need to create healthy outcomes for their families. If you want to learn about ways to protect yourself and your baby, this podcast is for you.

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Every family wants to have a safe maternal health journey, but not everyone has access to equal resources. “MEternal Mamas” Adonica Shaw and Kenya Gipson unlock some of the misconceptions and maternal health challenges in communities of color with Omari Maynard, who was featured in the Hulu documentary “Aftershock.” Maternal health complications resulted in Omari losing his partner, Shamony Gibson 13 days after the birth of their son, leaving him to be a single father and to deal with the aftermath of losing a loved one. Connect to the MEternal podcast to hear stories and learn ways to identify maternal health disparities. MEternal is designed to help aid healthier outcomes with black and brown women and understand everything happening that’s happening in communities of color when it comes to maternal health, don't miss this episode!