This episode delves into the complexities of patients' healthcare experiences and the critical role of diverse perspectives in enhancing healthcare accountability and improvement. Patients often provide different responses depending on who is asking about their experiences, and this dichotomy is explored through the lenses of doctors and health insurance providers. The importance of considering third-party perspectives, such as Google reviews, is emphasized as a means to hold healthcare providers accountable and identify trends for improvement.

The discussion then shifts to the challenges and resources available for pregnant women and new mothers. While there is a wealth of resources available, the need for a trusted source to navigate them is highlighted. Collaboration among resources is encouraged to create a centralized hub, making maternal health resources more accessible and coordinated, despite challenges like eligibility criteria and income restrictions. Advocacy and connection with resources through trusted individuals are vital in recognizing the uniqueness of each pregnancy, birth, and child.

Another crucial aspect explored is the development of communication skills between partners and co-parents. Many struggle in navigating this aspect of parenting, and tools to have tough conversations and maintain positive co-parenting experiences are discussed. The value and necessity of having and cultivating support systems are also emphasized, with an emphasis on educating individuals in the support system, learning to ask for help, and building a community of trust and support.

The episode then delves into improving healthcare delivery for older adult populations. The role of an Ombudsman as a representative between patients and providers is highlighted, along with text-based healthcare coverage and provider quality assurance check-ins to ensure patient satisfaction and feedback.

The lack of knowledge and dismissal of concerns during pregnancy is also addressed, with a suggestion for a doula assessment to educate pregnant mothers about normal pregnancy and concerns. Facilitating conversations around sensitive topics in new couples is advocated through the use of a card game with audacious questions and scenarios, specifically designed for different demographics. Mental health services and resources during pregnancy are also discussed, with an emphasis on their accessibility.

Throughout the episode, the importance of budgeting and workforce development programs for parents is highlighted. Engagement and involvement of fathers in providing for the family, along with creating safe spaces and knowledgeable communities for pregnancy and birth questions, are also explored.

Finally, an app is proposed to provide a platform for anonymous questions to a community of moms. The potential benefits and considerations of involving healthcare professionals in the app are discussed, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all users.

Themes:

Postpartum Support and Mental Health: Many of the interviewees discussed their experiences with postpartum depression and the challenges they faced in dealing with grief, stress, and emotional struggles after giving birth. There is a clear need for better postpartum support and mental health services to address these issues effectively.

Health Challenges during Pregnancy: Several mothers shared their experiences with health complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and other medical conditions. Improved access to prenatal care, better education on pregnancy-related health issues, and regular checkups were identified as important areas of focus.

Importance of Partner Involvement: The involvement and support of partners during pregnancy and the postpartum period were highlighted as crucial for the well-being of mothers. Encouraging fathers to participate in prenatal appointments and providing resources for fathers' education on parenting were mentioned as valuable strategies.

Access to Support Programs and Resources: Many mothers expressed the importance of having access to support programs, especially for those who may be hesitant to ask for help. Creating easily accessible support programs and eliminating barriers to seeking assistance can significantly benefit mothers.

Challenges of Solo Parenting: Mothers who navigated solo parenting emphasized the difficulties they faced, juggling responsibilities and finding support. Providing resources and assistance to single mothers can help alleviate some of these challenges.

Breastfeeding Support and Education: Breastfeeding challenges were a common theme, with mothers expressing the need for more affordable resources, education, and support to make breastfeeding a successful and positive experience.

The Impact of Community and Supportive Networks: Supportive communities and networks were highlighted as crucial for providing encouragement, guidance, and emotional well-being during the pregnancy and postpartum journey.

Maternal Clinic and Doula Services: The desire for dedicated maternal clinics with doula services emerged as a powerful recommendation for personalized and continuous support during pregnancy and childbirth.

Mental Health and Therapy: Mental health support, including mandatory therapy for new mothers, was mentioned as essential for addressing postpartum challenges and emotional well-being.

Recommendations and Opportunities:

Establish Postpartum Support Programs: Develop comprehensive postpartum support programs that include mental health services, counseling, and grief support to assist mothers through the emotional challenges after giving birth.

Increase Access to Prenatal Care: Implement strategies to improve access to prenatal care, especially for marginalized communities, to address health complications early and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

Engage and Educate Partners: Encourage fathers and partners to actively participate in prenatal appointments, parenting classes, and support groups to strengthen their involvement and support during pregnancy and postpartum.

Develop User-Friendly Informational Resources: Create a centralized, easy-to-navigate website or app that provides information on pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, nutrition, and other relevant topics, ensuring accessibility for all mothers.

Expand Breastfeeding Support: Increase access to affordable breastfeeding resources, lactation consultants, and breastfeeding education to support successful breastfeeding journeys for new moms.

Implement Maternal Clinics with Doula Services: Establish maternal clinics with doula services to provide continuous personalized support, education, and care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Mandatory Therapy Coverage: Advocate for insurance coverage of mandatory therapy sessions for new mothers to address mental health challenges and promote overall well-being.

Strengthen Supportive Communities: Foster community-building initiatives that create spaces for mothers to connect, share experiences, and receive encouragement, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting emotional support.

Address Single Parenting Challenges: Develop programs and resources specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by single mothers, providing them with the necessary support to thrive.

Promote Health Equity: Implement policies and programs that aim to reduce health disparities and provide equal access to resources and support for all mothers, regardless of their socio-economic background or race.

Themes:

Non-Biased Support: Both mothers and fathers highlighted the importance of receiving non-biased support during pregnancy and postpartum. Doulas and birthworkers play a crucial role in providing unbiased guidance and encouragement, allowing parents to make informed decisions about their birth experiences and parenting choices.

Access to Education: The lack of accessible and resourceful education was noted as a barrier for black and brown mothers. Providing comprehensive and culturally sensitive education on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care is essential to empower parents and improve health outcomes.

Effective Communication: Good communication, both between partners and with healthcare providers, was emphasized as vital. Creating an environment where mothers and fathers can openly express their needs and concerns leads to better understanding and support during the pregnancy journey.

Financial Stability: Financial stress was identified as a significant factor impacting maternal and infant health outcomes. Supporting mothers and fathers by offering financial assistance during pregnancy and advocating for paid maternity and paternity leave can alleviate some of these stressors.

Community Resources: Access to community resources, such as baby showers, diaper banks, and support programs, can be instrumental in providing essential items and emotional support to new parents.

Empowerment through Education: Providing education on parenting, breastfeeding, and newborn care can boost parents' confidence in making informed decisions and feeling empowered in their roles.

Breaking Generational Curses: Recognizing and addressing generational misconceptions and negative patterns in parenting can lead to more supportive and nurturing family environments.

Recommendations and Opportunities:

Doula Programs: Implement and expand doula programs that offer non-biased support and education to expectant parents from diverse backgrounds.

Comprehensive Pregnancy Education: Develop culturally sensitive and accessible pregnancy education programs that cover topics such as prenatal care, childbirth, breastfeeding, and postpartum care.

Financial Assistance: Advocate for paid maternity and paternity leave to alleviate financial stress during pregnancy and early parenthood.

Community Support: Establish and promote community resources that offer practical and emotional support to new parents, including baby showers, diaper banks, and parenting support groups.

Mentorship and Peer Support: Create mentorship programs or peer support networks for expectant and new parents to connect and share experiences.

Mental Health Support: Offer mental health support for both mothers and fathers, recognizing that the emotional journey of parenthood can be challenging.

Partner Involvement: Encourage active involvement of fathers during pregnancy and childbirth, providing resources and education specifically tailored to their needs.

Online and Offline Parenting Platforms: Develop platforms, both online and offline, where parents can connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources.

Healthcare Provider Training: Train healthcare providers to communicate effectively and empathetically with expectant parents, considering their emotional needs and concerns.

Holistic Approach: Adopt a holistic approach to prenatal and postpartum care, recognizing the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of parents and infants.

Themes:

Non-biased Support: Providing non-biased support during pregnancy and postpartum is crucial. Doulas and birthworkers can play a significant role in offering unbiased guidance, allowing mothers to make informed decisions based on their needs and preferences.

Access to Resourceful Education: Black and brown mothers often face a lack of easily accessible information and support. Initiatives that provide comprehensive, culturally sensitive, and resourceful education on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care can empower these mothers to make well-informed choices for their health and the health of their infants.

Effective Communication: Improving communication between healthcare providers and mothers is essential. Being present, actively listening, and encouraging open dialogue allows for better understanding and addressing the unique needs of each individual.

Addressing Financial Stress: Financial stability can be a significant stressor during pregnancy. Developing programs that provide financial support to pregnant women, especially for those who need to take time off work, can alleviate this burden and improve overall health outcomes.

Community Resources: Creating and promoting community resources and organizations, like doulas and Pnccs (community baby showers), can provide much-needed support for new parents, ensuring they have access to essentials like diapers and other resources.

Emphasizing Self-Love and Healing: Pregnancy and childbirth can bring up past traumas and challenges. Supporting mothers in their healing journey, both physically and emotionally, can lead to more positive birthing experiences.

Empowering Women to Trust Themselves: Encouraging pregnant individuals to trust their instincts and intuition can lead to more confident decision-making and positive birth experiences.

Break Generational Misconceptions: Breaking generational cycles and misconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth can positively impact future generations. Providing education and evidence-based support can help challenge outdated beliefs.

Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Efforts: Encouraging collaboration among various organizations and stakeholders can create more significant and lasting impacts in supporting black mothers during pregnancy and beyond.

Engaging Fathers in Pregnancy and Parenthood: Involving fathers in the process of pregnancy and parenthood is crucial for providing comprehensive support to mothers and building stronger family units.

Recommendations and Opportunities:

Community-Based Pregnancy Support Centers: Establishing community-based support centers that offer non-biased education, counseling, and resources tailored to the needs of black and brown mothers.

Financial Assistance Programs: Implementing programs that offer financial support to pregnant women, enabling them to focus on their health and the well-being of their babies without financial stress.

Culturally Competent Healthcare Training: Providing healthcare professionals with cultural competency and sensitivity training to better understand and address the unique needs of black and brown mothers.

Evidence-Based Pregnancy Education Campaigns: Launch educational campaigns that promote evidence-based practices and dispel pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care myths.

Community Doula Programs: Establishing community doula programs that provide continuous support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Healing and Trauma-Informed Care: Integrating trauma-informed care into prenatal and postpartum services, recognizing that pregnancy can be a time of healing and addressing any unresolved trauma.

Promoting Self-Care and Mental Health Support: Encouraging self-love, self-care, and mental health support throughout pregnancy and beyond, including resources for counseling and therapy.

Father-Inclusive Parenting Programs: Developing programs that actively involve fathers in pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting to create a supportive family environment.

Collaborative Healthcare Models: Creating interdisciplinary teams that include doulas, midwives, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and support.

Home Birth Clinics: Establishing birthing centers that prioritize home-like environments and culturally sensitive care, run by healthcare professionals who understand the unique needs of black mothers.

Brenda opens up about her love for watching YouTube videos and vlogs about women with multiples, which sparked her interest in the topic from the start.

Brenda candidly shares her struggles with postpartum anger and irritability, expressing her regret for not receiving counseling during that time. Along with postpartum symptoms, she has been experiencing memory loss and forgetfulness, adding to her overall stress. Balancing the demanding roles of being a mother, dating, and managing household chores has been overwhelming for Brenda, leaving her longing for access to therapy or occupational therapy for recovery.

Brenda recounts a medical situation during her pregnancy, where she was informed that her child's condition was not genetic. Initially hesitant to talk to a genetic counselor, Brenda turned to her family for support and sought help from the Women's Care Center, an organization that provides assistance to expecting parents.

Though faced with challenges, Brenda remained positive and hopeful, not wanting to believe that her daughter would have Down syndrome or a heart condition. After her daughter's passing, Brenda relied on her family members for support and found comfort in the resources and support offered by the West Alice Pavilion hospital, including counseling services through the behavioral health clinic.

As she continues to navigate her grief and loss, Brenda seeks solace in support groups for women who have experienced infant loss and plans to enroll in the hospital's infant loss program. She is also in search of a counselor who can provide virtual meetings.

The episode touches on Brenda's second pregnancy, which was filled with anxiety and stress as she tried to manage caring for her other children, finding daycare, and juggling work and appointments. Despite the challenges, Brenda emphasizes the importance of taking care of her own health during pregnancy.

Through Brenda's personal journey, listeners gain insight into the trials and triumphs of motherhood, the significance of mental health support, and the resilience of women who continue to face adversity with strength and determination.

Keira candidly opens up about her struggles with postpartum depression, highlighting the lack of awareness and resources available to manage this common maternal health issue.

Keira's journey took a positive turn when she contacted St. Joe's Hospital and connected with a prenatal care company that provided valuable information on postpartum. Recognizing the importance of accessible postpartum resources for all parents, Keira advocates for increased education and support for pregnant individuals.

Throughout her pregnancies, Keira also faced challenges in nutrition and breastfeeding. Lacking knowledge about the importance of prenatal vitamins and proper breastfeeding techniques, she relied on her cousin for guidance. Keira points out that the cost of breastfeeding-related items, such as specialty teas and organic supplements, can be prohibitive for many mothers, underscoring the need for affordable resources and support irrespective of income level.

Significantly, Keira expresses her shock upon discovering that maternal mortality is a real concern, especially within the Black community. She reflects on the lack of adequate monitoring and explanations from healthcare professionals, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and comprehensive care during pregnancy.

Returning to work after pregnancy proved to be another challenge for Keira, as her job lacked support for breastfeeding mothers. She shares her frustration at the absence of designated areas for pumping and the lack of privacy in public spaces. Keira calls for improved workplace policies and support for breastfeeding women.

Inspired by her own experiences, Keira imagines a maternal clinic with doulas providing free services available 24/7. She envisions an inclusive space with resources for emergencies, a gym, childcare, and educational classes for fathers and new parents. Keira's ambition to provide comprehensive support to mothers and babies throughout their first year highlights the need for accessible programs and resources to ensure healthy outcomes.

This episode of "The Black Birthing Journey" delves into Keira's personal experiences, shedding light on the importance of education, support, and accessibility in promoting positive maternal health outcomes within the Black community.

Kennaye starts off by sharing how she had no prior knowledge about the sciatic nerve and wishes she had been more prepared for it during pregnancy. She also expresses frustration with the lack of resources and support available for proper breastfeeding in the hospital.

Kennaye's second pregnancy proved to be significantly different from her first, as she experienced unexpected pain and had to be on bed rest for the last two months. This forced her to research and consult her healthcare provider to understand what was happening and how to cope with it. As someone who has been active and busy, the transition to bed rest was challenging for Kennaye.

Aside from her pregnancy journey, Kennaye also delves into the experience of being a mother and a track athlete. Being a competitive athlete since a young age, Kennaye initially had concerns about balancing motherhood with her track career. She shares her worries about being a good mother and learning how to care for a baby practically.

Throughout the episode, Kennaye highlights the importance of including the other parent in the journey. She describes her own journey with her partner, Tom, and how she had to let go of controlling how he interacted with the baby. Kennaye recognizes that both parents need to learn and be involved.

The conversation also touches on the relationship with healthcare providers and the need for more personalized guidance. Kennaye shares her desire for a website that serves as a centralized resource for various pregnancy-related topics. She envisions a platform that is easy to navigate, providing answers and connections to appropriate support organizations.

Overall, this episode of "The Black Birthing Journey" celebrates the strength and resilience of black mothers while addressing important topics such as healthcare support, partner involvement, and the challenges faced during pregnancy and motherhood. The series aims to empower and uplift black mothers while seeking solutions to improve black maternal health outcomes.

Antonio opens up about the challenges and triumphs he faced, providing a candid and heartfelt account of his journey.

Antonio begins by sharing the story of his newborn baby, who initially weighed nine pounds at birth but dropped to 8.7 pounds after breastfeeding. Concerned about the baby's weight loss and the mother's painful breastfeeding experience, they suspected a lip tie and sought a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. However, due to a two-month wait time for the appointment, they decided to find a new physician.

Throughout the conversation, Antonio emphasizes the importance of advocacy and finding the right support system. He shares his belief that fathers have a unique advantage in conversations and can provide critical support to their partners. By actively participating in their child's care and being present, fathers can build confidence and affirmation in their parenting journey.

Antonio also touches on the need for more resources and programs tailored specifically for fathers during the early stages of fatherhood. He expresses a desire for increased breastfeeding education and access to consultants who can provide guidance on what to expect after birth. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by minority couples and children, Antonio highlights the need for proper support and understanding to avoid potential consequences when it comes to decisions surrounding childbirth and parenting.

The episode further delves into Antonio's exploration of different birthing approaches, from the hospital setting to the possibility of a home birth, where their other children could witness the miracle of childbirth. Antonio reflects on the importance of traditional birthing positions and the natural birthing process, expressing a desire to provide his children with an empowering and educational experience.

Overall, Antonio's story showcases the significance of active paternal involvement, support, and resources in fostering positive birthing experiences and nurturing healthy families. The Black Birthing Journey continues its mission to inspire, educate, and empower fathers and expectant fathers within the black community, bridging the gap and addressing the unique needs and challenges they face.

Mercedes reflects on how one-on-one conversations with birth workers and midwives have been instrumental in her learning and preparation for childbirth.

Mercedes opens up about her surprise in discovering the impact of placenta size on postpartum healing, highlighting the importance of thorough explanations and feeling included in her own birth experience. She expresses gratitude for her support system, emphasizing the empowering effect of having people who took the time to listen to her questions and provide informative answers.

As an "action person," Mercedes confesses her preference for communicating through actions rather than words. However, recent health issues and the need to ask for assistance have pushed her to become more comfortable with verbal communication and asking for help. Through this experience, Mercedes has learned the value of being open about her needs and not being afraid to lean on her loved ones.

Mercedes emphasizes the significance of communication within the community and recommends that others speak up and clearly express their needs. She believes that sharing experiences, fears, and thoughts creates a supportive environment and enables others to offer assistance.

The conversation pivots to the involvement of Mercedes' partner in the pregnancy journey. She praises her midwife for actively including and supporting her partner throughout the process, recognizing his crucial role and responsibility. Mercedes discusses the challenges of breastfeeding and the need for self-care. She appreciates the midwife's guidance in prioritizing her needs and reminds listeners to take care of themselves as well.

Mercedes concludes by discussing her decision to have a home birth and the empowerment she felt throughout the process. She shares her desire to create a community where parents can gather and engage in discussions to enhance the parenting experience for everyone. Raven and Mercedes emphasize the importance of self-advocacy, a strong support system, and the role of doulas in helping individuals navigate the childbirth journey successfully.

Overall, Mercedes’ story provides valuable insights into the power of communication, support, and empowerment during the birthing process, encouraging listeners to advocate for their needs and seek a community that can contribute to a positive and fulfilling birthing experience.

Michael shares his personal birth journey and sheds light on the challenges and triumphs he has experienced as a black father.

Michael's journey into fatherhood began when his girlfriend told him she was pregnant while he was with a high school friend. Despite the surprise, Michael accepted the situation with laughter and determination. He knew he had to create a suitable environment for his growing family, so he moved out of his friend's house and embraced the responsibilities of fatherhood.

Throughout the podcast, Michael highlights the unique emotional experiences of each of his three pregnancies. From navigating their early relationship to getting engaged and settling into their new home, each pregnancy brought its own set of challenges. Despite the obstacles, Michael's main motivation has always been to provide a secure future for his children.

A strong advocate for entrepreneurship, Michael shares his aspirations of retiring at the age of 40 and ensuring his children have the opportunity to work for themselves and start their own businesses. He believes that current education systems are not adequately preparing students for this path and encourages individuals to utilize online resources and seek out mentors who have successfully integrated business and fatherhood.

Michael acknowledges the privilege of having a support system and resources available to him, but also empathizes with those who may not have similar opportunities. He provides practical advice for single individuals to focus on financial stability and establish a strong foundation before having children. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of being financially prepared for unexpected challenges that may arise during parenthood.

Throughout the interview, Michael's commitment to being an involved and responsible father shines through. He credits his own personal experiences and the mistakes of male figures in his life as lessons that have guided his journey. He also shares the intense love and sense of protection he feels for his three little black girls, which fuels his mission to be vigilant and aware of their safety.

"The Black Birthing Journey" Fatherhood Forward series continues to provide a platform for inspiring stories and powerful insights into black fatherhood. This episode with Michael serves as a reminder of the importance of active paternal involvement in supporting and advocating for partners and children, as well as the need for programmatic improvements to improve black maternal health outcomes.

Mia emphasizes the need for non-biased support in the field of doulaism, particularly for black and brown women who often face resistance or judgment from their families when making alternative choices during pregnancy and birth.

Mia celebrates the global acceptance of doulaism, recognizing its role in providing non-biased support and empowering mothers to make decisions based on their own knowledge of their bodies and their babies. She highlights the lack of accessible education and resources for black and brown moms, stressing the importance of readily available information that can hinder their engagement with necessary resources.

Throughout the episode, Mia underscores the significance of nonverbal communication skills in supporting pregnant women who may have difficulty articulating their needs due to the emotional and hormonal changes they experience. She also addresses the hesitancy of pregnant black women to ask for help, as they often find themselves taking care of others. Mia encourages pregnant women to be open and honest about their feelings and to seek support when needed.

The journey of pregnancy and birth can also unearth past traumas, requiring healing and introspection. Mia shares her own challenging healing journey, which involved introspection and questioning her values. She emphasizes that everyone has their unique journey and reasons for their actions, highlighting the importance of community support.

The episode delves into the financial stressors faced by pregnant women, particularly inner-city black and brown women. Mia advocates for a return to community-based support, drawing on examples from Africa and India, and suggests that pregnant people should be compensated for their physical and emotional energy.

The importance of postpartum support is also highlighted, as the focus often shifts solely to the baby, neglecting the mother's needs. Mia discusses the emergence of agencies and community organizations that provide resources and support for pregnant individuals, acknowledging the role of virtual platforms in making these resources more accessible.

Throughout the episode, Mia's passion for supporting black and brown mothers shines through. Her experiences as a doula and nursing student have highlighted the mistreatment of these women in medical facilities, further fueling her commitment to advocate for their rights and well-being. With her valuable insights and dedication, Mia offers a powerful and enlightening perspective on the black birthing journey.

SeDale begins by discussing how he loves spending time with his children, going to the gym, and playing basketball. However, he also opens up about the loss of a child and how their memory continues to motivate him to make his daughter proud.

SeDale reflects on his journey as a father and the importance of active paternal involvement within the black community. He highlights the need for support and recognition, emphasizing that men also require guidance and care during difficult situations like pregnancy loss. He shares his own experience of feeling unsupported by doctors who did not adequately explain what was happening, leaving him feeling numb and unsure.

The conversation turns towards the significance of information gathering in the digital era. SeDale discusses the various methods he employs, such as reading, watching YouTube videos, listening to podcasts, and meeting up in person. He emphasizes that as long as the information is relevant and interesting, any method of obtaining it is valuable. Meeting up in person allows for a deeper connection, especially for men, as they can see and feel others' emotions and realize they are not alone.

SeDale highlights the importance of conversations about fatherhood and parental challenges within the black community. He believes that many fathers may be going through similar experiences but feel isolated due to societal expectations. He encourages the establishment of men's support groups, as well as involving fathers in the pregnancy process and providing support for miscarriages.

Overall, SeDale emphasizes the need for support, reassurance, and collaboration between partners during pregnancy. He believes that both spouses should be on the same page to make the experience as smooth as possible. Additionally, he calls for increased information, guidance, and support for fathers, as they navigate the uncertainties of parenthood. By sharing his own experiences and concerns, SeDale brings attention to the importance of acknowledging and involving fathers throughout the birthing journey.

Michelle believes that her work is bigger than herself and emphasizes the importance of everyone coming together to serve women and make a positive change. She criticizes the current competitive nature of the doula community and calls for a focus on collaboration and unity among different nonprofit organizations.

Michelle stresses the significance of building a strong support system for pregnant individuals by having multiple skilled professionals working together. She creates a comfortable and welcoming environment for dads to participate and incorporates them into conversations and events, recognizing the importance of their involvement in the parenting process. Michelle also addresses the stereotype of the strong black woman, highlighting the need to acknowledge the hardships that may have led to this persona.

The speaker's approach as a doula is rooted in evidence-based information and customization. She assesses the individual's knowledge and needs through surveys and provides resources and support to help them gain the necessary information for their pregnancy and childbirth experience. Michelle empowers individuals to ask questions and advocates for them during medical visits, sharing a story where a client gained the confidence to stand up for themselves.

Highlighting the importance of support during pregnancy, Michelle discusses the reality that it is often only one or two reliable individuals who provide assistance. She emphasizes the need for organizations to be present and serve underprivileged communities. Michelle acknowledges that although society is moving towards inclusivity and equality, it is not yet the current reality. She stresses the significance of living by our values and establishing relationships to bring about significant change.

Lastly, the podcast introduces a new series called "The Black Birthing Journey, the Empowered Mothers series." The series aims to shed light on the strength, resilience, and beauty of black mothers, featuring personal birth journeys and experiences of remarkable women. The ultimate goal is to improve black maternal health outcomes and address challenges faced by black mothers through programmatic improvements and discussions. This episode provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the challenges and opportunities within the black birthing community.

With a focus on promoting active paternal involvement, Terrance opens up about his personal growth and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Terrance highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for parents-to-be, emphasizing that for him, formal networking events aren't necessary. Instead, he prefers a more casual atmosphere, like a bar or pool hall, where expectant parents can connect and share their journeys. Touching on the significant disparities in maternal health outcomes for black women in Milwaukee, Terrance applauds the advocacy skills of Aziz's wife and their support from a doula, pointing out the need for improved experiences for all parents, regardless of their circumstances or relationship status.

Drawing from his own experiences, Terrance shares how his college years taught him the significance of expressing emotions, but he struggled to communicate his feelings when his father fell ill. Through therapy, Terrance realized the importance of therapy and was open to criticism, which ultimately made him a better partner and communicator of love to his spouse.

Terrance also announces his new series within the podcast entitled "The Black Birthing Journey, the Fatherhood Forward series." The series aims to shed light on the roles, challenges, and triumphs of black fathers, emphasizing the importance of their involvement in supporting and advocating for their partners and children. Terrance promises inspiring stories, powerful insights, and an exploration of programmatic improvements to enhance black maternal health outcomes.

As the episode concludes, Terrance encourages fathers, expecting fathers, and anyone interested in promoting fatherhood to tune in, highlighting the value of peer support specialists and their ability to offer understanding and presence during challenging times. Overall, Terrance's story serves as a reminder to give oneself grace, learn from mistakes, and prioritize the well-being of both partners throughout the black birthing journey.

Tiffany emphasizes the importance of having assistance outside of the hospital after the procedure, as she found it challenging during the first few weeks. She shares that being unable to move and relying on others to bring her baby to her made her feel inadequate. However, those feelings passed once she was able to start moving around. Tiffany encourages expecting mothers to have a support system, whether it's immediate family, friends, or neighbors, to assist with the transition into motherhood.

Recovery from a C-section proved to be difficult for Tiffany, and she felt unprepared for it. It took her around two weeks to start feeling better and get off the couch. She found lying in bed uncomfortable due to the softness causing pain in her stomach with any small movement. Additionally, limited access to pain medication was a challenge due to the abuse potential. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of having someone at home to help, especially for single mothers, as both of her feet swelled and she needed an ottoman to lift them up.

Tiffany also addresses the emotional challenges she faced pre and post pregnancy, including excessive crying, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. She advises new moms to be prepared for these emotional symptoms and to not run guilt trips on themselves. Tiffany's decision not to breastfeed caused some pressure, but she stuck to her choice and advises new parents to do their own research and not feel pressured into certain choices.

Throughout the episode, Tiffany emphasizes the importance of asking for help and receiving support from family members and friends. She encourages listeners not to let pride get in the way of seeking assistance and highlights the significance of mommy friends for socializing and reintegrating into society after having a baby. This episode of "The Black Birthing Journey" celebrates Tiffany's journey as a black mother, while providing valuable insights and support for other expecting and new mothers.

ranisha brings to light the common misconception that relationships don't always work out, even if you are married. She stresses the need for open conversations about healthy and unhealthy co-parenting dynamics.

Tranisha shares her concerns about being a good mother to her children, as well as handling their different personalities and needs. She also worries about the bond between her older son and the new baby, hoping to avoid the strained relationship she has with her own brother. Additionally, she reflects on the challenges of raising children in an environment riddled with gun violence.

Despite these concerns, Tranisha showcases her willingness to learn and grow as a mother. She shares the importance of stopping and thinking in pressured situations and accepting the things she cannot control. Tranisha also highlights the need for guidance and understanding from someone she would listen to. She believes that if she had been given the right guidance and support, she could have made different choices for her son's well-being.

The episode also explores the lack of support systems for women and mothers, like affordable housing programs and resources to help them navigate the responsibilities of parenting. Tranisha suggests that men could also benefit from similar support systems to show up for their families and make informed decisions as fathers.

Throughout the conversation, the importance of communication, non-judgmental relationships, and open dialogue with the child's other parent are emphasized. Tranisha recognizes the need to transition from being a controlling parent to becoming a wise counselor for her children as they grow older.

In addition to Tranisha's story, the episode touches on various issues faced by black mothers, including the challenges of pregnancy, navigating work and self-care after giving birth, and the importance of learning their baby's cues and patterns.

Overall, this episode of "The Black Birthing Journey" provides a platform for Tranisha and others to share their experiences and seek solutions to improve the black maternal health outcomes in their community. Listeners are invited to join the conversation and gain insights into the strength, resilience, and beauty of black mothers.

Steph begins by sharing her journey of becoming a mother and the physical and hormonal changes she encountered during pregnancy and postpartum.

One prominent issue discussed is preeclampsia, a condition common in black women. Steph emphasizes the importance of education, early detection, and proper treatment of this condition to ensure better maternal health outcomes.

The conversation then shifts to the emotional toll of motherhood and the need for accessible support groups and counseling. Steph highlights the overwhelming anxiety, pressure, and self-doubt that many mothers face, exacerbated by societal expectations and the influence of social media.

Steph also opens up about her own health challenges, including high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. She expresses fear and disbelief at these unexpected complications, particularly as a new mother. The importance of mandatory therapy sessions after pregnancy is emphasized as a means to address the significant life changes that motherhood brings.

The speaker also shares her struggle with balancing work and parenting as a single mother. Financial strains, lack of resources for working single mothers, and the guilt of relying on others for childcare are all highlighted.

Throughout the episode, Steph emphasizes the need for a comprehensive support system for mothers, including mandatory maternity leave, insurance coverage for mental health services, and accessible resources for childcare. She also emphasizes the importance of co-parenting and fostering a healthy environment for children, even if the parents are not together.

In sharing her personal birth experience, Steph brings attention to the need for increased awareness and solutions to improve black maternal health outcomes. Her insights and challenges shed light on the realities faced by many black mothers and highlight the pressing need for change in policies and support systems to ensure the well-being of both mothers and their children.