In this episode, hosted by Dorothy Cilenti, Professor at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Dorothy is talking with Lindsey Yates and Natalie Hernandez, editors of the third edition of The Practical Playbook. This collaborative guide addresses maternal health disparities, focusing on BIPOC communities in the United States. Learn how to implement change and improve maternal health outcomes through multi-sector collaborations. Join the conversation as they discuss the collaborative process, practical tools, and hidden gems within the playbook! Get your copy of The Practical Playboo ..read more

In this episode, host Andrea Serano, Interim Director at Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE), is talking with Milan Spencer, Associate Director of Workforce Development and Partnerships at the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA). BMMA serves as the national voice and coordinating entity for stakeholders advocating for Black maternal health rights and justice, addressing the crisis of Black maternal mortality in the U.S.  Milan shares insights into BMMA's mission, strategies, and ongoing projects aimed at improving maternal health outcomes for birthing people of color. Discover how BMMA ..read more

Join us in this empowering episode as Erin McClain, Assistant Director and Research Associate at the UNC Collaborative for Maternal and Infant Health, delves into a crucial conversation with Chauntel Norris, Co-director of the Alabama Prison Birth Project and Co-founder of Baobab Birth Collective. Discover the groundbreaking work of the Alabama Prison Birth Project, providing doula care and support to incarcerated birthing individuals, revolutionizing maternal health within the prison system. Learn about the three components of their program, including one-on-one doula support, prenatal educat ..read more

In this episode, host Dr. Alison Steube discusses the Motherhood Career Tax with Tina Sherman, Senior Campaign Director at MomsRising. Tina, a seasoned advocate, legislative aide, and certified birth doula, shares her wealth of experience in supporting and empowering mothers and families. Discover the multifaceted challenges faced by mothers, from discriminatory practices based on reproductive age to the complexities surrounding healthcare access, accommodations during pregnancy, and parental leave policies. Together, Alison and Tina unravel the layers of the Motherhood Career Tax, discussing ..read more

In this episode, join Kelli Sheppard, Communications Director at the Maternal Health Learning and Innovation Center, as she explores the groundbreaking PM3 app. Developed in collaboration with Black women, PM3 aims to transform postpartum care and maternal health outcomes through mobile technology. Dr. Rasheeta Chandler and Sherilyn Francis share their journey in creating this dynamic digital resource, emphasizing community engagement, self-agency, and empowering women to take control of their health. Discover how PM3 is making waves in maternal health innovation and how you can get involved ..read more

In this episode, we delve into a crucial discussion with Larissa Mervin, Managing Attorney at Legal Aid of North Carolina's Charlotte office. Larissa shares her extensive experience in dealing with intimate partner violence (IPV) and its effects on maternal health. We explore the nuanced aspects of IPV, its definition, and the various forms it can take, from physical violence to emotional and financial control. Larissa sheds light on the impact of IPV on different communities, including Black and Latinx populations, emphasizing the historical and structural factors that contribute to dispariti ..read more

In this episode, we delve into the critical issue of maternal mental health and how technology is transforming perinatal care. We explore how Canopie, a digital company, is at the forefront of this revolution, offering a universal, low-cost solution for expectant and new parents. Anne Wanlund, the Co-Founder and CEO of Canopie, shares her inspiring journey and the inspiration behind founding the company. Join us as we discuss the importance of breaking down barriers to mental health support, addressing systemic issues, and creating a judgment-free space for birthing people. Canopie offers pers ..read more

In this episode, hosted by Vicki Curtis, Director of Women's Services at the University of South Alabama Children and Women's Hospital, we dive into the groundbreaking "I Gave Birth Bracelet Initiative" with Jessica Noble from East Carolina University Health. Discover how these bracelets are revolutionizing maternal health outcomes, ensuring effective and tailored care for postpartum mothers. Join us in this conversation as we discuss maternal care, addressing OB deserts, Doula care, and educating healthcare providers and families. Learn how these initiatives are reducing maternal mortality an ..read more

In this episode of the Maternal Health Innovation Podcast, host Kelli Sheppard is joined by Maya Hardigan, the founder of Mae, an innovative app designed to support black women during their pregnancy journey. Mae is on a mission to reduce maternal health disparities, particularly among Black women in the United States. They discuss the challenges faced by Black women during pregnancy and childbirth, emphasizing the importance of being heard and respected by healthcare providers.  Listen as Maya shares a powerful birth story that highlights the impact of the Mae platform and reviews  ..read more

In this episode of the Maternal Health Innovation Podcast, hosts Alison Stuebe and Kimberly D. Harper are exploring the groundbreaking work of the BELIEVE Project. Joined by Kimberly C. Harper and Janiya Williams, they delve into how the project is revolutionizing maternal care in the United States. Discover how the BELIEVE Project's innovative escape room approach, cultural sensitivity, and diverse perspectives are bridging healthcare disparities and transforming the maternal health landscape. Gain unique insights into building trust and enhancing communication among healthcare teams, patient ..read more