In this episode of BirthWork, we explore the transformative power of storytelling in addressing maternal health in Detroit. AMCHP host Kameron Jones is joined by Alethia Carr and Princella Graham from Project Detroit Voices for Life to discuss how integrating community voices is reshaping maternal care. Through the lens of personal stories, they shed light on critical issues like maternal morbidity and mortality, provider training, and the importance of doulas and midwives in providing support and care with dignity and respect. The episode also highlights the broader work of the Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Collaborative (SEMQIC) and how they’re using storytelling to foster empathy, change the narrative on maternal health, and equip people in their communities to advocate for themselves. Tune in to learn how these efforts are inspiring systemic change and making birth experiences safer and more supportive for all.

Guest Speakers:

• Alethia Carr, Project Detroit: Voices for Life Health Equity Consultant, SEMPQIC
• Princella Graham, Project Detroit: Voices for Life Project Coordinator, SEMPQIC

Hosts:

• Kameron Jones, Reproductive and Maternal Health Program Analyst at AMCHP
• Ellisa Alvarez, Community-Defined Evidence Program Analyst at AMCHP

Resources:

• Four-Pronged Approach of Project Detroit: Voices for Life Initiative (PD: VFL)
  • Accomplishments of PD: VFL
• “Our Voices/Our Birth- Hear Us!: Detroit Mothers Speak” campaign
  • Listen to Oliva’s Birthing Story referenced during the episode on not being heard

• Learn more about the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP) at our website.

In this episode of BirthWork, Candice Simon speaks with Tara Shaw to explore the unique challenges of maternal care in Mississippi, particularly in the context of the water crisis and ongoing water quality issues in Jackson, Mississippi. Tara highlights the state of Jackson's water system, which has been a long-standing issue exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure. She shares the struggles faced by mothers who are forced to find solutions for daily necessities like drinking, bathing, and feeding their children. Tara shares her journey as a doula and supporting doulas, offering candid insights into the barriers faced from challenges to obtaining clean water to systemic barriers in healthcare access. Through her own lived experience, Tara reveals the realities of advocating for mothers in a state with maternal care deserts and environmental hazards, while emphasizing the resilience and strength of the communities she serves.

Join us as Tara discusses the broader implications of the water crisis on maternal health, how local groups are stepping up to provide solutions, and the vital importance of community-based birthwork, advocacy, and the collective power in shaping policy changes that benefit families. From practical stories of doula work to the on-the-ground issues that demand attention, this episode dives deep into what it means to care for mothers and pregnant people amid environmental crisis.

Guest Speaker:

• Tara Shaw, a former Program Manager for the Jackson Safer Childbirth Experience

Episode Host:

• Candice Simon, MPH, Program Manager for Workforce Development & Capacity Building at AMCHP

• Learn more about the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP) at our website.

On this episode of BirthWork, our hosts discuss how to best support teen parents and reduce teen pregnancy with two doulas and maternal health advocates. Our guest speakers touch on their personal experiences to address the quality, safety, and sensitivity of the care and resources available for pregnant and parenting teens.

Our first guest, Daylisha Reid, is a Program Director from Texas who reflects on her childhood and connecting with her mother about teen parenthood and highlights the importance of medically accurate sex education for both teenagers and their parents. Our second guest Mariana Anguiano, a former doula with Strong Tomorrows in Tulsa, Oklahoma, emphasizes parental and familial support for pregnant teens and explores how her own experience as a teen mother helps her provide intentional and holistic support for teen parents in Tulsa. Listen to this episode of BirthWork to learn more about how policies, systems, and communities can cultivate better and healthier futures for teen parents and their families.

Guest Speakers:

• Daylisha Reid, Program Director at Mama Sana Vibrant Woman
• Mariana Anguiano, a former doula with Strong Tomorrows

Episode Hosts:

• Giannina Ong, Program Manager for Reproductive and Maternal Health at AMCHP
• Gabrielle Beck, Student Co-Chair of the Youth Voice Amplified committee at AMCHP

Resources:

• Use our discussion guide for reflection and conversation.

• Learn more about the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP) at our website.