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In this deeply reflective episode, we explore the layered realities of systemic racism in maternal and reproductive care, and why it should matter to everyone—even if the story doesn’t feel like it’s yours.

We’re joined by Dr. Courtney E. Williams, a Provost Early Career Postdoctoral Fellow— whose research and lived commitment to maternal health equity provide powerful insight into how racism shows up in reproductive outcomes—and how we can begin to address it together.

Dr. Williams also shares simple, actionable steps that non-Black individuals can take to become better allies, advocates, and co-conspirators in the movement for reproductive justice and maternal health equity.

Episode Highlights:
1. Why Black Breastfeeding Week Matters- We break down the history, the why, and the reality behind this much-needed awareness campaign—and how the Black breastfeeding experience often diverges from the mainstream narrative.
2. What Every White Ally Should Know in Birth Spaces- We offer gentle, grounded insights for white doulas, providers, and peers on how to support without centering themselves, listen without defensiveness, and lead with empathy.
3. How to Move from Awareness to Action- This episode doesn’t just ask you to care—it gives you real tools and resources to deepen your understanding, challenge systems, and support the journey toward reproductive justice for all.

A Note From the Heart:
This episode isn't about blame. It’s about listening, learning, and beginning (or continuing) the work of showing up better—for ourselves, for each other, and especially for those whose voices have too often gone unheard in healthcare. If you're here, you're already doing something that matters.

If you’re a doula, provider, or simply a person who wants to understand more about racial disparities in maternal health, this episode is an invitation—not to be perfect, but to be present.

Resources for Further Learning:
White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack by Peggy McIntosh
White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo

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This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical ...

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Exciting News!
Our very own host Naiomi Catron—award-winning Labor & Delivery Nurse and IBCLC—is not only sharing her expert insights in this episode but also launching her very own breastfeeding book. Get an inside look at the story behind this groundbreaking resource designed to fill the gaps in lactation care and support families like never before.

In this episode, Naiomi steps into the spotlight, inviting her very own editor, Jessica Noel, to interview her to share the real reasons behind her new breastfeeding book. Drawing from years of experience as a nurse and IBCLC, she opens up about the common gaps in breastfeeding support—basic but crucial knowledge that many parents never hear. Naiomi talks about why so many families feel confused or like they’ve “failed,” especially when their experience doesn’t match the textbook. She also shares the motivation behind putting all these insights into a book, so future generations won’t have to struggle through the same questions again.

Tune in to hear:
🔹 The Inspiration Behind the Book
🔹 How Being a Mom, Nurse, and IBCLC Shaped the Book
🔹What Makes Milk’D Different
🔹 The Ideal Perception vs. The Real Deal of Breastfeeding
🔹 Naiomi’s Vision for Milk’D

No family should feel like they’re navigating breastfeeding alone—this episode is packed with compassionate truth-telling and practical insight for parents, providers, and birthworkers alike.

🎧 Listen now and get ready to rethink lactation care!

Share this Episode to:
👶 New and expecting parents eager for honest breastfeeding guidance
🍼 Healthcare providers and lactation professionals wanting deeper understanding
💡 Anyone passionate about health equity and better early nutrition outcomes

Exciting Information:
The preorder for Naiomi’s groundbreaking breastfeeding book is NOW OPEN— visit https://a.co/d/6xvhGJZ and be among the first to get your copy!

Check www.milkdbook.com to learn more!

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Follow Milk Diva:

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Pregnant Snag your FREE 11-page "10 Common Breastfeeding Pitfalls to Avoid"

Are you Doula or Birth Professional? Get your hands on our free Newborn Feeding Cheatsheet!

👶🥄 Getting Ready to start solid foods with your baby? Take our QUICK Solids Feeding Assessment, and get a FREE 7-page Solids Readiness Checklist to start your baby feeding adventure off safely!

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical ...

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Motherhood is a beautiful journey—but let’s be real, it can also be exhausting, overwhelming, and full of unexpected challenges.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the connection between sleep, mental health, and breastfeeding. Our guest, Amy Green LCSW, PMH-C, ERYT, CEO and Founder of Mamaya Health, a mental health practice dedicated to supporting women from menstruation through menopause. Amy shares her deeply personal journey with infertility, pregnancy loss, and the struggle to find specialized maternal mental health care—experiences that ultimately led her to create Mamaya Health.

Tune in to hear:
🔹 The Hidden Challenges of Motherhood – Why so many women feel unseen and unheard in their mental health journeys, especially when navigating miscarriage, lactation struggles, and postpartum changes.
🔹 The Mental Load of Breastfeeding – Understanding the emotional and mental pressure new moms face when trying to meet societal expectations around nursing and newborn care.
🔹 Recognizing Postpartum Mental Health Concerns – The differences between baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety, plus when to seek professional help.
🔹 The Power of Sleep for New Moms – How sleep deprivation impacts emotional well-being, and practical tips for creating a realistic sleep plan.

No mother is meant to go through this journey alone—seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.

🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward better maternal mental health!

Share this Episode to:
👶 Expecting and new moms managing postpartum emotions
🍼 Birth and lactation professionals focused on maternal mental health
💡 Anyone interested in how hormonal shifts affect mood, bonding, and well-being

Connect with Amy & Mamaya Health:
🌐 Website
📸 Instagram
📘 Facebook
📩 Email: support@mamayahealth.com

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Follow Milk Diva:

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• www.MilkDiva.com

Pregnant Snag your FREE 11-page "10 Common Breastfeeding Pitfalls to Avoid"

Are you Doula or Birth Professional? Get your hands on our free Newborn Feeding Cheatsheet!

👶🥄 Getting Ready to start solid foods with your baby? Take our QUICK Solids Feeding Assessment, and get a FREE 7-page Solids Readiness Checklist to start your baby feeding adventure off safely!

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical ...