The Operation M.I.S.T. Podcast: Tackling the Maternal Health Crisis
By Operation M.I.S.T.
Our vision for this podcast is to educate and empower women to survive and thrive through the entire womanhood journey!
Listen and subscribe for advice from professionals, truth telling from women like you, and testimonials from MIST moms. Visit www.operationmist.org to learn more.
The Operation M.I.S.T. Podcast: Tackling the Maternal Health CrisisJan 29, 2023
Episode 31: Her Water Broke at 17 Weeks and She Birthed her Miracle Baby at 30!
At 17 weeks of pregnancy, Marsheila Tillman's water broke. She was advised to end the pregnancy because, "historically, when a woman's water breaks this early, the baby dies within 24-48 hours." She was told that if she continued with the pregnancy, her baby had a 1% chance of survival and she had a 5% chance. She and her husband took that chance believing that, with God, all things are possible, and her baby was delivered vaginally and was born healthy and strong a little after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Listen to her story to hear how she recruited a team of people who provided her with the resources and support she needed, leaned on her faith believing that her baby would have everything she needed to thrive, and made adjustments to her lifestyle to create the ideal internal and external environments to align with her determination to beat the odds. Thanks to Patricia Prime (postpartum doula, lactation consultant, and founder of the nonprofit organization, It Takes a Village-Maternal Health Expo, Inc), we had the privilege of helping Marsheila use her smart device to guide her recovery following delivery and got to experience this miraculous deviation from what science deemed possible.
NICU stays are not easy, but navigating them in your best health is necessary.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 31: How to birth safely when surrounded by people who don't believe in you
"Your placenta is dead. It's calcified. Your body is trying to tell you this pregnancy needs to be over."
"You didn't bring your bag in to this appointment? Aren't you optimistic? Now you're going to leave and come back-don't you know that you could sit on your cord and since your waters are all dried up, you could lose your baby and not know it?"
"Dry births are extremely painful. I don't recommend it."
"We know your baby is big and you're going to deal with dystocia...it's best to just let us get the baby out."
"Your baby is not responding well to the epidural (within 30 minutes of administering it) so you need to make the decision that is best for the both of you and just let us take the baby."
"You are only three centimeters dilated even though your contractions are five minutes apart. Your body is telling you that it doesn't want to have a vaginal delivery." Over the course of four days, this mom had to try to labor while being told the statements above by the residents in the hospital. Luckily, she had all the information she needed to make informed decisions, a team of people to support her outside of her OB, angels within her hospital system who encouraged her along the way and the resilience to do what she knew was best despite her immediate environment.
She went on to deliver a healthy average-sized baby vaginally with no complications. I am grateful to the moms who entrust us with their motherhood journeys and ultimately, with their lives. Although medical intervention has become more commonplace during pregnancy and delivery over the years, agreeing to intervention can sometimes be the difference between life and death; between recovering well and having complications; between living a healthy life and running into health and quality of life issues years down the line. For example, since more blood is lost following a cesarean delivery than during a vaginal one, and one of the top reasons women die following delivery is from bleeding too much, it is important to us that moms only undergo c-sections when it’s absolutely necessary to do so.
Monitoring is one thing, but having the education, resources, relationships and ability to advocate for yourself combined with the data is another thing altogether. For any mom who read this post who was triggered by it, please forgive me; these stories and your stories need to be told. In that way, women can know that when they choose to trust their design, they should not be made to feel bad about doing so. They can also know what they may encounter when trying to deliver their baby. Not all experiences are like this, but you'd be surprised by how many there are. If you are pregnant and would like someone to walk your motherhood journey with you, please visit www.operationmist.org to learn how we can support you. If you are not pregnant, but are supporting someone who is, please advocate for them when you can. It is hard to labor and fight at the same time.
Episode 30: With the Discipline of a Marathoner, She Made Her Dream Birth a Reality!
Gwen’s birth story is one of the most empowering ones I’ve ever heard and her journey to and through it started years before she got the delivery room.
We have had the privilege of walking alongside Gwen as she, with the discipline of a marathon runner and the unmatched support of her family and husband/best friend, Nick,
-recovered from the effects of preeclampsia following her first delivery
-lost 30 pounds
-got off of her blood pressure medicine
-changed her diet
-swapped providers until she found one who was equally passionate about her having the VBAC they desired
-moved to be closer to their OB and other supportive family members when her due date neared
Listen in as she explains how the support of her village and the use of her smart watch helped her have the birthing experience of her dreams.
From hiding the fact that her foley bulb fell out so she could get some much needed rest to waiting until her team was distracted to breathe her baby girl down, she felt and was in control and empowered every step of the way.
And the icing on the cake was that her OB celebrated alongside her with equal enthusiasm as she vaginally delivered her second child.
Gwen is a blessing to Operation M.I.S.T.
She is a blessing to everyone she encounters.
She is a testament of what is possible when faith, support, and self-discipline coexist.
More than a MIST Mom-she is a dear friend and lifelong sister. Having this conversation with her yielded many laughs and many tears. It was deeply fulfilling on so many levels.
If you are considering having a vaginal birth after having preeclampsia followed by a cesarean birth, her story is a must listen.
If you're not, but just want to hear a love story within a birth story, you are invited to listen as her story will, without a doubt, give you chills and fill you with inexplicable joy.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 29: Eating Right for Your Fertility
If you are having issues with fertility or with your cycle in general or know someone who is, please listen to and share this episode.
In it, Alexis Brooks, Registered Dietician gets specific about:
-the foods you should eat and avoid and why
-how sleep and day-to-day choices impact our cycles and ability to get pregnant
-the DUTCH test and how it can be used to get insight into hormonal balance
-how intermittent fasting, plant-based diets, alcohol, and intense exercise may be negatively impacting fertility
-how a sugar budget can work wonders for health and fertility
On a personal note, Alexis Brooks has helped countless women within and outside of Operation M.I.S.T. both directly and indirectly.
In addition to her extensive knowledge, she delivers the information in a way that is individualized, but not overwhelming; direct and, at the same time, loving.
She believes the best way to see improvement is by helping women figure out what they can add to their lifestyles instead of focusing on what needs to be eliminated.
Her approach is magical and her results are undeniable.
To connect with the best dietician in the industry and get free guides for navigating endometriosis and improving fertility, visit her at connectwithalexisbrooks.com or find her on IG, Facebook, and TicToc at alexisbrooksnutrition.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are helping women show up to pregnancy planned and prepared through our More Than A Period Parties, and monitoring mother's vital signs remotely between doctor's visits for healthier pregnancies, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 28: Navigating Pregnancy After an Unfavorable Diagnosis
On at least three different occasions, this precious mom was given the option to abort her baby after he was diagnosed with Trisomy 18/Edward's syndrome. She was told that he would likely die during delivery or shortly afterwards. She decided not to abort and does not regret her decision. Listen to this podcast to hear a story of strength, resolve, dedication, genuineness, sacrifice, generosity, and the love of a mother. Listen to how she navigated her pregnancy and delivery and learn how you can support someone who has experienced loss. Recovery and healing needs to take place following the loss of a child no matter when it takes place. We were and still are truly humbled to support this sweet mom as she navigates life moving forward.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on Instagram @operationmist.
Episode 27: Having a Baby Post Uterine Rupture is Possible
After having her first baby via cesarean delivery, Pamela Barner was told she had a 4% chance of a uterine rupture with her second. What she heard was that she had a 96% chance of uterus not rupturing.
Her uterus did rupture, however and so did her bladder; and contrary to what one would expect, she did not feel pain at all while it was happening.
After her second child, she was told she shouldn’t have another baby. She decided to get a second opinion and she birthed her third child six years later without complications.
In her story, you hear her indecision about the role Pitocin played in her uterus rupturing, how team work between the nurse and surgeon prevented her baby from being injured during delivery, and how she was able to take a calculated risk because her healthcare provider gave her all the information she needed to make an informed decision.
Although she birthed three children, she is a mother to many and her advice to everyone listening is to know your body!
*If you are interested in learning more about your body or about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website: https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist
Courage during pregnancy and support post delivery saves lives
LaPortia's job denied her short term disability despite her having heart palpitations, being unable to feel her left leg or arm, get dressed by herself, or walk without a cane. -She took off without pay. Her high blood pressure was ignored by the hospital and emergency room staff on multiple occasions following delivery. -Her MIST monitor connected her with an OBGYN who was not in her area who connected her with a provider who got her the medicine she needed. Her hands were so swollen at one point that she couldn't pump to provide breast milk for her baby. Her doctor told her it was just a part of being pregnant. -She hired a physical therapist to help. Her headache that resulted from an epidural was written off as a migraine for almost a week following delivery. -Her M.I.S.T. monitor helped her advocate for herself so she could get it repaired. Despite all of this and combined with a previous infant loss, she declared, "My cries and tears were seen and heard for miles, but my PRAISE WILL BE LOUDER." Listen to this conversation and hear how this woman survived pregnancy and the postpartum period with sheer determination, the help of her loving family, the support of her self-selected healthcare team, and the good deeds of selfless providers who did not know her. She also declares that she lived and she did not die because of Operation M.I.S.T. To prevent moms from experiencing needless deaths, we have to be willing to fight for their lives. If you need support along your journey, please reach out. Because of this MIST mom, we have been dubbed the MIST Mafia so rest assured that we can help :) *If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 25: Having a baby in your 40s? This is how you do it!
One provider made assumptions based on her age and made her feel like "she was the old maid who couldn't have a baby."
The one she swapped to let her know he delivered babies from women who were way older than her so he wasn't going to make her age an issue.
With the knowledge of her having a miscarriage on Mother's Day weekend during her first pregnancy, her cousin referred her to Operation M.I.S.T. when she got pregnant the second time around.
In her words, "at Operation M.I.S.T., not only are you monitoring vitals, but you're giving women hope and positive manifestations of what is to come. You all gave me my voice. You all gave me hope. This is our MIST baby."
In this episode, you will hear Keshia talk about the importance of choosing the right birthing team, the power of accepting help, and the adjustments she made throughout her pregnancy to show up to delivery and the postpartum period in her best health.
If you know someone who is worried about having a baby in her forties, please share this episode with her.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 24: Breeched Babies Flip and VBACs are Possible!
Strong...Amazing...Free...These are the three words MIST Mom Haley used to describe her birth following her second delivery! She felt like there was nothing she couldn't do!
Following her first delivery, she described her experience as unplanned and out of control; she felt sad. She said she had a textbook pregnancy, but then "on game day, everything went left."
In her words, the biggest difference between the first and second birthing experiences were the education she received and the people she had on her team. We are so grateful that she chose to allow Operation M.I.S.T. to be on her team!
In this episode, you will hear (in her words) how God be Goddin', how she received "beauty for ashes" and what she did to have a vaginal birth following a c-section delivery.
For wedding, maternity, engagement and commercial photos, please reach out to Haley at www.ynotimages.com.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 23: A Second Opinion Could Save Your Organs
Laura was given surgical and hormonal options at 31 years old that could have prevented her from getting pregnant later in life. Thanks to getting a second opinion, she kept her organs and preserved her ability to bring forth life.
Even with PCOS, stage IV endometriosis, kidney stones, ovarian cysts, failed IUIs, hormone therapy, and 40 negative pregnancy tests, she remained faithful that she and her husband would have the baby she so strongly desired.
She ultimately went on to get pregnant the old-fashioned way after stopping all of the interventions, getting a pelvic health PT, tracking her cycle, speaking positive affirmations over her womb, and quitting her job of 14 years that was causing her a lot of stress.
Since recording this episode, she and her husband Aaron brought her sweet son August into the world. After photographing so many beautiful families, because of her diligence and persistence, she was able to partake in the most fulfilling photo shoot of her life.
If you are anywhere near South Carolina and need photographs taken, please visit www.loladeephotography.com or @loladeephoto on IG.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 22: Overcoming Postpartum Depression with Unwavering Family Support
Cocoa didn't feel an overwhelming sense of love or joy when her son was born; to the contrary, she found that she didn’t want to be around him. She thought something was wrong with her until her mother and grandmother spoke with her about postpartum depression.
Cocoa says, “I am a mom, but I am not just a mom. I am not who I used to be, but I can decide who I want to be going forward.”
Cocoa bonded with her son for the first time when he was one. She created a program to help women understand that they are not alone.
For more info, visit https://www.concocoaching.co
Reach out: support@mommies4thtrimester.co
IG: mommies4thtrimester
Private FB group-Mommies 4th Trimester.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 21: Massage and More with Tara's Birth Services
In this episode, Tara Thompson, childbirth educator, labor doula, and massage therapist talks with us about her unique entry into motherhood, the complaint that started her passion for serving pregnant and postpartum clients, and the importance of adding wellness services to your gift registries.
Connect with Tara at Instagram @taradthompson.co and her website www.tarasbirthservices.com.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 20: Greater Later- Surviving Postpartum Cardiomyopathy
Starlynn was given a life expectancy of 38 months last June after a long battle with postpartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). Listen to learn the symptoms that she was experiencing early postpartum that were ignored at multiple ER visits.
She finished her degree and is currently fulfilling her dream of being a teacher. She continues to raise her now 5 year old son and teach with a joy that surpasses all understanding.
We are joining in her belief that “it will get greater later!” Since the recording of this episode, Starlyn had an LVAD placed. We are in faith that her heart transplant is coming!
Facebook support group for those with PPCM https://www.facebook.com/groups/17931387304/?ref=share (https://www.facebook.com/groups/17931387304/?ref=share)
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 19: The Rollercoaster of Conception to Postpartum with MIST Mom Amber
In this episode, co hosts Drs Jessica and Katherine, interview their colleague and MIST mom, Dr. Amber Holmes. This episode is filled with real-ness and giggles as we unpack her journey from a 2nd trimester miscarriage, unexpected second pregnancy, navigating the maternal healthcare system without insurance, birth, and critical health changes postpartum. You will hear how having the guidance and surveillance of Operation M.I.S.T. in addition to the education from our monthly meetings empowered her to have a successful birth and even consider having another one! You want to grab your popcorn and your friends to listen to this episode! There is a surprise segment in the end!
Show Amber some love via her email holmesamber12@gmail.com.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 18: Benefits of Birthing in a Birth Center with Stephanie Curtis, CNM
Did you know that you don't have to give birth in the hospital or your home? There is a happy medium in birth centers and they have great statistics on birth outcomes to prove it. In this episode, co host and founder of Operation MIST, Katherine, interviews certified nurse midwife, Stephanie Curtis, on her experience working with moms.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 17: Mama, You Need Direct Primary Care
Co-hosts Jessica and Katherine interview Dr. Jennifer Evans, a direct primary care physician servicing middle Georgia. Dr. Evans is a mom of two and discusses her experiences navigating the maternal health system as both a provider and a patient. Listen to learn how primary care physicians can help us as early as adolescence prepare our bodies to better achieve and sustain pregnancy as well as thrive postpartum.
Connect with Dr. Evans at https://rejuvenantfamilyhealth.com/ and @rejuvenantfhc_ga on Instagram.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 16: Birth Trauma is Not Always Physical
Follow Dr. Zebron @thebirthpt on Instagram
Follow Operation M.I.S.T. @operationmist
Subscribe to our podcast and comment "Done" under our Instagram post of this episode!
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 15: Compassion Yields Rainbows with Tabria Corprew
Trigger Warning: The following episode includes sensitive topics like pregnancy loss, infant loss, and traumatic birthing experiences. We advise that you take whatever measures needed to make yourself comfortable during our discussion. This may include listening with a loved one or pausing audio to breathe or reflect. If you rock with us long enough, you'll see the rainbow.
In this episode, founder and therapist of Compassionate Counseling & Support Services, LLC, Tabria Corprew sits down to talk with us about how the lack of compassion in her first birth experience made her aware of what she deserved in her next. Don't get too wrapped up in the storm, she and her support system turned it all into a beautiful rainbow. Connect with Tabria at www.compassionatecounselingllc.net. Email: hello@compassionatecounseling.sprucecare.com Phone: 912-325-9855
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 14: Birth from Dad's POV: Nick's MIST Dad Testimony
In this episode, listeners get to listen to MIST mom, Gwen's, birth story without Operation MIST and postpartum story with our guidance from the perspective of her husband, Nick. With unexpected turns in their pregnancy, their story proves how important it is to have an active non-birthing partner. Stop excluding dads from the pregnancy and postpartum conversation! Their role can help save the day!
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 13: Our First M.I.S.T. Dad Testimony with Tionna and Mark
You already know how much we love our M.I.S.T. moms, but we adore M.I.S.T. dads. They are truly the unsung heroes of this birth thing. Tionna and Mark are a couple who is no stranger to this baby game. On their third pregnancy, they allowed us at Operation M.I.S.T. to be a part of their journey. Listen to hear how being educated, informed, and monitored empowered them to have peace even when their birth plans didn't go as desired.
Blooper alert: Listen til the end to hear ;)
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 12: Not Knowing Your Body Can Cost You: A Fertility Conversation
In this episode co creators of Operation MIST and co-hosts of the Operation M.I.S.T. podcast, Jessica and Katherine, interview Dr. Rebeca Segraves. Dr. Segraves is a board certified women's health physical therapist and pelvic floor therapist. She is also a doula and advocate for health equity for mothers of color.
Tune in as she graciously expresses her challenges with navigating the healthcare system both as a provider and as a patient. The latter half of this discussion dives into her personal fertility journey that cost her thousands of dollars and even more wasted time. However, what she teaches us about the importance of seeking the right expert based on the experience and outcome we desire can be applied to any health concern.
Follow Dr. Segraves @enhancedrecoveryandwellness on IG and check out her website www.enhancedrecoverywellness.com.
*If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 11: True Sounds of a Black Mom- MIST Testimonial
In this week's episode, listen as co creators of Operation MIST, Katherine and Jessica, interview Brittany! She is a MIST mom and joined the program postpartum, but her birth story of having an emergency C-section after multiple miscarriages is one that deserves to be heard. Listen to learn how important it is to listen to your body as you enter labor and delivery.
Follow Brittany's maternal support group Maternal Health Support for Black Women and Allies on Facebook. Follow her on IG @truesoundsof ablackmom and @chefbsings.
If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 10: Hey Mamma, You Good?
In today's episode, co creators of Operation M.I.S.T., Jessica and Katherine interview Gena Tran. Gena is a mom, wife, and maternal support group leader. In her Facebook Group, Hey Mamma, You Good?, Gena fosters a supportive environment where a diverse group of moms can be encouraged and affirmed by each other. She was inspired to start this group by her own experiences through mothering 3 beautiful children. Gena was kind enough to share her unique birth stories with us. From a nearly fatal vacuum assisted vaginal delivery and all the postpartum implications of that trauma, to two successful cesarean deliveries, Gena's story is one that first time and veteran moms can learn from.
Make sure you go and join Gena's private Facebook Group, Hey Mamma, You Good?.
If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely between doctor's visits to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 9: Trauma Informed Care with Nurse Practitioner and Yogini Sokari Brown
In this episode, co creators of Operation M.I.S.T., Katherine and Jessica, interview Sokari Brown. Sokari is a nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), yoga instructor (RYT-500), and also does mindfulness-based therapy for children and adolescents in Atlanta, GA. She has developed a practice centered around trauma informed care. Listen to learn just how her unique approach to healthcare might also be beneficial for moms as they navigate all of the changes that come along with the transitions of becoming a mother.
There is a special surprise for our listeners in this episode! Fast forward to minute 52 for a meditation session with Sokari. Don't miss out! Connect with Sokari on IG @courageousspaceyoga and on her website www.courageousspaceyoga.com.
If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 8: Becoming the Village with Postpartum Doula and Lactation Consultant Pat Prime
Listen as co hosts and co creators of Operation M.I.S.T., Jessica and Katherine, interview fellow maternal health advocate and dear friend, Patricia Prime. Mrs. Prime is a registered nurse turned postpartum doula, lactation consultant, community maternal health advocate. She currently serves central Georgia but her impact is soon affecting the country for generations to come. Tune in to hear how this work was destined for her as she talks full circle about how her mom was a maternal mortality statistic and now Pat has found her purpose of helping other moms avoid that tragic outcome.
If you are interested in her postpartum doula and lactation consultant services, please head to her website https://pbabytimec.com/.
If you are interested in learning more about Operation M.I.S.T. and how we are monitoring mothers remotely to detect complications faster to promote healthier pregnancies, deliveries, and postpartum journeys, please head to our website https://www.operationmist.org/ and follow us on instagram @operationmist.
Episode 7: Supportive and Protective Fathers with Arthur Toole
Not only is Arthur a husband and father, he is cofounder of Megrelief. Megrelief produces the 100% natural anti-inflammatory pain relieving products. Please follow them @megrelief on Instagram. Click here to try their products!
If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
See what other M.I.S.T. moms are saying.
Episode 6: Why Mamas Need Pelvic Floor PT with Dr. Kamaria Washington
Operation MIST co creators and podcast cohosts, Drs. Katherine and Jessica, interview Dr. Kamaria Washington, PT, DPT. She is Detroit native, pelvic floor physical therapist, and perinatal coach. She offers virtual pelvic health consultations and coaching. She also hosts a First Time Mama program that prepares black moms for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. You can stay connected with her on instagram @dr.kwashington_.
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If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
Episode 5: Gwen's Birth Story and MIST Testimonial
Listen as co hosts, Jessica and Katherine, interview Operation MIST mom, Gwen. Gwen generously shares her journey to pregnancy after trying for years, through pregnancy as health issues caused her to have an emergency delivery, and through postpartum with monitoring from us at Operation MIST.
Episode Breakdown
3 min Journey to pregnancy navigating stressful job and fertility issues for years
19 min Journey through pregnancy and health scare at final stretch
35 min Navigating the NICU
58 min Transitioning home with baby
60 min Deciding to be a stay at home mom
63 min How operation mist is helping her recover postpartum
1 hr 21 min Postpartum recovery advice for working moms
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If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
Episode 4: The Chiropractor's and Father's Role in the Birth Experience with Dr. Kenyon Godwin
In this episode, Katherine and Jessica interview Dr. Kenyon Godwin. He is a Texas based chiropractor certified in helping those who are pregnant. He is also a husband and a father of 3 daughters with all unique birthing experiences. Listen to learn how he plays an active role in many women's birth through chiropractic services and how he was also active, not just present, during his wife's deliveries.
Connect with Dr. Godwin at txwellnessdoc.com or email him at kenyongodwin@gmail.com. You can also follow him on Instagram @maximizeyourpurpose.
1:45- Patient testimonial
11:45- Role of chiropractor in pregnancy
19:45- Dr. Godwin's perspective of being an active father
27:15: Dr. Godwin's and his wife's last birthing experience and the chiropractic difference
43:00: Call to action to other fathers
If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
Episode 3: Elesha's Birth Story and M.I.S.T. Testimony
In today's episode Katherine and Jessica interview one of the moms who is in the Operation M.I.S.T. program! M.I.S.T. mom, Elesha, generously shares how she learned to advocate for herself through the Operation M.I.S.T. and was able to save her own life while she was losing her ability to breathe in the delivery room. She also speaks on how guidance from Operation M.I.S.T. is still helping her safely navigate her postpartum journey.
Key points from Elesha
1. Prioritize you health as a woman first to arrive to pregnancy your best self
2. Be involved in your healthcare experience. Your health should happen through you not to you.
3. Be proactive and not reactive. Do not wait until the problem worsens to speak up!
4. Beware the ego of the health professional, but don't be moved by it.
5. Stop putting people's feelings (that includes your family and providers) over your well-being.
If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
Episode 2: C- Section? VBAC? S.O.S.
VBACs don't have to be scary. You can do it with the right support. It's simple! On this episode, Katherine and Jessica interview Darra, creator and owner of Simply Ordered Solutions. She is a professional organizer helping working moms stay well by being balanced and prioritizing. She is also a mom who has an incredible story of having a vaginal birth with her second child after near death complications after C- Section with her first child.
Head to https://www.simplydarra.com/ to check out how Darra can help you conquer tangible and intangible clutter! You can also follow her on IG @simplydarra.
If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you! Stay connected with us by following us on IG @operationmist.
What M.I.S.T. Means to Us
Take a deeper dive into how Katherine's and Jessica's worlds divinely collided to create Operation M.I.S.T. Get a glimpse into how Katherine's second birth story was the catalyst to start it all. Learn more about what the M.I.S.T. acronym really means and how it is saving women's lives.
If you or a loved one is considering becoming pregnant, already pregnant, or postpartum, please head to https://www.operationmist.org/ to learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can serve you!