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The Savvy Black Birther

The Savvy Black Birther

By Takiya Sakina Ballard, Licensed Midwife

The Savvy Black Birther is a podcast that inspires, cultivates, validates and protects the voice of Black Mothers as consumers of healthcare in the United States. It equips the black and indigenous birthing person to become a savvy healthcare consumer during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. It is an educational and empowerment resource offering evidence-based information and is hosted by the community’s midwife Takiya Sakina Ballard, Certified Nurse Midwife.
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Uterus Don’t Fail Me Now: Living with Uterine Fibroids

The Savvy Black BirtherApr 14, 2021

00:00
46:04
Season Finale - Postpartum: The Forgotten Trimester

Season Finale - Postpartum: The Forgotten Trimester

Navigating the pregnancy and birth of a child can be overwhelming and rewarding too. Being tried and tested to come out on the other side of delivery with the gift you've been waiting for is the highlight of the journey.  But wait; what about the after?  The postpartum time is neglected in today’s society leaving women and birthing people feeling ill-prepared, underserved, and often lonely to cope with physical., mental, and emotional changes. Postpartum Physical Therapist Lashonda Jones and Licensed Perinatal Clinical Psychologist Dr. Angel Montfort discuss the postpartum period, the forgotten trimester, and clues for wisely preparing. Follow Lashonda Jones, Licensed Physical Therapist: Core Elevation Fitness Sign up for Lashonda's free 5 Day Diastasis Recti Challenge & additional resources postpartum resources here. You can also find Lashonda on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Follow Dr. Angel Montfort, Licensed Clinical Psychologist: Center for Maternal Mental Health You can also find Dr. Montfort on Instagram. DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.
Apr 21, 202149:49
Uterus Don’t Fail Me Now: Living with Uterine Fibroids

Uterus Don’t Fail Me Now: Living with Uterine Fibroids

Have you ever been diagnosed with uterine fibroids? What do you do when you feel like your uterus has failed you? Is it even possible to heal from uterine fibroids? Founder LaToya Dwight of “The Fibroid Pandemic”, a safe place helping women achieve confidence in healing from fibroids, shares her journey and offers sound information and empowerment.

LaToya Dwight, Founder of "The Fibroid Pandemic can be found online on Instagram @thefibroidpandemic <> on YouTube <> on Clubhouse @fibroidpandemic <> on the web at The Fibroid Pandemic  

Savvy Listeners get your free download from The Fibroid Pandemic: Top 3 Key Things to Know About Health Insurance  

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Apr 14, 202146:04
Pregnancy, Birth, Newborn, and Breastfeeding Hacks from the Community’s Experts

Pregnancy, Birth, Newborn, and Breastfeeding Hacks from the Community’s Experts

Want to know proven hacks to navigate the healthcare system as a person who is embarking on parenthood? Hear from community experts, a nurse clinician, a midwife, a pediatrician, and Lactation Consultant as they give expert advice on safely accessing maternal-child healthcare in our complicated and flawed healthcare system. Featuring guest experts, Pediatrician - Dr. Regine Brioché, Nurse - Katrice Carpenter, Midwife - Lodz Joseph-Lemon. 

You can find our guests here: Dr. Reginé Brioché - On Instagram @dr.rae_md -- Online: Tribeca Pediatrics - Crown Heights 

Katrice Carpenter, RNC-OB - On Instagram @KatricetheMonitrice -- Facebook - The Mother's Advocate -- Online: KatriceCarpenter.com 

Lodz Joseph-Lemon, CNM, MPH, CBC, CD - On Instagram @thehaitianmidwife -- Foundation for Advancement of Haitian Midwives, Inc (FAHM)

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Apr 07, 202158:31
Racism in American Healthcare Education

Racism in American Healthcare Education

Has it ever dawn on you that the healthcare provider that you’ve sat across from was once a student? An individual who was shaped into the professional they are today. Now granted, every individual is unique and may evolve differently. Nonetheless, it is when they are being educated that philosophies are formed. Wouldn’t it make sense to begin our reform there? Let’s hear what three healthcare professionals in training have to say; a student nurse, student midwife, and resident.

Featured Guests:

Melissa Banfield, LPN - follow on Instagram here and here.

Dr. Rachel Bervell, MD MS - follow on Instagram here.

Ashleigh Evans - follow here and on Instagram here.

To build on the efforts, Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, Congresswoman Alma Adams, Senator Cory Booker, and members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021 needs your support! The Black Maternal Health Momnibus builds on existing legislation to comprehensively address every dimension of the maternal health crisis in America.

There's a second legislature that passed the U.S. House of Representatives introduced by Congresswoman Robin Kelly. To learn more about the Helping MOMS Act, click here.

If you are looking to take action on the important issue of maternal health in America and more specifically Black Maternal Health, you can:

1. Reach out to your Members of Congress in the House of Representatives and the Senate to make yourself heard. Look up your Representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives here and your Senators here. 2. Spread the word via social media. 3. GET INVOLVED in your community!

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Mar 31, 202101:12:07
All Things Sex: During Pregnancy and Postpartum

All Things Sex: During Pregnancy and Postpartum

In this episode, we discuss all things sex during pregnancy and postpartum. We will talk about myths and facts and give you all the tips and tricks to having a healthy sex life during pregnancy and after. Featuring Certified Sex & Dating Coach Myisha Battle. 

This episode is sponsored by Allbodies. Myisha Battle can be found here: Podcasts:  Down for Whatever & Dating White   <>   Website:  myishabattle.com   <>   Social Media:  Twitter @MyishaBattle & Instagram @MyishaBattle   <>   You can also find Myisha's classes on Allbodies.  Allbodies made a special offer for all Savvy Black Birther Listeners - they're offering $5 off a monthly Allbodies membership. Instead of the regular $17.99, they've offered listeners a $5 discount for just $12.99/ month. Sign up at bit.ly/Savvy-Allbodies.  

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Mar 24, 202101:02:20
The Evolution of Me #HERSTORY

The Evolution of Me #HERSTORY

Listen as the host of The Savvy Black Birther podcast, Takiya Sakina Ballard, Licensed Midwife, tells the story of her journey through life, from her childhood until now. This is a must-listen-to audio autobiography for anyone on a journey of self-discovery. This is #herstory , a story of perseverance!
Mar 17, 202101:23:42
The Truth About Black Birth Series: The Nykeba Sonubi Story

The Truth About Black Birth Series: The Nykeba Sonubi Story

This episode features the birth story of Nykeba Sonubi, a South Florida-based creator and entrepreneur with a vast background in sales, education, marketing, and storytelling.  Nykeba’s story is one of tests and trials; in her account, she describes how she learned to block out the noise of expectations, bullying, and the unknown to trust her body, her baby, and ultimately herself!

Where can Nykeba be found?

Social media handles:

Instagram: @nykeba / @corirene  / @beyondmytitle

Facebook: facebook.com/corireneco  /  facebook.com/beyondmytitle

Websites:

Cori René

Beyond My Title

LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Mar 10, 202101:11:21
Infertility and Pregnancy Loss in the Black Community featuring Erica McAfee

Infertility and Pregnancy Loss in the Black Community featuring Erica McAfee

In this episode, we explore infertility and pregnancy loss in the Black community with special guest Erica McAfee, Founder of Sisters in Loss, a community of black women replacing silence with storytelling. Grab a cup of tea and listen to this powerful message! 

Find Erica Here! 

Website: Sisters in Loss     Special Offer: 35% Off Bereavement for Doula Training - simply click here and enter CODE 35OFF 

Instagram | Facebook | Youtube

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Mar 03, 202101:05:49
The Truth About Black Birth Series: The Helanah Warren Story

The Truth About Black Birth Series: The Helanah Warren Story

This episode features the birth story of Helanah Warren, who is an entrepreneur who helps working professionals create & commit to their wellness goals. She is a Plant-based chef, Licensed Massage Therapist, Yoga Instructor, and Meditation Educator. Early on, she knew that she wanted to have a natural birth when she became pregnant, and in this episode, she talks about the importance of preparedness. Her journey is sure to inspire and inform! 

Helanah can be followed on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook 

Helanah's work can be found on these websites: HelloHelanah & Soulful Affirmations 

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Feb 24, 202152:58
Self-Advocacy: Understanding Your Rights and Learning How to Fight For Them

Self-Advocacy: Understanding Your Rights and Learning How to Fight For Them

Those who champion the birthing community encourage birthing people to self-advocate, but what exactly is self-advocacy? In this episode, we explore this concept with community advocates Nicole JeanBaptiste and La Chanda Marcelle-Moor.  

Nicole JeanBaptiste can be found on her website: Sésé Doula Services and on Instagram: @sese_doula 

La Chanda Marcelle-Moor can be found on her website: Rutu Lobi and on these social media platforms: Instagram @rutulobi and Linkedin.

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified professional.

Feb 19, 202147:27
The Truth About Black Birth Series - Breaking it Down: The Shannel Pearman Story

The Truth About Black Birth Series - Breaking it Down: The Shannel Pearman Story

Season Finale (Part 2): This episode reviews the birth story of Shannel Pearman, an Emmy Nominated News Reporter who had a stroke secondary to postpartum preeclampsia, and it almost cost her her life. This episode dissects this birth story offering listeners consumer education and self-advocacy literacy.
Nov 18, 202001:12:38
The Truth About Black Birth Series: The Shannel Pearman Story
Nov 11, 202033:02
Black Midwifery: Past, Present, and Future ~ A real and relevant conversation for the community!

Black Midwifery: Past, Present, and Future ~ A real and relevant conversation for the community!

An in-depth conversation with midwives representing Black Midwifery’s past, present, and future. This is a real and relevant conversation for the community to inspire strategic partnerships and support.   

Special Guests:  

Elder Midwife Umm Salaamah “Sondra” Abdullah-Zaimah, MSN, CNM, CPM, CCM, CD - Website: Abundance Birth

Midwife Aiyana Davison, CNM WHNP - Website: Vagina Chronicles Twitter: @thevagchronicle Instagram: @thevaginachronicles 

Elder Midwife Afua Hassan, LM - Website: The Birthing Place Twitter: @AfuaHassan Instagram/YouTube: @TheBirthingPlace 

Student Midwife Efe Osaren, CD, CLC  Website: Doula Chronicles Twitter: @Sassye Instagram/Facebook: @DoulaChronicles 

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Nov 04, 202001:36:43
Cesarean Section: Not Just Birth. It’s Major Surgery!

Cesarean Section: Not Just Birth. It’s Major Surgery!

In this episode, we will discuss surgical birth with two Obstetrician-Gynecologists, both of BIPOC descent, one practicing in the American healthcare system, and the other practicing for the National Health Service (NHS). We will examine the similarities and differences in obstetrical care and discuss surgical birth when both countries experience one of the starkest examples of racial health inequalities; maternal mortality.  

Featuring:  Dr. Sharee Livingston, DO (USA-based OBGYN) - Patients R Waiting - Diversifying Doula Initiatives 

Dr. Ria Clarke, BM MA (UK-based OBGYN) - @thedoctormummy  

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Oct 28, 202001:40:09
The God We Trust: How the Electronic Fetal Monitoring System has Become God of the Labor Room

The God We Trust: How the Electronic Fetal Monitoring System has Become God of the Labor Room

We talk about the electronic fetal monitoring system, the system that all laboring individuals are connected to when they enter the hospital system to birth. This episode will not disappoint. It’s jam-packed with tons of information that YOU, the birthing person, have too long been without.  

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Oct 21, 202055:27
Sonogram: The Great Pretender

Sonogram: The Great Pretender

“Sonogram: The Great Pretender” offers listeners an abundance of information about obstetrical ultrasound. It equips you to make informed decisions regarding sonogram examination during your pregnancy journey.

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.


Oct 14, 202047:54
Deconstructing the Prenatal Visit

Deconstructing the Prenatal Visit

An in-depth conversation with experienced midwives from the hospital, birth center, and home settings who talk about the components of the typical prenatal visit with special guests: 

Paola Giraldo, CNM, MSN (Brooklyn, New York) - Instagram: @rebirth_midwifery

AND 

Trinisha Williams, CM, LM, MPH, FACCE, LCCE, LC (Brooklyn, New York) - Haven Midwifery Birthing Center 

Please donate here!

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Oct 07, 202001:29:52
Pregnancy Wellness

Pregnancy Wellness

This episode details the concept of “pregnancy wellness” and offers the listener the opportunity to explore the life and pregnancy experiences of our guest Nykeba Sonubi as she journeys towards her personal wellness. Grab a cup of tea and listen to this wonderful story!  

Where can Nykeba be found?

Social media handles:

Instagram: @nykeba / @corirene  / @beyondmytitle

Facebook: facebook.com/corireneco  /  facebook.com/beyondmytitle

Websites:

Cori René    Use code SAVVYBLACKBIRTHER to receive 10% off your next Cori René order!

Beyond My Title

LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Sep 30, 202001:08:10
Vetting the Healthcare Provider

Vetting the Healthcare Provider

This episode details the how-tos of vetting a healthcare provider. How do you know if you’re picking a good one? 

For access to the document mentioned in the podcast, click here!

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Sep 23, 202043:52
Dismantling the Medical Industrial Complex: Break the Bitch Down

Dismantling the Medical Industrial Complex: Break the Bitch Down

This episode details the pitfalls of the Medical Industrial Complex (MIC), how to recognize them, and how to safeguard yourself when birthing in the MIC. We're talking about ”breaking the bitch down,” the Medical Industrial Complex that is, and the constructs it conditions birthing healthcare consumers to have.

Guest Information

Dr. Stephanie Mitchell, CNM DNP MSN  can be found on Instagram @doctor_midwife

Support Birth Sanctuary Gainsville! Financial contributions can be made by clicking here

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Sep 16, 202001:24:59
Becoming a Savvy Healthcare Consumer

Becoming a Savvy Healthcare Consumer

This episode details the how-tos of becoming a savvy healthcare consumer. It describes the ins and outs of the American Healthcare System and how to navigate it wisely.

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Sep 09, 202024:33
The Savvy Black Birther Podcast

The Savvy Black Birther Podcast

This trailer describes the purpose and mission of the podcast. It is a personal invitation from the creator and host Takiya Sakina Ballard, CNM, to you, the listener, to sit back and enjoy the show. You’re welcome to listen and be informed. Be equipped. And be Savvy Black Birthers!

DISCLAIMER: The Savvy Black Birther Podcast host and guests do not give legal or healthcare advice, rather information derived from the evidence and/or extensive practice experience. No information recorded should be taken as advice about your personal situation or healthcare decisions. This information is disseminated for the sole purpose of education and empowerment. If you need legal or healthcare advice or information, seek out a well-vetted and suitably qualified healthcare professional.

Sep 02, 202003:01