In today's episode, I will dive into the critical topic of improving maternal health outcomes for black women and the promising programs that are making a difference. Black women often face discrimination and stress during their pregnancies, birth and postpartum, leading to the highest rates of maternal mortality and health complications in the US.  However, there is hope on the horizon and Dr. Venice Hayes and Natalie Davis are joining me today to discuss the positive changes that are happening around this topic! Denise is the Senior Director of Research and community engagement at United States of Care and brings over 14 years of public health experience. And Natalie is the CEO and co-founder of United States of care with nearly two decades of shaping American health care policies.  I'm so thrilled to share this interview in honor of black maternal health week as a means to help raise awareness and support wider adoptions of these crucial programs and practices. And if you want to keep listening to learn more about the realities of black maternal health, I encourage you to listen to Episode 73 after this one.   Save $20 on your Birth Class today (limited time only) ! Have an even better birth with our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver. For every class sold, we are going to give away a free class to a mom that otherwise wouldn’t have been able to take part! CLICK HERE and SAVE $20 by entering the code GIVE on checkout (limited time only) And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!   Resources and Related Episodes "Bright Spots" Report from United States of Care Nurse Family Partnerships - Provides resources and support for first-time moms. Black Mom of Glowing - Peer support group for maternal mental health. Family Solutions - Provides resources and support for parents and children in rural communities in South Carolina Maven Clinic - Provides reproductive and family healthcare for members. Ocean Family Center - Has a program that gives free virtual psychotherapy appointments for mothers. Shades of Blue Project - Offers a postpartum support group through journaling in Houston, Texas. Spinning Babies - Provide resources on a physiological approach to preparing for and caring for birth. EP73: The Realities of Black Maternal Health