In honor of Pride Month, Episode 4 of The Birth Seat uplifts the lived experiences, needs, and resilience of Black LGBTQ+ birthing people. Centering queer and trans voices within the birth and postpartum space, we explore what it means to reclaim bodily autonomy, challenge cisnormative systems in healthcare, and build affirming, inclusive spaces for all who give birth.

In this episode, we discuss:

* The erasure of Queer and Trans parents in reproductive health conversations

* Why reproductive justice must include LGBTQ+ rights and gender-affirming care

* How providers, doulas, and birthworkers can create safer spaces for LGBTQ+ clients

* The legacy of Black Queer resistance in both parenting and community healing

Special Guests:

Christian Lovehall, Black Trans birthworker and community advocate

Dr. Keonna Watson, LGBTQ+ health educator and parent

Voices from the community reflecting on visibility, safety, and support during pregnancy and postpartum

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or you're an ally committed to equity, this episode invites all listeners to deepen their understanding of birth beyond binaries.

On this episode of The Birth Seat, we dive deep into Black Maternal Health Week with powerful, real stories from two Black women in Delaware - one joyful, one painful. These firsthand experiences shine a light on the reality of birth for Black mothers and why change is urgent. Stay tuned as a maternal health expert joins the conversation to break down what needs to shift and how we can reclaim our power.

Every story matters. Every voice counts. This is about justice.

In this episode of The Birth Seat, we explore the profound legacy and critical importance of doula work, particularly in Black communities. We’ll dive into the history of doulas as sacred birth workers, highlighting their role as advocates and caregivers who have long ensured safer, more empowered birth experiences.

We’ll also shine a spotlight on Black Mothers In Power’s Sankofa Doula Training and Certification Program, a transformative initiative designed to train and certify a new generation of culturally competent doulas dedicated to supporting Black mothers and families.

Joining us are special guest speakers who will share their experiences as Doulas, educators, and advocates. Together, we’ll discuss how the Sankofa program is reclaiming cultural traditions, improving maternal health outcomes, and addressing the racial disparities in birth care.