A distressing reality for Black women is that we are three to four times more likely to experience pregnancy-related deaths than white women. That’s why it was important for us to bring on Tracie Collins, former Doula and midwife of 17+ years and CEO and Founder of the National Black Doula’s Association (NBDA), to discuss the importance of having Black doulas and/or midwives when it comes to birthing. Tracie shares personal experiences as well as expert insight on how the NBDA is a resource for Black birthing people, trends or things that have stayed the same in the industry over the years, and how Black and brown people are reclaiming what was stolen from them and rediscovering our value in the birth space. Dawn also shares her own birth story including how she almost died and what saved her, while Akilah shares her reservations about pregnancy. Whether you are a mother or not yet, you never want to be one or can’t, this episode is relatable for all. It stresses the importance of how representation empowers birthing people to invest in actively choosing a birthing team from a doula, midwife, medical team, and anyone else that will create a space for them to feel safe and supported through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Tune in to hear from three different perspectives on Black womens’ birth and learn key ways you can advocate for yourself as a birthing person. For all birthwork, doulas in your geographic region, or training as a birth professional, visit the NBDA at www.blackdoulas.org and follow @nationalblackdoulas on Instagram. To connect with and learn more from Tracie, visit www.traciecollinsofficial.com or follow her on social media. Instagram: @traciecollins Facebook: @traciecollinsofficial TikTok: @iamtraciecollins  YouTube: @Tracie_Collins To learn more about our hosts, check out their Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter pages. Instagram: Akilah- @akilahffriend Dawn-  @_dawnmontgomery Monuments To Me Show: @monumentstome Dawn - YouTube:  @BreakofDM  and Twitter: @_dawnmontgomery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices