If you work in public health, then you are no doubt aware that, statistically, Black women are three to four times more likely to die from birth-related complications than their white counterparts. And while it’s important to understand the reasons behind these unacceptable and heartbreaking numbers, the more pressing question is: what is being done about it? Joining Dr. Joyee Washington on the podcast today is her friend and colleague, Dr. Nakeitra Burse to talk about how they, and other Black women like themselves, are working to improve maternal and health equity in Mississippi — the place they call home. Dr. Burse is the CEO of Six Dimensions, a public health consulting company that aims to create strategic, sustainable, and innovative solutions in public health with a focus on health equity and social justice. She is also a Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Leader. We use today’s conversation with Dr. Burse to delve into the state of Maternal health in Mississippi, the importance of building greater health equity, and the work being done by, and for, communities in Mississippi. You’ll also learn about Six Dimensions’ training, development, and outreach programs; what equity looks like in everyday practice; how we can do research that prioritizes communities, not just academics; and much more. Key Points From This Episode: Introducing today’s guest, Dr. Nakeitra Burse, the focus of her work, and how she founded her public health consulting company, Six Dimensions. [0:29] Why Six Dimensions is transitioning into becoming a nonprofit. [02:19] An overview of Six Dimensions’ Health and Racial Equity in Maternal Care course and their outreach efforts. [03:41] Why Dr. Burse chose to stay, work, and live in Mississippi. [06:49] Asking what equity looks like in everyday practice and taking the steps to build it. [10:37] Visiting the Two Mississippi Museums, the history depicted there, and how it relates to public health equity. [15:51] Maternal health in Mississippi and how Dr. Burse got started working in this area. [19:50] The healthcare solutions that are being driven by Black women in Mississippi. [25:58] Protecting your community when research is being done. [27:47] What brings Dr. Burse joy in her work: seeing Black women happy and safe in their births, pregnancies, and maternal health care outcomes. [31:53] Where you can find Six Dimensions online and details on their upcoming 5K walk. [34:10] If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and, leave a review!  For more transcripts, show notes, and more visit: https://joyeewashington.com/public-health-joy-podcast-season-3/