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As a doula and advocate for mothers, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is that every woman feels safe, seen, and supported throughout her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. But the reality is, not all women are receiving the care they deserve — especially Black mothers. In fact, Black women in the United States are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women — a heartbreaking and unacceptable reality that demands action, awareness, and systemic change. That’s why today’s discussion is so important because we need to spread this message.
I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell about the Black maternal health crisis. This discussion was full of passion and vulnerability where Dr. Bayo generously shared her personal birth story, the critical data we all need to know, and powerful, practical ways we can begin to create change. While I may not share this lived experience, I believe it’s my responsibility — as a woman, a mother, and a birth professional — to listen, learn, and use my platform to help protect and support every mother. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about improving maternal care in our country and around the world.
Who is Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell?
Dr. Bayo, a family medicine physician and nationally recognized health equity advocate, is the founder and CEO of Beyond Clinical Walls, a platform that delivers credible health information through social media and podcasts. She’s also a powerful TEDx speaker, where her talk “Do No Harm” has garnered over 2 million views and sparked a nationwide conversation about the maternal health crisis. Dr. Bayo is a passionate advocate for improving healthcare inequalities, and her work as the medical director for urgent care clinics at Saint Mary’s Health Network and her numerous leadership roles — including serving on the CDC Community and Public Engagement Workgroup and the Nevada Patient Protection Commission — have solidified her as a trailblazer in healthcare.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, I chatted with Dr. Bayo about the black maternal health crisis and got the details we all need to know. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
- I know that your own birth story took an unexpected turn. Would you be comfortable sharing what happened with our listeners and how that experience shifted your perspective on maternal care?
- You’ve been such a powerful voice in addressing the Black Maternal Health Crisis. Could you share with us some of the most impactful statistics or facts that really highlight the urgency of this issue?
- As both a medical director and healthcare advocate, what are some concrete steps healthcare providers and organizations can take to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for Black women during pregnancy and childbirth and ensure their concerns are being heard and addressed?
- You’ve been an outspoken advocate for health equity. What do you feel has been the most challenging part of trying to change the conversation around maternal health, especially for Black women?
- What’s one thing you wish every expectant mother knew when it comes to advocating for herself during pregnancy, labor, and delivery?
- As a Black female physician, what message do you have for other women of color who are planning to start their own families?
- Mental health plays such a huge role in the overall maternal health experience. How can we better support the mental and emotional well-being of mothers, particularly in communities of color?
- Your TEDx talk, Do No Harm, has had such a profound impact, reaching millions of people. What’s the most common response you hear from viewers, and how does that resonate with you personally?
- Before we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts or advice you’d like to leave with our listeners?
Having this conversation with Dr. Bayo was incredibly eye-opening, and I’m so grateful for her leadership, vulnerability, and strength. We cannot turn a blind eye to the disparities that exist in maternal care — especially for Black women. As she reminded us, change starts with awareness, education, and advocacy. And her 3 C’s can help us receive the care that we deserve.
If you’re an expectant mom, a healthcare provider, or simply someone who wants to be part of the solution, I hope this episode encourages you to listen more deeply, speak up more boldly, and advocate for better care for all mothers. Because every mom deserves to be protected, heard, and valued — no matter her race, background, or birth plan. Let’s continue to show up for one another and be part of the change our maternal healthcare system so desperately needs.
Dr. Bayo’s Resources
Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to equal maternal rights and supportive care for all!