20. Preparing Black Mothers for Birth & Postpartum | Working with a Doula, Setting Boundaries, & More with Kris Elle

Welcome to season three of Behind the Throne! We are starting off the season with a special guest, Kris Elle, a Certified Doula, Certified Lactation Consultant. Kris is the Founder of Mother of Ease, a Black maternal and family health practice that specializes in supporting Black women and their families through pregnancy and birth. In this episode, Kris shares how she empowers clients to create their vision for their birth and postpartum journeys, setting boundaries with providers and family members, and learning to ask for help when we need it. Resources mentioned: Oh Sis, You’re Pregnant!: The Ultimate Guide to Black Pregnancy & Motherhood Some key takeaways from this episode include: Birth is one of those experiences that nothing can prepare you for. Many new mothers feel a mix of bewilderment, euphoria, grief, and everything in between. All those feelings are valid! When preparing for postpartum recovery, think about what you need to have on hand or have help with. Do you need freezer meals prepared? Does a clean kitchen keep you calm? Make a list and when someone offers to help, give them something from the list. Doulas support people emotionally, physically, and often spiritually through life transitions. There are birth doulas, postpartum doulas, and even death doulas. Mothers are the queens of the castle, but let’s be real: it’s not all ball gowns and glass slippers. On this podcast, we’re giving you a peek Behind the Throne at the privilege and responsibility of wearing the crown. Hosted by Helen Hope Kimbrough - a proud wife and mom of two adult sons - and Charlitta Hatch, a proud wife, married to her high school sweetheart, and a proud mom of two little ones. Get ready as we share jewels with each other and you around all things connected to motherhood! Connect with Us!:  Podcast Instagram YouTube Charlitta’s Instagram Helen’s Instagram