Let's Talk: Black Motherhood with Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo and Anthonia Akitunde

Did you know that women of color have the highest rates of maternal deaths in the developed world? Even in New York City alone, the mortality rate is around 12 times higher for black women as it is for white women, and four times higher, on average, nationally. Black women also are 60% more likely to experience hypertensive disorders like pre-eclampsia, and are more likely to die from as a result. These symptoms are exacerbated by an inescapable atmosphere of societal and systemic racism that can include the dismissal by physicians of their legitimate concerns and symptoms, the pre-conceived notions that black women are more likely to be single mothers, or the false belief that they are somehow better at dealing with pain. In this episode of Let’s Talk LIVE, Coach Colette sits down with Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo from African Health Now, and Anthonia Akitunde of Mater Mea.  The three dive deeper into the real challenges facing black women at the intersection of maternity, motherhood, and career. The guests also discuss their founder’s journeys, and how they make time in their hectic schedules for rest, relaxation and self-care. *** African Health Now provides free postpartum "maternity go boxes" that include the necessary health and hygiene supplies to support mothers and their newborns during their first weeks. Mater Mea helps black moms live their best lives, featuring real motherhood stories and expert advice on everything from managing the work-life juggle, to finding a midwife, to handling microaggressions at work. If you enjoyed this episode, why not share it on Instagram and tag @Coach_Colette! She’ll be sure to share your comments and big takeaways on her Instagram Stories. Thanks for listening and please make sure to give us a review on iTunes or Spotify or wherever you listen.