A Tribe Called Fertility

In today's episode, Dr. Jill and Sinora are joined by Mrs. Tracy Dominguez (Demi's mother), Xavier DeLeon (Demi's fiance), & Mrs. Monique Himes (Xavier's mother) as they share their maternal mortality story in pursuit of justice for Demi & baby Malakh. Tracy is joined by fiance and father Xavier, as well as his mother Monique as they share the emotional events leading up to the loss of Demi and baby Malakh. Tracy Dominguez pursues wanting to make a change for maternal mortality and the medical care for pregnant women in the United States. Tracy is the co-founder/advocate of “Justice for Demi & baby Malakhi”, named after her daughter Demi, and grandson, Malakhi, who both passed away due to medical negligence and with this, Tracy is bringing awareness to maternal mortality and racial-equality for pregnant women-of-color, advocating that their voices be heard. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Wine down with us in this episode where Jill and Sinora share their birth story of C-section delivery. Be warned before pressing play: this is not your typical boring podcast episode! Listening to this episode requires you to be in a bubble bath, a wine of your choosing and be ready to laugh with us as Dr. Jill and Sinora recounts the story of the birth of their children and how painful, agonizing, traumatic and all so worth it it all was. Topics Covered: Jill and Sinora's long and challenging C-Section birth delivery How God send you angels when in distress Skin to skin & breastfeeding A child's personality inside the utero is the same when they are out of the utero About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In this third and final episode in our three-part series on Pregnancy & Maternal Loss, Shawnee Renee Benton-Gibson, the mother of the late Shamony Makeba Gibson (who died from a pulmonary embolism two weeks after giving birth to her second child) discusses how she authentically and unapologetically advocates for quality, antiracist maternal healthcare, because Black wombs matter. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In this second part of our interview Dr. Shawnee we discussed reproductive trauma, postpartum depression and psychosis. Dr. Shawnee Renee Benton-Gibson is the mother of the late Shamony Makeba Gibson, who died from a pulmonary embolism two weeks after giving birth to her second child. In this and previous episode she shares how she unapologetically advocates for quality, antiracist maternal healthcare. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

As we finish up part two of our three part pregnancy and maternal loss series, Omari Maynard continues to share his experience with losing his partner after the birth of their second child, and Dr. Angela Clack provides a psychological perspective on maternal loss. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

The second episode in our three-part series on Pregnancy & Maternal Loss features an interview with a young man, Omari Maynard, who lost his partner (Shamony Makeba Gibson) due to maternal loss two weeks after giving birth to their second child. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

This is the last episode of the 3 part series with Jason Whiley who generously shared with us his and his wife's infertility story and his perspective on various topics. This is a series that you shouldn't miss as there are so many golden nuggets in every minute. Jason beautifully described his debut to fatherhood, how the black community should share information more and how black women should talk about real things more to uplift and help one another. Topics Covered: What is Fatherhood to Jason How celebrities can be glamorizing infertility How difficult parenting is and nobody tells you How Black women don't talk about infertility Normalizing sharing concepts and new ideas to your community and friends Creating a histogram for generations About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families, and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Jason Wiley: With over 10 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Jason has been responsible for creating, developing, and executing a variety of marketing programs. Working with numerous successful artists, entertainers and cultural icons has challenged Jason to create a variety of multi-level marketing strategies that focused on the greatest exposure and financial return for both the artist and the company. Strategies for each artist had to be different and unique in order to cut through the competition and successfully reach a paying consumer that in today's world is less inclined to spend money on music. It was only through proper analysis, planning, budgeting and strategizing that Jason was able to meet our financial goals and successfully launch artist careers, albums, and brands on a domestic and international level. Marketing multi-dimensional artists whose daily activity have an influence on their brand has driven Jason to not only be able to create long term plans, but also able to revise marketing efforts quickly and effectively. Through the years, Jason has been responsible for forecasting budgets, budget analysis, business development, media planning, ad creation, strategic planning, project management, team management and building while overseeing implementation of all marketing efforts. Connect with Jason Wiley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-wiley555 Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Welcome to Part 2 of 3 part series with Jason Wiley. This episode was supposedly a pre-production meet-up that was made in the stars to be a gift of an episode that it is today. Continue on listening and learn about the difference between fostering and adopting a child, how Jason dealt with the grief of loss every step of the way. Topics Covered: Fertility misconceptions towards Black people How Black couples tend to wait first to get settled before trying for a baby How the food we eat and our modern lifestyle can also be a factor Jannet Jackson having a baby at 50 Traveling to be able to find the right specialist The “waiting” part with insurance is detrimental Difference between fostering and adopting About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families, and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Jason Wiley: With over 10 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Jason has been responsible for creating, developing, and executing a variety of marketing programs. Working with numerous successful artists, entertainers and cultural icons has challenged Jason to create a variety of multi-level marketing strategies that focused on the greatest exposure and financial return for both the artist and the company. Strategies for each artist had to be different and unique in order to cut through the competition and successfully reach a paying consumer that in today's world is less inclined to spend money on music. It was only through proper analysis, planning, budgeting and strategizing that Jason was able to meet our financial goals and successfully launch artist careers, albums, and brands on a domestic and international level. Marketing multi-dimensional artists whose daily activity have an influence on their brand has driven Jason to not only be able to create long term plans, but also able to revise marketing efforts quickly and effectively. Through the years, Jason has been responsible for forecasting budgets, budget analysis, business development, media planning, ad creation, strategic planning, project management, team management and building while overseeing implementation of all marketing efforts. Connect with Jason Wiley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-wiley555 Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Hold on to your seats as we dive into Part 1 of 3 parts episode of Jason and his wife's fertility journey. We get a fresh take on the fertility lens as Jason shares from the male partner's perspective. In this episode, we learn about Jason's challenges, the different avenues they took, and eventually taking the process of adopting their first daughter. Lean back, relax, and grab your favorite drink as this episode talks about heavy topics in an easy-going and very chill way in the way our guest shared his story. Enjoy! Topics Covered: Having family as winning Jason and his wife's fertility journey How fertility issues are mentally taxing to men to Dealing with friends and family asking why you don't have a baby Heartaches of expecting when they are not coming How expensive dealing with infertility is How the baby's biological mother choose the adopting parents About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families, and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Jason Wiley: With over 10 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Jason has been responsible for creating, developing, and executing a variety of marketing programs. Working with numerous successful artists, entertainers and cultural icons has challenged Jason to create a variety of multi-level marketing strategies that focused on the greatest exposure and financial return for both the artist and the company. Strategies for each artist had to be different and unique in order to cut through the competition and successfully reach a paying consumer that in today's world is less inclined to spend money on music. It was only through proper analysis, planning, budgeting and strategizing that Jason was able to meet our financial goals and successfully launch artist careers, albums, and brands on a domestic and international level. Marketing multi-dimensional artists whose daily activity have an influence on their brand has driven Jason to not only be able to create long term plans, but also able to revise marketing efforts quickly and effectively. Through the years, Jason has been responsible for forecasting budgets, budget analysis, business development, media planning, ad creation, strategic planning, project management, team management and building while overseeing implementation of all marketing efforts. Connect with Jason Wiley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-wiley555 Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Fair warning! This episode will make you cry, laugh, and feel all the feelings. Join us as Dr. Jill's good friend, Elisha shared the story of her motherhood and how she adopted her sister's daughter along with the gifts, opportunities, and challenges that came with it. Parental issues, breaking generational curses and individual healing for the collective healing is the heart of this episode. Topics Covered: Black families have been adopting their children traditionally and did not have the need to go through the formality Elisha's engagement Elisha's story of how she adopted her sister's daughter Breaking the cycles of addiction The challenge of co-parenting a child of relatives Jill's childhood story About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families, and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Elisha Stevenson: Elisha has worked in education for over fifteen years. The majority of her career has been spent in the K-12 sector and she has recently transitioned to a role in higher education. In her roles, she has always been a staunch advocate for the underserved and minority groups. She is currently a grants project manager for Rowan School of Medicine. She received her undergraduate degree from her coveted HBCU, Delaware State University, and her Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University. She is happily married to the love of her life, DeShawn and they celebrated ten years of marriage in 2020. Together they have an amazing quartet of children. In 2018, Elisha took a leap of faith and started her own business. Through Perfectly Placed, she provides the cleaning and organizational services to families and businesses in the tri-state area. Connect with Elisha Stevenson, M.Ed.: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisha-stevenson-m-ed-711b8215b Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectlyplaced1/?hl=en References: Before and After Reel of Elisha's work with Dr. Jill: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CTyOWNtA5aG/. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Can you imagine finally having the very thing you want the most in life and at the same time losing someone you love? In this episode, Dr. Meagan Vermeulen shares her infertility journey, her birth story, and how she lost her brother around the time when she gave birth to her baby. We are in absolute awe hearing her story and listening to her talk about her passion for bringing in diversity and inclusion and being a voice to those who feel very fragile and voiceless. Topics Covered: Dr. Vermeulen's Infertility story Dr. Vermeulen's is very concerned about justice and equity in her work Showing vulnerability as a doctor How procedures sometimes can be dehumanizing How women in infertility journey can be fragile to set boundaries and use their voice Advocating for yourself Dr. Megan's birth story during the wake of his brother About Dr. Meagan Vermeulen: Having been on the “other side of the stethoscope” since a teen, including her own journey through infertility, Meagan Vermeulen brings a unique perspective to her role as a Family Physician and medical educator. Dr. Vermeulen has a longstanding commitment to helping her patients navigate the often troubling waters of the healthcare system with dignity, respect, and compassion while delivering evidence-based, exceptional care to her patients while training the next generation of Family Physicians in this tradition. Dr. Meagan Vermeulen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine in New Jersey. She is also the medical director for Rowan Family Medicine, Mullica Hill in Sewell, and the Founding Program Director for the Inspira Family Medicine Residency Program, Mullica Hill. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a concentration in Molecular Genetics from King's College in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and completed her medical degree from MCP-Hahnemann (now Drexel) College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Vermeulen completed her residency training in Family Medicine at Virtual Health in Voorhees and was named a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians in 2019. In 2021, Dr. Vermeulen was selected as an inaugural fellow in the ACGME DEI Leadership Learning Community Pilot Fellowship to help promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice in medical education and the field of medicine. She is passionate about teaching medicine and creating a future of Family Medicine that is truly reflective of the communities it serves. She lives with her husband of over 20 years and daughter in South Jersey. Connect with Dr. Meagan Vermeulen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meagan-vermeulen-m-d-faafp-78ab7318 Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Lean in as we listen to Dr. Felicia Sumner's birth stories, postpartum scare and lessons she has shared with us in this episode. Dr. Sumner is a survivor and evidence that even with her experience and knowledge, her birth story was not an exemption to the collective experience of black mother's battle to high mortality rate. We hope that you picked up a thing or two from this episode and enjoyed it as much as we have. We are definitely looking forward to having Dr. Sumner back! Topics Covered: Not using contraceptives helps with healthy fertility journey Dr. Sumner's birth stories Severe hemorrhage Importance of having family around postpartum Why having a doula can be so beneficial during your delivery What your stomach should feel like after delivery Top 4 tips from Dr. Sumner Always ask questions About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Dr. Felicia Sumner: Dr Felecia Sumner Functional Medicine Physician & Co-owner Synergize Direct Primary Care Dr. Felecia Sumner is a board-certified family & functional medicine physician, nationally- recognized speaker, best-selling author and personal survivor of severe postpartum complications. As a physician who encountered dynamics causing chronic illness and burnout early in her medical career, she now uses her Direct Primary Care practice and functional medicine training to live out her aspirations and give back to her patients in a more meaningful way. Dr. Sumner is a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and Crozer Family Medicine Residency with additional training from the Institute for Functional Medicine, School of Applied Functional Medicine, and Functional Medicine University. Of personal note, Dr. Sumner lives in Delaware County, PA with her loving husband and 3 feisty yet angelic daughters. She is the owner and physician at Synergize Direct Primary Care - a family medicine practice aimed to provide better access, service, and value to her patients and get to the root cause of disease. Connect with Dr. Felicia Sumner: Website: synergizedpc.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drfeleciasumner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfeleciasumner/?hl=en Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Hey tribe! This episode is a special one as we are hearing from the ATCF kids! Join us and listen to Gavin, Jemma and Noah's fun episode! Amari couldn't make it but you'll definitely here more from the ATCF kids in future episodes Topics Covered: Straight testimony of what it's like to have twins from Gavin and Jemma Noah's fertility advice, quotable quotes and wisdom About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility Listen to your favorite podcast platforms: Anchor Apple podcasts Google Podcast Pocket Casts Radio Public Spotify --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

This is part 3 of 3 series episodes where Daina Troy shares with us her journey of having twin Neurodivergent sons. In the previous episode, we talked about systems, asking for support and lists to help you survive the first months of motherhood as twin mom. In this final episode of the 3-part series, we shared about shopping for twins and how there are market shows for parents to get twin products from, how color coding your children is a mental health wellness practice and how it's like to be a neurodivergent mom. Topics Covered: Shopping for twins Identical and fraternal twins Color coding twins Twins market Neurodivergent parenting Recognizing the label and recognizing neurodivergent kids' gifts and extra care that needs Twin thing Childcare for twins The sacrifices parents make especially with twins The excruciating first shower after birth About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Daina Troy: Daina Troy is mother to Evan and Ethan, 8-year-old neurodiverse twin boys, and resides in South Jersey with her family. She serves as the Associate Director of the Makuu Black Cultural Center, a cultural center of University Life at the University of Pennsylvania for students of the African Diaspora. She co-teaches the History of People of African Descent at the University of Pennsylvania with Dr. Brian Peterson and Rev. Dr. Charles Howard through the Department of Africana Studies. Prior to entering higher education, Ms. Troy enjoyed a career in urban music and marketing in New York City and Los Angeles. A Philly native, Daina loves hip-hop, good vibes, and good people. Connect with Daina: Email: richie17@upenn.edu Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

This is part 2 of 3 series episodes where Daina Troy shares with us her journey of having twin Neurodivergent sons. In the previous episode, we learned about her birth story and nooks and crannies of being a mom to twins. She also shared her passion and work. In this episode, we got a little more deeper and talked about the systems and lists that will save your life as a mom to twins which Jill masterfully crafted. You can get access to this if you hit us up on Instagram @atribecalledfertility or email us at atribecalledfertility@gmail.com. Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful things and it is also the most excruciating experience for mothers. The take away from us in this episode is to build your system that supports yourself and ask for help from families when needed - you are not meant to do this alone. This episode is especially informative for those of you who are twin moms. Topics Covered: Avoiding stress in the entire pregnancy journey and how your partner can support you in this Not glamourizing carrying twins Breastfeeding twins Having newborn twins is a family affair - ask for help from family who can alternately help around the house and taking care of the babies after birth Jill uses systems, checklists, and schedules whenever and wherever! Jill's list Feeding twins Mothering your children and giving them tools to express themselves Parenting in the modern times and navigating about family members About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Daina Troy: Daina Troy is mother to Evan and Ethan, 8-year-old neurodiverse twin boys, and resides in South Jersey with her family. She serves as the Associate Director of the Makuu Black Cultural Center, a cultural center of University Life at the University of Pennsylvania for students of the African Diaspora. She co-teaches the History of People of African Descent at the University of Pennsylvania with Dr. Brian Peterson and Rev. Dr. Charles Howard through the Department of Africana Studies. Prior to entering higher education, Ms. Troy enjoyed a career in urban music and marketing in New York City and Los Angeles. A Philly native, Daina loves hip-hop, good vibes, and good people. Connect with Daina: Email: richie17@upenn.edu Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

This is part 1 of 3 series episodes where Daina Troy shares with us her journey of having twin Neurodivergent sons. Her birth story and motherhood really amazed us and it shed light on a lot of things that are so glamourized about having twin kids. While we celebrate our kids, our family and our mother so deeply, we also want to bring topics out in the open and share with you the good, the bad and the ugly just as they are - unfiltered. She also shared with us her previous work of working with Afro families for their kids to get into college and stay in college and thrive. Topics Covered: Dr. Troy's background Never think your identity is deficit A toast to live before the kids A day in a life of a twin mom Using an app to keep track of the twin's schedule What it's like being pregnant with twins Dr. Troy's twin pregnancy journey experience being used in research Dr. Troy's birth story Hesitation of mothers posting pregnancy news in Social Media when experiencing high-risk pregnancy Wanting to stay independent and put focus and utmost care on the children mothers are carrying towards the end of their pregnancy About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About Daina Troy: Daina Troy is mother to Evan and Ethan, 8-year-old neurodiverse twin boys, and resides in South Jersey with her family. She serves as the Associate Director of the Makuu Black Cultural Center, a cultural center of University Life at the University of Pennsylvania for students of the African Diaspora. She co-teaches the History of People of African Descent at the University of Pennsylvania with Dr. Brian Peterson and Rev. Dr. Charles Howard through the Department of Africana Studies. Prior to entering higher education, Ms. Troy enjoyed a career in urban music and marketing in New York City and Los Angeles. A Philly native, Daina loves hip-hop, good vibes, and good people. Connect with Daina: Email: richie17@upenn.edu Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility Listen to your favorite podcast platforms: Anchor Apple podcasts Google Podcast Pocket Casts Radio Public Spotify --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Markiya Fagan graciously shared her story and how she battled infertility and conceived her daughter through embryo adoption. We learned so much from this episode and the discussion has shed so much light on shame, marriage conflicts and how infertility affects your mental health as a woman and how it can also strengthen your relationship with yourself and your partner. Having a family does not always look like the conventional way that we know it. It can happen in a multitude of different ways and we should normalize that and be part of the movement to remove shame from any part of the journey. We hope that you learn from and enjoy this episode as much as we have! Topics Covered: Markiya's background and story Depending on your state, you can receive an embryo as embryo adoption or donation. Markiya faced female and male factor infertility Infertility can affect your marriage Feeling of inadequacy and not being enough during infertility journey How infertility can also strengthen your marriage and having the baby becomes icing on the cake Gabrielle Union's story Where frozen embryos go How much embryo adoption could cost Meeting with a psychologist as a requirement in the process to prepare the parents well Empowering your child to have language to be able to deal with her situation and will not catch her by surprise when in the future she bump into her genetic siblings About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. About The Markiya Fagan: Markiya is an Empowerment Strategist. She is Isaiah 54 Woman bringing hope to barren people and barren communities. Under this mandate, she founded Isaiah 54 International Ministries, which currently serves as the umbrella organization for Journey To The Ring, a ministry for marriage minded singles and open wounds, a ministry for those battling infertility, grief from child loss and sexual brokenness. She helps people discover and live in purpose through her life coaching practice, and also acts as a consultant providing strategic solutions for schools, businesses and nonprofit organizations. At the age of 38, with virginity intact, Markiya married the love of her life, Robert Fagan. Together, they strive to demonstrate the power of God's love and redemption and marriage. And side by side they fought infertility and welcomed their princess, Abigail into their forever tale. Markiya's formal education includes a Bachelor of Science in Urban, Early and Middle Childhood Education from Penn State University and a Master's in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University. She has also ascertained certificates in faith based and spiritual counseling and professional coaching. And the title of author has been recently added with the publication of her book, Journey to the ring, which is now available on Amazon. Connect with Markiya: Website: markiyafagan.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaiah54woman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Isaiah54woman Connect with Us: Website: https://atribecalledfertility.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Wine down with us in this episode where Jill and Sinora share their birth story of C-section delivery. Be warned before pressing play: this is not your typical boring podcast episode! Listening to this episode requires you to be in a bubble bath, a wine of your choosing and be ready to laugh with us as Dr. Jill and Sinora recounts the story of the birth of their children and how painful, agonizing, traumatic and all so worth it it all was. Topics Covered: Jill and Sinora's long and challenging C-Section birth delivery How God send you angels when in distress Skin to skin & breastfeeding A child's personality inside the utero is the same when they are out of the utero About The Show: A Tribe Called Fertility is a platform to share conversations about maternal health, black families and their experiences around fertility. Our mission is to provide support and possible solutions to decrease birth disparities for black babies and maternal mortality outcomes for black women. Read more about the hosts and their birth stories in Our Stories page. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atribecalledfertility/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/atcf_podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMbjB2PHM2LLmc3_rzX0EEw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atribecalledfertility Listen to your favorite podcast platforms: Anchor - https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility Apple podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-tribe-called-fertility/id1537464039 https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8xZmQ5NzIwOC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== Pocket Casts - https://pca.st/uq7wg0c7 Radio Public - https://radiopublic.com/a-tribe-called-fertility-6nLlgj Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/68xJMA65BNEMf7g84k3Pg5 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Welcome to Episode 2, Season 2 of “A Tribe Called Fertility”. On this special two-part segment, Dr Jill and Sinora interview Stacey D. Stewart, President and CEO of March of Dimes. March of Dimes is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the health of mothers and babies. In part 2, Stewart talks about the high U.S. preterm birth and infant mortality rates despite all the plentiful resources, medical advancements, education and high socioeconomic backgrounds yet this is still a daily reality in our country. As well as what role race and implicit bias play in the poor healthcare outcomes of BIPOC women and families! https://www.marchofdimes.org/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1, of “A Tribe Called Fertility”. On this special two-part segment, Dr. Jill and Sinora interview Stacey D. Stewart,  President and CEO of March of Dimes. March of Dimes is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the health of mothers and babies. Stewart explains the policies and systems in place that affect the nation's ability to protect women and children, and some indifferences women of color may face. This interview opens discussion of change and what we can do to help make long lasting advancements. https://www.marchofdimes.org/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, we talk to Vanessa Goodar about her personal battles with secondary infertility, endometriosis, hysterectomy, divorce, and chronic post-traumatic stress. We cover a variety of topics including: Vanessa's perspective on overcoming all of the adversities related with infertility The stereotype of hyperfertility among Black Women and the impact that has on the overall healthcare of BIPOC women experiencing infertility The traumas Vanessa experienced going through an emotional divorce and intervention. More background on today's guest: Vanessa Goodar is a south side Chicago native, veteran Chicago Public Schools Special Education teacher of 14 years, educational consultant, Black women's self-care blogger and race inequity health advocate. Her research interests focus on culturally responsive approaches to stress disparities that disproportionately affect Black women and girls. She chose to analyze barriers to self-care actions for a deeper understanding of her personal battle with secondary infertility, hysterectomy, divorce, chronic post-traumatic stress and the racial-cultural-colonial stereotypes that created the Strong Black Woman phenomenon. Her goal is to redefine strength as vulnerability and use the power of community and storytelling to create culturally responsive, empirically-grounded, social-emotional tools that will uniquely address socio-cultural-economic self-care barriers that influence Black women's ability to thrive and be empowered. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, we talk to Dr. Grace, the Director of Strategic Alliances within the Merck's Global Human Health Division. She shares her personal story of being diagnosed with fibroids yet successfully undergoing egg retrieval! In this episode, Dr. Jill & Sinora go deep with Dr. Grace on: Her experience unknowingly having over 30 fibroids Her decision and journey of retrieving and freezing her eggs The implications that come with frozen eggs and relationships Dr. Grace wishes she started the process earlier in her 30's, but it's better late than never. Her hope is that she inspires someone with her journey and that many more women start having open candid conversations about fertility options and family planning! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, Dr. Jill and Sinora talk about endometriosis with Monique Stroud, MBA. As many as 20%-50% of women experiencing infertility have endometriosis. However, according to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology it is more challenging for women of color, specifically Black women to get diagnosed for endometriosis. Monique bravely shares her story of having dealt with the full spectrum of fertility issues including endometriosis, breast cancer, and finally her own pregnancy journey. Monique Stroud is what some would call a true warrior! She is an advocate for Endometriosis and a Breast Cancer Survivor. During the month of March, which is Endometriosis Awareness Month, she was informed that after having her “miracle baby” she no longer suffers from the condition she has had for 30 years of her life. She is a Penn State University Alum and writes a blog that highlights how her infertility and cancer have affected different aspects of her life. She uses her blog to allow others to relate to her unique journey to motherhood and help encourage them to feel comfortable telling their own stories. She is extremely passionate about women's issues around the world. It is her goal to continue being an advocate for women struggling with chronic conditions that may cause infertility. Even though cancer is a terribly negative thing, it has changed her life for the better. She has become the strongest version of herself to inspire others on how going into warrior mode can help them overcome anything. She tells people that “I had cancer, but cancer didn't have me because it picked the wrong one to try to mess with. I'm Wonder Woman and if you don't believe it………I'll show you my super powers!” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, we talk to NyJa Carter about her fertility story and her fight for health equity in African American and Latino communities. We talk about a variety of topics including: - The medical negligence NyJa and her baby experienced early on her Motherhood and fertility journey - NyJa's personal fertility journey including the ups and downs that finally led to be an IVG mom of 2 boys - The importance of maternal leave and the balance mothers juggle between work and family while navigating the healthcare system More background on today's guest: NyJa Carter's passion is to fight for equal health equity in the African American and Latino community through advocacy and policy reform. She is a IVF mom of 2 boys who strives to normalize breastfeeding in minority women while supporting those who suffer from infertility. Mrs. Carter graduated at the top of her class from the University of New England where she received her Master's in Public health. She also holds a bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation Services-Mental Health from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. She is currently working on obtaining her IBCLC (Lactation Consultant Certification) to help increase minority breastfeeding rates. She's talked on panels and social media live's discussing her infertility experience, her goals on breaking the cycle of not being given a seat at the table and expressing her perseverance to be an inspirational influencer regarding infertility. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, Dr. Jill and Sinora are joined by Mrs. Tracy Dominguez (Demi's mother), Xavier DeLeon (Demi's fiance), & Mrs. Monique Himes (Xavier's mother) as they share their maternal mortality story in pursuit of justice for Demi & baby Malakh. Tracy is joined by fiance and father Xavier, as well as his mother Monique as they share the emotional events leading up to the loss of Demi and baby Malakh. Tracy Dominguez pursues wanting to make a change for maternal mortality and the medical care for pregnant women in the United States. Tracy is the co-founder/advocate of “Justice for Demi & baby Malakhi”, named after her daughter Demi, and grandson, Malakhi, who both passed away due to medical negligence and with this, Tracy is bringing awareness to maternal mortality and racial-equality for pregnant women-of-color, advocating that their voices be heard. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode, we talk to Harvard's Dr. Neel Shah as he answers all our questions about c-sections, baby! We cover a variety of topics including: - Dr. Shah's work as a social entrepreneur and the organization he co-founded, March for Moms Association - why people of color have been disproportionately affected by maternal mortality - the importance for doctors to build the life-saving soft skills of patient communication --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's bonus episode we talk to Crystal Goliday about how she was able to go to college completely debt free and earn not just one but three degrees! More background on Crystal Goliday Crystal is on a mission to make happiness, education, and health accessible to everyone. Crystal Goliday, MS, MBA is “The Fund Finder For Education” that equips scholars with the skills to attend their dream university DEBT FREE, successfully complete college, and continue to thrive after graduating college. Crystal utilizes her wealth of knowledge that she acquired to earn all three of her degrees for FREE while having things like conferences, housing, and fees also paid for; being recruited and relocated by a couple of Fortune 500 companies (Lockheed Martin and Accenture), and founding her nonprofit (Never Underestimate Knowledge, a 501(c)(3) where resources are provided to inner city youth and domestic violence survivors). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode we talk to fellow Drexel graduates Dr. Zupenda Davis-Shine and Crystal Goliday about fertility and relationships. Crystal also drops golden nuggets on how to go to college completely debt free. We cover a variety of topics including: - Dr. Zupenda's opens up with her personal fertility journey and the role fertility played in her relationships - How busy women like Crystal and Dr. Zupenda find solitude and create space to take breaks - The long-time friendships shared between Dr. Zupenda and Dr. Baker, as well as Sinora and Crystal! More background on today's guests: Dr. Zupenda Davis-Shine Dr. Zupenda has twenty years of experience in applying social and behavioral science and public health practice to program development, delivery, evaluation, and training at the local and national levels. She is a Social & Behavioral Scientist and Community Health Educator. She received her doctoral degree with a specialty in Community Health and Prevention from Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health. She also has a Masters in Public Health from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, School of Public Health (now Rutgers School of Public Health). Dr. Zupenda is passionate about improving the health status and quality of life for vulnerable populations and advocating for underrepresented groups. Crystal Goliday Crystal is on a mission to make happiness, education, and health accessible to everyone. Crystal Goliday, MS, MBA is “The Fund Finder For Education” that equips scholars with the skills to attend their dream university DEBT FREE, successfully complete college, and continue to thrive after graduating college. Crystal utilizes her wealth of knowledge that she acquired to earn all three of her degrees for FREE while having things like conferences, housing, and fees also paid for; being recruited and relocated by a couple of Fortune 500 companies (Lockheed Martin and Accenture), and founding her nonprofit (Never Underestimate Knowledge, a 501(c)(3) where resources are provided to inner city youth and domestic violence survivors). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In today's episode of A Tribe Called Fertility we are graced by power couple Dr. Candace Robertson-James and Dr. George James, two academic & relationship experts that bring a wealth of knowledge to the show. In today's episode titled Ready to Live - Keeping Your Relationship Happy During Covid, we talk about a variety of topics including: - How relationships are being impacted during covid-19 and tips to stay happy in your relationship and family. - Why divorce rates are going up and how to avoid divorce by keeping your marriage tank full. - Featuring the Date Night Box curated by Dr. George James and Dr. Candace Robertson-James. - Tips for balancing your children's needs with your relationship needs, especially during the lockdown. More background on today's guests: Dr. Candace Robertson-James is an Assistant Professor and Director for the Master of Public Health Program at La Salle University. She is also the author of her book Reflections of Me. Dr. George James is Chief Innovation Officer and a Senior Staff Therapist at the Council for Relationships. Dr. James specializes in counseling people to overcome everyday relationship struggles so they can live life happily to the fullest. He was recently Featured in The Today ShowNickelodeon, iHeartRadio, and many others Both Dr. Candace and George James have completed Ted talks. Watch their talk Much Given, Much Required at TEDxVillanovaU Connect with our guests today at GeorgeTalks.com and @ReflectionsOfMe. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In this second part of our interview Dr. Shawnee we discussed reproductive trauma, postpartum depression and psychosis. Dr. Shawnee Renee Benton-Gibson is the mother of the late Shamony Makeba Gibson, who died from a pulmonary embolism two weeks after giving birth to her second child. In this and previous episode she shares how she unapologetically advocates for quality, antiracist maternal healthcare. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In this third and final episode in our three-part series on Pregnancy & Maternal Loss, Shawnee Renee Benton-Gibson, the mother of the late Shamony Makeba Gibson (who died from a pulmonary embolism two weeks after giving birth to her second child) discusses how she authentically and unapologetically advocates for quality, antiracist maternal healthcare, because Black wombs matter. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

As we finish up part two of our three part pregnancy and maternal loss series, Omari Maynard continues to share his experience with losing his partner after the birth of their second child, and Dr. Angela Clack provides a a psychological perspective on maternal loss. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

The second episode in our three-part series on Pregnancy & Maternal Loss features an interview with a young man, Omari Maynard, who lost his partner (Shamony Makeba Gibson) due to maternal loss two weeks after giving birth to their second child. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

In part one of our three part pregnancy and maternal loss series, our guest, Janine Vaughn, shares her pregnancy journey and the range of emotions she experienced when she found out at her 20 week pre-natal appointment that her baby girl was deceased. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

What happens when you experience infertility as a result of receiving chemotherapy? This is exactly the situation that our guest, Edoabasi McGee, found herself in when she and her husband started to prepare for baby #2. In this episode, you will hear a tale of loss, life and emotional self-discovery as Edo came to grips with the fact that she may not be able to have anymore biological children. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Réal is a publicist and a mom who was diagnosed with PCOS. She is passionate about finding ways to manage her symptoms and reverse the condition. Sinora is a holistic nurse who experienced unexplained fertility while trying to conceive, and she is currently living with PCOS. She and her husband were able to conceive naturally, and they also experienced complications during the birth and delivery of her son. Jillian is a professor and a community health researcher, and she and her husband experienced fertility issues while trying to conceive. The couple was able to conceive with the help of clomid with their pregnancy. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support

Hilarity ensues when three lifelong friends from the Bronx get together to discuss their issues with fertility and female reproductive health. Réal, Sinora and Jillian launch their podcast, A Tribe Called Fertility, with an introduction to who they are, where they come from and how they've dealt with their individual fertility issues. Through this podcast, their hope is to support Black families through their fertility journeys, as well as provide possible solutions for maternal outcomes for Black women. ********** Réal is a publicist and a mom who was diagnosed with PCOS. She is passionate about finding ways to manage her symptoms and reverse the condition. Sinora is a holistic nurse who experienced unexplained fertility while trying to conceive, and she is currently living with PCOS. She and her husband were able to conceive naturally, and they also experienced complications during the birth and delivery of her son. Jillian is a professor and a community health researcher, and she and her husband experienced fertility issues while trying to conceive. The couple was able to conceive with the help of clomid with their pregnancy. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/a-tribe-called-fertility/support