Caribbean Birth Stories

Have you ever felt like you just didn't know what was the next step on your journey?  Today's guest, Candace Guppy-Sobion, shares that unforgettable moment when God shared His plan with her. A fellow Trinbagonian, Candace is well-known for her career endeavors in party and travel planning as director of Candy Coated Experiences, but nothing could have prepared her for her greatest adventure to date. Interested in connecting with Candace? See her contact details: Candace Guppy Sobion Creative Director Candy Coated Experiences Limited www.CandyCoatedExperiences.com For more information on the "Mommy Bag" check out www.theamaishop.com  Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

Today's guest, Korena Darnelle, is a native of one of the most influential island developing states in our region, Barbados.  Korena is a singer, writer, birth and lifestyle photographer and a fellow podcaster.  Korena is one of two Caribbean women I've interviewed this season who have so masterfully scripted their experiences of pregnancy and birth. Listen as she gives us a tease of what's in store in her publication: Gimme a Home Birth: The Birth Story I Didn't Expect.

Hi guys! It's the second part of Amoy's story and I can't wait for you to have a listen.  We hear how giving birth has changed her outlook on life, yes, I promise you, it's not all a bed of roses. She's open about her challenges with breastfeeding and not giving up despite not finding the kind of support she would have expected from traditional medicine.  If you're a new mom struggling with breastfeeding Amoy gives some invaluable tips on what to look out for even when you seem to be doing all the right things but still experiencing pain. Amoy also describes how she continues to power through emotions of extreme joy with the birth of her son, while experiencing tremendous grief with the loss of her mother. Interested in working with Amoy, see her details below: Website: https://wombcareclinic.ca/ Instagram: @wombcareclinic  or @wombhealthstudy Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

Welcome back! The format of today's episode is different in that my guest, Amoy Jacques, is actually pregnant at the time of this recording.  So, for the first time on Caribbean Birth Stories we get to hear from a pregnant woman about her expectations, fears, anxieties just before she gives birth.  In addition, Amoy's journey to pregnancy was not a smooth one and we both hope her story offers optimism to the listener who may also be having a difficult time trying to conceive. Interested in working with Amoy, see her details below: Website: https://wombcareclinic.ca/ Instagram: @wombcareclinic Email: wombcareinc@gmail.com Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

It is with great pleasure I introduce today's guest, Dr. Shari-Ann James, licensed Psychologist and certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional.  It was vital that I include Dr. James on season 3 because it has become abundantly clear that our mental health as parents, women, mothers, daughters has been stretched compounded by a global pandemic.  Dr. James shares some practical tools that can be used immediately to help calm the storm of our thoughts, I mean she literally demonstrates one mindfulness technique that's quick and I personally found helpful. 1 in 8 couples experience some fertility challenges, yet many feel quite alone when faced with such a diagnosis. Dr. James talks us through the emotions associated with infertility, one such feeling is that of losing your sense of control, hear how she suggests this particular feeling can be addressed. We also cover: What perinatal mental health looks like? Tips for perinatal self-care Creating a space where you can be open and honest with your significant other Considerations for reproductive options, inclusive of third-party reproduction When should someone get help for postpartum anxiety, rage and depression? Have you ever heard of a postpartum plan/checklist? Dr. James delves into this critical tool that can be used as a preventative measure for the 4th Here are a few of her recommended books: The infertility workbook by Barbara Blitzer Conquering infertility by Dr. Alice Domar At a loss by Donna Rothert Interested in working with Dr. Shari-Ann H. James, see her details below: Perinatal Wellness & Psychological Services http://www.perinatalwellness.net http://thewellnesspod.libsyn.com http://pinterest.com/drshariannjames Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_  

So much has changed since I recorded this episode. At the time of recording, Kieron Pollard held the prestigious position of Windies T20 and One-day cricket captain.  However, on April 20th 2022, Polly (as he is affectionately called by many West Indian fans) announced his retirement from international cricket.  Well that one hit me for 6! Pun intended That announcement made my interview with him even more meaningful as we explored the significance of becoming a father and making difficult decisions that impacted his family. We also discussed contractual obligations vs parental obligations and the impact of setting a positive foundation for his children.  Polly acknowledges the mammoth task that his wife Jenna has played in his life and that of their children and recognizes that he probably wouldn't have made such tremendous strides in his career without her support. Of course, we had a bit of fun “in the nets” to end off. Hope you enjoy Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

When was the last time you met someone and it felt like you knew them for a lifetime?  Well that pretty much sums up my chat with Lisa...easy, engaging and informative!   Lisa is an award-winning TV broadcaster & reporter who currently works as the host for ‘Taste the Islands', an international culinary adventure show streaming on Amazon Prime TV. She is also entering her 12th season as the host of ‘School Duel' a premier high school academic game show in South Florida. As a TV host and On-air personality, Lisa has most notably served as the in-arena reporter for the Miami Heat's HEATV. She was also featured as Miami's top 40 under 40 leaders of tomorrow in Legacy Magazine. Lisa recently started her own PR company called the LA PR firm. Interested in working with Lisa, see her details: www.thelaprfirm.com la@thelaprfirm.com  Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_  

My guest, Jihan Williams, takes us on an emotional journey, describing in crystal clear terms her initial struggle with infertility and the associated challenges when there is no explanation. "What's wrong with me now?" leads to an unexpected answer. Unfortunately, this story, doesn't follow a familiar trajectory. Jihan is straightforward in acknowledging that there is nothing you can say to a woman who has recently suffered a loss to make her feel better, but you can certainly make her feel worse.  Hear how she suggests this sensitive matter be addressed. Grab your copy of Jihan's book on Amazon: Buy Here! Jihan's song choice: "Tasha Page Lockart" - Why not me. How to get in touch with Jihan: Web: www.jihanwilliams.com Instagram: @jihanawilliams Facebook: @Jihan A. Williams Email: letschat@jihanwilliams.com; Williams.jihan@gmail.com Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_    

Today's episode is the second part of my fiery chat with Daniella, Kiola and Naette.  If you haven't yet listened to part one, please check out episode 22 before listening to this one.  These three ladies discuss the sacrifices that they have made in their lives, with a major one being not residing in their place of birth, yet they've been able to find joy and peace as they navigate parenthood.   Here are the beautiful songs mentioned by the ladies:   “Before the Day Star” by Kobo Town: https://youtu.be/I1Qfjh3QuNs “Space for a Heart” by Freetown Collective: https://youtu.be/OP33d8xM2fs “Keep the Beat” by Lin-Manuel Miranda & Ynairaly Simo from the movie Vivo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnNM4C3i_V8&authuser=0 “Not an easy road” by Buju Banton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I02Kd_FIklg   Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world!   IG:@_miss.informed_

Today's episode felt like a stroll down the famous, some may say infamous, Frederick Street, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.  It had been a while since I last chatted amongst a group of Trinbagonians, even if it was virtually, the banter was so invigorating that the energy was palpable, listen and tell me if you felt it too.  This fireside, sometimes bonfire, chat was centered around the fact that we are all raising a child (or children) outside of the Caribbean, and in many ways, I don't think any of us thought this would be our reality. Today is Part 1 of a 2-part episode exploring the complexities of emigration, cultural preservation and assimilation all while traversing the journey that is motherhood.  Naette, Daniella and Kiola are transparent about their experiences and offer unique opinions on how they're managing the delicate issues associated with some of the most challenging life transitions any person can face. This one is for you my fellow Diasporan parent!

Welcome to part 2 of the Season finalé!  In this episode we jump straight into the nitty gritty of the postpartum period from both parents' perspective. Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_ @steadyimagemediagroup YouTube: search Chanol Ottley Allen

Surprise! Today's episode is my treat to you my wonderful listeners.  Many of you have asked me “when do we get to hear your birth story Chanol?” so it is with great pleasure I share our birth story with you today. My husband, Adrian, joins me on today's episode reminding us that men do need support during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as the emotional toll during this transitionary period for both persons can feel overwhelming. I recruited one of my most articulate, jovial and clever friends to host today's episode to allow my husband and I to truly focus on sharing our story as authentically as we could.  Omonike, does a remarkable job guiding our conversation even when we both become impassioned.  There was so much for us to share that we made this into a 2-part chat but here's what you can expect to hear in today's episode: - How we prepared for labour & delivery, and the mistake of not compiling a playlist prior - The importance of educating yourself regarding the process and procedures of your ObGyn, Midwife or primary care practitioner so that you are able to advocate for yourself - What I would do differently and who else I would include in my birth party if there is a next time Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! Find Adrian on IG  @directoradrianallen and www.steadyimage.co  IG:@_miss.informed_

As many of you know Trinidad and Tobago has been hailed as the land of steelband, calypso, limbo, parang, chutney, soca and carnival.  So it is with great excitement I welcome today's guest, Anya Elias former bandleader of Spice Carinval band and a private section owner and designer at Tribe carnival, to Caribbean Birth Stories. As the title of today's episode suggests, Anya's path to motherhood has been anything but bland and I am truly in awe of her strength in steering her way through it all. Anya has had more miscarriages than she can recount before the arrival of her rainbow baby. She is raw and transparent in the hopes that her story helps soften the pain of loss and isolation experienced after miscarriage. Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

What do you do when the obstacles seem to get in your way of manifesting the family you've dreamed of?  My guest on today's episode walks us down her path from Catholicism to Islam on her journey to motherhood.  Kristy is authentic and brave in our chat, discussing how choosing a person of a different faith to her own impacted the decisions she has made in parenting. We also discuss: - Being pregnant during a pandemic - The differences between singleton and twin pregnancies   - The power of nature/gardening as self-care - Spending time with family and having family support Kristy's clothing line Zamani Caribbean launched in 2019 and can be found on IG @ zamani_caribbean or in-store at Sun Plaza, Munroe Road Flyover Charlieville IG @ designertrendz_ah Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! Follow on IG:@_miss.informed_

We ended off episode 16 with my guest Chantal describing how her mother supported her choice to not have children and the impact that abscence of parental pressure had on her journey. Let's tune in to hear what Lani and Jan Yves have to contribute to the discussion! No surprise, these ladies stumped me with my own question, I promise to reveal my song choice in the season finalé, so stay tuned. Find the ladies: Chantal @theclrcode on IG, Lani www.mooredaisely.com and Dr. Jan Yves Remy on LinkedIn Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_  

Yes, this podcast is about Caribbean women narrating their story of giving birth, but what about the Caribbean women who choose not to have children or circumstances have never aligned to have a child, these same women may be bombarded with THE question...'any children yet?' Well, my guests Chantal, Lani and Jan Yves do not disappoint in today's first fireside chat; sharing with us their deeply personal, candid and sometimes provocative points of view of being a young woman in the Caribbean without a child. We address difficult questions from the jump examining ideas surrounding being a woman in general terms and in the context of motherhood. Does being from the Caribbean subconsciously place pressure on women to conform and accept motherhood as a natural step in a woman's life? Is it a binary decision career vs. children? We discuss some of the reasons motherhood isn't appealing: - Physical changes - No desire or yearning to become a mother - Career - Sacrifice - Breaking generational patterns - Pressure to conform How can we be better friends, colleagues, parents and partners to women of our region who have chosen not to have children? So many questions and thoughts that we had to make this a 2-part conversation. Find the ladies: Chantal @theclrcode on IG, Lani www.mooredaisely.com and Dr. Jan Yves Remy on LinkedIn Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_  

Nicosia (or you can just call her Nic) is a time management strategist and Attorney-at-Law. Nicosia hails from the Cayman Islands and tells us all about delivering her baby in Hong Kong. As a time management strategist, Nicosia helps her clients manage the use of their time in an effective, efficient and productive manner. You can keep up with Nicosia on her blog at www.justcallmenic.com and on Instagram @justcallmenic Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world!    

Dr. Juan Michelle Martin is a licensed Physical Therapist of 14 years with an extensive background in patient care and competitive athletics.  She formed JMM Health Solutions with a focus on pelvic floor dysfunction in adults and children and provides services in Atlanta and many other U.S. states and International locations. On the heels of episode 13, Dr. Martin is clear about the need for partnered support education and training and believes that becoming a mom drove her passion for addressing the needs of pregnant and post-partum individuals. Being a Physical Therapist offers us such a solid foundation that we can blend a multitude of passions with our clinical expertise. Follow her on IG @thepelvicperspective and her website is jmmhealthsolutions.com Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world!

When one reads or listens to a birth story, typically it is through the lens of the mother/birthing parent.  Very rarely are we exposed to the narrative of real experiences through the eyes of fathers/ non-birthing parents.  In today's episode we shift perspectives, and hear HIS story, meet Carver Bacchus.  When their birth plan doesn't go according to plan, Carver describes how he felt in that moment as well as how the miracle of birth changed him as a person.  Listening to Carver, had me thinking, are we sometimes too hard on our partners? Specifically men, who as a consequence of, a culture of toxic masculinity; where men are discouraged or shamed for expressing emotion, may not verbalize any turmoil this life-changing event can bring. A conversation for another day but for Carver, the birth of his daughter led to a shift where everything became focused on his family. His love and admiration for his partner and daughter are undeniable, listen out for his messages to them! Carver is the founder of Green Screen, the ONLY environmental film festival in the English-speaking Caribbean.  This year the 11th edition will be fully online from October 28th – 31st 2021. For additional details follow on IG/Twitter/FB @greenscreentt Website: www.greenscreen.film Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_  

Anna is brutally honest about her experience of infertility; admitting her personal struggle has compelled her to champion the needs and voices of other women facing infertility.  Anna underscores many powerful points, the most significant of which is the power of our words. Whether you are a medical professional, a therapist, a cousin or a stranger we must be more considerate and empathetic with our words. Here is how Anna suggests we can display greater sensitivity to anyone dealing with infertility: - When announcing your pregnancy, if you have a close friend who has not been able to have a baby and you are aware of their issues, speak with them directly (i.e. a phone call) vs. them seeing it on IG/FB or hearing about it from other friends. - Be understanding if they take a pass on birthday parties for your child(ren) or even your baby shower, don't take a personally, they may not be able to cope with these milestone events just yet. - Try not to change how you act around your child(ren) when they are around. Anna had a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) test performed on her which revealed that her fallopian tubes were blocked, check this link for additional details on this test: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/hysterosalpingography Check out Anna's business Strukcha on Instagram at @hellostrukcha Click: https://www.instagram.com/hellostrukcha/ Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

Many millennials are faced with the question; can I have a successful career as well as a fulfilling family life? Career vs. family…do we even have a choice in the matter? My first guest, Kimberly, shares her insights on how she continues to find balance.  Kimberly is quite open about the realities of choosing to have a live-in nanny in the Caribbean where it is uncommon and in some instances, she feels, frowned upon.  Nevertheless, there are many lessons shared not just for expectant and new mothers but also for employers as to how they can best support new mothers without them feeling that their growth within the organization suddenly becomes stunted post-baby.

It's our season finalé!!! Thank you so much for following, sharing and rating Caribbean Birth Stories.  Today's episode doesn't disappoint, I couldn't wait to share this particular story because I truly had no clue about the plot twist, no spoilers promise, you have to listen till the very end. Dr. Melissa Francis is an intelligent, warm and free-spoken friend who jumped at the opportunity to share the intimate details of her birth story; never even shared with some of her family or friends.  It is her hope that her story brings awareness to many issues related to babies born premature. Dr. Francis highlights the remarkable work being done at the Psychiatric Hospital Barbados. Follow them on FB @psychihospital.bb and/or IG @psychihospital If you, or someone you know, is struggling in the antenatal or postnatal period please call 1 246 536 3091 or just walk-in it's open 24/7 and the services at the Psychiatric Hospital Barbados are FREE! Please follow, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world. Look out for season 2, promises to be filled with many surprises!! IG:@_miss.informed_

It takes a village not only to raise a child but to also give birth to a mother.  Renée empahsizes this throughout her story. Renée is candid about her struggle with depression following a diagnosis of endometriosis.  Can you visualize barbed wire wrapped around your pelvic area and it then being ignitied by fire? That's how Renée describes the pain she felt from months 4 - 7 of her pregnancy! This is only a glimpse into the trials of this endowarrior on her journey to motherhood. Listen to her story.

It's such a pleasure to introduce this week's guest, Beena Persad-Harris.  Beena is a midwife and baby birth educator from Trinidad and Tobago.  Founder of Hello Baby TT; a midwife led, doula supported center offering services to help prepare and support expectant parents through pregnancy birth and baby. If you've ever wondered what the differences were between a midwife and an OBGYN, Beena explains along with the benefits of having a Doula as your support person during labour and delivery. For more information, you can visit the Hello Baby TT website at: www.hellobabytt.com Email: hellobabiestt@gmail.com Phone: (868)460 6136 Follow on IG @hello_baby_tt and FB @hellobabytt Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

Ever wondered what it would be like to give birth in a country outside of your birthplace? Meet Jhana, my honest, fun-loving and always ready to do battle for her family sister-in-law. In today's episode, we explore some of the differences of giving birth in the Caribbean, in this case Jamaica, versus the United States.  Please bear in mind that this young veteran in the birthing business had her first child almost 25 years ago so quite a bit has changed, nonetheless it was a fun trip down her memory lane. Enjoy!

Listening to Andrea one would swear she had some form of formal medical training, but she doesn't.  However, Andrea is an example of how we, as women, must become knowledgeable and advocate for ourselves on this journey to motherhood. Here are some of the key takeaways: - Don't be afraid to ask the difficult questions to your Doctor - You know your body, trust it! - Keep asking the questions until you get an answer - Learn about what's taking place with your body on this journey, don't let the new terminology intimidate you. If you want to learn more about the BLOSOM Foundation (Baby Loss Organization in Support of Memories) contact Andrea at andrea.dematas@gmail.com.  Andrea discusses quite a few subject matters during our chat, be reminded that Andrea's treatment came following thorough examinations by her OBGYNs, if you are experiencing any symptoms described please seek the advice of your primary care practitioner/OBGYN. Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

After being thrust into motherhood while dating, Xiomara eventually experiences pregnancy and delivery with the birth of a son. “Trust your gut” comes to mind as Xiomara shares how she found out she was expecting twins! Hailing from the beautiful Spice Island of Grenada Xiomara is thorough, eloquent and objective about her story. Enjoy! Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

I had the pleasure, in today's episode, of chatting with my dear aunty Lynette. Despite not being blood related she has been in my life for over 30 years and has played an integral role in my development. Hearing her birth stories makes me wonder if having a baby was much simpler 40 years ago. Yes, there have been some remarkable advancements and inventions that have helped many women on this journey to motherhood, but has this been at the expense of something far more important? Can we return to a place of being so attuned to our bodies that we know when we are ready? or when something in our body seems off amidst the noise of technology? Aunty Lynette highlights the very serious topic of postpartum depression, studies show that postpartum depression (PPD) affects at least 10% of women or 1 in 9 new mothers. Symptoms according to the DSM-5 can include: - insomnia or hypersomnia - psychomotor agitation or retardation - fatigue - feelings of worthlessness or excessive/inappropriate guilt - diminished ability to think or indecisiveness - recurrent suicidal ideation with or without a specific plan or suicide attempt If you or anyone you know is exhibiting signs of “baby blues” please seek advice from your OBGYN, midwife or medical professional. Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! Follow on IG:@_miss.informed_ for updates.

So many of us women work diligently at trying to control the circumstances which we encounter, some more effectively than others.  However, for this self-proclaimed type A, planner, surrendering to the process proved to be one of the chief lessons learnt on her journey to motherhood.  Nneka is as authentic and vulnerable as they come, sharing intimate details of her experience without fear despite her notable prominence in the media world.  For more info on Nneka visit her website at nnekaelliott.com or info@nnekaelliott.com Nneka mentions the excellent work by her dear friend Saran Vaughan of Wellness by Saran, check her out at www.wellnessbysaran.com In Canada and looking for a certified Lactation Consultant and Doula? Why not give Giselle Johnston at www.fullspectrumdoula.ca a visit? Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_

Like many, Nimah's entry into motherhood wasn't a smooth one. Juggling university in a different country without much support, Nimah emphasizes the significance of having support during birth and delivery.  Ever heard of a good Trini chow? Nimah dishes on the ingredients along with other cultural hacks used on her journey. Living in Trinidad and Tobago? Having difficulty with breastfeeding, or anxious for when that time rolls around, check out the Breastfeeding Association of Trinidad and Tobago formerly known as TIBS. Phone: (868)628 8234 or (868)468 5412 Email: breastfeedingassociationtt@gmail.com Website: www.breastfeedingtt.com Please subscribe, review and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world! IG:@_miss.informed_    

The launch date of this podcast was intentional, March 31 2021. This date represents the last day of month-long celebrations for Women's history month, but the first day of recognizing and celebrating the experience of the Caribbean woman in the transition to motherhood. On my very first episode, I chat with Mrs. Neeka Anderson-Isaacs who openly discusses her bumpy road towards motherhood.  On this final day of Endometriosis awareness month, meet one of the victors of Endometriosis.  Do enjoy! Interested in helping F.A.M for Endometriosis? Check FB @famforendometriosis Please subscribe, rate and share so our Caribbean voices can be heard around the world. IG: @_miss.informed_