Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC

VNPC

Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC is a maternal health podcast that's creating a space where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered. Partnering with the CDC's Hear Her campaign, our show is a movement designed to amplify women's voices and raise awareness about the warning signs of maternal health complications. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and connect listeners from all walks of life.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    Ep. 5: Navigating Maternal Mental Health (Part 1)

    Maternal mental health is an important part of every pregnancy and postpartum journey, yet it's often one of the least talked about topics. In Part 1 of this special two-part Bear Hug Conversations series, we're joined by Olivia Reichenbacker, PMHNP, of Brookside Psychiatric Specialists, to discuss the realities of maternal mental health, including common warning signs, available treatment options, and why asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. Whether you're an expecting parent, a new parent, a loved one, or a healthcare professional, this conversation offers practical insights, reassurance, and hope for anyone navigating the emotional challenges that can come with pregnancy and postpartum. Be sure to join us next week for Part 2, where we continue the conversation and dive even deeper into supporting maternal mental health. Thank you for joining the conversation.

  2. Jun 5

    Ep. 4| Managing Chronic Diseases Before, During, and After Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

    In Episode 4 of Bear Hug Conversations, we sit down with Megan Whitman to discuss the do's and don'ts of managing pre-existing chronic diseases before, during, and after pregnancy. From hypertension and diabetes to autoimmune and cardiac conditions, chronic health issues can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes when not properly managed. Megan shares practical guidance on preparing for pregnancy, working with healthcare providers, understanding medication considerations, recognizing warning signs, and prioritizing postpartum health. Whether you're a healthcare professional, expecting parent, or someone interested in maternal and infant health, this conversation highlights the importance of early planning, coordinated care, and ongoing support for families navigating pregnancy with chronic health conditions. Key Topics: Common chronic conditions that affect pregnancy Preparing for pregnancy with an existing health condition Medication management and provider communication Warning signs that should never be ignored Postpartum considerations and long-term health Resources and support available for families Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).  Tune in and join the conversation. #welcometotheconversation

  3. May 1

    Ep. 3 Substance Use in the Perinatal Population

    In this episode of Bear Hug Conversations, we explore one of the most complex and often misunderstood challenges in maternal health: substance use during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We're joined by Kimberly Simcox, DO, of Carilion Clinic, a double board-certified physician in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Simcox shares insights from her clinical experience, including how substance use impacts maternal and infant outcomes, the role of medication-assisted treatment, and why stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to care. She also highlights the importance of compassionate, coordinated support systems that treat substance use as a medical condition. This conversation offers a deeper understanding of how providers, communities, and systems can better support families and improve outcomes for both moms and babies. Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).  Tune in and join the conversation. #welcometotheconversation

  4. Apr 3

    Ep. 2: Understanding Hypertension & Preeclampsia with Dr. Chris Chisholm (UVA)

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chris Chisholm from the University of Virginia to take a clear, practical look at hypertension and preeclampsia, two conditions that continue to drive preventable maternal morbidity and mortality. Through a thoughtful, evidence‑based discussion, Dr. Chisholm helps break down what these disorders are, why they matter, and how both clinicians and families can recognize early warning signs. We explore: The differences between chronic hypertension, pregnancy‑associated hypertension, and preeclampsia Why these conditions remain a major concern in maternal health Symptoms that deserve attention during pregnancy and postpartum How risk factors shape someone's likelihood of developing complications What to do when concerns aren't taken seriously How care teams and families can better recognize and respond to warning signs And much more including one message Dr. Chisholm hopes every listener carries forward. #welcometotheconversation Resources for Learning More Throughout the episode, we highlight trusted tools and organizations that support education, awareness, and early recognition of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. You can explore them here: Preeclampsia Foundation  Million Hearts: Hypertension in Pregnancy Change Package  Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! #Welcometotheconversation Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).

  5. Mar 6

    Season 2, Episode 1: Introduction to MMRT & Severe Maternal Morbidity

    Season 2 begins with a powerful conversation you won't want to miss. VNPC Co‑Chair Arthur Ollendorff, MD, walks listeners through what to expect this season as we explore the critical work of the Maternal Mortality Review Team (MMRT) and the complex challenges surrounding severe maternal morbidity. Dr. Ollendorff sets the stage for the episodes ahead, offering insight into why these issues matter and how this season will highlight the clinical, community, and systemic factors shaping maternal health outcomes. Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! #Welcometotheconversation Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).

  6. 08/04/2025

    Ep. 6 Elevating Care Through Guided Conversations

    We're ending Season 1 with the community at the center. Guest host Aysia Jackson, VNPC's Community Partner Liaison, sits down with Ciara Puryear to talk about her real-life experience using the CDC's Hear Her conversation guide with her provider. They discuss the power of being heard, why listening matters in maternal health, and how culturally responsive care can save lives. It's the season finale you don't want to miss. Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).

  7. 07/11/2025

    Ep. 5: Mental & Emotional Urgency — A Therapist and New Mom's Perspective on Maternal Warning Signs

    In this compelling episode, we sit down with Alexis Jackson, licensed therapist and founder of Embrace Your Therapy Services, who brings a unique dual lens to the conversation—as both a mental health professional and a new mom. Alexis shares her personal and professional insights on the emotional and psychological dimensions of urgent maternal warning signs, and why recognizing them goes far beyond the physical. Join us for this heartfelt and informative conversation that reminds us all: your feelings are valid, and your voice matters. Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).

  8. 06/06/2025

    Ep 4: Listening to Save Lives – A Conversation with Maliqua White on the Hear Her Conversation Guide

    Join us for a powerful conversation with community partner Maliqua White as she shares her experience using the Hear Her conversation guide, a resource from the CDC's Hear Her campaign. Maliqua discusses how this tool supports better communication between pregnant and postpartum individuals and their care teams, and how it's helping to amplify voices that need to be heard. Discover how you can use the Hear Her conversation guide and explore additional tools to support maternal health at cdc.gov/hearher. #welcometotheconversation Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative (VNPC).

  9. 05/03/2025

    Ep. 3: Navigating Pregnancy and Post-Partum in the Emergency Department with Dr. Shannon Walsh

    Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Shannon Walsh from VCU's Emergency Department as she shares her expertise on what patients should communicate to the ED team when visiting during pregnancy or post-partum. Dr. Walsh provides a unique lens as an ED provider, highlighting crucial information that can enhance patients' care and outcomes. #welcometotheconversation Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you!

  10. 04/04/2025

    Ep. 2 Recognizing Urgent Maternal Warning Signs: A Conversation with Stephanie Spencer

    In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic that every expecting and new parent should be aware of. Join us as we sit down with Stephanie Spencer, the inspiring founder and executive director of Urban Baby Beginnings. Stephanie shares her invaluable insights on urgent maternal warning signs, what to look for, and how to communicate effectively with your healthcare provider. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation is packed with essential information that could make a life-saving difference. Tune in to learn, share, and be part of a community that prioritizes maternal health and well-being.#welcometotheconversation Don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback.  Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you!

  11. 03/07/2025

    Episode 1: Introduction - Welcome to Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC

    Welcome to the very first episode of Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC! This podcast is your new space to explore meaningful and heartfelt conversations about maternal health. We're thrilled to partner with the CDC's Hear Her campaign to amplify women's voices and raise awareness about the warning signs of maternal health complications. Together, we're building a community where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered. In this introductory episode, we'll share the mission behind Bear Hug Conversations and what you can expect as we move forward. This is more than just a podcast—it's a movement to bring communities together, one story at a time. By tuning in, you're becoming an essential part of this mission, and we couldn't be happier to have you on this journey. Let's inspire, educate, and connect. Welcome to the conversation! And don't forget to take our post-listening survey to share your feedback:  Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you!

  • 11 Episodes

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About

Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC is a maternal health podcast that's creating a space where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered. Partnering with the CDC's Hear Her campaign, our show is a movement designed to amplify women's voices and raise awareness about the warning signs of maternal health complications. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and connect listeners from all walks of life.

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