Doula Debrief

Marnellie Bishop & Ali Buchanan

Doula Debrief is a podcast docuseries focused on providing entertaining yet poignant discussion using evidence and research-based information on maternal & infant health for Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, Asian and other racially and linguistically diverse communities. The podcast also highlights interviews with community doulas, medical professionals, researchers & advocates on what they see on the front lines as they work to improve health outcomes for the families they support.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago ·  Video

    How Lillian Went from Community Health Worker to Empowering Doulas in Her Community

    In this episode of the Doula Debrief podcast, Ali Buchanan hosts a wonderful conversation with Lillian Olero, an experienced doula and advocate, alongside Kimberly Porter-Ukeje, the CEO of Community Doula Alliance. They discuss the vital role of lived experiences in doula care, highlighting how families of color can navigate the often-overwhelming healthcare landscape. Lillian, was one of the original doulas and doula trainers with CDA, shares her journey from a community health worker to a key figure in the growing the doula community. You'll discover how her personal experiences of feeling isolated during childbirth drive her mission to ensure no woman feels alone during this pivotal time. Together, they explore the profound impact of culturally competent care, revealing how doulas can bridge the gap in understanding and access to maternal healthcare. You'll learn: The transformative power of doula support in improving birth outcomes for African and Black American families. How community awareness and referral systems have evolved, making doula care more accessible. The critical conversations around advocacy in hospital settings and the importance of informed choice for expectant mothers. Don't miss this episode, perfect for expectant parents, healthcare professionals, and anyone passionate about equitable healthcare. Tune in to learn how you can advocate for yourself or others during one of life's most profound experiences!

    How Lillian Went from Community Health Worker to Empowering Doulas in Her Community
  2. Sep 28 ·  Video

    Reclaiming Roots: How Cultural Traditions Are Healing Modern Black Maternal Care with Shafia Monroe

    In this episode of the Doula Debrief podcast, Ali Buchanan leads a discussion between Kimberly Porter-Ukeje, the CEO for Community Doula Alliance, and the legendary Shafia Monroe, traditional midwife, founder of ICTC doula training, and author of her new book, "Mothering the Mother." Hear how historical practices are being reclaimed to improve maternal health outcomes in Black communities through Black doula training. They breakdown the importance of systemic changes and policy advancements for Black maternal health over the years plus the significance of cultural identity in doula work to bring back traditions in care like postpartum belly wrapping. Join us for this inspiring conversation with birth advocates Mama Shafia and Kimberly Porter as they share their journeys, cultural traditions, and the evolution of Black doula work. Resources from the episode: Shafia's book Mothering the Mother on Amazon Mama Shafia's Website - https://shafiamonroe.com/  SMC training - https://smcdoulas.com/  Postpartum African American Training on October 8th (virtual) - https://smcdoulas.com/courses/practicing-african-american-postpartum-care-october-2026/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shafiamonroe  Make sure to support Community Doula Alliance  Become a monthly donor - givebutter.com/cda5 CDA Official Website - https://communitydoulaalliance.com/  Join the Community Doula Training waitlist -  Oregon Health Authority - Doula Certification - https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ei/pages/thw_birthdoulas.aspx Follow us on Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/communitydoulaalliance  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/communitydoulaalliance

    Reclaiming Roots: How Cultural Traditions Are Healing Modern Black Maternal Care with Shafia Monroe
  3. Sep 21 ·  Video

    We're Back! 5 years of Building Community Doula Alliance

    Welcome back to the Doula Debrief Podcast!  In this episode of the Doula Debrief podcast, Ali, Marnellie, & Kimberly return for the second season, which reflects on the last five years of CDA. The team shares organizational growth, navigating hard-won leadership lessons, and expanding direct support for local families and birthworkers, and the innovative first-of-a-kind Douly Model.  In this episode, we break down: The 5-Year Evolution: The real story of building Community Doula Alliance from the ground up since our last season. The Douly Model: How this innovative, wrap-around care framework is redefining sustainable support for families and birthworkers alike. Organizational Resilience: Key takeaways on team development, community-centered leadership, and expanding our direct local impact. What's Next for CDA: A transparent look at our future plans, upcoming initiatives, and what to expect throughout Season 2. Join us as we reflect on the growth, achievements, and future plans of the organization! Resources from the Episode: CDA Official Website - https://communitydoulaalliance.com/  Douly Model Program Details - https://communitydoulaalliance.com/douly-program/  Community Doula Training waitlist -  Oregon Health Authority - Doula Certification - https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ei/pages/thw_birthdoulas.aspx Become a monthly donor - givebutter.com/cda5 5 Year Anniversary Gala Recap Video Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/communitydoulaalliance  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/communitydoulaalliance

    We're Back! 5 years of Building Community Doula Alliance

About

Doula Debrief is a podcast docuseries focused on providing entertaining yet poignant discussion using evidence and research-based information on maternal & infant health for Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, Asian and other racially and linguistically diverse communities. The podcast also highlights interviews with community doulas, medical professionals, researchers & advocates on what they see on the front lines as they work to improve health outcomes for the families they support.