Maternal mortality, especially Black maternal mortality, is a real crisis in this country. So on today’s episode, Amanda Weinstein, Jasmine Clark and Rachel Vindman cover some of the shocking statistics and share some personal stories from their own life and the lives of their friends. They’re joined by Veranda Rodgers, a suburban mom from Ohio who founded Pregnant With Possibilities Resource Center, an organization dedicated to creating positive outcomes for Black moms and babies in her community.

Then Jasmine gets the chance to interview Representative Lauren Underwood, a registered nurse and the youngest Black woman ever to serve in Congress. Lauren tells Jasmine all about why she ran for office, what inspired her to tackle this issue of maternal mortality head-on, and the importance of the Momnibus Act. They even find a little time to share their teenage heartthrob crushes and their love for Whitney Houston.

Then Amanda, Jasmine and Rachel raise a glass to Pfizer’s announcement that they’re seeking approval for the Covid vaccine for kids 5-11, getting teenagers to smile, and Pregnant with Possibilities’ recent “Mommy and Me” ball in this episode’s “Toast to Joy.”

Do you feel like you could use some support figuring out how to respond to anti-mask, anti-vax, or anti-CRT messaging in your community? We invite you to sign up for one of our Troublemaker Trainings! They’re fun events where you can meet other women who are facing this stuff too and learn strategies to stand up for the kids in your community. Our next meeting is Wednesday September 22, at 7:30 Eastern.

For a transcript of this episode, please email theswppod@redwine.blue.

For a transcript of this episode, please email theswppod@redwine.blue. You can learn more about us at www.redwine.blue or follow us on social media!

Twitter: @TheSWPpod and @RedWineBlueUSA

Instagram: @RedWineBlueUSA

Facebook: @RedWineBlueUSA

YouTube: @RedWineBlueUSA