Ep. 5: Mental & Emotional Urgency — A Therapist and New Mom’s Perspective on Maternal Warning Signs
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
Release Date: 07/11/2025
Ep. 3 Substance Use in the Perinatal Population
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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 , 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...
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Ep. 2: Understanding Hypertension & Preeclampsia with Dr. Chris Chisholm (UVA)
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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...
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Season 2, Episode 1: Introduction to MMRT & Severe Maternal Morbidity
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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. ...
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Ep. 6 Elevating Care Through Guided Conversations
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! Show Notes...
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Ep. 5: Mental & Emotional Urgency — A Therapist and New Mom’s Perspective on Maternal Warning Signs
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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...
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Ep 4: Listening to Save Lives – A Conversation with Maliqua White on the Hear Her Conversation Guide
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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 . #welcometotheconversation Don’t forget to take our post-listening survey to share your...
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Ep. 3: Navigating Pregnancy and Post-Partum in the Emergency Department with Dr. Shannon Walsh
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
Join us for an insightful conversation with 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. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you!
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Ep. 2 Recognizing Urgent Maternal Warning Signs: A Conversation with Stephanie Spencer
Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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 , the inspiring founder and executive director of . 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...
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Episode 1: Introduction - Welcome to Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
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...
info_outlineIn 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).