She did everything right—and still died in childbirth.
In this episode we discuss the tragic death of a Black midwife during childbirth and what it reveals about Black maternal mortality, systemic failure, and why no one is exempt—not even birth workers.
This week, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Janelle Green Smith, a Black midwife, advocate, mother, and maternal health expert who dedicated her life to improving Black maternal health outcomes—and yet was not protected from the very crisis she fought against.
This episode is a sober reminder that:• The letters behind your name don’t protect you• Your income, education, or influence don’t guarantee safety• Black maternal mortality is a system failure—not a personal one
Dr. Woodus speaks directly to:• Black mothers and families preparing for pregnancy• Birth workers navigating burnout and system pressure• The urgent need to remember the miracle and responsibility of this work
We discuss why choosing the right OB provider matters, the importance of building a strong birth village, and what birth workers must be willing to examine, improve, and confront to better protect the next mama coming behind her.
This episode is not about blame.
It is about truth, remembrance, and resolve.
✨ We will say her name.✨ We will honor her work.✨ We will carry her legacy forward.
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👇 Watch now. And share this with a mama who needs it.
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👩🏾⚕️Hosted by Dr. Tiffany Woodus, OBGYN, wife, mama, and advocate for eliminating Black maternal health disparities.
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