Healthy Navajo K'é

Pregnancy after 35 is often talked about in terms of risks, complications, and the label “advanced maternal age”, but there is so much more to the story.

In this episode of Healthy Navajo K’é, Neenah, Amber-Rose, and Stacey sit down with RaeDawn Matrese, a Navajo mother currently navigating pregnancy after 35. RaeDawn shares her personal journey, including how this pregnancy differs from her earlier experiences, the challenges and joys of becoming a mother later in life, navigating prenatal care, finding support, and the role culture and family play throughout her pregnancy.

Together, we also explore what it means to balance Navajo teachings and traditions with the healthcare system, the mental and emotional side of pregnancy, and what healthcare providers can better understand about caring for Navajo mothers.

Most importantly, we shift the conversation beyond age and risk to recognize the strength, wisdom, confidence, and joy that can come with motherhood later in life.

Whether you’re pregnant after 35, considering growing your family, supporting someone you love, or simply interested in hearing the lived experiences of Navajo mothers, we invite you to join us for this heartfelt conversation.

Ahéhee’ to RaeDawn for sharing her story with us.

This episode shares personal experiences for educational purposes and is not intended to replace individualized medical advice.

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Kimberly Moore-Salas is a leading promoter of breastfeeding with a focus on Indigenous mothers and babies. Kim is also a co-instructor for the Indigenous Breastfeeding Counselor training, an Advisory Committee member for the Navajo Breastfeeding Coalition, a former two-term USBC Board Member, and the Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee. Kim brings a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and guidance to every aspect of breastfeeding, from cultural practices to guiding new mothers in their breastfeeding journey, to understanding the challenges and opportunities, all in an easy-to-understand way that provides support and clarity for mothers, their families, and their communities.

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

In this episode of Healthy Navajo K'é, we sit down with Indigenous rapper, artist, and mental health advocate Johnathan "Native Kyng" Williams for an honest conversation about men's mental health, healing, and resilience.

We discuss the unique challenges Native men face, the stigma surrounding mental health, the importance of seeking support, and how culture, community, and creativity can play a role in healing.

Johnathan shares his personal journey and offers powerful words of encouragement for Indigenous men who may be struggling in silence. 

This episode contains discussions of mental health, trauma, suicide, and emotional hardship. Listener discretion is advised. 

You are not alone. Healing is possible. Ádaa'áhólyą" 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

In this episode, Del Yazzie of the Navajo Epidemiology Center (part of the Navajo Nation Department of Health) discusses Hantavirus. As Acting Director of the Epi Center, Del has responded to cases of Hantavirus on the Nation, and offers great insight into protecting ourselves and our loved ones from exposure and possible illness. Hantavirus is carried by infected deer mice, which can pass it on to people through their droppings and saliva. Rodent-proofing the home against entry of deer mice is a proven method for staying safe. Del discusses risk, exposure, treatment, and the history of Hantavirus on Navajo Nation. 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

In this episode, we talk about fire safety and how to protect our homes, families, and communities. Fires can happen quickly, but with the right knowledge and preparation, they can often be prevented. 

We're joined by Lt. Gerald Todacheenie of the Navajo Nation Fire & Rescue, Station 10, who shares insights on common causes of fires, practical prevention tips for the home, safety planning, and considerations for ceremonial practices. 

This episode is a reminder that staying prepared can save lives. 

Listen, learn, and share with your loved ones. 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses postpartum depression, anxiety, and emotional challenges following childbirth. Listener discretion is advised. 

In this two-part episode of Healthy Navajo K'é, we talk about the realities of postpartum mental health among Navajo women and families. In part 1, we sit down with Tianna Curley and discuss her postpartum experience. In episode 2, we sit down with Taylor Worker and discuss her postpartum experience, as well. We explore how cultural teachings, traditional healing, and modern support systems come together to help new mothers find balance after birth. 

Our conversation highlights the importance of speaking openly about emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and connecting to community resources that honor both Diné traditions and modern care. 

Resources:

·  Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project navajomch.org

·  National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746)

·  Navajo Nation Behavioral Health Services, 1-866-878-0982

·  Postpartum Support International, 1-800-944-4773

·  CDC Hear Her Campaign https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/ 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses postpartum depression, anxiety, and emotional challenges following childbirth. Listener discretion is advised. 

In this two-part episode of Healthy Navajo K'é, we talk about the realities of postpartum mental health among Navajo women and families. In part 1, we sit down with Tianna Curley and discuss her postpartum experience. In episode 2, we sit down with Taylor Worker and discuss her postpartum experience, as well. We explore how cultural teachings, traditional healing, and modern support systems come together to help new mothers find balance after birth. 

Our conversation highlights the importance of speaking openly about emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and connecting to community resources that honor both Diné traditions and modern care. 

Resources:

• Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project navajomch.org
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746)
• Navajo Nation Behavioral Health Services, 1-866-878-0982
• Postpartum Support International, 1-800-944-4773
• CDC Hear Her Campaign https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/ 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Yá’at’ééh and welcome back to the Healthy Navajo K’é podcast! Dive into Season 7 of the Healthy Navajo K’é podcast with our kickoff episode, "Talking Tobacco on Navajo Nation with Hershel Clark." where we delve into critical issues surrounding tobacco and its impact on communities. In this episode, Hershel Clark, explores his extensive work and discusses his pivotal role in advocating for indigenous rights through initiatives like the Air is Life Act and various coalitions.

Tune in as we engage in a conversation about the passing the Air is Life Act and Hershel's collaboration with the Navajo Nation council, shedding light on how commercial tobacco uniquely affects indigenous communities, the historical context of tobacco policies within the Navajo Nation and outlines the profound health impacts of both commercial tobacco and secondhand smoke, particularly among AI/AN women and during pregnancy. 

Join us as we unravel the complexities of tobacco's impact, cultural significance, and advocacy efforts in this enlightening episode of "Talking Tobacco on Navajo Nation with Hershel Clark"

If you want to be a part of the work that Hershel and his team are doing, visit their website to sign their petition, email to join their efforts, or access information/resources on Tobacco.

Website: https://www.navajoairislife.com/ 

Petition: https://www.navajoairislife.com/tax-legislation 

Email: [email protected] 

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Yá’at’ééh and welcome back to the Healthy Navajo K’é podcast. In recognition of April's Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we are deeply honored to host founding members Jolene Holgate, Meskee Yatsayte, and Vangie Randal Shorty, of the Miss and Murdered Diné Relatives Coalition (MMDRC) in today's episode.

Tune in as we engage in a conversation about the vital work of the MMDRC, shedding light on their mission, available resources for families whose loved one have gone missing, and strategies for fostering allyship with those impacted by sexual assault within the Diné community.

Together, let's explore creating safer environments for survivors to share their experiences and explore avenues for healing and support. Join us in amplifying the voices of resilience and advocating for justice and empowerment.

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Yá’át’ééh! In today's episode, we are honored to host Barbara Harvey, a senior research program coordinator at the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health (JHCIH). Join us as we delve into the transformative Respecting the Circle of Life (RCL) program, exploring its goals, effectiveness, and impact on Navajo youth. 
Barbara shares insights into the major health challenges facing Navajo youth and the innovative approaches employed by JHCIH to address these issues. From discussing the cultural significance of RCL to outlining future endeavors of JHCIH, this conversation aims to shine a light on the remarkable work of the Respecting the Circle of Life program and inspire others to engage with their initiatives. Tune in to discover how honoring indigenous traditions can empower communities and foster holistic health and wellness.

Check us out!

Facebook: @Navajo Maternal and Child Health Project at Diné College

Instagram: @navajomch

Website: www.healthynavajofamilies.org

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@HealthyNavajoFamiliesProject 

Linktree coming soon!

Please email us if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions: [email protected]

This podcast was produced by the Healthy Navajo K'é Project. Support for the Healthy Navajo K'é podcast was provided through a cooperative agreement (Grant No. 5U7AMC50503-03-00) from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.