Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC is a maternal health podcast that's creating a space where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered. Partnering with the CDC's Hear Her campaign, our show is a movement designed to amplify women's voices and raise awareness about the warning signs of maternal health complications. Each episode is designed to inspire, educate, and connect listeners from all walks of life.
Ep. 7| Season 2 in Review: Conversations That Move Perinatal Health Forward
In the Season 2 finale, we look back at the conversations, perspectives, and key takeaways that shaped this season. From maternal mortality and hypertension to substance use, chronic disease, and maternal mental health, Season 2 explored issues impacting moms, babies, families, and communities across Virginia.
Join us as we reflect on what we heard, what we learned, and how these conversations can continue moving perinatal health forward across the Commonwealth.
Also, we want to hear from you! Help us shape future episodes by completing our brief End-of-Season Survey. Your feedback will help us understand what resonated with you and what topics and conversations you'd like to hear in Season 3. You can find the survey link in the episode description.
7 Aug 2026
Ep. 6: Navigating Maternal Mental Health (Part 2)
The conversation continues. In Part 2 of this special two-part Bear Hug Conversations series, we're joined once again by Olivia Reichenbacker, PMHNP, of Brookside Psychiatric Specialists, to continue our discussion on maternal mental health.
In this episode, we take a deeper dive into the importance of support systems, reducing stigma, and empowering families to recognize when help is needed. Olivia also shares practical guidance for healthcare providers, loved ones, and parents, along with resources that can make a meaningful difference throughout the pregnancy and postpartum journey.
Whether you listened to Part 1 or are joining us for the first time, this episode offers valuable insights, encouragement, and hope for anyone touched by maternal mental health.
Thank you for joining the conversation.
10 Jul 2026
Ep. 5: Navigating Maternal Mental Health (Part 1)
Maternal mental health is an important part of every pregnancy and postpartum journey, yet it's often one of the least talked about topics. In Part 1 of this special two-part Bear Hug Conversations series, we're joined by Olivia Reichenbacker, PMHNP, of Brookside Psychiatric Specialists, to discuss the realities of maternal mental health, including common warning signs, available treatment options, and why asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
Whether you're an expecting parent, a new parent, a loved one, or a healthcare professional, this conversation offers practical insights, reassurance, and hope for anyone navigating the emotional challenges that can come with pregnancy and postpartum.
Be sure to join us next week for Part 2, where we continue the conversation and dive even deeper into supporting maternal mental health.
Thank you for joining the conversation.
5 Jun 2026
Ep. 4| Managing Chronic Diseases Before, During, and After Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
In Episode 4 of Bear Hug Conversations, we sit down with Megan Whitman to discuss the do's and don'ts of managing pre-existing chronic diseases before, during, and after pregnancy.
From hypertension and diabetes to autoimmune and cardiac conditions, chronic health issues can significantly impact pregnancy outcomes when not properly managed. Megan shares practical guidance on preparing for pregnancy, working with healthcare providers, understanding medication considerations, recognizing warning signs, and prioritizing postpartum health.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, expecting parent, or someone interested in maternal and infant health, this conversation highlights the importance of early planning, coordinated care, and ongoing support for families navigating pregnancy with chronic health conditions.
Key Topics:
Common chronic conditions that affect pregnancy
Preparing for pregnancy with an existing health condition
Medication management and provider communication
Warning signs that should never be ignored
Postpartum considerations and long-term health
Resources and support available for families
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).
Tune in and join the conversation. #welcometotheconversation
1 May 2026
Ep. 3 Substance Use in the Perinatal Population
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 Kimberly Simcox, DO, of Carilion Clinic, 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 systems that treat substance use as a medical condition.
This conversation offers a deeper understanding of how providers, communities, and systems can better support families and improve outcomes for both moms and babies.
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).
Tune in and join the conversation. #welcometotheconversation
3 Apr 2026
Ep. 2: Understanding Hypertension & Preeclampsia with Dr. Chris Chisholm (UVA)
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 maternal health
Symptoms that deserve attention during pregnancy and postpartum
How risk factors shape someone's likelihood of developing complications
What to do when concerns aren't taken seriously
How care teams and families can better recognize and respond to warning signs
And much more including one message Dr. Chisholm hopes every listener carries forward. #welcometotheconversation
Resources for Learning More
Throughout the episode, we highlight trusted tools and organizations that support education, awareness, and early recognition of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. You can explore them here:
Preeclampsia Foundation (https://www.preeclampsia.org/)
Million Hearts: Hypertension in Pregnancy Change Package
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! #Welcometotheconversation
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).
6 Mar 2026
Season 2, Episode 1: Introduction to MMRT & Severe Maternal Morbidity
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. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you! #Welcometotheconversation
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).
4 Aug 2025
Ep. 6 Elevating Care Through Guided Conversations
Community Partner Liaison Aysia Jackson interviews Ciara Puryear about using the CDC's Hear Her guide, highlighting the importance of listening and culturally responsive care in maternal health.
11 Jul 2025
Ep. 5: Mental & Emotional Urgency — A Therapist and New Mom’s Perspective on Maternal Warning Signs
Licensed therapist Alexis Jackson discusses the urgent maternal warning signs, focusing on the emotional and psychological dimensions, in order to validate mothers' feelings in this interview.
6 Jun 2025
Ep 4: Listening to Save Lives – A Conversation with Maliqua White on the Hear Her Conversation Guide
Maliqua White discusses the CDC's Hear Her campaign conversation guide and how it improves communication between pregnant individuals and care teams, amplifying important voices in this interview.
3 May 2025
Ep. 3: Navigating Pregnancy and Post-Partum in the Emergency Department with Dr. Shannon Walsh
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Shannon Walsh 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. Click here to take the survey. Your input helps us make this podcast even better for you!
4 Apr 2025
Ep. 2 Recognizing Urgent Maternal Warning Signs: A Conversation with Stephanie Spencer
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 Stephanie Spencer, the inspiring founder and executive director of Urban Baby Beginnings. 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 health and well-being.#welcometotheconversation
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!
7 Mar 2025
Episode 1: Introduction - Welcome to 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 podcast—it’s a movement to bring communities together, one story at a time. By tuning in, you’re becoming an essential part of this mission, and we couldn’t be happier to have you on this journey.
Let’s inspire, educate, and connect. Welcome to the conversation!
And 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!
Who has been a guest on Bear Hug Conversations by VNPC
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Ciara Puryear
Alexis Jackson
Maliqua White
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 18 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
36
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
0
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