This intimate episode gives more insight into the small but mighty Simeca Alexander Williamson.

She goes solo and speaks freely about her journey to becoming an IBCLC - the second in Jamaica - next to her preceptor, Mrs. Griffith, who was the first. She notes that the official database states there are others for Jamaica but notes that it may be that the others are of Jamaican descent or maintain their citizenship without practicing locally.

Next to that, she tells the funny story about earning the moniker, 'The Titty Lady', the use of her consultancy aid doll, 'Jessica', and the wonderful people who inspired the doll's name.

Simeca also gets real about her personal journey as a breastfeeding mom where she lost a part of one nipple in the process. More on the personal, she shares the struggle to earning her official Nutritionist accreditation in a truly full circle moment.

Tune in and get to know the voice behind the mic.

In this episode, Simeca engages with two women - who are also mothers - who work in the corporate space.

Terisa Taylor and Khelley Green, who are also past clients of Simeca, shared their perspectives on supporting (not coddling) newborn mothers in the workplace and the nuances that follow.

You'll hear mention of other topics that are worthy of their own focused discussion, and that's because breastfeeding intersects with other matters that would lead to a never-ending discussion in one podcast episode.

A main point to take from this discussion is that employers need to take care of their breastfeeding employees' business, which would, in turn, have their company's business taken care of.

In this episode, Simeca speaks with Janiya about the interconnectedness shared between breastfeeding and social justice. They highlight disparities experienced as mothers and as Lactation Consultants from their current bases of existence and professional operation. Additionally, they highlight gaps that exist in the support of (or lack thereof) of breastfeeding parents.

An important note here is that the recording was done during Black Breastfeeding Week (August 25-30) during World Breastfeeding Month. Though, technically, every day is about Black people and how we manoeuvre the world - to have such an important conversation in a momentous week made the experience more relatable and relevant.

Additionally, you'll hear Simeca giving praise to the creator of The Melanated Mammary Atlas, and Janiya followed with the name, Nekisha.

Nekisha Killings, another Lactation Consultant is the Founder of The Melanated Mammary Atlas, which is a mobile friendly Web application that features a searchable directory of images of various breast-related conditions on brown skin.

Lastly, IBCLC is the professional certification for healthcare providers who specialise in the clinical management of breastfeeding.

Welcome to the first trimester of The Cradled Titty Talk Podcast. I'm your Lactation Consultant, Simeca Alexander Williamson, and I'll be here to have the 'nice-to-hear' and difficult conversations about breastfeeding in a world that doesn't necessarily support it.

Throughout the trimester, you'll hear me speaking with other professionals and moms about topics that affect you on your journey into and through breastfeeding.

Listen in as we help you to grow, nurture, and bond with your baby and maternal health care providers on your cradled journey.

Generally, the occasional consumption of 1 or 2 drinks per day while breastfeeding is not known to be harmful to your infant. However... there's a method to the madness. Listen to this episode for the hack on how to enjoy your occasional cocktail or glass of wine while breastfeeding and to learn more about the real truth behind pumping and dumping.

For more information regarding alcohol and breastfeeding, be sure to visit the Center for Disease Control website at https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/vaccinations-medications-drugs/alcohol.html .

I am Simeca Alexander-Williamson, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). This is a safe space specifically created for Jamaican and Caribbean women and those in the diaspora, who are trying to navigate their breastfeeding journey. Please note that this platform is not meant to treat or diagnose any issues. If it is that you need help on a specific issue, feel free to contact me via DM through my Instagram page @cradle.of.life_ or by booking a consultation via my website at cradleoflifeltd.com. Come on! Let's enjoy our breastfeeding journeys.