10 Books And Podcasts Beloved By Black Moms

Motherhood has gone from a mysterious tradition you learned little about until you were in it to an ongoing public discussion in recent years. Moms are opening up more and more about their experiences. We're learning all the ways we are the same and finding solidarity in that.

We're also finding that the experiences of some moms are not equal to those of others. Black moms struggle to find representation in the conversation about motherhood. They often feel outside of the conversation taking place in many mainstream media outlets.

A generation of creators is slowly changing all that. Both writers and podcasters are carving out space for the conversations Black moms have. In that, they're becoming part community, part resource and, for many moms, a total lifeline. Especially in times like these, it can be hard to find camaraderie around parenting. These are the books and podcasts Black moms are turning to, seeking advice, validation, and comfort.

'We Live for the We: The Political Power of Black Motherhood'

In We Live for the We: The Political Power of Black Motherhood, first-time mother Dani McClain navigates raising her daughter in a world that is, at best, unjust and, at worst, cruel and predatory toward Black women. She balances this reality with the desire to raise a confident, proud, joyful child. This book walks moms through what that looks like and how that feels like at different stages of your child's life.

'Cleverly Changing'

Cleverly Changing is a podcast by two Black moms, Elle and Miriam, who have embarked on homeschooling their kids. Their goal is to raise Black children who receive an African-centered education that empowers and enlightens them.

'Motherhood So White: A Memoir of Race, Gender, and Parenting in America'

Nefertiti Austin shares some insights from her journey through adoption as a Black single mother in Motherhood So White. For her, that meant going through all the complex ins and outs of that process while facing the stereotypes and misconceptions of others — and your ability to have a child hanging in the balance. It's a fascinating look at inequality in motherhood.

'Fare of the Free Child'

Fare of the Free Child is a podcast that examines all the different types of schooling available to Black children outside of the traditional US education system. The goal is to raise children to explore a life of curiosity and learning without the formalized setting and oppressive systems in place that many Black and brown students face.

'Black, Pregnant and Loving It: The Comprehensive Pregnancy Guide for Today’s Woman of Color'

Black, Pregnant and Loving It: The Comprehensive Pregnancy Guide for Today’s Woman of Color examines pregnancy with the awareness that Black women experience different health and wellness concerns. Dr. Suzanne Greenidge-Hewitt and Yvette Allen-Campbell walk through each stage of pregnancy, dispelling rumors, debunking misconceptions, and presenting Black women with what they really need to be aware of.

'Mommifaceted'

Mommifaceted is more than just a podcast. It's also an online and in-person community highlighting the fact that Black moms are complex and want to celebrate all the areas of their lives to the fullest. There's no right or wrong way to chase your dreams and be the best parent, but this highlights some of the most fascinating stories of just that.

'Raising Confident Black Kids: A Comprehensive Guide for Empowering Parents and Teachers of Black Children'

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Amazon

Raising Confident Black Kids: A Comprehensive Guide for Empowering Parents and Teachers of Black Children gives parents of Black and multiracial children the tools to raise empowered, self-assured children despite the obstacles the world might throw in their paths. It addresses the concerns of approaching difficult subjects while still preserving a child's innocence in a way few books before it have addressed.

'Good Moms, Bad Choices'

On Good Moms, Bad Choices, Erica and Milah get really real about single parenting. The two are sex-positive, cannabis-positive moms who look to challenge stereotypes about the kind of life you have to live once becoming a mom. They also share awesome resources for everything from empowering your kids to reviving your sex life after a breakup.

'My Brown Baby: On the Joys and Challenges of Raising African American Children'

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Amazon

My Brown Baby: On the Joys and Challenges of Raising African American Children features pearls of wisdom from parenting expert Denene Millner. It speaks to all the ups and downs of raising Black children and teaches parents how to navigate some of the hardest times. These insightful essays will facilitate conversation and provoke thought in parents.

'Mom-ing With Melanin'

Mom-ing with Melanin features host Angie Peters as she converses with different parents and professionals on the ups and downs of Black relationships and families. Angie approaches things through the lens of faith.

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