We are thrilled to announce the launch of our first episode of the DC Perinatal Voices Podcast, presented by the DC Perinatal Quality Collaborative. This series shines a light on the people, programs, and partnerships improving maternal health across the District.

For our very first episode, Building a Culture of Safety, host Yolette Gray sits down with Dr. Melissa Fries, former executive clinical director of the DC PQC and the director of genetics and fetal medicine at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Dr. Fries takes us back to where it all began, the vision that sparked the PQC, the community that built it, and the mission that keeps it moving forward. From tackling hypertension to addressing systemic inequities, she reminds us that real change starts with collaboration, compassion, and boots on the ground.