Presentations on Postpartum Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Maternal Mental Health and the Power of Story

Maegan Blackwell brings something rare to a speaking engagement; she has lived the story she is telling. As the author of Before and After Baby- a picture book about postpartum depression that earned a starred review from Kirkus Reviews- Maegan speaks with the credibility of personal experience and the warmth of someone who has come out the other side.

Her presentations are often overdue conversation starters. They leave audiences not just informed, but moved to act with greater empathy and care.

A woman in a white dress with green star patterns is standing at a podium, holding up a colorful children's drawing and smiling at an audience.

Maegan is available for presentations to:

  • Parent and Family groups

  • Public Health Departments

  • Perinatal Mental Health Collaboratives

  • Birthing Centers and Hospitals

  • School and Library Communities

  • Mental Health Support Groups and Non-Profits

Whiteboard with handwritten text announcing a Kitsap Perinatal Leadership Collaborative meeting on April 3rd at 7:00 a.m., with an arrow pointing to the left.

Maegan’s presentations focus on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)- what they are, how they show up, and how communities and caregivers can respond with compassion. Drawing on her own experience as well as her background as an educator, she offers:

  • An honest, personal account of postpartum depression and recovery

  • Practical language and tools for supporting new and expectant parents

  • Guidance on how to show up for someone who is struggling

  • Discussion on her picture book as a tool for opening conversations with children and families

*Please note: Maegan opens each presentation with a trigger warning out of care and respect for her audience.

A woman is giving a presentation in a conference room with a large window that overlooks trees outside. Attendees are seated at tables, listening.
A woman giving a presentation to a group of people seated around tables in a conference room. There is a large window with trees outside, and a TV mounted on the wall.

“Relevant and thought-provoking. Your perspective and story are really powerful and serve as a catalyst to motivate team members to learn.”

—Public Health Collaborator

“Thank you for sharing your personal journey and your beautiful book with us. I’m truly grateful that you were able to join both meetings on Tuesday. Your authenticity, heartfelt presentation, and willingness to share your story were incredibly moving—beyond what words can express. A simple thank you hardly feels sufficient to convey my deep appreciation.”

— Infant Toddler Program Director

“You held everyone’s attention with your story and expertise. You helped us better understand the complexities of PMADs, and I believe our nurses will show up with additional empathy and compassion- and a few things they can say to provide better support to our patients.”

— Birthing Center Director

“Thank you so much for your vulnerability and openness in sharing your story.”

— Attendee

To Book Maegan for your group:

Contact her through the form below or email directly. Please include your organization, the size and nature of your audience, and your preferred date.