We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Christina Lumpkin a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Christina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

The defining moment in my professional career was my first pregnancy. In navigating my own pregnancy and postpartum journey as a first time Mom, I quickly learned that there were many gaps in information, myths and quite frankly realities I wish I’d known about as a first time Mom. It was during my first pregnancy that I began shifting in my interests, values and in turn: my career. Though my first pregnancy was filled with lots of uncertainty, I sensed an indescribable level of clarity, persistence and intent that blossomed during my journey into motherhood. It was like suddenly I had a whole newfound purpose, mission and welcomed the uncertainty of what that trajectory entailed as I leaned into a new chapter of my life.

Over the course of my pregnancy and postpartum journeys as a now Mom of 3, I leaned into my experiences transparently and boldly in an effort to not only learn myself, but to inspire others. Motherhood prompted me into blogging, content creation, entrepreneurship and academia. I began exploring new potential career paths I didn’t even see before. In my 7 years of motherhood I’ve seamlessly pivoted into academia, consulting and launched my business Journey2Motherhood. I’m not saying it’s been easy or that I never had doubts. But the trajectory is crystal clear when I step back and revisit where I started versus where I am today.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a Columbia University (NY) graduate with a BA in Sociology, followed by an MBA in Healthcare Administration from South University (GA). I’ve spent over a decade in my post-grad years marrying my passion for wellness promotion, health equity and social impact with my expertise in business and nonprofit management as well as in academia as a College Professor. Since 2013, I’ve provided consulting for a variety of businesses and nonprofits focused on health & wellness, social justice and health equity through my business Journey2Motherhood. I’ve had the pleasure of serving as a Wellness Professor at Spelman College and serving as a Consultant for health equity nonprofits such as Black Mamas Matter Alliance where I now serve as the Fellowship Manager.

I am proud to have a great latitude of diversified yet relatable experiences that truly align with my passions and values. Over the course of my motherhood journey, I’ve been very transparent and vocal about my experiences not only as a mother — but specifically a Black mother. Birthing as a Black woman in our healthcare system and during recent climatic years narrowed my focus even more specifically to not only impact, but social justice and health equity.

Despite my educational level and career accomplishments, I’ve lived through traumatic birthing experiences and navigated pregnancy and motherhood through a pandemic and civil unrest. I’ve chosen to use my experiences, knowledge and abilities to advocate for other Black women, mothers and birthing people. I now do that work as a Consultant for health equity nonprofits and academic institutions with aligned values.

I take pride in knowing that my work is near and true to my heart. The work I do authentically reflects my values. My work is also making my ancestors proud; supporting equity for Black women, mothers and birthing people; and paving the way for future generations, like my precious daughter.

To my children (ages 7, 5 and 2): I’m just Mommy. But as they get older and understand my work and its impact, I know they will gain appreciation. The work I do is not only for equity but also liberation and cultural preservation. My story matters. Black stories matter. Regardless of the political turmoil and unfair circumstances surrounding us, I am committed to making sure my kids and future generations understand the responsibilities they have in serving and protecting their communities, culture and families.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My “pandemic pregnancy” is a clear example of my resilience and tenacity. For context: I found out I was pregnant with my youngest child in 2020, the same week that George Floyd was murdered. I was carrying my sweet baby boy while a Black man cried out for his mother using his last breaths. The initial news of George Floyd’s murder knocked the wind out of me, I crumbled and bawled that day.

Over the course of 2020-2021, I started sharing more of my realities as a Black woman and mother through my social media account on Instagram. It wasn’t for popularity, likes or account growth. I honestly didn’t know how it would be received but I also didn’t care. Enough with treading lightly. People who look like me, my husband, children, family and friends are being senselessly murdered daily without remorse. Black women and babies are dying during or shortly after childbirth because of the racism interwoven into our healthcare system. Then there’s the juxtaposition of trying to preserve Black joy for my children and family while refusing to ignore the realities surrounding me. Everyone won’t agree. But I take pride in speaking up and advocating for my people. Black people. It’s not a trend. This is my life’s work. I’m proud to do it boldly and unapologetically Black.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

I absolutely would not change a thing. I believe the work that I’m doing chose me. I’ve always known that I wanted my work to be meaningful and I wanted to impact others, but it was motherhood that truly sent me down this trajectory. Every day I’m applying my academic skills, continuing to sharpen my professional knowledge and have carved out a career path that uniquely fits me. My career path truly fits who I am, who and what I stand for, and will continue to impact future generations. That’s all the confirmation I need to know that I’m exactly where I need to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://corerehabjourney.com/
• Instagram: @coach_mom_wife_life @corerehabjourney @j2mcareer
• Linkedin: Christina Lumpkin, MBA, MHA https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinalumpkin?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Other: For Consulting & Academic Inquiries Please Email : professorclumpkin@gmail.com

Image Credits
Diversity Stock Photos for the professional fitness photos (@diversitystock in corner) All other photos are my personal images