Why St. Louis program for antepartum moms is getting national attention

Why St. Louis program for antepartum moms is getting national attention

Author: St. Louis Public Radio March 3, 2026 Duration: 19:09
A long stay in the hospital often means dealing with fear and boredom. But for expectant mothers who find themselves hospitalized for weeks to monitor their pregnancies, they face isolation at a time when they need support the most. In 2024, more than 7,400 babies born in Missouri — or 11% — were preterm, before 37 weeks gestation. In St. Louis, a rare antepartum arts program at Barnes-Jewish Hospital is "meant to bridge the gap between hospital rooms," writes Missouri Independent health reporter Anna Spoerre. Spoerre's Feb. 23 story explored the hospital's 15-year-old antepartum program, which is the only one of its kind in the Midwest. Emily Paino-Brenneman, the program’s coordinator, talks about the program and why it's drawing attention from other states. We also learn about the origins of the program (and how art can be an important part of the healing process) with the program's recently retired founder, Sarah Colby.

Tune in to St. Louis on the Air for the conversations that define our city and region. Produced by St. Louis Public Radio, this daily podcast goes beyond the headlines to foster a genuine dialogue, one where community voices are central. Each episode gathers a range of perspectives-from everyday residents to experts and creators-to thoughtfully examine the issues, challenges, and innovations shaping life here. You might find yourself immersed in a discussion about local history one day and a deep dive into a groundbreaking scientific discovery the next. The program consistently makes space for the artists, musicians, and authors who contribute to the cultural fabric of the area. What you’ll hear is a respectful and honest exchange of ideas, reflecting the complex character of St. Louis itself. It’s a direct line to the stories of the people who live, work, and create in this community. For anyone curious about the forces at play in the region or simply wanting to feel more connected, this podcast serves as an essential, engaging resource. The result is a comprehensive audio portrait of a city in motion, delivered with the depth and nuance you’d expect from public radio.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

St. Louis on the Air
Podcast Episodes
Need to unwind? St. Louis labyrinths offer a mindful escape [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:42
If life’s hustle has you looking for a reset, St. Louis has a hidden solution. Labyrinths throughout the region can provide a unique, meditative escape. Robert Fishbone, labyrinth designer, artist and owner of “On the Wa…
How to manage frost-shocked plants and other tips for spring gardeners [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:02
Spring has officially sprung — so what’s up with the frost wilting gardens and frustrating gardeners? Missouri Botanical Garden’s Daria McKelvey and University of Missouri Extension’s Eliza Pessereau share their do’s and…
Missouri lawmakers prepare for second half of legislative session [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:32
Democratic Sen. Tracy McCreery and Republican state Rep. George Hruza join “The Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to preview the second half of the 2026 legislative session. The St. Louis County legislat…
Taking stock of Stratton's big win in the Illinois Democratic primary [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:09
Illinois Democrats picked Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton as their nominee to succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin. The Chicago-based politician defeated two sitting Democratic congress members to move on to the November ele…