The BioStudio Podcast

Adriana Smith and the Visual Erasure of Black Bodies in Medicine

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 14:42:09 +0000

In this episode, I discuss the case of Adriana Smith, a Black woman in Georgia who was kept on life support because of the state’s fetal-personhood law, and what her story reveals about medical racism today. I also talk about Dr. Shalon Irving, a CDC epidemiologist who studied Black maternal mortality yet died from preventable complications herself. We explore the historical roots of this crisis—drawing on Medical Apartheid—and how the erasure of Black bodies in medical illustration continues to shape patient care. I share how my own work in inclusive medical illustration aims to support self-advocacy and rebuild trust in a system that…

The Legacy of Ms LillyBell Davis: A History of Black Midwives in America

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:52:24 +0000

In this episode, I share the story of Ms. LillyBell Davis, the midwife who delivered my father, and honor the legacy of Black midwives who provided care and protection during a time of medical injustice. Black Midwifery Organizations: Indigenous Midwifery Organizations: About the Maternity Education Lookbooks See the Maternity Education Lookbooks

Procreate vs. Adobe Photoshop - Which is better?

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 23:06:51 +0000

When it comes to digital painting, which tool is better, Procreate or Adobe Photoshop? I tried both and I have thoughts. Check out which tool I use and why.

Dr. Caldwell - Dentist and Community Supporter

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 10:08:00 +0000

Allow me to introduce one of the most influential people in my life and my community, Dr. Caldwell, or as I know her, Mom.
Dr. Caldwell has been practicing dentistry for over 35 years, and that experience goes beyond oral healthcare.

For many of us, this year has ripped off the rose-colored glasses and exposed America's reality.

In this episode, we discuss starting her practice, healthcare, the Black Lives Matter movement, being a community hub, and the intertwining of politics throughout her career.
Take a listen and let me share with you one of the most fearless women I know.

Stay safe, wear a mask, and go vote!

Assata and Dr. Caldwell Dr. Caldwell's Dental Office - Sign designed by LEGACY BioStudios, LLC

Iowa MOST (Miles Of Smiles Team)

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 10:13:00 +0000

Cleft lip, palate, and more! What Rotary is doing about it.

I enjoyed talking with my fellow Rotarian, Deb Dunkhase, about one of Rotary's most impactful projects. Deb is the project leader of IowaMOST (Miles of Smiles Team) and shared with me a little about what they do, why they do it, and some of the stories that stayed with her.
Take a listen!

Photo curtesy of Iowa STEM (https://iowastem.gov/newsletter/august-2015/mvp-for-iowa-stem-deb-dunkhase)

If you are interested in donating, volunteering, or learning more, go to:
https://iowamost.org and Like them on Facebook!

Welcome to the BioStudio!

Assata Caldwell Worrell — Tue, 26 May 2020 07:56:00 +0000

Hello, New Listener!

My name is Assata, and I am the founder and principal of LEGACY BioStudios, LLC.
Welcome to episode 1 of The BioStudio Podcast! Learn about me while my husband, Ben, runs the interview.

For more, check out these links:
About Us
How Illustration Found Me: How I Founded LEGACY BioStudios, LLC

Connect with me on LinkedIn, follow me on Twitter, and follow my Instagram.

Enjoy the first episode!
Assata

Recording Ep. 1 of The BioStudio Podcast