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Penny Simkin, a pioneering birth doula, passed away at the age of 85. She played a significant role in popularizing doula services for women giving birth. Simkin recognized that doctors and nurses often didn't have the time or inclination to explain options and help mothers cope with pain, so she provided coaching and support during childbirth. She also wrote books, trained doulas, and founded Doulas of North America (now known as DONA International). Simkin believed in the importance of continuous emotional and physical support for women in labor and saw a connection between childbirth experiences and subsequent mental health. She faced criticism from some medical professionals but also found allies among doctors who supported her research. Simkin's career as a birth doula began in the 1960s when she responded to a help-wanted ad for childbirth educators. She developed various methods to help women endure pain and make informed decisions during labor. Simkin's work contributed to the rise of natural childbirth methods and the recognition of the doula profession. She passed away in April 2024 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. [Extracted from the article]

James D. Robinson III, the former CEO of American Express, has passed away at the age of 88. Robinson was known for his efforts to diversify American Express into a financial-services supermarket in the 1980s and early 1990s. However, his attempts at diversification were met with challenges and the company ultimately refocused on its core business of plastic payment cards. Robinson's legacy includes his role in the takeover battle for RJR Nabisco and his leadership of American Express for 16 years. He later co-founded a venture-capital firm called RRE Ventures. Robinson is survived by his wife, Linda Gosden Robinson, and four children. [Extracted from the article]

Karen Davis, an animal-rights activist and advocate for the rights of poultry, passed away at the age of 79. Davis played a significant role in changing public perception of chickens and turkeys, which were previously disregarded and seen as insignificant. She founded the nonprofit United Poultry Concerns in 1990 and successfully lobbied against inhumane practices in the poultry industry. Davis also worked to combat demeaning stereotypes about birds and encouraged people to stop mistreating and eating them. Her advocacy influenced others, including radio host Ira Glass, who gave up eating chicken after visiting Davis's bird sanctuary. Davis's intense advocacy occasionally drew criticism, but she was respected for her intelligence and credibility. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the animal rights movement. [Extracted from the article]

Byron Wien, a longtime Blackstone executive and market prognosticator, passed away at the age of 90. Wien was known for his annual "Ten Surprises" list, which detailed economic, political, and financial market surprises he expected to see in the coming year. He also hosted gatherings on Long Island, bringing together leaders in politics and finance for conversations. Wien remained active at Blackstone until his passing, warning of an overheated market and expressing concerns about high interest rates and a potential recession. He is survived by his wife, Anita. [Extracted from the article]