Welcome To Fatherhood

Kelly Jean-Philippe

Welcome To Fatherhood is a podcast celebrating the journey of fatherhood. I invite my guests to talk about all aspects of what it means to be a father, contributing to the expanding global discourse on ways to elevate each other as men and the portrait of fathers. read less

S4E22: A Tale of Injustice and Perseverance (ft. Gary Ivory)
Jun 28 2023
S4E22: A Tale of Injustice and Perseverance (ft. Gary Ivory)
Have you ever wondered how deep the rabbit hole of systemic failures and biases in the family court system can go? I invite you to join me in my riveting conversation with Gary Ivory, a resilient father who battled the beast for 16 agonizing years, and learn about his journey of survival, justice, and relentless fight for his child. Gary, a nonprofit executive and author, shares an emotional roller coaster of a narrative that reflects the harsh realities of the family court system and its implications on innocent lives.Gary recounts the heartbreaking tale of fighting for his daughter's custody while being wrongfully accused of domestic violence. His former partner's skillful manipulation of the system, coupled with systemic failures and racial biases, led to extended court proceedings. His story doesn't just stop at the battlefront of the courtrooms. From hiring private investigators and confronting school superintendents to dealing with a dramatic kidnapping episode, Gary went to extraordinary lengths to see his daughter. His tale is one of caution and inspiration, shedding light on the importance of trusting instincts and navigating the complexities of the legal system.Gary's experiences serve as a stark reminder of the need to constantly fight for truth and justice. Join us as we navigate this journey and uncover the realities of the family court system, the implications of systemic failures, and the importance of never giving up on one's children, regardless of the hardships faced. This episode is a testament to Gary's perseverance and a call to action for anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation.New episodes every Wednesday.www.welcome2fatherhood.com
S4E21: Men, Miscarriage, and Grief (ft. Brandon Byrnes)
Jun 21 2023
S4E21: Men, Miscarriage, and Grief (ft. Brandon Byrnes)
When you think about the journey of becoming a parent, the excitement and joy of expecting a child often come to mind. But what happens when that journey is abruptly halted by the heartbreak of pregnancy loss? I recently had the privilege of speaking with Brandon Byrnes, a brave father who opened up about his own experience with miscarriage and the subsequent road to healing. Together, we explored the rollercoaster of emotions that come with such a loss and the importance of sharing our stories to find solace and support.We also took the time to discuss the often-overlooked experiences of men who have gone through miscarriages, recognizing the unique challenges they face in expressing their grief.Through sharing the raw emotions and experiences surrounding pregnancy loss, this episode aims to bring comfort and understanding to those who have faced a similar heartache. As Brandon's story demonstrates, the journey of healing is ongoing, and it's through connecting with others that we can find the support and hope needed to move forward. So join us as we shed light on this deeply emotional topic, and let's create a space together where those who have suffered pregnancy loss can feel seen, heard, and understood.If you are a male partner looking for support following a loss of pregnancy, or you are with  a male partner who could benefit from support, the Dads & Miscarriage Facebook community is here to help. As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us!Show MusicEuropean Sunrise & God Remembers by Anthony CatcoliAmong The Stars (Stripped) by Violet MourningDrift by Bobo Renthlei From SoundstripeNew episodes every Wednesday.www.welcome2fatherhood.com
Empowering Dads: Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength (ft. Scott Mair)
May 31 2023
Empowering Dads: Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength (ft. Scott Mair)
This episode features a conversation with my guest, Scott Mair, a husband and father of 7 boys ranging from 20-4 years old. Privately, Scott enjoys spending time home educating his children with his wife Sarah and traveling with them while trying to remain outdoors as much as possible.Are we truly supporting fathers in their journey through parenthood? Join us in our eye-opening conversation as we explore the evolving roles of fathers and the challenges they face. As we discuss the importance of equal partnerships between parents and the unintentional negative messages some healthcare settings may send to fathers, you'll gain insights into the value of education and support for dads in their journey through fatherhood.In this episode, Scott shares his own inspiring story of raising seven boys and the struggles he faced along the way. We delve into the significance of spiritual care and psychosocial services for fathers in healthcare settings, comparing the differences in support offered by larger and smaller institutions. Additionally, Scott opens up about his experience with two critically unwell sons and how he reached out to the universe for help, reminding us of the power of connection and the need for inclusivity and diversity in healthcare.Lastly, we tackle the societal expectations and gender roles in parenting that can hinder fathers from being fully engaged in their children's lives. We emphasize the importance of effective communication between parenting partners, especially during stressful times, and discuss ways to navigate and overcome the challenges fathers face. Don't miss this thought-provoking and inspiring conversation with Scott Mer, as we reinforce the need for spiritual and psychosocial support for fathers to succeed in their parenting journey.If you are a male partner looking for support following a loss of pregnancy, or you are with  a male partner who could benefit from support, the Dads & MiscarriageFacebook community is here to help. As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us!Theme MusicDreamweaver by Sound ForceFrom Premium BeatShow MusicIt's Gonna Be Different by mandimoreEnd of It All by Sam BarshFrom SoundstripeNew episodes every Wednesday.www.welcome2fatherhood.com
The Evolution Of The Daddying Movement (ft. Allan Shedlin)
May 24 2023
The Evolution Of The Daddying Movement (ft. Allan Shedlin)
This episode features a conversation with my guest, Allan Shedlin.Allan Shedlin has devoted his life's work to improving the odds for children and families. He has three daughters, and five grandchildren, as well as numerous "bonus" sons/daughters and grandchildren. Trained as an educator, Allan has alternated between classroom service, school leadership, parenting coaching, policy development, and advising at the local, state, and national levels. After eight years as an elementary school principal, Allan founded and headed the National Elementary School Center for 10 years. In the 1980s, he began writing about education and parenting for major news outlets and education trade publications, as well as appearing on radio and TV. In 2008, he was honored as a "Living Treasure" by Mothering Magazine and founded REEL Fathers in Santa Fe, NM, where he now serves as president emeritus. In 2017, he founded the DADvocacy Consulting Group. In 2018, he launched the DADDY Wishes Fund and Daddy Appleseed Fund. In 2019, he co-created and began co-facilitating the Armor Down/Daddy Up! and Mommy Up! programs. He has conducted daddying workshops in such diverse settings as Native American pueblos, veterans groups, nursery schools, penitentiaries, Head Start centers, corporate boardrooms, and various elementary schools, signifying the widespread interest in men in becoming the best possible dad. In 2022, Allan founded and co-directed the Daddying Film Festival & Forum to enable students, dads, and other indie filmmakers to use film as a vehicle to communicate the importance of fathers or father figures in each others' lives. Allan earned his elementary and high school diplomas from NYC’s Ethical Culture Schools, BA at Colgate University, MA at Columbia University’s Teachers College, and an ABD at Fordham University. But he considers his D-A-D and GRAND D-A-D the most important “degrees” of all.In this conversation, we discuss the nature of the evolution of the daddying movement, and highlight the Daddying Film Festival & Forum as a grassroots movement that his helping to push the movement forward.Contact Allan Shedlin at Dadvocacy Consulting Group. Read my guest blog post titled, "A Dad's Struggle To Move Beyond Miscarriage"If you are a male partner looking for support following a loss of pregnancy, or you are with  a male partner who could benefit from support, the Dads & Miscarriage Facebook community is here to help. As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us!Theme MusicDreamweaver by Sound ForceFrom Premium BeatShow MusicBreakfast for Dinner by Dr. DelightPostman Postup by Sam BarshFrom Soundstripe
S4E10: Mental Health, Stay-At-Home-Dad, & Life-Work Paradigm (ft. Alex Egeler)
Mar 29 2023
S4E10: Mental Health, Stay-At-Home-Dad, & Life-Work Paradigm (ft. Alex Egeler)
This episode features a conversation with my guest, Alex Egeler. Alex Egeler is a former rocket scientist, aircraft designer, and aerospace executive.  When his company went out of business during the pandemic, he knew that he needed to take a step back and focus on his family.  Now he is a husband, father of 4 wonderful sons, and aspiring coach and online course creator.  The journey of being a father and primary caregiver has taken him in directions he didn't expect, but has been the most important job of his life. In the first part of our conversation, Alex shares a very deeply personal story involving a family member who died by suicide. If you’re someone currently in the thick of having any suicidal ideation, call or text my friends at the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 and one of the 24/7 providers can help guide you to the help you need. This number is for the US only. For all my global listeners, CLICK HERE for what may be your local suicide prevention reference. ATTENTION: I’m not claiming this to be a comprehensive list. PLEASE CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS.As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us.Please visit the Welcome To Fatherhood blog by going to my website or through the link tree on my IG account. Your feedback is always welcomed! Write a comment on any blogpost that peaks your interest, or leave a review for the podcast. Theme MusicDreamweaver by Sound ForceFrom Premium BeatShow MusicSilhouette by Fleece MobThe Sensitive Hustler by Sam BarshChosen One by Ghost BeatzFrom Soundstripe
S4E9: REFORM - Changing Laws Changing Lives (ft. Robert Rooks)
Mar 22 2023
S4E9: REFORM - Changing Laws Changing Lives (ft. Robert Rooks)
This week’s episode features a conversation with Robert Rooks.Robert Rooks is one of the nation’s premier public safety solutions experts with more than two decades of experience as a grassroots organizer, strategist, and movement leader. Robert is the CEO of REFORM Alliance, a national advocacy organization focused on transforming probation and parole by changing laws, systems, and culture. Under Robert’s leadership, REFORM is promoting smart reforms that reduce unnecessary supervision and create pathways to work and wellbeing. REFORM has won major legislative reforms to transform probation and parole systems in states as diverse as California, Georgia, and Mississippi and lifted the experiences of people on supervision to educate the public and build support for broader change. To join the REFORM community text “REFORM” to 81411 from your mobile device. Standard rates may apply. If you’re a  T-Mobile customer, you’re encouraged to join the REFORM community by adding your name here.In this episode we discuss the huge impact Robert’s father has had on his life and career trajectory, the significance of being a Black father to three sons, as well as the important legislative changes being brought as a result of REFORM Alliance’s relentless work.As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us.Please visit the Welcome To Fatherhood blog by going to my website or through the link tree on my IG account. Your feedback is always welcomed! Write a comment on any blogpost that peaks your interest, or leave a review for the podcast. Theme MusicDreamweaver by Sound ForceFrom Premium BeatShow Music
S4E8: Why More Dads Need To Take Parental Leave (ft. Piotr Jan Pietrzak)
Mar 15 2023
S4E8: Why More Dads Need To Take Parental Leave (ft. Piotr Jan Pietrzak)
This episode features a conversation with my guest, Piotr Jan Pietrzak.Piotr is the Director of International Development at BLIK, a leading European mobile payment system and scheme that is rapidly expanding in other geographies. Piotr earned his executive education certificate from Stanford Graduate School of Business in 2022. As a lifelong learner and an advocate of contributing back to the finance sector which he is so passionate about, Piotr prioritizes ongoing collaboration with academia to continue forging strong-ties to communities of learning, as well as to share his expertise and to provide broader knowledge as a commentator on the financial markets. Most importantly, Piotr is the  father to a one year old son, and while on parental leave has published the following articles on LinkedIn:“I’m in the top 1% of super dads, so why are 99% of men not taking parental leave?”“Why taking parental leave makes you a better dad, partner and leader”“Four harmful myths about dads on parental leave”“Three arguments for adding “dad” (or “mom”) on your LinkedIn profile and why it is important“Today, Piotr and I discuss the topic of parental leave, and reasons why more fathers need to take leave from work to spend valuable time with their newborn and family.  As always, thank you for spending part of your week with us.Please visit the Welcome To Fatherhood blog by going to my website or through the link tree on my IG account. Your feedback is always welcomed! Write a comment on any blogpost that peaks your interest, or leave a review for the podcast. Theme MusicDreamweaver by Sound ForceFrom Premium BeatShow MusicWait by B.WightOn My Mind by Ghost BeatzUntil Tomorrow by Shane BeckerFrom Soundstripe