The Birthing Dads Podcast

Suzy Hodgson has a background in child and family nursing with a master's and PhD in psychology. She has clinical and academic experience in the UK and in Aotearoa and enjoy collaborating with other researchers, practice partners and experts by experience. For the past 10 years Suzy has worked in an academic environment as a research assistant, lecturer and senior lecturer and currently as a senior research officer. Suzy enjoys networking and meeting people who are passionate about the health and wellbeing of men, particularly new fathers. Suzy is also a registered nurse and member of the Royal Society of New Zealand, the Australian Fatherhood Research Consortium and the International Family Nurse Association.

Content warning: This episode discusses neonatal loss. Today, we feature an interview with Matt McConnell. Matt bravely opens up about the loss of his 8-day-old daughter, Wren, his journey through grief, and his dedication to raising awareness about perinatal loss through his Grief Support Platform, @love.from.dad If you or someone you know is coping with the loss of a child, we encourage you to share this episode and explore Matt's resources. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more about Love from Dad Website: https://www.lovefromdad.com.au/ Instagram: @love.from.dad Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

In this episode, we talk with Associate Professor Rob Mills, a seasoned expert in maternal and child health, and CEO of Tresillian family care centers. Professor Mills shares his experience working closely with families during the critical early stages of their children's lives. He discusses the essential role of Tresillian in offering invaluable support and guidance to parents as they navigate the transformative journey into parenthood and the significant cultural shifts he’s observed over the past 30 years. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more about Tresillian https://www.tresillian.org.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Renee Adair, founder and director of the Australian Doula College. With more than two decades of experience, Renee delves into the fears that can surround childbirth, the impacts of the hospital system on birthing experiences, the profound influence of hormones on the birthing process, unrealistic expectations of parenthood, and the crucial need for a supportive village during this life-changing phase. She discusses the pivotal role doulas play in supporting expectant parents, as well as the significance of independent birth educators in empowering couples to feel confident. Renee highlights the benefits of a continuity of care model and the advocacy role men need to embrace as the gatekeepers of the birth space. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Connect with Australian Doulas College https://www.australiandoulacollege.com.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

In this podcast, we follow the journey of Chris, who left his job in Banking to join 'The Fathering Project' with a clear mission to inspire dads to become the best versions of themselves. Chris recounts the births of his two children. He describes his wife as a warrior and is in awe of her birthing journey. Their preparation, including independent birth education, instilled a deep trust in his wife's body's capabilities. Chris reflects on the delicate balance of gathering just the right amount of information and avoiding overwhelming details and unwarranted risks. We delve into the details of how he supported her through two smooth births, with the second being a waterbirth. Chris acknowledges the challenges of fatherhood but emphasises that it's the best thing that's ever happened to him. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more about The Fathering Project https://thefatheringproject.org/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

This episode features perinatal psychologist David Marishel, as he delves into the world of fatherhood during the early years of parenting. In this conversation, David shares his expert insights on the unique challenges that today's fathers face in our rapidly evolving society and the essential aspects of fatherhood that are often overlooked. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Connect with David Marishel https://www.davidmarishel.com.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

Join us for a chat with Elly Taylor, the author of 'Becoming Us' a renowned relationship counsellor specialising in guiding couples through the transition into parenthood. In this conversation, we explore the challenges couples commonly encounter when entering parenthood and some strategies to strengthen their bond and grow together, rather than apart. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Connect with Elly Taylor https://becomingusfamily.com/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

In this episode, Scott recounts the journey of his son's birth. His partner's pregnancy unfolded with a distinct challenge – Scott found himself in a different city. To prepare for the big day, he diligently asked their obstetrician questions, arming himself with the knowledge to be the best advocate for his partner. This invaluable preparation proved crucial when it came to setting up their birth space ensuring their wishes were honoured in the hospital setting. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

In this podcast, Simon shares the journey of his partner's early miscarriage and the two subsequent births that followed. He reflects on the support he provided to his partner, who battled sickness throughout her pregnancy. Simon's story extends beyond the joys of parenthood, his passion for raising awareness about Men's Mental Health led him to establish Mindful Men in 2021. Simon's mission is clear: to normalise conversations about mental health and empower men to open up, embrace vulnerability, and address the challenges that too often isolate them in their struggles. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more about Mindful Men https://mindful-men.com.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

Erika Munton is one of the most experienced birth workers in Melbourne today. Attending 400 births over 20 years as a doula she has supported hundreds of couples. Erika defines the role of a doula. Outlines what dads can do to help throughout the perinatal period and discusses intimacy and relationship dynamics post-birth. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Connect with Erika Munton https://birthready.com.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au

A candid discussion with one of Australia’s leading Obstetricians, Dr Vijay Roach. We talked about advocacy, the role of the modern father and Vijay’s own experience of fatherhood. Vijay also shares his perspective on post natal depression after supporting his wife through a very difficult time. Former President, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Vijay is an obstetrician and gynaecologist with more than 20 years experience. He consults in general gynaecology with interests in miscarriage, traumatic birth experience, contraception, menopause, infertility, menstrual disturbances, vulval and vaginal disorders and abnormal cervical pathology. He has a particular interest in the importance of integrating psychological and physical health. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

Dr Howard Chilton (babydoc) is a neonatal paediatrician, Dad, Granddad and author of two books, 'Your cherished baby' and 'Baby on Board'. Howard shares his vast wisdom for expectant and new dads drawing on over 40 years of clinical practice. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more https://www.babydoc.com.au https://www.babydoc.com.au/boys-will-be-boys/ https://www.babydoc.com.au/boys-will-be-boys-2/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded, edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

In this episode, Stuart from Melbourne shares his story of supporting his partner through an emergency Cesarean Section, a decision prompted by a difficult induction process. Stuart talks about the importance of informed choice and advocacy in a hospital setting. He opens up about the whirlwind of emotions he felt as he awaited the birth of his daughter and the time it took for that profound bolt of love to fully hit. He emphasizes the role of mental health care and mindfulness in helping him navigate some of the challenges of parenthood. We also chat about changes in intimacy and gentle parenting. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Book: The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

We welcome Matt Ashbolt from Lismore, who shares his journey of supporting pregnancy, birth, and early parenting. Matt opens up about his relationship with his father, recounting the challenges he faced in connecting during his teenage years and how his perception evolved after becoming a parent himself. Matt describes how much he loved witnessing the birth of his son, which unfolded in a hospital setting involving an epidural and episiotomy, following a transfer from a birth center. Matt touches on the lack of birth education regarding the role of fathers, He speaks about feeling well-prepared for the birth itself but unready for the challenges of the early days, especially when their son struggled to settle. He openly reflects on the subtle undercurrents of depression during the initial weeks post-birth, alongside moments of sheer bliss. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

We welcome Matt Lane to share his personal journey into fatherhood. Matt opens up about the birth of his 15-week-old daughter, which involved a forceps delivery after induction. Matt and his partner opted for a private model of care, entrusting their journey to an obstetrician. During the birth, Matt recounts surreal first moments of skin-to-skin contact with his daughter while his wife underwent surgery for a fourth-degree tear. He shares his insights on how he provided unwavering support to his wife during the birth and the subsequent recovery process. Matt also discusses the importance of "reading the room" during childbirth, a skill that enabled him to be a truly present birth partner. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

In this podcast episode, we're joined by Ian, a father who shares the birth story of his twins, including the challenges they faced when their son was born with a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. Ian recounts the world of uncertainty he faced during his wife's birth and the early weeks of his twin's life in the NICU. He also opens up about supporting his wife through postnatal depression and how critical support from family, friends, and colleagues played a pivotal role in helping them navigate the complexities of twin parenting and inspired their involvement in the Australian Multiple Births Association. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Learn more about the Australian Multiple Births Association https://www.amba.org.au/ Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

In this episode, we're joined by Matty Scoccio from Brunswick (Melbourne) as he shares his personal experience of becoming a father. Matty reflects on his own childhood and the influence of his relationship with his father, revealing the values and lessons he hopes to pass down to his own children. Matty discusses the uncertainty of parenthood and how a private obstetrician played a pivotal role in easing their fears. He reflects on the challenges of supporting his wife through Hyperemesis during both pregnancies and marvels at her strength during this time and throughout her 20-hour labor and an unexpected vaginal birth, initially anticipated to be a cesarean due to the baby's position. We chat about the importance of teamwork, communication, and partnership in parenthood. Matty shares how his bond with his sons gradually deepened especially during his period as a stay-at-home dad. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.

Anthony from Warrandyte (Melbourne) shares the transformative experience of a home birth. Anthony recounts the journey they embarked upon to make the decision to birth in the comfort of their own home, and how this choice proved to be an empowering and life-changing start to parenthood. Anthony's story extends beyond the birthing room as he opens up about the personal journey he undertook to prepare for fatherhood. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and growth, highlighting how this process allowed him and his partner to become a strong, united team and the best versions of themselves to start their family. * * * Ready to give yourself a confidence boost ahead of the big day and start your transformation into parenthood? Visit our website and kickstart your journey today with the Birthing Dads program. Use Code: POD for a 10% Discount https://www.birthingdads.com.au/ * * * Helpful Resources Antenatal https://prepare.org.au/resources/ https://www.birthingdads.com.au https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/ https://www.sms4dads.com.au Perinatal Mental Health Support https://panda.org.au https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au https://www.cope.org.au https://forwhenhelpline.org.au This podcast was recorded edited and produced by Steven Kennedy, Founder of the PREPARE Foundation https://prepare.org.au.