We’re continuing our motherhood conversation – but this time from the perspective of dads, or non-birthing partners. In this episode of Uniquely Milwaukee, we’re going inside Dad Doula University.
Though pregnancy is physically experienced by the mother, or birthing parent, it is a process that impacts the entire family. Sometimes, doulas are involved. A doula is a trained professional who offers physical, emotional and informational guidance to their clients during pregnancy and post-partum.
(Listen to our Mother's Day episode.)
Doulas are traditionally women, but not all. In Milwaukee, there’s a father who is giving other dads and non-birthing partners that support.
Joshua Liston-Zawadi is the creator of Dad Doula University. The free program offers monthly classes to help expectant fathers prepare for parenthood. It’s also inclusive to differing family dynamics, welcoming (and using terms as) birthing partners and non-birthing partners.
Photo 2 (pictured): KeJuane, Josh, Jaden
Photo 2 (pictured): KeJuane, Josh, Jaden
Liston-Zawadi is a married father of four and Army veteran who used his life experiences to build the program. He credits his wife, Symphony, with helping him overcome childhood challenges and navigate his own relationship with fatherhood.
“I was an Army retiree, so I was a drill sergeant,” he explained. “And she was like, 'Josh, I need you to navigate your trauma so that our children don't call you their trauma.' And so the work had to begin – therapy and all the things I had to go through.”
Dad Doula University provides tools on topics like talking with doctors, learning about trimesters, restorative communication and being in touch with emotions. He said the top barriers for non-birthing partners who attend his classes are lack of education around pregnancy, emotional stability and understanding advocacy.
“There's a different level of energy that comes when a man or a non-birth person is in position. It’s really that simple,” he said. “Statistics have shown us that birthing with a partner equates to less harm, a louder voice and better advocacy versus people who birth without that support.
"People who birth without, or families that go on without a non-birthing person, father, husband, spouse, or partner, children are less likely to graduate and have more health risks. The data is here.”
Liston-Zawadi calls Dad Doula University a "brave space."
During this particular Saturday morning class, he told the attending fathers, “This class will be uncomfortable, and that’s okay."
The main goal is for non-birthing partners to learn and better understand themselves, so they can anticipate the needs of their partners and advocate for their family.
Dad Doula University has serviced more than 500 families. Cohorts are available every month from April-September over two consecutive weekends. Right now, classes are held in Milwaukee at the Sherman Phoenix.
Find upcoming sessions and information at daddoulauniversity.com.
