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Welcome to episode 36!

This episode shines a spotlight on the brave voices behind the UK-based Still Parents Podcast, as they share their endeavors to create a space for fathers grappling with the grief of miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal loss. From the profound silence of grief to the audible laughter that helps heal, we discuss the unbroken bond of parenthood despite the silence of loss.

Ryan, Matt, and Dan candidly discuss the challenges men face when expressing grief. We explore the shifting landscape of support for bereaved fathers, shedding light on the essential role of humor in addressing such profound pain. The Lily Mae Foundation's heartfelt mission, born from tragedy, is highlighted, illustrating how collective experiences strengthen communities of support for grieving parents.

We also reflect on the impact of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, sharing real stories that underline the importance of empathy and understanding. This episode promises to offer insights and strength for anyone supporting or experiencing such profound loss. Celebrate with us the resilience and dedication of those who turn their grief into a beacon of hope, fostering connections that transcend borders and time.

Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris

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@miscarriage_support_for_dads

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Welcome to episode 35!

One year ago, we began a conversation that was long overdue—a conversation that illuminated the often-overlooked journey of fathers experiencing miscarriage. This episode marks a meaningful milestone for The Miscarriage Dads Podcast as we reflect on the powerful stories and connections forged over the past year. We promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and societal challenges surrounding pregnancy and infant loss, and how acknowledging these experiences can foster a sense of belonging among men who have felt isolated in their grief.

Imagine facing a loss often shrouded in silence and stigma, yet finding strength in shared stories and community. Our discussion contrasts the visibility of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month with more recognized causes, emphasizing the critical need for empathy and dialogue. Through personal anecdotes and societal observations, we challenge the silence that surrounds miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. We aim to create a supportive and informed space that encourages healing and understanding, breaking down barriers that have kept these topics in the shadows for far too long.

We also tackle the complexities surrounding miscarriage in today's political landscape. From the emotional turmoil of spontaneous miscarriages to the nuances of healthcare access across state lines, we discuss the urgent need for comprehensive women's healthcare rights. By addressing misconceptions and encouraging open, empathetic dialogue, we hope to empower individuals navigating family planning amid uncertainties.

Join us as we look forward to another year of transformative conversations, shedding light on the profound impact of these experiences and supporting bereaved parents on their journey to healing and hope.

Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris

Instagram:
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@miscarriage_support_for_dads

Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Welcome to episode 34!

This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Osei Daniels, a devoted youth pastor from Washington DC. Osei and his wife have faced multiple miscarriages, complicated further by her PCOS diagnosis. Osei's candid revelations highlight the often-silent struggle men endure and the necessity of creating spaces where they can express their grief and support their partners through these difficult times.

In this heartfelt conversation, we delve into the complexities of the infertility journey, from the emotional toll of IVF to the silent battles of guilt and shame men experience. Osei shares his unwavering commitment to his marriage, regardless of their ability to have children, underscoring the importance of mutual support and open communication. The discussion extends to cultural pressures that discourage men from showing vulnerability, with a particular focus on the unique challenges faced by Black men. By embracing vulnerability and seeking professional help, Osei illustrates how men can navigate the grief of losing an imagined future and redefine their identities meaningfully.

We explore the profound grief fathers face after a miscarriage, often mourning the loss of their envisioned identity as parents. Through intimate discussions, we emphasize the necessity of processing this grief to avoid emotional stagnation and find new sources of joy and purpose. This episode is a poignant reminder that how we respond to disappointment shapes our growth and resilience. Whether you are a father, a partner, or a supporter, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the emotional journey through miscarriage and the transformative power of vulnerability and emotional honesty.

Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris

Instagram:
@themiscarriagedad
@miscarriage_support_for_dads

Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Hello! This short episode is to share the following updates:

As we inch closer to the first anniversary of the Miscarriage Dads podcast, we look back on an incredible journey of shared grief, healing, and community building. We're inviting you to share your story of specific ways this podcast has benefited you these past 12 months at themiscarriagedad@gmail.com for us to share with our larger TMDs community.

We're also looking to highlight the importance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and are inviting you to share how you're raising awareness in your own communities (themiscarriagedad@gmail.com).

We're excited to introduce Miscarriage Support for Dads, a groundbreaking resource [more to come!] aimed at providing comprehensive emotional support tailored specifically for men. Discover how this new service will equip dads with tools to navigate their unique experiences of loss, build resilience, and communicate effectively with their partners. Visit www.miscarriagedads.com to stay updated on the launch and subscribe to our YouTube and Instagram pages.

Thank you for your unwavering support over the past year, and we look forward to another year of meaningful conversations and community growth. If you have topics or stories to share, reach out to us at themiscarriagedad@gmail.com.

Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris

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Welcome to episode 33!

How does society's expectation to "just get back to it" hinder men's ability to grieve? This episode of Miscarriage Dads opens with a powerful reflection on the societal pressures that often compel men to suppress their emotions during times of loss. We explore the differing ways men and women process miscarriage, featuring a poignant story of a father struggling with his expectations versus his wife's need for solitude.

Navigating the emotional labyrinth of miscarriage can take a significant toll on relationships. We reflect on the haunting echoes of past relationships and the elusive journey toward closure. A crucial focus is placed on the husband's role in supporting his wife through such trauma, emphasizing the challenge of providing care when one feels emotionally drained. By sharing these intimate experiences, we highlight the importance of empathy, mutual understanding, and effective communication in sustaining strong family bonds amidst the turmoil of loss.

Finally, we delve into the strength found in male camaraderie and support. Discussing the impact of multiple miscarriages, I share my own journey of dealing with repeated loss and the evolving ways I learned to support my wife and friends facing similar hardships. This episode underscores the transformative power of vulnerability and the need for men to reach out and connect with each other. Our conversations aim to foster a stronger sense of community, helping us all become better fathers, husbands, and individuals through the shared journey of coping with loss.

Sincerely,
Kelly

Instagram:
@themiscarriagedad
@miscarriage_support_for_dads

Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Show Music
Many Worlds & Just Drive by Memory Theory
Like Water On A Glass Table by GLASWING

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Welcome to episode 32!

This week I am re-releasing a conversation first aired on the Welcome To Fatherhood podcast where, along with Alex Ortiz, Jeff Collins, and Augusta Foster, we explore our own emotional journeys dealing with the profound loss of our children to miscarriage. Through raw and heartfelt stories, we uncover the deep impact miscarriage has on fathers, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and providing a space for men to share their experiences openly. This episode is a testament to the strength found in shared sorrow and the resilience fathers show in balancing loss and joy.

From reflections on raising children while grappling with the memory of a miscarriage, to the bittersweet moments of welcoming a new child amidst grief, we paint a vivid picture of the multifaceted nature of fatherhood along this journey. We discuss societal and familial pressures, personal failures, and the daunting expectations men face in their roles as providers and protectors. Augusta Foster’s poignant narrative about the struggle to reconcile faith with life’s unpredictability adds another layer to understanding the emotional labyrinth of miscarriage.

In our candid conversation, we delve into the emotional burden of being the primary support in a family, the pressures of fulfilling personal and societal expectations, and the significance of genuine connections in coping with loss. Listen as we discuss the importance of community support, the need for sincere gestures of kindness, and the challenges men face in expressing grief. Through our stories, we aim to offer comfort and a sense of solidarity to anyone navigating the complex emotions tied to miscarriage and fatherhood.

Sincerely,
Kelly

Instagram: @themiscarriagedad
Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Show Music
Do Do Do Do Not by Fantoms
Polymath & Many Worlds by Memory Theory

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Welcome to episode 31!

Have you ever felt the weight of a loss that the people around you don't fully recognize? In this episode, Chris and Kelly unearth the complexities of ambiguous loss from their limited understanding of the category. Inspired by Pauline Boss's powerful insights from "Ambiguous Loss: Learning to Live with Unresolved Grief" and Rich Oswald's "Unnamed Pain: Coping with Ambiguous Loss", this episode sheds light on the unique grief fathers face following a miscarriage—a grief that often remains unacknowledged and unresolved.

Our conversation dives deep into the societal shortcomings that leave grieving fathers without the support they need. Miscarriage disrupts the traditional grieving process, lacking the usual rituals and communal recognition that help in processing loss. Together, we discuss how crucial it is to validate this type of grief and offer practical ways for friends, family, and colleagues to provide meaningful support. From naming the lost child to creating personal rituals, we explore ways to bring comfort and closure to those affected.

Finally, we focus on the importance of community and professional support for grieving fathers. From grief counselors to support groups, we highlight resources that can provide the much-needed validation and understanding. Non-linear grieving is emphasized, reminding us that healing doesn't follow a set path. By sharing coping strategies and personal reflections, we aim to create a safe space where fathers can find solace and support.

Tune in for heartfelt advice and practical suggestions on navigating this profound loss, and learn how to better support fathers through their journey of grief.

Sincerely,
Kelly & Chris

Instagram: @themiscarriagedad
Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Episodes Referenced:

E14: The Unspoken Agony of Life after Multiple Miscarriages (ft. Miscarriage Mumma Support)
E18: Doing Right By Grief (ft. Miscarriage Mumma Support)
E26: A Nightmare Realized: The Surprise of Pregnancy & The Devastation of Miscarriage (ft. Elspeth Edmonds)
E30: Navigating Guilt & Shame After Miscarriage (ft. Chanel Wainscott)

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Welcome to episode 30!

How do men really feel after a miscarriage, and why do their stories often go unheard? In this episode of the Miscarriage Dads Podcast, I am joined by Chanel Wainscott, a psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health, to unravel these complex emotions. Chanel's journey into this field is deeply personal, sparked by her own postpartum challenges that led her to wonder about her husband's silent struggles. Together, we emphasize the critical importance of acknowledging men's emotional responses to miscarriage to foster healing and connection within families.

Men often face profound guilt, sadness, and fear after a miscarriage, but these feelings are frequently overshadowed by societal expectations of traditional masculinity. Chanel and I dissect the multifaceted emotional landscape men navigate, highlighting the importance of nonjudgmental observation and validation. We explore practical steps for men to reorient themselves mentally, such as mindful observation and practicing non-judgmental awareness, and discuss how sharing their stories can counteract the isolating effects of shame.

Balancing personal grief while supporting a partner is a delicate act. In our conversation, we address how men can manage their guilt and privilege, the struggle of engaging in self-care, and the necessity of open communication and self-compassion.

This episode is a tribute to the enduring impact of loss and the journey towards emotional healing and connection.

Sincerely,
Kelly

Instagram: @themiscarriagedad
Email: themiscarriagedad@gmail.com
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Who is Chanel Wainscott?

Chanel Wainscott is a licensed psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario, Canada, specializing in perinatal mental health, with a particular focus on supporting postpartum fathers. She is passionate about validating and sharing the stories of postpartum fathers, advocating for their needs with confidence, and ensuring their voices are heard. Combining expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Chanel helps new parents navigate the challenges of postpartum life, including mood and anxiety disorders. Chanel is also committed to gaining more knowledge and developing compassionate, practical skills to support men who have experienced miscarriage. Additionally, Chanel collaborates with postpartum doulas to offer psychotherapy services that emphasize the mental well-being of both mothers and fathers during this critical period.

Instagram: @carecultivator
Web: www.carecultivator.ca
Email: info@carecultivator.ca