Kids & Family
Business
Kenneth Braswell
The I AM DAD. Podcast is an exploration of fatherhood insight, information, and inspiration for dads, their families, the people who love, and those that support them.
Total 104 episodes
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01/12/2024

Fatherhood Revolution: Jay Fagan & Glen Palm on Redefining Parenting and Engagement

Welcome to a very special episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have two pioneers in the field of fatherhood research and education joining us—Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm. Together, these esteemed scholars have dedicated their careers to advancing our understanding of fatherhood and empowering fathers to play active, nurturing roles in their children’s lives. Dr. Fagan, Professor Emeritus at Temple University and co-founder of the Fatherhood Research and Practice Network, has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored multiple books, including the upcoming Fathers and Children Together: A Guide to Developing a Parenting Identity and Supporting your Child. His work has revolutionized how we approach father-child relationships, coparenting, and fatherhood programs, especially in low-income communities. Dr. Palm, Professor Emeritus of Child and Family Studies at St. Cloud State University, has spent decades shaping the field of parent education and supporting fathers through programs like the Dads Project. He has co-authored landmark books, including Fathers and Early Childhood Programs and Parent Education: Working with Groups and Individuals, bringing invaluable insights to educators and families alike. Together, they offer a wealth of knowledge and experience on fatherhood, parenting, and the critical role of fathers in early childhood development. Please join me in welcoming the incredible Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
1h
15/09/2024

Empowering Fathers: Lamar Henderson on Transformative Support for Dads in Merced County

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a dedicated and passionate advocate for fatherhood and family services, Lamar Henderson, join us. Lamar is the Family Services Supervisor for Merced County Human Service Agency’s All Dads Matter Program, where he has spent the past 20 years empowering men on their journey through fatherhood. His unwavering commitment to supporting fathers has made a significant impact in his community and beyond. Through his work, Lamar has helped countless men gain access to vital resources and knowledge, ensuring they have the tools they need to be the best fathers they can be. In addition to his role at All Dads Matter, Lamar is a seasoned parenting educator, facilitating programs such as Nurturing Parenting, Positive Discipline, and Boot Camp for New Dads. He’s also a certified trainer in trauma-informed approaches, including the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Overcomers program and Helping Men Recover. His expertise has been invaluable in supporting men who have experienced trauma, guiding them toward healing and recovery. Lamar’s influence extends beyond his local community. As a trainer for UC Davis School for Human Services and Fresno State University’s Central California Training Academy, he has led workshops on working with fathers in child welfare, employee development, and anti-racist practices. His contributions to fatherhood research have been recognized at local, state, and national levels, and his work has been published in respected journals. Lamar has shared his insights on numerous platforms, including as a featured panelist for the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse and as a keynote speaker at various fatherhood and family conferences. His dedication has earned him well-deserved recognition, including the inaugural “Hands on Hero” award and the President’s Award for Service.
1h 1m
08/09/2024

Empowering Black Men: Brandon Frame on Transforming Narratives and Inspiring Change

Welcome to another uplifting episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us a visionary leader and social innovator who has made a profound impact on the lives of Black men and boys—Brandon Frame. Brandon is the Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan FOUNDATION., an award-winning and internationally recognized non-profit and digital media platform dedicated to celebrating, educating, and inspiring boys and men of color. Through TheBlackManCan, Brandon has worked tirelessly to challenge stereotypes and amplify the authentic stories of Black men, creating a powerful shift in perception and empowering individuals to redefine their narratives. In addition to his work with TheBlackManCan, Brandon serves as the Deputy Director of Social-Emotional Learning at The Urban Assembly, where he helps integrate crucial life skills into education for young people. He is also the co-founder of the award-winning Twitter chat #hiphoped, and the author of Define Yourself, Redefine the World: A Guided Journal for Boys and Men of Color and the children’s book My First Tie. Brandon’s dedication to uplifting his community has earned him numerous accolades, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award and the title of Change Maker of the Year. Despite these achievements, what stands out most is his humility and commitment to servant leadership, always striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
1h 2m
01/09/2024

Breaking the Silence: Dr. Robin L. Smith on Empowering Black Men and Addressing Mental Health

Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a truly remarkable guest, Dr. Robin L. Smith—a #1 bestselling author, sought-after speaker, experienced media personality, and ordained minister who has touched countless lives with her fearless truth-telling and healing wisdom. Many of you may recognize Dr. Robin from her years as the on-air therapist for The Oprah Winfrey Show, where she captivated audiences around the world with her insightful and compassionate approach to life’s challenges. Today, she continues to make a profound impact through her work with major corporations, non-profit organizations, and high-profile individuals, helping them overcome adversity and achieve personal and professional breakthroughs. Dr. Robin is the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages, as well as her soulful memoir Hungry: The Truth About Being Full and Inspirational Vitamins: A Guide to Personal Empowerment. Her latest book, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, co-written with the talented Courtney B. Vance, was published in November 2023 and has already sparked vital conversations about mental health and empowerment within the Black community. With a PhD in counseling psychology from Temple University and a master’s degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. But beyond her impressive credentials, it is her genuine compassion, wisdom, and commitment to truth that make her such a powerful and inspiring voice.
1h
25/08/2024

Transforming Child Support: Erin Frisch on Equity, Inclusion, and Empowering Families

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspiring guest, Erin Frisch (she/they), who has been a transformative leader in the field of child support and family services. Erin has been serving as the Director of the Office of Child Support at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) since 2012. Erin’s dedication to improving the lives of families through equitable and inclusive child support services has made a significant impact across Michigan and beyond. Erin’s leadership extends to the national stage, where they serve as president of the National Child Support Engagement Association and have previously led the National Council of Child Support Directors. Throughout her illustrious career, Erin has been a champion for integrating public assistance programs to reduce poverty and enhance community well-being. Their efforts in co-leading the MDHHS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council have successfully advocated for the establishment of an office of Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, further demonstrating Erin’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all. With a background in IT management consulting and a deep passion for public service, Erin brings a unique perspective to child support policy and practice. They have also been a driving force behind pioneering evidence-based programs that support fathers and families, ensuring that child support services meet the evolving needs of today’s society. Erin’s commitment to her work is matched by her dedication to her family, as a proud parent of two teenagers who keep her on her toes. Today, we are thrilled to delve into Erin’s insights on fatherhood, child support, and the importance of equity and inclusion in family services. Please join me in welcoming the remarkable Erin Frisch to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
1h 3m
18/08/2024

Rebuilding Fathers: Marvin Charles on Transforming Lives Through Divine Alternatives for Dads Services

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspirational guest, Marvin Charles, the co-founder and CEO of Divine Alternatives for Dads Services (DADS). For over 25 years, Marvin has dedicated his life to helping men reclaim their roles as loving, responsible fathers and to building stronger, healthier families. Marvin's own journey is one of incredible resilience and transformation. Growing up in foster care and facing numerous challenges, including incarceration, Marvin has used his personal experiences to fuel his passion for fatherhood and community service. Alongside his wife Jeanett, he founded DADS, a faith-guided organization based in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, which has positively impacted the lives of countless fathers and their children. Through programs like the 13-week parenting class, DADS provides crucial support to men coming out of addiction, incarceration, and other difficult circumstances. Marvin’s work has not only helped fathers rebuild their lives but has also created a ripple effect of positive change within their families and communities. Marvin is also an accomplished author and speaker. His book, "Becoming Dads," chronicles his life and the beginnings of DADS, and he continues to share his story and insights across the country. Together with Jeanett, he hosts the "Color Him Dads" podcast, further extending his reach and impact.
54m
11/08/2024

Transforming Fatherhood: John Badalament on Modern Dads, Gender Traps, and Family Health

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we have the honor of hosting a truly remarkable guest, John Badalament, Ed.M. John is a proud father of two young adults and a renowned speaker, author, educator, coach, consultant, and documentary filmmaker. John is the author of the acclaimed book "The Modern Dad’s Dilemma: How To Stay Connected With Your Kids In A Rapidly Changing World" and the director/producer of impactful documentaries such as "All Men Are Sons: Exploring The Legacy of Fatherhood" and "Gender Traps: How Marriage Problems Start In Kindergarten." For over three decades, John has been a guiding light in the field of fatherhood, speaking and consulting internationally across schools, government agencies, and organizations. As the Director of Programs at The Fatherhood Project at Massachusetts General Hospital for the past 11 years, John has pioneered groundbreaking programs and studies, including the Dads/Moms In Recovery curriculum and the largest study on fathers' prenatal experiences. John’s work has been featured in prominent media outlets such as ABC News, CBS Sunday Morning, and National Public Radio, and he has been recognized by esteemed organizations for his dedication to ending violence against women and children. His commitment to fostering healthier family dynamics and his contributions to men's health have even earned him invitations to the White House under President Obama’s administration. Today, we are excited to delve into John’s vast experiences, insights on fatherhood, and his ongoing efforts to support and empower dads everywhere. Please join me in welcoming the inspirational John Badalament to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
1h 4m
28/07/2024

Championing Fatherhood: David Pizarro's Insights on Dads' Rights and Custody Battles

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a very special guest, David Pizarro, the CEO of Dads Law School. With over 24 years of experience, David has been a guiding light for thousands of fathers navigating the complexities of family court, helping them fight for their rights and maintain meaningful relationships with their children. David is not only an expert in father’s rights and children’s rights but also a prolific multimedia content creator. His engaging TikTok videos have garnered over 48,000 followers, while his "Men's Family Law" podcast on iTunes, with over 70 episodes, has been a beacon of support for dads everywhere. On YouTube, his DADs Law School channel is filled with informative videos addressing the concerns of fathers going through the child custody process. In addition to his digital presence, David is the author of the "A Man's Guide..." series, covering essential topics like child custody, divorce, and domestic violence. His expertise and dedication have seen him featured on numerous podcasts, in movies, on television, and as an international speaker. David's work is fueled by a deep commitment to advocating for children’s rights, father's rights, and the importance of integrating new relationships into family dynamics. His practical advice and heartfelt insights make him an invaluable resource for fathers seeking to navigate their legal and emotional journeys.
1h 4m
14/07/2024

Empowering Tribal Families: Sandy Cloer on Developing Child Support Programs for Cherokee Indians and Beyond

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast, where we explore the dynamic world of fatherhood, parenting, and family well-being. I’m your host, Kenneth Braswell, and today we have an extraordinary guest who has dedicated her career to supporting families and fostering strong communities. Joining us is Sandy Cloer, the Division Director for The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Tribal Child Support, TANF, and Representative Payee Programs. Sandy’s remarkable journey began with a degree in Business from Winsalm College, which paved the way for her 18-year tenure in Child Support with The State of North Carolina. In 2009, she brought her extensive experience and deep understanding of the EBCI community to her role with the EBCI, helping to develop their child support program and subsequently launching their Tribal TANF Program in 2012 and the Representative Payee Program in 2015. Sandy’s leadership extends beyond her immediate responsibilities. She oversees a dedicated team of 17 employees, including a process server and court clerk to the Cherokee Tribal Court. Her contributions to the field are widely recognized, serving six years on the Board of Directors for the NC Child Support Council, acting as Secretary for the National Tribal Child Support Directors Association, and currently presiding as President of the National Tribal Child Support Association. Beyond her professional achievements, Sandy is also a proud mother of two children, Michelle and James. Her commitment to family and community is truly inspiring, and we are thrilled to have her share her insights and experiences with us today.
50m
07/07/2024

Blending Lives: Navigating the Heart of Coparenting and Blended Families with Tammy and Jay Daughtry

Welcome to the "I Am Dad" podcast, the haven for exploring the depths and breadths of fatherhood in all its forms. Today's episode is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and wisdom, as we sit down with Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry. From the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Tammy and Jay step into our space bringing with them the lived experience of marriage and family therapists, and more intimately, as individuals who have navigated the turbulent waters of divorce and the tranquil harbors of remarriage. Their journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the clarity born of complexity, and the unyielding commitment to fostering healthy family dynamics. Join us as we unfold the chapters of their story — from the solitary paths of single parenthood to the united front of a blended family. Through their work with Co-Parenting International and The Center for Modern Family Dynamics, they've illuminated paths for countless families wrestling with the realities of divided homes. With Tammy's coparenting journey and Jay's recovery from loss, they stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of perseverance. As we delve into their insights and anecdotes, prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired. This is not just a conversation; it's a shared experience with the power to change the narrative of coparenting and blended family life. So, wherever you are, settle in and let's welcome the voices of Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry to "I Am Dad."
1h 13m
23/06/2024

From BMF and beyond, Actor Jason Louder Shares His Journey and Fatherhood Insights on I Am Dad Podcast

Welcome to another exciting episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us the incredibly talented and versatile Jason LOUDER; an actor, teacher, coach, mentor, and true lover of life. Jason's career is a testament to his dedication and passion for storytelling, both on and off the screen. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Jason has graced the stage in over 30 productions since 2009, collaborating with some of the most esteemed directors and playhouses in the region. His journey as a storyteller extends beyond the stage, having worked on more than 40 independent projects, including full-length features, shorts, and web series. Jason’s talent has led him to notable roles on television, including guest appearances on the CW’s "Black Lightning" as Frank “2-BITS” Tanner and on Hulu’s "Wu-Tang: An American Saga" as Jamaican Drug Lord “CRESSY.” Most recently, you can catch Jason on "NCIS L.A." (CBS) and "The Wonder Years" (ABC), and he will be appeared in Season 2 of "BMF" (STARZ) as REMI RANSOM. Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Jason has inspired thousands as ‘Babatunde The Griot,’ captivating audiences with his storytelling. His commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in his roles as an acting coach at Nova House and a youth acting instructor with AGI Entertainment. Jason's desire to tell compelling stories through a revolutionary lens continues to drive him, and his work is set to touch, move, and inspire. This year alone, you can look forward to seeing him in several films on streaming platforms, including “The Pass” (ALLBLK), “SCHEME QUEENS” (BET+), “Gerald’s Hands” (Tubi), “ABIDING,” “P.I.G.S.,” “Preaching Lies” (Tubi), “Pretty For a Big Girl S2,” “VICE SQUAD,” and “Sinister Minister.” Please join me in welcoming the multifaceted and inspiring Jason to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
58m
16/06/2024

From Tragedy to Triumph: Tracy Martin on Transforming Loss into Social Change

Welcome to a very special Fathers Day episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast. Today, we are honored to host an extraordinary guest, Tracy Martin, a man who has turned profound personal loss into a catalyst for national conversation and change. Tracy is not only a devoted father but also an influential advocate for justice and community healing. In February 2012, the world was shaken by the tragic death of Trayvon Martin, Tracy’s son and best friend, in a violent confrontation that highlighted deep-seated issues within our society. From the depths of unimaginable grief, Tracy, alongside Sybrina Fulton, authored "Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin," a poignant narrative that chronicles Trayvon’s life and the movement ignited by his passing. Tracy Martin has since dedicated his life to ensuring that no other child suffers as his son did. He travels across the country, engaging with men young and old, urging them to communicate to our youth—their sons, daughters, and the children of our communities—that they are invaluable, regardless of societal depictions. Through his impactful speeches and advocacy, Tracy fosters essential dialogues about race, justice, and the right to safety in our own neighborhoods. Today, we delve into these powerful themes with Tracy, exploring how his journey has influenced his views on fatherhood, community leadership, and the ongoing fight for a safer, more just society. We’ll also discuss practical tools and insights for handling confrontations and fostering resolution, aiming to equip our listeners with the knowledge to drive positive change. Join us in this compelling conversation, as we learn from Tracy Martin’s resilience and unwavering commitment to transform tragedy into a legacy of empowerment and advocacy.
58m
09/06/2024

Fatherhood and Family Bonding: Insights with Mark and Corey Perlman

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast. Today, we have the privilege of hosting two remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the realms of family mediation, parenting education, and responsible fatherhood. First, let me introduce Mark Perlman, MA. With an impressive 35 years of experience working with parents, children, and families, Mark has dedicated his career to strengthening family bonds. He is the esteemed author of "The Nurturing Father’s Program," a transformative 13-week parenting curriculum for men that has been widely adopted by organizations such as Prevent Child Abuse, Head Start, the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative, and various state departments across the nation. In addition, Mark developed the "Marriage & Parenting Program (MA&PA)," which aids couples in successful co-parenting. His extensive leadership roles include serving as the past Executive Director of the Family Counseling Center, The Child Protection Center, and Fathers United Network (FUN) of Sarasota, Florida. Mark's expertise has also been recognized by his appointments to the Florida Commission on Responsible Fatherhood and the Governor’s Child Abuse Prevention and Permanency Council. Above all, Mark is a proud father of two grown sons. Joining Mark is his son, Corey Perlman. Corey is a nationally recognized marketing expert, speaker, and consultant who recently celebrated the success of his third book, "Authentically Social!" which quickly became an Amazon bestseller in 2024. Despite his professional achievements, Corey's true passion lies in fatherhood. He has facilitated over ten Nurturing Father’s programs, six of which were conducted within the walls of the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary. Corey co-hosts the Nurturing Father’s podcast with his father and cherishes the moments spent with his beautiful wife and two amazing children. Together, Mark and Corey Perlman embody the essence of dedication, compassion, and commitment to nurturing responsible fatherhood and strong family connections. Their combined experiences and insights promise to make this an enlightening and enriching conversation. Please join me in welcoming Mark and Corey Perlman to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
1h 2m
26/05/2024

Strengthening African American Families: Dr. Cassandra Bolar on Fatherhood and Relationship Health

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of fatherhood, parenting, and family well-being. I’m your host, Kenneth Braswell, and today we are honored to have with us Dr. Cassandra Bolar, a distinguished researcher, educator, and clinical expert whose work has significantly impacted the African American community and beyond. Dr. Bolar’s research employs an ecological approach to understand how contextual factors influence father involvement, intimate relationships, and familial functioning within the African American community. She currently serves as a Co-Investigator for the National African American Child and Family Research Center and an Assistant Professor at the University of West Georgia. With a robust clinical passion for serving couples, Dr. Bolar has created the Marriage Head Start premarital curriculum, designed to foster healthy and strong relationships. Her journey also includes pivotal work at Morehouse School of Medicine’s Satcher Health Leadership Institute, where she directed three large NIMHD research grants. These grants focused on reducing health disparities among children and families through the Smart and Secure Children program, a quality parenting curriculum. Dr. Bolar holds a bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development from the University of Georgia, as well as master’s and doctoral degrees in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University. Additionally, she is a Certified Family Life Educator, a credential bestowed by the National Council on Family Relations. In today’s episode, we’ll explore Dr. Bolar’s groundbreaking research, her dedication to relationship education, and the public health implications of her work. We are thrilled to have her share her wealth of knowledge and insights with us. So, sit back and prepare for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Cassandra Bolar on the "I Am Dad" podcast. Welcome, Dr. Bolar!
1h 9m
12/05/2024

Women in Fatherhood Services: A Journey with Avis Files

In this special episode of the "I Am Dad Podcast," we have the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Avis Denise Files, a trailblazer in the field of responsible fatherhood and family strengthening. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of this dedicated Program Director, Facilitator, and Entrepreneur, whose unwavering commitment to empowering fathers and building healthy families has earned her widespread recognition and admiration. Through candid conversation and heartfelt anecdotes, Avis shares insights gleaned from her extensive experience working in areas such as domestic violence, homelessness, and drug addiction services. From her early days as a Program Coordinator for OFA grant-funded healthy marriage programs to her current role as Director of Family Supportive Services, Avis's passion for creating positive change shines through in every word. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped Avis's career, including her historic recognition as the first woman to receive The Vicky Turetsky Women In Responsible Leadership Award. Hear firsthand how she navigates the complexities of blending professional and personal life alongside her husband, Michael Allen Files, as they work together to empower families through their programs at Pathway Inc. Throughout the interview, Avis offers valuable insights into the transformative power of fatherhood, the importance of community support, and the role of faith in guiding her work. From her motto, "Change A Father, Change a Family, Create a Future," to her dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue and action, Avis exemplifies the spirit of compassionate leadership and unwavering determination. Join us as we embark on a journey of inspiration, wisdom, and hope with Avis Denise Files, and discover what it truly means to say, "I am Dad."
1h 4m
25/02/2024

What the State of Kentucky and Appalachia is Teaching us about Fatherhood w/ David Cozart

For nearly three decades, David has been a father and family advocate, a community organizer, a minister, and an influential leader. He has successfully guided and grown a local direct service program for 11 years. Over time, he has coordinated multiple events, activities, and programs aimed at the acknowledgement, enhancement, appreciation, and promotion of the institution of fatherhood and raising awareness of the challenges related to father absence. This most notably includes the 2021-established Commonwealth Center for Fathers and Families (CCFF), which is poised to enhance positive fatherhood engagement and programming across Kentucky and beyond. As Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of CCFF, David leads statewide efforts and beyond. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to the field and was most recently appointed to The National Fatherhood Initiative Board of Directors. David is widely called upon for his work around fatherhood and its correlated issues, including educational performance, violence prevention and intervention, implicit bias, black male achievement, strengthening families and communities, child maltreatment reduction, and other related matters. His work and efforts have impacted policies, procedures, and practices and served thousands of fathers, children, and families. He is the recent recipient of the Governor's Annual Services Awards, receiving the honor of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
1h
18/02/2024

Dontaye Carter: Navigating the Beat of Fatherhood and Advocacy

A Husband and Father's Journey Hey there, I'm Dontaye Carter. My story is one of love, family, and a quest to make the world a better place. Eight years ago, I set out on an incredible journey, leaving behind Valdosta, Georgia, to follow my heart to Atlanta. My only mission was to marry the woman who had stolen my heart at a Valentine's Day party years earlier. At that time, I was working as a reporter in Valdosta, and she had just completed her residency, preparing for an interview with Women's Health Associates.  Our love story began with a dance, and it's been a dance to our own beat ever since. When I asked her to dance, she hesitated, saying, "You don't understand, I have two left feet." But I replied, "I have two right feet. Let's see if we can find our own rhythm." And from that magical night, we've been finding our way together. Karen got the job, we got married, and together, we've poured our hearts into building a loving home for our beautiful daughter in Atlanta. I wear many hats - I'm a husband, a father, a business owner, an author, and an activist. But my greatest joy comes from being a husband and a father, cherishing every moment with my family. As the Founder and Lead Communication Strategist at Carter Media Group (CMG), I've harnessed my professional skills to make a difference. My journey has taken me from small-town stories to big-time recognition in Public Relations and Communications. I'm proud to have given a voice to survivors and their families in high-profile cases, like R. Kelly and Ahmaud Arbery, earning three prestigious awards from the 26th Annual Communicators Awards.
1h 8m
04/02/2024

From Dadvocacy to Daddying: Allan Shedlin is Advancing the Narratives of Fatherhood in Film

Allan Shedlin has devoted his life's work to improving the odds for children and families. He has three daughters, 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.
1h 7m