Before Birth & Beyond

S1E3 The Importance of Engaging Fathers in MCH

EPISODE 3 SUMMARY: In this episode of Before Birth & Beyond, In honor of Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day, our main story this episode showcases the vital role fathers have in maternal and child health, with an enlightening conversation with two black fatherhood experts. We also reflect on Juneteenth and hear about NICHQ’s summer quality improvement course, along with a little bit of pride to round out the month.

Equity Spotlight: Juneteenth

SEGMENT SUMMARY: This episode, we’re taking some time to recognize the significance of Juneteenth and our continued commitment at NICHQ to address racial inequities and close the gaps in access to information, resources, and care in maternal and child health.

RELATED LINKS:

• What is Juneteenth?
• The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
• Proclamation on Juneteenth Day of Observance, 2022

Main Story: The Importance of Engaging Fathers in MCH

SEGMENT SUMMARY: We talk with fatherhood expert Kenn Harris, NICHQ VP of Community Partnerships and Engagement, and men’s mental health expert Dr. Derrick Gordon, Yale School of Medicine, about men’s mental health, policy considerations for fathers, and strategies for better-engaging fathers in MCH.

RELATED LINKS:

• Interview Transcript
• Project Page: Supporting Healthy Start Performance Project
• Healthy Start Technical Assistance & Support Center
• The Equity Table: Fatherhood in the Age of Mass Incarceration
• Fatherhood Talk: Dad Doulas
• Healthy Start TASC Fatherhood Resources

The Q: Quality Improvement

SEGMENT SUMMARY: Hear from Megan Johnson, MSC, NICHQ VP of Mission Integration, and Sandra Widland, MPH, project director and QI course leader at NICHQ about NICHQ’s summer quality improvement course, and how it provides value for our interns, staff, projects, and the organization as a whole.

• Mastering the Planning Stage of PDSAs
• 5 Tips for Testing to Optimize Your Next PDSA

Why I Work in MCH

NICHQ Director of Communications and Digital Strategy Jey Weisgerber shares their passion for addressing inequities in maternal and child health and working to ensure MCH is more inclusive, not just for queer and gender-nonconforming folks who might give birth, but also for fathers and other partners who are parents or caregivers and for kids who are trans or intersex. Read a complete profile on Jey.

Episode details