As the founder of Whatadoula, I have spent the last 4 years watching as families become families with and without postpartum doula support. I recognize this lack of support as a problem felt by every family in our society who is about to experience the life-changing event of having a child. But it's still hard to put into words exactly what a well trained postpartum doula can add to your experience of becoming a parent whether it's your first child or fourth child.  

I am married and live with my wife and children in Albany. My career in city planning and subsidized housing hit the skids with the recession and I have moved on to the most fulfilling position I had no idea I’d ever have. I’m proud to be a DONA Trained Postpartum Doula, husband and dad and, now Operations Manager at Whatadoula.

I was dumbfounded while my wife was giving birth to our first son. I had no words to express how I felt. Since then I have become immersed in all things birth related (being married to the owner/founder of Whatadoula certainly helps). I’ve also come to realize that I’m good at helping parents and babies in their first few weeks of life after birth. I loved being with my wife and children during that time. When working with new parents and even those who have had children previously, I find it so peaceful finding a rhythm with baby and parents and facilitating the bond that will last forever.