
Life with Zawadi
By The Zawadi Tribe
When Josh + Symphony became one, they both assumed the surname of Zawadi. It was symbolic of their creating their family, by their design.
Life with Zawadi is podcast dedicated to family, children, marriage and careers. Sharing the highs and lows.
Josh and Symphony are two parenting and lifestyle content creators from Melanated Mama and Melanated Daddy.
Join us for the ride, we are sure you will laugh, cry and be inspired by their story.

Life with ZawadiSep 06, 2023

Raising Children who are Neurodiverse
This week we dive into how we are raising children who are neurodivergent. It's no secret that Josh and Symphony often struggle aligning parenting styles. The journey continues as they work to parent their four children in ways that build emotionally whole, happy carefree children.
This work is intentional and requires parents to do a lot of work - LISTEN IN and let us know your thoughts!
Every week we share what Life with Zawadi is into, from our marriage, children, careers and businesses. Now it's your turn! Send a voice message to our DM's on the #LifewithZawadi Instagram.
LEAVE YOUR RESPONSE TO THIS EPISODE HERE
Have a response or question after listening to this episode? Leave us a comment here. We will answer and response to your entries on our IG page.
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH US:
Producing this podcast is a labor of love but does cost us! Support us with a one-time gift through PayPal - Click here to support us with a $20 gift.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
- Life with Zawadi Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithZawadi/
- Josh
- https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedDaddy
- Symphony:
WEBSITE:
- Josh- www.MelantedDaddy.com
- Symphony - www.MelanatedMama.com | www.SymphonySwan.com
SEASON PRODUCTION SHOUTOUTS:
Sound Engineer - Follow at www.instagram.com/marksorianomusic
Music Production - Follow at www.instagram.com/r_a_t_m_a_n_
Marketing and Graphics - Follow at - www.instagram.com/cr8tvnrgy

Building Together
This week we dive into how we are working to build legacy not only for our family but for the community. Check out the two synopsis of our new projects.
At Life ReDefined Inc. we believe that through positive narration and storytelling, we can create better families and a brighter future. We are a revolutionary, family focused non-profit organization that seeks to blend families together, to help heal the brokenness and bring about a sense of community. Through curated programming we create space for families to celebrate and learn.
Our mission is to use our resources to be a beacon of light for families and to provide them with the tools to create and sustain strong, healthy relationships with each other and the community at large. We are committed to changing the narrative and helping families grow and thrive.
Mission: To inspire family and community connection through intentional and collaborative experiences.
- Vision: To use revolutionary practices to promote positive family connection that fuels growth and community centered healing
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CR8TV NRGY and the CR8TV HOUSE are about activating and transforming space and mindset.
CR8TV NRGY is an interdisciplinary Creative Consulting Group that uses purpose to accelerate innovation and transformation. We do this by tapping into creativity and wonder to fuel transformative community-based action, workshops and arts related experiences.
Our founder, Symphony Swan-Zawadi, lost her mother and father within a short three-year period. With each parent, Symphony served as their primary caregiver at the end of their lives. She ensured that they ended their lives surrounded by love and youthful energy. Losing her parents was difficult, and losing her father unearthed complicated feelings because of their estranged relationship.
It wasn't until she revisited her father's house, her childhood home, that she realized how influential her mother and father were in creating a space for her to live authentically and creatively. She also realized her father's creative influence over her life. He was an artist and transferred that energy in every way possible. He loved literature, history, woodworking, music, and photography. Symphony finds connection and inspiration in each of these areas.
After working as an educator and arts non-profit executive, Symphony received several dream messages from her father and felt called to transform his house. Located in the Old North Milwaukee neighborhood, this area is often forgotten about. The CR8TV HOUSE will serve as a place that inspires, supports, and uplifts the next generation of creatives. CR8TV House will serve as an arts institution intending to document, exhibit and celebrate the work of Black, Brown, and Indigenous artists.
Every week we share what Life with Zawadi is into, from our marriage, children, careers and businesses. Now it's your turn! Send a voice message to our DM's on the #LifewithZawadi Instagram.
LEAVE YOUR RESPONSE TO THIS EPISODE HERE
Have a response or question after listening to this episode? Leave us a comment here. We will answer and response to your entries on our IG page.
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH US:
Producing this podcast is a labor of love but does cost us! Support us with a one-time gift through PayPal - Click here to support us with a $20 gift.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
- Life with Zawadi Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithZawadi/
- Josh
- https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedDaddy
- Symphony:
WEBSITE:
- Josh- www.MelantedDaddy.com
- Symphony - www.MelanatedMama.com | www.SymphonySwan.com
SEASON PRODUCTION SHOUTOUTS:
Sound Engineer - Follow at www.instagram.com/marksorianomusic
Music Production - Follow at www.instagram.com/r_a_t_m_a_n_
Marketing and Graphics - Follow at - www.instagram.com/cr8tvnrgy

What's your Kink?
Adult content Warning *Sexually Explicit content* is the undercurrent of this episode's conversation. If hearing conversations about sex makes you uncomfortable, this may not be the episode for you!
We get really vulnerable this episode, again, as we talk about how we navigated OUT of our sexless marriage into a land of Sexual Bliss!!!
We take the taboo out of talking about sex by talking about sex.
To explore the quiz we reference in the episode take the visit here. If you are partnered, take some time to share your results of the quiz. It will surely make for some great conversation.
Every week we share what Life with Zawadi is into, from our marriage, children, careers and businesses. Now it's your turn! Send a voice message to our DM's on the #LifewithZawadi Instagram.
LEAVE YOUR RESPONSE TO THIS EPISODE HERE
Have a response or question after listening to this episode? Leave us a comment here. We will answer and response to your entries on our IG page.
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH US:
Producing this podcast is a labor of love but does cost us! Support us with a one-time gift through PayPal - Click here to support us with a $20 gift.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
- Life with Zawadi Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithZawadi/
- Josh: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedDaddy
- Symphony: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedMama
WEBSITE:
- Josh- www.MelantedDaddy.com
- Symphony - www.MelanatedMama.com
SEASON PRODUCTION SHOUTOUTS:
Sound Engineer - Follow at www.instagram.com/marksorianomusic
Music Production - Follow at www.instagram.com/r_a_t_m_a_n_
Marketing and Graphics - Follow at - www.instagram.com/cr8tvnrgy

We are in a Sexless Marriage!
Trigger Warning * Roe V Wade * is the undercurrent of this episode's conversation.
We get really vulnerable this episode as we talk about how we navigated our sexless marriage.
We discuss how the reversal of Roe V Wade impacted our household, intimacy and sex and brith control. Take a lesson to learn more about how we are navigating this weird space.
To learn more about the Roe V Wade decision visit here.
Every week we share what Life with Zawadi is into, from our marriage, children, careers and businesses. Now it's your turn! Send a voice message to our DM's on the #LifewithZawadi Instagram.
LEAVE YOUR RESPONSE TO THIS EPISODE HERE
Have a response or question after listening to this episode? Leave us a comment here. We will answer and response to your entries on our IG page.
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH US:
Producing this podcast is a labor of love but does cost us! Support us with a one-time gift through PayPal - Click here to support us with a $20 gift.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
- Life with Zawadi Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithZawadi/
- Josh: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedDaddy
- Symphony: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedMama
WEBSITE:
- Josh- www.MelantedDaddy.com
- Symphony - www.MelanatedMama.com
SEASON PRODUCTION SHOUTOUTS:
Sound Engineer - Follow at www.instagram.com/marksorianomusic
Music Production - Follow at www.instagram.com/r_a_t_m_a_n_
Marketing and Graphics - Follow at - www.instagram.com/cr8tvnrgy

Watch how you talk to me!
After a long hiatus, we are back for season 3 of Life with Zawadi!! This season we are reimagining all the things we thought we knew! Navigating conflict, in a healthy manner, has been a labor of intentional work. Making space to be vulnerable and honest has pushed us to work both on our ish and collaboratively together.
This episode is inspired by this video.
Every week we share what Life with Zawadi is into, from our marriage, children, careers and businesses. Now it's your turn! Send a voice message to our DM's on the #LifewithZawadi Instagram.
LEAVE YOUR RESPONSE TO THIS EPISODE HERE
Have a response or question after listening to this episode? Leave us a comment here. We will answer and response to your entries on our IG page.
WAYS TO PARTNER WITH US:
Producing this podcast is a labor of love but does cost us! Support us with a one-time gift through PayPal - Click here to support us with a $20 gift.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
- Life with Zawadi Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithZawadi/
- Josh: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedDaddy
- Symphony: https://www.Instagram.com/MelanatedMama
WEBSITE:
- Josh- www.MelantedDaddy.com
- Symphony - www.MelanatedMama.com
SEASON PRODUCTION SHOUTOUTS:
Sound Engineer - Follow at www.instagram.com/marksorianomusic
Music Production - Follow at www.instagram.com/r_a_t_m_a_n_
Marketing and Graphics - Follow at - www.instagram.com/cr8tvnrgy

Navigating storms within our marriage
How do you navigate tough patches within your marriages or partnerships?
Is you mindset focused on doing whatever to get through the conflict or one that involves team work and compromise. This episode is all about how we navigate the literal storms of life along with the spritual, figurative financial storms as well.
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
Episode 6 is all about Navigating Storms but physically and internally!
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode
Sponsorships: o

Let It Go! How forgiveness saved our marriage!
Healthy Relationships and marriages are not goals. It's work. Not every moment will be filled with bliss, some will be filled with anger, frustrations and more. How do you over that?
Your kids will forever do things that cause frustrations. How do we as parents model forgiveness?
This episode is all about how we navigate forgiveness with ourselves, partner and children.
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
Episode 5 is all about Forgiveness and how it shows up in our marriages or partnerships, for ourselves and with our children. Discussing the highs and lows, lessons learned listen in as we dive into the tips we use to excercise forgiveness.
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode
Sponsorships: o

How to Cultivate a Dope (Blended) Family Systems
Family Vibes are a thing! Have you every wondered how a family gets to that level?? Perhaps it was organic, maybe it was curated. Either way creating the vibes you want can be a thing.
Family Systems is a term I stu Have you every wonder why someA family system is defined as a complex social system I which members interact to influence each other's behavior"
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
Episode 3 is all about reflecting on the first year a marriage. Discussing the highs and lows, lessons learned and a bonus game toward the end of the episode. Love is work. A choice. A choice that we choose to make every day- even when we get on each other's nerves.
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode
Sponsorships: o

Pre Anniversary Chat: Husband vs Wife
"A perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on one another."
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
Episode 3 is all about reflecting on the first year a marriage. Discussing the highs and lows, lessons learned and a bonus game toward the end of the episode. Love is work. A choice. A choice that we choose to make every day- even when we get on each other's nerves.
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode

I quit my job today!
This is the season for trusting God and stepping out on faith! God continues to show us that he is in control.
Our family just made a huge decision! A decision that came with prayer, trust and confirmation from God.
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
QUITTING A JOB, in a middle of a pandemic is not ideal, however opportunities, that align with the desires of our heart, keep presenting themselves. Because of fear, God knew we would not take the leap, so he set it up to sort of force our hand. Wanna know which one of us quit our job??? Listen in to this quick episode to see who?!! When you are done, head over to our instagram and leave some words of encouragement!!!
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode

We needed time to Reconnect
We're BAAACCKKKKK!!!!!!
Have you missed us! We needed some time, away from social media, to get our minds and hearts together. We don't apologize for needing the time but do appreciate all those who checked in on us! We Love ya'll!!
Season 2 of Life with Zawadi is all about Family reDefined: Loving, Healing and Living. This season is specially curated to take you on a journey as we celebrate our family, our kids and ourselves.
If anything we said resonates with you, share our content with yo peoples!
Episode Shoutouts:
James Payne, Executive Chef- follow him on Instagram
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode

Mother's Day SUCKED
Hey fam, Symphony here, again! I lost my mother in 2010 and grief crept in on me days before Mother's Day. I was not myself and the whole family took notice. Listen in as we unpack why I will be getting a Mother's Day redo.
Episode Shoutouts:
- Marquayla Ellastics- Graphic Designer for all Melanated Mama| Melanated Daddy and Zawadi Enterprise Logos!
- Virtual Father's Day Panel Registration -FREE and totally worth the 1.5 of time!- click here to register
- Ryan Rogers - Graphic Terrace Graphic designer| Videographer
- Need more words to describe how you're feeling- click here
- Stages of griefs and our emotions - click here
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode
Sponsorships

When Insecurities Surface
Hey fam, Symphony here! Does your partner love something about you that you actually dislike about yourself? Listen in this week as we discuss how a argument pulled the layers back on my insecurities and how we used vulnerability and humor to resolve the conflict.
When taking pictures, my husband doesn't know anything about angles and sucks at understanding lighting, essentially he sucks at taking pictures! I am an artist and I'm sensitive about my sh*t. What he sees and celebrates about me are often what I see and hide as insecurities. This, in the past has resulted in some hefty disagreements. Listen in as we discuss how we worked through this difference of opinion.
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode
Sponsorships

What is the role of a Parent?
We realize that parents are human and have their own hosts of things that they are working to overcome. For those of you who don't know, Symphony struggles with her relationship with Father. It wasn't always this way. The role of the parent is to guide the child and do not push your children to anger. Ephesians 6:4 "Fathers do not provoke your children to anger. But bring them up in discipline and correction of the Lord."
Listen in as Symphony gets SUPER vulnerable as she talks through how she navigates understanding her complicated relationship with her Father.
Check out our vlog to this episode by clicking here
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media: Websites: www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com Instagram @melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode

Parenting Styles Revealed
There are many ways to parent children, after all, when you become a parent no one hands a you a manual that outlines how to do it "Correctly" Listen in as we discuss how we intentionally choose to parent our children.
We wholeheartedly believe that our job is to guide and control our children.
We get asked a lot of questions about our parenting style. We will surely be reengaging in this conversation on future episode.
No VLOG to pair with this episode, but you can check out other videos here ( with some behind the scene footage) via our Youtube channel.
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Sponsorships: off for this episode

Love Me Out Loud
In response to Derrick Jaxn we decided to have a conversation about Cheating.
Both Symphony and Josh believe that cheating is a choice.
Listen in as we discuss how Symphony made it a requirement that she be loved out loud during their dating phase. Josh also dives in about why he needs intentionality behind the love he receives.
Marriage ( partnership) is about intentional work.
We also discuss why community plays a vital role to the success of our marriage.
Things mentioned in the episode:
Video the VLOG version ( with some behind the scene footage) via our Youtube channel.
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Josh is challenging you all to go to his IG page and count the number of times he has share Symphony. Post the number under his most recent photo of her. Also, share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.

Postpartum Sex
So #Babylove is here!! Now what?!! Postpartum is a thing normally, try adding while living during a pandemic and whew chile, it's pretty interesting. Josh's mission was to support Symphony in every way possible, clearing every hurdle to avoid postpartum depression etc. Listen in as they discuss battling COVID while healing from the birth of #Babylove.
We also vlogged about this experience- view the video here
Episode 5 of Season 1: Our Black Love Story talks all about how Symphony + Josh navigated COVID 19 and a new born all during a pandemic.
Asking for help takes strength and in this season we flexed our asking for help muscles.
Our birthing team:
Sasha from Prism Birth Services
Lyanne from Maroon Calabash
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
New Episode teaser: Postpartum SEX
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook

Gender Roles in our Marriage
We do not subscribe to Gender Roles in our marriage.
Point of clarification from the episode: Symphony's POV: There was no way I was going to date or marry my husband if he was not able to provide financially. He definitely came to the table prepared to handle it all financially. ** As a Black woman - we deserve this, whether we gone be good or not** PERIODT.
Listen in as we discuss how stay calibrated and in on the same the page to ensure our house runs effectively. We break down and define emotional labor, and the steps we take to ensure no one is feeling the burden of too much labor.
Marriage ( partnership) is about intentional work.
Listen in as we discuss our marriage and parent wins for the week as well.
Things mentioned in the episode:
- The New York Times article on how to get your partner to understand emotional labor. Click here to read it.
- Dad Doula - The mission of DAD DOULA is to provide resources, and guidance for the THE NON BIRTHING PARENT as they plan to support THE BIRTHING PERSON DURING PREGNANCY,LABOR AND DELIVERY AND THERE AFTER. This is done by learning how to advocate, and support with intentional presence. This service is extended to expecting parents, new again parents and parents looking to reenter their children's lives. If you or someone you know are in need of Dad Doula support services click here.
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
New Episode teaser: Postpartum SEX
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.

Our Birth Story: Postpartum
So #Babylove is here!! Now what?!! Postpartum is a thing normally, try adding while living during a pandemic and whew chile, it's pretty interesting. Josh's mission was to support Symphony in every way possible, clearing every hurdle to avoid postpartum depression etc. Listen in as they discuss battling COVID while healing from the birth of #Babylove.
Episode 5 of Season 1: Our Black Love Story talks all about how Symphony + Josh navigated COVID 19 and a new born all during a pandemic.
Asking for help takes strength and in this season we flexed our asking for help muscles.
Our birthing team:
Sasha from Prism Birth Services
Lyanne from Maroon Calabash
Dad Doula - The mission of DAD DOULA is to provide resources, and guidance for the THE NON BIRTHING PARENT as they plan to support THE BIRTHING PERSON DURING PREGNANCY,LABOR AND DELIVERY AND THERE AFTER. This is done by learning how to advocate, and support with intentional presence. This service is extended to expecting parents, new again parents and parents looking to reenter their children's lives. If you or someone you know are in need of Dad Doula support services click here.
Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
New Episode teaser: Postpartum SEX
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook

Our Home Birth Story: Labor & Delivery
Did you know that Josh advocated and encouraged Symphony to have a home birth? It was a decision that was a product of trying to keep mama and baby safe during COVID-19. Being pregnant during a pandemic was intense and somewhat unpredictable however birthing at home during a pandemic was absolutely beautiful. It was a curated space filled with love, the ancestors, and family.
Episode 4 of Season 1: Our Black Love Story talks all about how we brought our BabyLove earth side, in our home during a pandemic.
Symphony's Waterbag broke while sitting at work. From there things got intense pretty fast. From vibing to Jaheim then transitioning to early labor on the stairs to the great sounds of Juvenile, Cash Money Hot Boys to laboring on the toilet, BabyLove entered this world in silent room filled with love.
Our birthing team:
Sasha from Prism Birth Services
Lyanne from Maroon Calabash
Cierra - Best friend and Photographer
Listen in as they begin to discuss homebirth!! Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:
www.melanatedmama.com www.melanateddaddy.weebly.com
Instagram
@melanatedmama @MelanatedDaddy @lifewithzawadi
Facebook

Our Birth Story: Pregnant during a Pandemic
Being pregnant during a pandemic is intense and somewhat unpredictable... and that's to say the least. Symphony and Josh navigated quarantine and mandatory lock downs while surviving pregnancy.
Episode 3 of Season 1: Our Black Love Story talks all about how we navigated pregnancy, doctors appointments, planning a home birth and staying safe during a world-wide pandemic. There's a different type of awareness, fear and anxiety that Symphony carried while being pregnant. Josh never experienced pregnancy with his biological daughter and Symphony already had two children. Coming together to experience the soon arrival of #Babylove was quite the journey. Josh was determined to serve as an advocate for Symphony. He ( like many other partners) were barred from doctors appointments early. This removal of the experience was all he needed to begin thinking about alternatives to the birthing experience. That was when Josh brought up the grand idea of engaging with a home birth.
Listen in as they begin to discuss pregnancy!! Got questions for us... let us know here ---> https://anchor.fm/lifewithzawadi/message
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content. See all the teasers from our instagram page @lifewithzawadi.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:

Happy Black Love Day!
Did you know that BLACK LOVE DAY is a thing?!!!
Black Love Day was founded on February 13, 1993 by Ayo Handy Kendi. Black Love Day is all about the atonement, reconciliation, and celebration of Black Folk. It is a 24-hour display of Black Love demonstrated through love towards the creator, self and family.
Join us for a special podcast episode as Symphony and Josh discuss how Black Love is celebrated within their home and within their marriage.
If you identify as Black, use this day (and every other day) to celebrate ya self and every other Black Folk. If you don't identify as Black find a way --to love them - hit their cash app.
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- Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
- Do you believe it's important to take care of yourself ahead of your family? or is it better to put your family first?
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Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Websites:

We had an INVITE ONLY Pandemic Wedding!!
Yes, Symphony and Josh got married during a whole world wide pandemic. Their love couldn't wait, plus they were 8 months pregnant and wanted to be married before Babylove arrive. #LifewithZawadi + #ListonourLove was a whole African vibe! This invite 30 person only wedding was perfectly curated to be a visual representation of BLACK LOVE.
African themed, Non traditional bride, naming ceremony, summer weather... all of the things.
This wedding supported ( as much as possible) BLACK OWNED Businesses- check out the list below:
- Bridal Make-up- Shalisa Elizabeth
- Naming Ceremony - Dr. Monique Liston
- Family Logo - Marqualya Ellison
- Floral Arrangements - Rachel Sheree
- Custom attire (bride, groom, and the kids) - Iris Acevedo
- Wedding arch - My auntie
- Wedding Poem Reading- Brit Nicole
- Nails - Lauren Benning
- Photographer - Glenda Ruth
- Guest cupcakes and Bride/Groom cake - Tawanda Frazier
- Eyebrows- Kimberly-Carver-Wilder from KRS Studio
- Wedding Programs & Invites - Eagle Flair Printing
- Bridal Jewelry & Accessories - Lilo Allen Papyrus & Charms
- Bride and Groom Oils - Pursenality
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:

Our Black Love Story
Welcome to the first episode of #lifewithZawadi, Would you believe that Symphony curved Josh for years before accepting a date with him?! These former high school classmates would finally become an item nearly a decade later. Two different life journeys met at the perfect time, God's timing. Black love is real and live within the Zawadi union.
Let us know your love story!!!
Share your favorite part of the episode with us!!!
Remember: Every WEDNESDAY we plan to share with you all #LifewithZawadi content.
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
Follow us on ALL social media Platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:

Happy Black History Month - Let's Take off!!!
Being a Black Ass family, of course we are excited about February!!! It's BLACK history month, Symphony's birthday month and the official kick off to consistent #LifewithZawadi podcast content. We are checking in with you, the tribe, to share in our excitement of what's to come.
Just so YOU know, we plan to drop OFFICIAL content EVERY WEDNESDAY!!!
Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss all the answers for you!
If you haven't already, follow us on all the social media platforms:
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy (Josh)
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! They have something for all of them. They are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites:

Teaser: Welcome to #LifewithZawadi
In this teaser and first episode of #lifewithZawadi, we will share a snippet of what our podcast is all about!! We share inside of our lives together as newlyweds/best friends coming together to raise our kids while managing careers, businesses and community engagement. We provide a brief introduction to who we are, our four kids and what we do both professionally and socially.
Every week we plan to share with you all the ups downs and everything in between when it comes to #lifewithZawadi. Send us your questions and comments. You can even send us a voicemail via the anchor app. You could even send us an audio message via Instagram as well too. We will use that discuss our answers for you!
@melanatedmama (Symphony) and @Melanateddadddy ( Josh) are the hosts of this podcast!
@melanatedmama uses her platform to talk all things Art, DIY, Conscious Parenting ( using social emotional and restorative practices) while @melanatedDaddy uses his platform to discuss all things fatherhood, mental health and becoming a Dad Doula.
Share this content with all the mamas and daddies you know! We have something for all of them. We are real, transparent and here to bare it all.
Intro/outro music by: www.facebook.com/vincent.vangreat
Be sure to follow us on all of social media:
Websites: