In this special bonus episode of Rethinking Dads, Kevin and Michael recorded their conversation while Michael was taking Kevin to the airport.

This conversation actually started a couple of days prior when family and friends all gathered at Kevin's house for a discussion on life, manifestation, gratitude and raising our vibration and frequency.

We all get stuck dealing with the hamster wheel of life. There's no doubt our days get crazy and we fall into ruts and lose sight of what's important. What we tried to do with this episode, and our personal conversations lately, is bring the most important things back into focus.

Bring back into focus our desire to bring about abundance, support, love, time and all the joys in life we believe are inherent to all of us.

We hope you enjoy and thanks for listening!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

In this episode, Michael and Kevin talk about the importance, as Dads to balance our giving to family and also doing the things that we enjoy and that nurture us.

Kevin shares a heartwarming story about his dad's experience at a pool tournament and how it taught him the value of claiming moments of joy.

We delve into the sacrifices Dads often make and the challenges of balancing personal wants with family needs. It also touches on the role of Moms in delaying gratification and the importance of applying grace to different perspectives.

The conversation concludes by highlighting the importance of claiming what you want and creating space for adventures.

Takeaways

• Dads should not be afraid to ask for what they want and embrace their personal desires.
• Allowing ourselves moments of joy and pursuing our passions can have a profound impact on our well-being.
• Balancing personal wants with family needs can be challenging, but it is important to find a way to prioritize both.
• Applying grace and understanding to different perspectives can help navigate conflicting value systems within a family. Context and understanding can make it easier to offer grace in relationships.
• Exploring workable scenarios can lead to unexpected and joyful experiences.
• Asking for what you want and creating opportunities for joy is important.
• Being open to new experiences and overcoming fear and scarcity mindset is crucial.
• Getting clear on what you want and being the director of your own journey is empowering.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to another thoughtful conversation with a couple of Dads on the Rethinking Dads podcast!

In this episode, Michael and Kevin bring back Bhagavan and Steven Sweeney to discuss a topic they both (independently) asked to share their thoughts on...

Neurodivergency - both as a Dad and with kids.

The conversation delves into the experiences of neurodivergent parenting, specifically ADHD, and the challenges and strengths associated with it.

Bhagavan and Steven share personal stories, insights, and coping mechanisms, highlighting the importance of understanding oneself and others in the context of neurodiversity. The conversation also delves into the challenges and strategies of parenting neurodivergent children, emphasizing the importance of being present, curious, and understanding.

"Almost every perceived issue or what do they call it, dysfunction, on one side of that coin you call it a dysfunction, on the other side of the same thing you call it a strength or an attribute." - Bhagavan

Takeaways

• Understanding oneself and others in the context of neurodiversity is crucial for effective parenting and personal growth.
• Neurodivergent traits, such as distraction and non-conventional idea association, can be both challenges and strengths in different contexts.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of allowing children to learn from failure and develop their own coping mechanisms, while also providing support and guidance.
• Creative problem-solving and novel thinking are valuable attributes associated with neurodiversity, and can be harnessed in various situations. The importance of being present and curious in parenting neurodivergent children
• The need for support and understanding in parenting neurodivergent children

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Neurodivergent Traits and Coping Mechanisms
26:01 The Dual Nature of Neurodivergent Traits: Challenges and Strengths
36:59 Empowering Children through Neurodiversity and Personal Growth
46:15 Navigating Neurodiversity in Parenting
59:17 Understanding Natural Consequences in Parenting

Keywords

neurodivergent parenting, ADHD, coping mechanisms, personal stories, insights, neurodiversity, understanding, challenges, strengths, parenting, neurodivergent children, natural consequences, labels, support, understanding, neurodiversity, challenges, strategies

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Hey Dads! Writing this update to you on Fathers Day...so Happy Dad's Day!!!!

Kevin and I are excited to share a quick update with you on our podcast. We are moving!

Starting July 1st, you will be able to hear new episodes on the Let's Get Real Radio Show feed. Let's Get Real is a weekly radio show I host for men. Giving men a space to figure out their shit.

On Let's Get Real, we discuss everything from time management, work issues to struggles with addiction and more. As a Dad and a man, I encourage you to check out recent episodes and segments of Let's Get Real.

And so you don't miss any upcoming episodes of Rethinking Dads, please subscribe or follow on YouTube or your favorite podcast app.

Listen and follow Let's Get Real on Spotify

Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe to Let's Get Real on YouTube

Thanks everyone for listening and supporting!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to another authentic and unfiltered episode of "Rethinking Dads"!

In this episode, we delve into the world of fatherhood with the insightful Steven Sweeney. Join us as we explore Steven's concept of "Delicious parenting" — a flavorful approach to nurturing our children with care and love, rather than control.

As a Dad navigating separation, Steven shares candidly about the challenges and frustrations he's faced, all while striving to be the best version of himself for his kids. Over the course of 3+ years as a solo parent, Steven's journey is one of growth, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

Reflecting on his profound relationship with his late father, Steven offers touching anecdotes that resonate deeply with every Dad. We delve into the delicate balance of allowing kids to be kids without resorting to rigid control, opting instead for a compassionate and understanding approach.

Tune in as we explore pivotal topics, including overcoming resentment (4:00), fostering meaningful connections with our children (20:00), and setting boundaries within an unschooling household (53:00). From navigating communication with kindness to defining our roles as loving guides rather than hovering helicopter parents (30:00), this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for Rethinking Dads everywhere.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome back to "Rethinking Dads," where we delve into authentic conversations with fathers and men navigating the complexities of life.

In this episode, we sit down with Bhagavan Bauer, a devoted father of three teenagers who recently embarked on a new chapter in his personal life with an engagement to his partner.

In this candid and emotion-laden dialogue, Bhagavan shares insights and experiences that resonate deeply with all fathers and men:

NOTE: All time marks are approximate

At the 3-minute mark (3:45), Bhagavan recounts his remarkably amicable separation from the mother of his children, showcasing the power of love and mutual respect even in the face of change.

Around 8 minutes in (8:30), we explore the profound impact of relationship transitions, confronting the metaphorical "death" of a marriage and its ripple effects.

By the 20-minute mark (20:50), the conversation delves into the raw authenticity of embracing emotions, particularly the often-overlooked realm of sadness.

Navigating the turbulent waters of employment, Bhagavan reflects on the emotional toll of being laid off (29:30) and the uncertainty that accompanies professional endeavors (37:00).

From striving for mastery in our work (45:00) to the delicate balance between optimism and denial (51:02), this rich conversation between three rethinking Dads offers invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of modern fatherhood and masculinity.

Thank you for listening as we redefine fatherhood, one vulnerable conversation at a time. Join us as we challenge norms, embrace change, and embark on a journey of self-discovery with Bhagavan Bauer on this episode of Rethinking Dads.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to Season Two of Rethinking Dads!

In this first episode, Michael and Kevin start by reflecting on Season One. We covered a lot of topics in Season One, from Unschooling, to our Partners to receiving the best advice possible from our 17-year olds.

Now, as we move into Season Two of Rethinking Dads, we have two main goals.

Goal One: Bring on a variety of Dads to share their stories

Goal Two: Hold a space for these Dads to process their own shit

While we want to go deeper on what it means to be a Rethinking Dad in season two, we want to create an environment where Dads can share their triumphs and struggles and get a place to process. While we will hold this sacred space for Dads, we will also ask questions and put up a mirror, so you, as a Dad, can look at what you're saying and find your path to being a better Dad. A true Rethinking Dad!

Thanks for sharing with a Dad you know and thanks for listening to Rethinking Dads!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to the final episode of Season One of Rethinking Dad!

First of all, we want to thank you for joining us on this journey through our first season!

Throughout this first season, we have unpacked many topics in our lives as Rethinking Dads. How we chose to raise our children (Partnering instead of controlling) to how we chose to school our kids (unschooling). Now, as we wrap season one, we would like to focus on three big definitions:

Control

Unschooling

S.O.A.P.

We invite you to spend this finale with us as we share stories around these three big topics and we look forward to kicking off season two in just a few weeks!

Thanks everybody!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!