Episode 223 - Father Figures - The Impact of Grandpas, Uncles, and Stepdads

Indirect adult male influences - like coaches, grandpas, uncles, and cousins—play a crucial role in shaping kids by modeling respectful, healthy behaviors, emotional openness, and integrity beyond what they might experience at home. As men, we can actively help our extended families and their children by making ourselves available, participating in their lives, and demonstrating what balanced masculinity looks like - showing fairness, taking responsibility, and admitting mistakes honestly.

• Show up for kids at family events, games, or special occasions to foster a sense of belonging and support.​
• Model respectful behavior and emotional openness, proving that expressing feelings is healthy and normal.​
• Teach confidence by demonstrating self-belief and sharing motivational strategies, helping kids feel valued in their unique interests.​
• Offer gentle discipline and guidance, focusing on fairness and accountability rather than strictness or control.​
• Be proactive in mentoring nieces, nephews, or younger cousins - with advice, shared hobbies, or simple life skills.

• Admit your mistakes and show humility, which helps kids see that it’s okay to be imperfect and encourages emotional resilience.​
• Share caregiving tasks, demonstrate respect for all family members, and challenge outdated stereotypes, so kids observe inclusive and supportive masculinity.​
• Encourage open communication, listen to kids’ concerns, and validate their opinions, building trust and confidence.​
• Support diverse interests for family members - whether in music, sports, academics, or art -to expand their understanding of what it means to be a caring, capable man.

By modeling these behaviors, men can help kids - both within and outside their immediate families - grow into confident, emotionally resilient adults, equipped to build healthy relationships and contribute positively to their communities.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 222 - The Monkey Trap Mindset - How Letting Go Sets Dads Free

The famous “monkey trap” story—using a hollowed coconut with a hole just big enough for a monkey’s hand, baited with a treat, to supposedly catch monkeys because they won’t let go of the prize—has been widely repeated, but there’s no reliable evidence that this technique is actually used in the wild. It’s best understood as a parable or metaphor rather than a real trapping method.

The Monkey Trap. Most of us have heard of it. You catch a monkey by using a gourd or a coconut that is nailed down, has a small hole in it, and has some fruit for bait inside of it. The monkey slips its hand into the hole, grabs the prize (making a fist that is too large to pull out of the hole in the process), and is caught. Why is it caught? Because it won’t let go of the prize.

Despite appearing in anecdotes and spiritual teaching, researchers have not found documented occurrences of this exact trap in field studies of monkey capture. Instead, the story endures for its powerful illustrative value: being trapped by what we refuse to release.

This metaphor is a compelling way to discuss how dads—and men in general—can become “trapped” by emotional baggage, grudges, fears, or limiting beliefs. True freedom, growth, and happiness come when we learn to let go.

https://samknight.com/?p=924

https://movember.com/

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 221 - Out of Place but Learning to Balance, What a Post Turtle Can Teach A Dad

Sometimes in life, we find ourselves as human post turtles. Maybe it’s that coworker who somehow got promoted to manager and you’re scratching your head wondering how. Or that pop star who’s suddenly the face of everything, but can’t carry a tune in a bucket. The idea is the same—they didn’t get there on their own. Someone lifted them up, put them there, and now they’re just trying to figure out what to do with it.

As dads, we get it. None of us really “earned” fatherhood through a test or certification. One day we were just placed there—sometimes ready, often not. Suddenly, we’re balancing on this narrow post called “Dad Life,” looking down, hoping we don’t fall, wondering who thought this was a good idea anyway.

But here’s the thing about post turtles: even though they didn’t get up there on their own, they’re there now. And like us, they have two choices—freeze up and panic, or adapt and learn to balance. That’s the heart of the dad journey. We might not have all the answers, but we learn on the post. We lean on other dads. We adjust our footing. And maybe, we even learn to enjoy the view from up there.

Reflection Segment

So, who put you on your post? Maybe it was your partner, your parents, your kids, or maybe life itself. The truth is, we’ve all had help. And that’s not something to hide—it’s something to honor. Every dad who’s ever rocked a newborn at 3 AM, every dad who’s shown up to a recital or a soccer game after a long week, every dad trying to be present—each one is a post turtle in his own way. We didn’t get here alone, and we’re not staying balanced by ourselves either.

Next time you feel like a post turtle—awkward, unsure, maybe out of place—remember: it’s normal. You’re not alone on that fence post, and there’s a whole community of dads out here cheering you on, helping you find your balance.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 220 - An Introvert’s Perspective - The Quiet Truth For Dads About Energy and Connection

An Introvert’s Perspective: The Quiet Truth About Energy and Connection

In this episode, the conversation centers on a familiar frustration for many introverts—the misconceptions people have about what it means to be quiet, reserved, or private. The host explores three common phrases that introverts often hear and why they can be both unhelpful and misunderstood.

The first is the casual observation, “You’re so quiet. Are you okay?” For introverts, their quietness is not a sign of something being wrong; it’s simply their natural rhythm. Asking them to defend their silence can make social interactions even more uncomfortable. Quiet is not a problem to be fixed—it’s part of how some people process the world.

The second remark, “You need to get out more,” misses the point of introversion entirely. Introverts do not need more external stimulation to feel complete. Home and solitude are restorative spaces where their energy is recharged. They venture out when they are ready, not when social expectations demand it.

And then there’s, “You need to loosen up.” For an introvert, this can feel like pressure to perform rather than an invitation to connect. Instead of making them feel relaxed, it often highlights the very discomfort they were trying to manage quietly.

To help make sense of these differences, the host offers a vivid analogy: introverts start each day with five coins, and every social interaction costs them one. By the end of the day, their coins are spent—they need alone time to refill their emotional balance. Extroverts, however, begin with zero coins and earn one from every interaction. Their energy grows through engagement and connection.

This simple idea explains why introverts and extroverts sometimes misunderstand each other. When an extrovert suggests happy hour after work, they’re riding a social high, eager to keep going. The introvert, meanwhile, has exhausted their coin supply. The two operate on different energy economies—one earning through interaction, the other conserving through solitude.

But these differences aren’t barriers to friendship or love. They’re opportunities for understanding. When both sides recognize how the other recharges, connection becomes easier and more genuine. Whether you’re an introvert protecting your peace or an extrovert chasing new connections, empathy is the bridge that keeps relationships balanced.

Key Takeaway:

Introversion and extroversion are not opposites—they are complementary ways of managing energy. Understanding the balance between solitude and connection leads to stronger relationships and deeper respect for how others navigate the world.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 219 - Trust, Truth, and Tense Talks - Dad Strategies for Marriage Recovery

Trust is the foundation of any healthy marriage—but when it’s broken, even everyday conversations can feel like navigating a minefield. This episode explores the warning signs that trust is eroding, why it matters for dads, and practical ways to rebuild connection with your partner and kids. Whether you’re just noticing distance or working to heal after hurt, you’re not alone—let’s talk honestly about trust, respect, and hope for your family.

Communication Feels Like Navigating Shaky Ground

When trust is strong, you can talk about anything. When it’s shaky, you walk on eggshells, afraid that any word or topic could set off conflict. Instead of open and spontaneous connection, conversations become guarded and stressful. As a dad and partner, you might find yourself second-guessing every word or avoiding important topics altogether. Taking small, honest steps—like sharing feelings even when it’s tough—can open the path to rebuilding safety and trust.

Checking Up vs. Checking In: Which One Are You Doing?

It’s normal to check in with your partner out of care, but when trust fades, those moments shift into suspicion—“Where were you? Who were you with?” Instead of genuine connection, you find yourself interrogating or feeling interrogated. Choosing to check in daily, with curiosity and respect, helps restore emotional safety and turns tense interactions back into moments of support.

You Default to Negative Interpretations

When trust is lost, it’s easy to assume negative intentions—seeing innocent actions through a lens of doubt. This cycle can reinforce hurt and distance for both partners. One powerful change: choose to believe the best in each other and give your partner the benefit of the doubt, just as you’d want for yourself. This mindset shift can slowly break the cycle and bring hope back to your marriage.

• If trust is low, communication will start to feel tense and unsafe—be gentle with yourself and your partner as you work through it.
• Checking in should be a sign of care, not control. With practice, you can rebuild mutual respect, even after setbacks.
• Dads play a key role in modeling trust and honesty, both in marriage and with their kids.
• Real trust grows from small, consistent choices to communicate openly, assume the best, and repair mistakes together.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 218 - The Pencil’s Tale - Five Lessons Every Dad Should Share and Teach Their Kids

The story itself appears to be an anonymous parable, sometimes called "The Pencil Maker’s Parable," but has been attributed to adaptors such as Jimmy Reed and featured in inspirational columns and children’s teachings.

Here is the tale:

The Pencils Tale.

Once upon a time, an old pencil maker took his newest pencil aside just before he was about to pack him into a box. Imagining the little fellow as a person, he recalled a few things about the pencil.

There are five things you need to know, he said to his pencil, before I send you out into the world.

Always remember these five things. Never forget them and you will become the best pencil you can be.

The first thing is to remember that you will be able to do many great things, but only if you put yourself in someone else's hands.

From time to time you will experience a painful sharpening, but remember that this will make you a better pencil.

Also, keep in mind that you will be able to correct any mistakes you might make along the way. The most important part of you is what's on the inside.

And remember this as well. Upon every surface that you are used, you must leave your mark. No matter what else happens, you must continue to write.

It seemed the pencil listened to him and promised he would remember these five things, so that he could live his life with heart and purpose. You see in life, in your life, put yourself in someone else's hand.

Embrace challenges for growth. Learn from mistakes, value inner qualities and leave a positive mark on the world. And you too can become the best pencil there is.

This was the pencils tale

"The Pencil’s Tale" offers simple, profound lessons that resonate for dads at every stage of parenting. By sharing this parable with children, fathers model the values of humility, resilience, and purpose. The pencil’s journey provides a natural metaphor for growth, learning, and character—qualities every dad hopes to nurture in their kids.

• Acceptance of Guidance: The pencil succeeds by allowing itself to be guided. Likewise, dads can teach children that everyone benefits from mentors, family, and friends. Being open to support leads to doing great things.
• Embracing Challenges and Growth: Like sharpening a pencil, life’s difficulties shape us. Dads can explain that painful experiences (hard lessons, discipline, setbacks) help us grow stronger and better, no matter our age.
• Learning from Mistakes: Erasers let us fix errors, and so can honesty and forgiveness. Teaching kids that mistakes aren’t final—and can be corrected—empowers them to try again and learn without fear.
• Valuing What’s Inside: The most important part of a person (or pencil) is what’s inside: character, kindness, and integrity. Dads can emphasize that inner qualities matter more than outside appearances.
• Leaving a Positive Mark: Everyone leaves a mark in the world—through actions, words, and kindness. Encouraging children to be intentional about the impact they make helps them live a life with purpose.

By retelling this parable, dads foster meaningful conversations about values, resilience, and making a difference, while building trust and deeper bonds with their families.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot...

Episode 217 - Movember, A Birthday, Some Coffee and a Huge Thank you to You

Hey, thanks for pressing play! It is Nov 13th - Dave's birthday, we share a coffee together, we talk Movember and why this is important and we say thanks to you - thanks for being apart of this podcast and for making this your home for all things Dad - this space is for you!

If this podcast has brought value to you - please consider sending some coffee back to the show with our buy me a coffee link

https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

https://movember.com/

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 216 - Another Great Dad Podcast - The All Pro Dad Podcast

The All Pro Dad Podcast is a weekly show dedicated to helping fathers navigate the challenges of parenting with intention, humility, and love. Created by Family First, the nonprofit behind the All Pro Dad movement founded by Mark Merrill and Coach Tony Dungy, the podcast extends the mission of helping dads “love and lead their families well” into modern, relatable conversations.

Each episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast focuses on one central parenting question, tackling real-life topics with humor, wisdom, and compassion. Hosted by Ted Lowe, Bobby Lewis, and BJ Foster, the show explores the joys and struggles of being an engaged father in today’s world. The tone is honest and approachable — designed for dads who don’t have all the answers but genuinely want to get better.

The podcast aims to create a space where dads can laugh, learn, and feel less alone in their parenting journey. Episodes blend personal stories, expert insights, and “Pro Moves” — actionable takeaways dads can apply right away at home.

Episodes cover a wide range of fatherhood and family subjects, including:

• Parenting and communication — Building trust and emotional connection with kids.
• Marriage and teamwork — Strengthening partnership and balance at home.
• Discipline and encouragement — Finding the right blend of correction and care.
• Modern challenges — Navigating social media, technology, and the "manosphere."
• Character and resilience — Raising emotionally strong, respectful children.
• Mental health for dads — Encouraging emotional openness, reflection, and community support.

Recent and fan-favorite episodes include:

• How Can I Improve as a Dad? – Knowing when to ask for feedback from your kids, spouse, or mentors.​​
• Should Dads Be Worried About the Manosphere? – Discussing how media messages shape young men's views.​
• Building Resilience in Children – Featuring insights from Dr. Chinwé Williams on helping kids handle adversity.​
• What’s the Best Part About Being a Girl Dad? – Celebrating father-daughter bonds.​
• 5 Ways Dads Cause Family Tension and 4 Things You Must Do After Yelling at Your Kids – Honest reflections on mistakes and growth.

• Approachable Format: Simple, 15–20-minute conversations centered on real-life parenting questions.
• Rooted in Faith & Practicality: Blends Christian values with relatable, modern advice.
• Diverse Guest Input: Features experts, coaches, and dads from various backgrounds.
• Actionable Takeaways: Each episode ends with a “Pro Move” — a small, tangible way to improve family life that week.

New episodes of the All Pro Dad Podcast release weekly and are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and AllProDad.com/podcast.​

In short, the All Pro Dad Podcast is built for men who want to be intentional about fatherhood — not perfect dads, but all-pro dads who keep showing up, learning, and growing every day.

https://movember.com/

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten