DadAwesome - podcast cover

DadAwesome

Jeff Zauggdadawesome.org
ACTIVATING DADS TO LEAD WITH WONDER Walking with dads as they lead and love their kids toward God's awesomeness. We're on a mission to see dads fully alive and fully activated in their roles—leading with wonder to build intentional connection with their kids while experiencing God's awesomeness together. We partner with dads at every stage of the journey by providing practical fatherhood resources to catalyze connection with their kids, and also with other dads.
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Episodes

DA388 | Self-Aware, Other-Aware, God-Aware: Relational Wisdom That Changes Everything at Home (Ken Sande)

Ken Sande joins us for PART 2 to share game-changing tools every dad needs: ✅ The SOG Plan: Self-aware, Other-aware, God-aware conflict resolution ✅ The SERVE Acrostic: How to love your wife like Christ loves the church ✅ Why bringing the gospel beats lecturing every time SUMMARY Every dad faces conflict at home, but most of us handle it all wrong. In this episode, Ken Sande shares powerful tools that will transform how you navigate family tension. You'll discover the SOG plan for conflict resol...

Jun 26, 202527 minSeason 7Ep. 388

DA387 | The Ripple Effect of Fatherhood, Saying "I'm Sorry," and Going Upstream in Conflict (Ken Sande PART 1)

✅ The Seven A's of confession (and why "I'm sorry" isn't enough for deep healing) ✅ How to break the cycle of emotionally stunted men in your family line ✅ The 6-second technique that can save your marriage and your relationships with your kids ✅ Why going "upstream" is better than constantly putting out fires FULL SHOW NOTES > SUMMARY: What if the reason marriages grow cold after the honeymoon year isn't about compatibility, but about something dads never learned to model? In this episode, K...

Jun 19, 202530 minSeason 7Ep. 387

DA386 | High-Def Parenting: Breaking Free from Digital Distractions (Darren Whitehead)

✅ Why smartphones make us feel god-like (and why that's dangerous) ✅ The 4 research-backed rules for kids and technology ✅ How a church-wide digital fast transformed an entire community ✅ What a therapy dog named Bruce taught him about presence SUMMARY : Parenting teenagers in a digital world feels impossible—especially when you're struggling with your own phone addiction. In this episode, Darren Whitehead (dad of 4 teenage girls) shares how he led his entire church through a 40-day digital fast...

Jun 12, 202547 minSeason 7Ep. 386

DA385 | Raising Kids Who Live Generously, Creating Miracle Moments, and the 1% Challenge (Todd Harper)

✅ Why most dads get generosity completely wrong (and how to flip the script) ✅ Fun tactics to teach young kids the joy of giving (the $20 tip story will blow your mind!) ✅ The simple 4-pillar framework that works at any income level ✅ How money lies to our families about security, control, and happiness SUMMARY Money whispers lies to our kids every single day—promising security, control, and happiness it can never deliver. In this powerful episode, Todd Harper shares how his son went from declar...

Jun 05, 202559 minSeason 7Ep. 385

DA384 | Turning Down the Noise, Turning Up the Presence: A Dad's Guide to Analog Living (Jay Kim)

✅ The 5-movement Examen prayer that's transforming bedtimes (free PDF included!) ✅ Why this dad says NO social media until 18 (and the research backing him up) ✅ Simple breath prayers that turn everyday moments into encounters with God ✅ The daily catechism question that reminds his kids of their true identity FULL SHOW NOTES: In a world where screens compete for our attention every waking moment, how do we raise kids who know they belong to God instead of their devices? Jay Kim, a pastor living...

May 29, 202545 minSeason 7Ep. 384

DA383 | From Fatherless to Faithful: Healing Pain, Breaking Cycles, and Pursuing Your Children's Hearts (Leo Clark)

✅ How healing from father wounds creates ripple effects that impact generations ✅ The power of showing up consistently (Leo hasn't missed a single one of his son's games!) ✅ Why prayer cards with specific prayers for each child have created lasting impact ✅ How to break generational cycles even when you didn't have a model FULL SHOW NOTES: SUMMARY Growing up with a famous boxer father who never showed up for his games taught Leo Clark what it means to truly fight for the hearts of his children. ...

May 22, 202552 minSeason 7Ep. 383

DA382 | Kids Takeover: Dessert Disasters, Sibling Squabbles, and Finding Joy in The Big Mess (Justin Whitmel Earley)

My Daughters took over the podcast this week! Interviewing Justin Whitmel Early about his new KIDS BOOK - "The Big Mess" ➡️ Why finding God in family life means embracing the mess, not avoiding it ➡️ How to create intentional spaces where your older kids will actually talk to you ➡️ The simple prayer that can transform frustrating parenting moments ➡️ Why throwing food might be good for your family (seriously!) This episode is filled with giggles, wisdom, and practical advice for dads navigating...

May 15, 202527 minSeason 7Ep. 382

DA381 | Embracing Imperfect Fatherhood, Staying Morally Grounded, and Creating Moments That Last (Bob Merritt PART2)

SUMMARY Fatherhood isn't about perfection—it's about presence, moral consistency, and showing up when it matters most. In this heart-stirring episode from the vault, Bob Merritt shares powerful stories about those precious moments that define a father's legacy. From confronting hard truths with his college-aged son to the tear-filled goodbye when his daughter left for college, Bob reveals how staying faithful in the small things prepares you for the big moments that matter most. TAKEAWAYS Consis...

May 08, 202532 minSeason 7Ep. 381

DA380 | Building a Home Your Kids Want to Be In: Bob Merritt on Church, Humility, and Confronting Blind Spots (PART 1)

FROM THE VAULT: Initially released in August of 2021 🏠 "Home was not just a place I lived, but the place I most wanted to be." ✅ The blind spots that almost derailed his family (and how he overcame them) ✅ Why church attendance matters more than you think ✅ How to create a home your kids actually want to be in ✅ The power of courageous humility in fatherhood SUMMARY What if the most powerful thing you could do as a dad wasn't extraordinary at all? In this heart-stirring conversation, Pastor Bob...

May 01, 202530 minSeason 7Ep. 380

DA379 | Building Your Dad Tribe, Ditching the Guilt, and Raising Good People (David Mills)

David Mills believes the mess and chaos of life make the best stories. In this episode, he shares how to infuse more fun and adventure into your parenting journey. You’ll hear real talk about dad guilt, finding your tribe, and why doing life with other men makes all the difference. TAKEAWAYS An adventure mindset shifts how you view your circumstances so that even the challenging moments become stories worth telling. Doing hard things awakens the warrior in you. Every parent struggles with parent...

Apr 24, 202535 minSeason 7Ep. 379

DA378 | Shepherding Your Family Through Grief, Launching Disciples, and Finding Light in the Darkness (Brian Doyle)

In this episode, Brian Doyle shares what it was like to parent through the unimaginable. After losing his wife to cancer at age 54, Brian had to navigate his own grief while guiding his teenage and young adult kids through theirs. His story will challenge you to keep your eyes on the future, disciple your kids with purpose, and take initiative to invest in the dads around you. TAKEAWAYS: Instead of avoiding grief, learn to walk through it in a healthy way so your sorrow can eventually lead to jo...

Apr 17, 202536 minSeason 7Ep. 378

DA377 | Switching On Joy, Building Emotional Resilience, and Breaking Free From Enemy Mode (Chris Coursey)

Joy isn’t just about feeling good. It's your secret weapon for raising resilient kids and showing up as a healthy, loving dad. In this episode, Chris Coursey unpacks the brain science behind joy and shares practical strategies you can use to stay calm and connected, whether it’s your own emotions flaring or your child’s. Key takeaways: Joy is built through connection, while happiness depends on your circumstances. God wired your brain for emotions, so it’s important to know what helps you return...

Apr 10, 202545 minSeason 7Ep. 377

DA376 | Raising Boys Who Respect Girls, Removing Shame from the Sex Talk, and Thriving in Marriage (Dave Willis)

There is never a dull moment as a parent, especially in a world dominated by screens and technology. In this episode, Dave Willis shares how he’s tackling tough conversations with his sons about sex, boundaries, and the dangers of pornography. Plus, he explains how the words you speak as a dad can become your child’s inner voice—for better or for worse. Key Takeaways: The best moments come from undistracted one-on-one interactions where you connect with your kids in their world each day. A child...

Apr 03, 202541 minSeason 7Ep. 376

DA375 | Experiential Christianity, Lingering with Jesus, and The War for Your Attention (John Eldredge)

When you set aside your programmed pragmatism and rediscover wonder, life with Jesus takes on a whole new depth. In this episode, John Eldredge shares how technology and the internet constantly fight for your attention and how you can push back by embracing ordinary, mystical moments to connect with God. You’ll also hear why prayer, lingering, and turning your heart toward God are essential for your Christian walk. Key Takeaway The hyper-rational, left-brain approach to life isn’t good for your ...

Mar 27, 202547 minSeason 7Ep. 375

DA374 | Guarding Your Daughter’s Door, The Chrysalis Analogy, and Thinking Blessings Instead of Curses (Jay Heck & Rob Porter: Part 2)

Your daughter’s transformation into a young woman is designed by God. But as a dad, stepping back to protect her can be tough when all you want is to reconnect like you did when she was younger. In this episode, Jay Heck, Rob Porter, and Jeff Zaugg unpack the powerful "Chrysalis Analogy" and reveal how God uses this transition to draw you closer to Him while strengthening your relationship with your kids. Key Takeaway Being a supportive protector instead of forcing connection as your daughter ag...

Mar 20, 202539 minSeason 7Ep. 374

DA373 | Partnering with God to Raise Your Kids, Slowing Down, and Finding Rest in the Tension (Jay Heck & Rob Porter: Part 1)

Jeff Zaugg and Rob Porter sit down with Jay Heck for a powerful, three-way conversation on fatherhood. In Part 1, they dive into the tension between being a provider and still embracing curiosity, adventure, and childlike wonder. They also unpack the unique triune relationship between a father, God, and his child. Key Takeaway Are you approaching life like an orphan or like a son whose father is going to come through for him even if he makes a mistake? Slowing down can help you navigate the tens...

Mar 13, 202554 minSeason 7Ep. 373

DA372 | Seeing God’s Bigger Picture, Championing Your Child’s Purpose, and Fighting for Peace (Mike Wehde: Part 2)

In the second part of this conversation, Mike wraps up his top five fatherhood plays. You’ll learn how to discover what lights your kids up and why your biggest impact can come from investing in others. Mike will inspire and equip you with actionable wisdom to raise resilient, purpose-driven kids. Key Takeaway Your best fruit will grow on someone else’s tree. When the world’s going crazy, your kids need to know what lights them up inside. Your victories, as well as failures, are all part of God’...

Mar 06, 202532 minSeason 7Ep. 372

DA371 | Raising Entrepreneurial Kids, Defining Your Family Identity, and 5 Plays to Run as a Dad (Mike Wehde: Part 1)

Have you decided what your family name stands for? In this episode, Mike Wehde dives into how to raise creative problem solvers, embrace failure, and build a strong family identity. Plus, you’ll discover five powerful plays every dad should run to stay connected with their kids for life. Key Takeaway If you want things to change, you have to change. When the enemy whispers that you’re a failure, embrace the truth of God’s love and grace. With God’s help, decide what your family name stands for i...

Feb 27, 202538 minSeason 7Ep. 371

DA370 | Being Faithful Fathers, Passing the Baton, and Making Your Church Buzz for Dad Life (Rick Wertz)

You have 936 weeks before your child turns 18, and each one counts! In this episode, Rick Wertz shares simple yet powerful ways to lead with vision, engage emotionally with your kids, and spark a fatherhood movement in your church. Key Takeaway Fill a jar with 936 marbles and take one out each week to have a visual reminder of how time is passing with you kids from birth to 18 years old. To PASS the baton as a dad, focus on purpose-filled fathering, activities, studies, and staying connected. Yo...

Feb 20, 202542 minSeason 7Ep. 370

DA369 | Healing Father Wounds, Pausing in the Driveway, and Dying as a Good Man (David Dusek)

Are you carrying around unresolved father wounds? In this episode, David Dusek unpacks how a father’s words ripple through generations and what you can do to promote healing. David will challenge you to refocus on your family, reconnect with your kids, and recognize that as long as you’re breathing, it’s not too late to finish well. Key Takeaway The enemy isolates you on purpose through fear of embarrassment. You need a strong brotherhood to help you see through the fog and chaos of life. If you...

Feb 13, 202539 minSeason 7Ep. 369

DA368 | The Four Pillars of Manhood, Contagious Courage, and Living Vertically (Dave Wilson)

What does it mean to be a R.E.A.L. man? In this episode, Dave Wilson breaks down the four pillars of manhood that will challenge and change you. Plus, you’ll hear practical tips on prayer, fasting, and leaving a good legacy. Tune in and get inspired to be the husband, father, and protector you were created to be. Key Takeaways Courage is contagious, but so is passivity. Real men reject passivity, engage with God, accept responsibility, and lead courageously. True life is only found vertically. D...

Feb 06, 202547 minSeason 7Ep. 368

DA367 | Leatherworking, Leading With a Restful Presence, and Healing What’s in the Gap (Scott Mawdesley)

Scott Mawdesley wants to inspire dads to heal, grow closer to God, and build meaningful connections. Through leatherworking and contemplative practices, Scott has learned key insights about how to grow as a man and father. In this episode, he shares how those hobbies and intentional habits have helped him lead with purpose, wisdom, and a restful presence. Key Takeaways In leatherworking, it takes seven different tools to make one bracelet. The same is true in life: You need multiple imports to i...

Jan 30, 202546 minSeason 7Ep. 367

DA366 | Training Dads, Leading Fatherhood Initiatives, and Restoring the Value of Fatherhood (Ron Hauenstein)

Ron Hauenstein, leader of the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative, shares how fatherhood training can strengthen families, churches, and communities. With heartfelt stories and eye-opening facts, he’ll inspire you to take simple, practical steps to combat fatherlessness and create a lasting impact in your community. Key Takeaways Changed dads change everything. If you feel led to start a fatherhood organization, ask people whether they think programs to support fathers are important, and you’ll get an...

Jan 23, 202538 minSeason 7Ep. 366

DA365 | The Call to Friendship, Daily Rituals for Dads, and 10 Technology Practices (Justin Whitmel Earley: Part 2)

In the second half of this conversation, Justin Whitmel Earley shares the rest of his core daily habits, including prayer, time with friends, and date nights with his wife. Plus, he introduces the Hang Ten Movement. As technology continues to impact spiritual discipleship, these 10 simple practices can help you raise your kids to use technology for good. Key Takeaways Good luck doing anything important in life alone. Your habits will not change God’s love for you, but God’s love for you should c...

Jan 16, 202528 minSeason 7Ep. 365

DA364 | Bedtime Blessings, Birthday Letters, and 5 Simple but Life-Changing Habits (Justin Whitmel Earley: Part 1)

Justin Whitmel Earley is back with creative fatherhood tips, powerful daily rituals, and his top five habits for dads. From writing yearly letters to your kids to starting every day with Scripture, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you lead your family with love and intentionality. Key Takeaways You are a citizen of Heaven. Write a yearly letter to your child on their birthday that you can give to them when they’re older. Your primary responsibility is to lead your family with confidenc...

Jan 09, 202527 minSeason 7Ep. 364

DA363 | A Million Little Miracles, Recapturing Childlike Wonder, and Lessons from Four Famous Visionaries (Mark Batterson)

It's time to wake up to the wonder all around you! Tune in as Mark Batterson shares simple ideas to shock your system and spark your curiosity. From prayer walks to outdoor adventures, you’ll discover new ways to connect with God. Plus, Mark recounts his favorite wisdom from four thought leaders to help you go all-in as a dad. Key Takeaways Childlike wonder and pure delight are sacred, holy things. Change of Pace + Change of Place = Change of Perspective Nature acts as an antidote to narcissism....

Jan 02, 202538 minSeason 7Ep. 363

DA362 | The Cathedral Mentality, Aligning Your Words with God’s Truth, and 12 Prayers to Unlock Your Child’s Destiny (Chuck Ramsey)

God didn’t call you to play it safe; He called you to take risks. In today’s episode, Chuck Ramsey will challenge you to shift your mindset and parent with a long-term vision. He’ll inspire you to take bold steps and speak God’s truth over your kids to help them reach their destiny. Key Takeaways Just like the architects and artisans who design cathedrals they will never see, your work as a parent will impact countless generations. Fatherhood is at the core of the universe. Living on the edge is...

Dec 26, 202456 minSeason 7Ep. 362

DA361 | Top 10 DadAwesome Discoveries in 2024 (Jeff Zaugg)

As the year wraps up, we’ve pulled together the Top 10 DadAwesome Discoveries to help you grow as an intentional, empowered father. This rapid-fire list includes books, boot camps, breath prayers, and more! Tune in, take notes, and get inspired to level up your fatherhood journey. Key Takeaways Practice simple breath prayers to refocus on God’s presence, and train your children to do the same. Invest time in a fatherhood booklet or online course to gain practical skills and powerful insights. Ge...

Dec 19, 202418 minSeason 7Ep. 361

DA360 | Surrounding Your Kids with Mentors, Modeling Adventure, & Making Memories with Your Own Dad (Ben Bevis)

Ben Bevis joins today’s episode with practical tips for helping your kids embrace their God-given identity, gifts, and vision. He’ll inspire you to make more memories with your own dad and identify committed mentors for your children. Don’t miss Ben’s insights on healing generational wounds, modeling adventure, and strengthening your relationship with your kids. Key Takeaways Take advantage of opportunities to adventure with your own father while you can. Intentional fatherhood begins with mendi...

Dec 12, 202443 minSeason 7Ep. 360

DA359 | Creating Meaningful Pathways, Never Missing a Birthday, and Making God Your Center of Gravity (Roy Harley)

Roy Harley loves surfing and Christian ministry, but he’s learned the importance of putting his family first, even when it seems unreasonable. In this conversation, Roy shares practical ways he’s created meaningful connections with his kids. He also opens up about navigating the uncharted teen years with his kids and looking to God as the ultimate example of fatherhood. Key Takeaways Your family comes before your ministry. The pathways you lay in your child’s first 11 years are the most crucial....

Dec 05, 202450 minSeason 7Ep. 359
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