In the second half of this conversation, Aaron McHugh dives deeper into how to become the dad you want to be with practical, bite-sized steps. Aaron also shares his poem “Tent-Bound,” a beautiful reflection on navigating uncertainty and embracing new horizons. Key Takeaways Take the first step toward becoming the type of person you want to be. Would things have been different if someone had told you what your life would hold? It’s normal to feel that the end is out of sight—and not like it. Enga...
Nov 28, 2024•25 min•Season 7Ep. 358
Fatherhood isn’t about choosing between quantity and quality time with your kids. For Aaron McHugh, it’s about being present in your child’s life for the long haul. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflection, Aaron shows how rest, curiosity, and allowing God to shape you can create the meaningful life experiences you want as a man and father. Key Takeaways Prioritizing curiosity, wonder, and exploration in your daily life can transform your overall experience. Kids care more about a long...
Nov 21, 2024•29 min•Season 7Ep. 357
In this episode, award-winning actor and speaker Cameron Arnett shares his story of choosing Jesus over Hollywood and how that decision shaped his future. Tune in to discover key principles for staying strong in your faith, doing “Satan checks” when your marriage is under attack, and trusting God to fulfill His promises. Key Takeaways It is through faith and patience that you inherit the promises of God. Do a “Satan Check” when you feel attacks on your marriage. Put Christ over everything you th...
Nov 14, 2024•48 min•Season 7Ep. 356
In the second half of this conversation, Vince Miller shares a vulnerable Prodigal Son story that demonstrates the gracious love of God. He'll also challenge you to pray the hardest prayer you'll ever pray to experience real change. Tune in for timely insights on discipleship, leadership, and embracing your identity as a son of God. Key Takeaways The Bible is a story about men. It's not about being the hero dad; it's about being a child of the Dad who is the hero of the story. If you really want...
Nov 07, 2024•29 min•Season 7Ep. 355
Six months ago, Vince Miller became a first-time grandfather. He joins today’s episode to share personal insights around multigenerational thinking, assuming the role of patriarch, and the power of being physically, mentally, and emotionally available to your kids. Key Takeaways You can be given a title—like father or grandfather—without assuming the role. Proverbs is predominantly about a father passing on wisdom to a son. A 30-second conversation can change the trajectory of someone’s life. Fa...
Oct 31, 2024•32 min•Season 7Ep. 354
Being a dad doesn’t stop when your kids grow up. As Reverend Elmo Winters shares in this episode, your kids constantly watch what you do, so the example you set will shape their future. Tune in to hear an important conversation about intentionality, racial reconciliation, and kingdom-focused living. Key Takeaways Set a good example for your kids by walking out what you talk about. Everyone needs someone in their life to call out and draw out what they can’t see in themselves. Be open-minded, qui...
Oct 24, 2024•34 min•Season 7Ep. 353
As a licensed professional counselor and dad of three, Chris Bruno is acutely aware of how childhood trauma can impact your fatherhood approach. In this conversation, Chris describes the importance of processing your experiences with others, finding healing from the past, and becoming deeply rooted in brotherhood as you raise your kids. Key Takeaways You became the man you are today because of the guidance or lack thereof from the men who came before you. Exploring your own story means confronti...
Oct 17, 2024•51 min•Season 7Ep. 352
There’s only so much growth you can experience in your normal rhythms of life. That’s why Jeff Ford has pushed his limits to the extreme by summiting the tallest free-standing mountain in the world—three times! In this episode, he shares the powerful faith and fatherhood lessons that he’s learned from doing such physically challenging things with other men. Key Takeaways How your children view God is directly dependent upon how they view you. Therefore, reflect His image today. Doing hard things...
Oct 10, 2024•38 min•Season 7Ep. 351
Mic flip! Listen as Jeff Zaugg sits down with Kent Evans and Lawson Brown on the Father on Purpose Podcast to discuss his own parenting journey. He shares fresh ideas to help you live an awesome dad life, invest time with your kids, and model joy, faith, and wonder. Key Takeaways You’re not being DadAwesome if you’re just pursuing the heart of your wife and kids; being DadAwesome requires brotherhood. Never wait until you think you’ve “arrived” before you take the initiative to lead. Help your k...
Oct 03, 2024•48 min•Season 7Ep. 350
What does it mean to go beyond shallow community and find real brotherhood? In this episode, Steve Sargent describes how God turned every part of his story—even the messiest parts—into a beautiful symphony. From overcoming addiction to learning to live authentically, Steve shares powerful wisdom for all dads, no matter your past. Key Takeaways Avoid getting stuck in a shallow community; don't be afraid to get deep. Life stories without trauma and chaos are just as significant and victorious as s...
Sep 26, 2024•43 min•Season 7Ep. 349
Jim Barnard is known as The Suffering Guy. In this heartfelt episode, Jim shares the pivotal moments of his life story, including countless crises and miracles he’s experienced along the way. His story offers hope for others walking through challenging times, and he’ll encourage you to look to the source of all comfort as you try to make sense of reality. Key Takeaways The gap between reality and what we hope for is full of disappointment, dissatisfaction, and distress. You’re never alone in you...
Sep 19, 2024•50 min•Season 7Ep. 348
What does it mean to stay nimble as a father? In today’s episode, Corey Peters offers his perspective and will push you to break out of your comfort zone to make a difference for your community. Plus, you’ll discover one simple question that can transform your relationship with your kids. Key Takeaways Ask your kids, “What kind of dad do you want me to be?” Celebrate a lot; coach a little. Listen to God’s nudge to move beyond your own comfort and bring comfort to others. Basketballs are a love l...
Sep 12, 2024•40 min•Season 7Ep. 347
With a background in the aerospace industry, Santosh Swamidass can list plenty of ways that fatherhood is just like rocket science. In this conversation, Santosh illustrates the importance of launching your kids with the right targets in mind. With tools and systems shared in this episode, you can raise your kids to love Christ, discover their purpose, and impact the world around them. Key Takeaways The trajectory you set for your kids before they launch has a lifelong effect and, if you do it w...
Sep 05, 2024•39 min•Season 7Ep. 346
Every father needs the right tools to raise his kids well, and Kent Evans likes to use the analogy of a Swiss Army Knife. His main blades include asking thoughtful questions, seeking wisdom from others, and staying rooted in God’s Word. Tune in now to discover why anger isn’t an effective parenting strategy—and what you should do instead. Key Takeaways Be curious and seek wisdom from the men you know. Your boys need to hear you acknowledge your weaknesses and imperfections. Don’t connect your ap...
Aug 29, 2024•44 min•Season 7Ep. 345
Michael Swalley joins this episode to share the unexpected connections between breakdancing and fatherhood. Tune in to hear Michael’s thoughts on the battle against busyness, the power of your wife’s voice, and the value of being known by others. As you embrace your identity as a son of God, you’ll experience the freedom to be the father you are meant to be. Key Takeaways Your fatherhood journey might begin with grieving the loss of many things. There is power in the voice of your wife. How much...
Aug 22, 2024•42 min•Season 7Ep. 344
Alex and Stephen Kendrick of Kendrick Brothers Productions have created some of the most influential Christian feature films, including WAR ROOM, FIREPROOF, and COURAGEOUS. With their new movie about to hit the box office, Alex and Stephen share what God is teaching them about discipleship, sacrifice, and being forged into stronger men and fathers. Key Takeaways God does things for us, with us, in us, and through us—in that order. Don’t let pride stand in the way of your growth. Every step you t...
Aug 15, 2024•38 min•Season 7Ep. 343
God has given fathers unique duties that they can't pass off to anyone else—not even the Church. In this DA+3 Group Guide, Seth Dahl encourages fathers to step up to the plate in the spiritual formation of their kids. You'll be challenged to avoid false comforts, pay attention to your thoughts, and discover what brings you joy. Key Takeaways Children are Arrows: Parents are responsible for shaping children into arrows that can take out the enemy. Misinterpretation of Thoughts: Discern where your...
Aug 08, 2024•11 min•Season 7Ep. 342
Unlock five steps to become a moment-maker dad. In this DA+3 Group Guide, Patei Iyegha will encourage you to slow down, create “sticky moments,” and reflect on your family’s values. Tune in to this bite-sized episode and walk away with practical ideas to become more intentional and present as a dad. Key Takeaways Power of Words: Actions speak louder than words. Pay attention to the words you are speaking over your kids. Slow Down: Slow is pro, so lean into simplicity and creativity. Technology: ...
Aug 01, 2024•14 min•Season 7Ep. 341
The way you parent today impacts multiple generations. In this week’s DA+3 Group Guide, you’ll hear Jeremy Pryor’s vision for multi-generational families with a clear identity. Get instant ideas to foster family relationships, train your children for their future roles, and integrate your work into your fatherhood role. Key Takeaways Multi-Generational Family: Raise your children to be excellent parents to your grandchildren. Parent with that third generation in mind. The Need for a Fatherhood A...
Jul 25, 2024•13 min•Season 7Ep. 340
Looking for fresh ideas on building better habits, routines, and rhythms with your kids? Tune in to this week’s DA+3 Group Guide featuring Justin Whitmel Earley. From morning huddles to bedtime rituals, you’ll explore ways to transform everyday moments into meaningful connections with your family. Key Takeaways New Day, New Start: Every day is a new chance to parent differently and experience more of God’s grace. Pause Prayers: Before disciplining or interacting with your kids, take a moment to ...
Jul 18, 2024•9 min•Season 7Ep. 339
In the third installment of the DA+3 series, rediscover timeless advice from Jim Jackson. You'll learn why being "fast, large, and loud" isn't effective and how to make a shift that leads to more connection with your kids. Plus, explore the 10 DA+3 Discussion Questions below to prompt meaningful conversations about legacy, peace, your fatherhood report card, and more. Key Takeaways Be Slow, Soft, and Low: Our default as dads is to be fast, large, and loud. Instead, you can create more connection...
Jul 11, 2024•15 min•Season 7Ep. 338
Gather your DA+3 Group and lean into the wisdom of Dr. Jackson Drumgoole. In this 10-minute episode, you'll encounter brilliant strategies to be an intentional and influential dad. Check out the discussion questions below to prompt meaningful conversations about problem-solving, resilience, hospitality, and more. 5 Key Takeaways Be the Loudest Voice in Your Kids' Ears: They can't hear you if you're not fully present. Encourage Persistence and Resilience: Emphasize the value of sticking with comm...
Jul 04, 2024•10 min•Season 7Ep. 337
In this DA+3 Group Guide, you'll find key points and discussion questions to spark meaningful conversations with other dads. Explore insights on unplugging from technology, checking in with Jesus, expressing emotions physically, sharing Jesus stories, and more. 5 Key Takeaways Check-in with Jesus: Pray about decisions, journal the voice of God, and pay attention to frustration flare-ups. Get Outside: Take a break from technology and spend time in nature. Read Ephesians 3:14-19: Pray that God wou...
Jun 27, 2024•18 min•Season 7Ep. 336
Intention is meaningless without action. This year, be the man who steps up to create a DA+3 group. It’s as simple as getting three dads to join you. Extend invitations, build friendships, and keep going when it’s tough. Your family’s future depends on it. Key Takeaways Isolation is deadly. Show me your group, and I’ll show you your family’s future. 17 Ideas of Groups to Start. 6 Benefits of Being the Dad Who Goes First. 4 Steps to Take Initiative. Jeff Zaugg Jeff Zaugg is a loving husband, inte...
Jun 20, 2024•25 min•Season 7Ep. 335
Dads were never meant to take on fatherhood alone. In fact, Bryan Byrd argues that isolation is against God's will for your life. Instead, you'll need to connect with others and get hungry for the Holy Spirit. In this episode, Bryan offers encouragement to help you get started. Key Takeaways Connection is God's will. Loneliness is a dangerous toxin. Healing happens when you have a safe place to take your grief. Get hungry for the Holy Spirit. Bryan Byrd Bryan Byrd is a husband and father to two ...
Jun 13, 2024•36 min•Season 7Ep. 334
Everyone has a story to tell, and every story matters. In the first half of our conversation, Bryan Byrd describes the role of a troubadour. He emphasizes the value of prioritizing heart-to-heart connections, loving yourself the way God loves you, and being flexible about your approach to fatherhood. Key Takeaways We’re all troubadours with a story to tell that matters. Heart-to-heart connections with your kids are the true sign of parenting success. Love yourself enough to do what you say, bet ...
Jun 06, 2024•40 min•Season 7Ep. 333
Combat veteran Ben Peterson joins us to discuss the glaring challenges in America's individualistic society, especially for people who have experienced the tight-knit military community. He offers practical advice to help you find your tribe, embrace your purpose, and be vulnerable about the struggles you're facing. Key Takeaways Our souls and psyches thrive when we are part of a tribe. The transition from tribe culture to individualistic culture is an extreme challenge for veterans. We are in a...
May 30, 2024•38 min•Season 7Ep. 332
Jon Tyson is back for the third time! In this episode, he uncovers the seven lies that hold men back from becoming fully alive. You'll discover the strategies Satan uses to keep you distracted and passive, and you'll be inspired to embrace your current season and ask curious questions for the sake of others. Key Takeaways Satan wants us dumb, entertained, oversatiated, and unmotivated. You must fight against despair, loneliness, shame, lust, ambition, futility, and apathy. If you ask curious que...
May 23, 2024•47 min•Season 7Ep. 331
In the second half of this conversation, Danny Silk shares the seven “dragons,” or fears, that all men must slay. From confronting self-doubt to navigating competition among other men, Danny explores what holds most men back and how you can take immediate action. Plus, you’ll discover the importance of community and brotherhood in your journey to becoming a dragon slayer. Key Takeaways Every man must confront these seven fears: God, himself, women, men, nature, machine, and provision. If you don...
May 16, 2024•27 min•Season 7Ep. 330
In this eye-opening episode, Danny Silk discusses the seven key traits that make up the creed of manhood. You’ll be inspired to rise above cultural influences and become a dragon slayer instead of a destroyer. Ultimately, you’ll discover how to use your strength to protect, display Christ, and lead boldly. Key Takeaways You can either slay your dragons or become a destroyer. It is your job to set the standard of love in your home, marriage, and community. Men need to carry responsibilities to ac...
May 09, 2024•29 min•Season 7Ep. 329