Father On Purpose Podcast - podcast cover

Father On Purpose Podcast

Manhood Journeymanhoodjourney.org
Being a godly dad is hard work. Challenges abound, and sometimes, we just need some ideas, encouragement, and a little laughter along the way. So, we created the Father On Purpose Podcast to have real, fun, and practical conversations about being dads. We've been honored with guests such as Chip Ingram, Stephen Kendrick, Gary Chapman, Clarence Shuler, and many more. Fatherhood is awesome, sacred, and hard all at the same time. We don't have all the answers, but together as dads, we'll try to figure it out. Find out how you're doing as a godly dad: https://bit.ly/GodlyDadQuiz
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Episodes

Ep. 210: Aaron Harvie On Closeness with God

today's episode, we have the pleasure of talking with pastor Aaron Harvie. Aaron is the senior pastor at Highview Baptist Church in Louisville, KY. Prior to his role there, he served as a Church Planting Mobilizer with the North American Mission Board and taught at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has an extensive background in pastoring and planting churches in Kentucky and Philadelphia. Aaron and Allison have 5 children: John, Grace, Luke, Porter, and Claire. He earned a Bachelor ...

Jul 04, 202546 minSeason 1Ep. 210

Ep. 209: How To Look for the Overlooked

It started as a simple family phrase: "Look for the overlooked." However, Lawson's daughter Olivia flipped this on its head, encouraging her students to ask if maybe one of the people you're overlooking is yourself—or even a version of yourself you've neglected for too long. In this episode, we unpack what it means to notice the unseen, and not just in the people around us, but in the parts of ourselves we’ve pushed aside. What have we neglected in the name of productivity? What’s been quietly w...

Jun 27, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 209

Ep. 208: What's the ONE Word?

Faithful. Gentle. Loving. Godly. Patient. These are the kinds of words we hope our kids would use to describe us. But if they were being totally honest, what’s the one word they'd actually write down? Would it be something we’re proud of—or something that hits a little too close to home, like angry, stressed, or even absent? In this episode, Kent and Lawson walk through a simple but eye-opening exercise that reveals how our day-to-day choices as dads shape how our kids experience us. The good ne...

Jun 20, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 208

Happy Father's Day: Past Year Recap Special!

Happy Father's Day! To celebrate with you, we decided to compile a "best of" podcast episode from this past year. This will give you something to do on this special day, since you definitely don't have anything better to do...right? It's like an annual recap. Take a trip down memory lane with us to some of our favorite highlights from our past year of podcasting. Thank you for being along for the ride. As always, remember: you are not a father on accident. So go be a father on purpose! Links bel...

Jun 15, 202518 min

Ep. 207: Becoming A Curious Father With Mark Batterson

In today's episode, we have the privilege of sharing our conversation with pastor and author Mark Batterson. Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the author of 24 books including the New York Times bestselling The Circle Maker as well as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day , and, most recently, A Million Little Miracles . As Mark likes to say, "There's only 2 ways to live your life ...

Jun 13, 202548 minSeason 1Ep. 207

Ep. 206: The State Of Biblical Fatherhood

Today's episode is a little different than normal. We need your help. As many of us know, the world is suffering from a fatherlessness crisis. Homes without dads abound, and with that reality comes many consequences. We want to stop that. However, the first step towards winning a battle is always realizing that you're in one. That's why we're releasing the State Of Biblical Fatherhood report. With over 6,000 survey responses, this report will help shed some light on what it looks like when homes...

Jun 06, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 206

Ep. 205: Helping Our Kids See Around Corners

Ever tried to warn your kids about something and had them roll their eyes so hard it echoed? As dads, we’ve been down some rough roads—and part of our job is helping our kids avoid the same potholes. But how we offer that wisdom can make all the difference. Come on too strong and we sound like a lecture. Stay too quiet and we miss a chance to guide them. If you want to be heard and influential with your kids, this one's for you. In today's episode, Kent and Lawson dive into how to offer wise cou...

May 30, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 205

Ep. 204: You Are What You Think

Ever heard the phrase, "you are what you eat?" What if we told you this: you are what you think. Not quite as catchy, but perhaps even more true. The reality is, for better or worse, we become what we behold. Our thought patterns are among the most important aspects of how we view ourselves, the world around us, our relationship to God, and everything else we go through or interact with on a daily basis. Thankfully, Scripture has a lot to say about where we should "set our minds" (Colossians 3, ...

May 23, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 204

Ep. 203: Listen to Connect, Not Correct

Struggling to connect and communicate well with your kids? You’re not the only one. In this episode, Kent and Lawson explore why meaningful communication isn’t just about saying the right words. It’s about aligning your heart, ears, and mouth. Drawing from Luke 6:45, they unpack how what's stored in your heart inevitably spills out in your speech—for better or worse. Today's episode will help you learn how to shift from correction to connection with your kids. If you want your words to build tru...

May 16, 202547 minSeason 1Ep. 203

Ep. 202: How to Honor The Moms in Your Life

This week, we’re helping dads everywhere not blow it on Mother’s Day. Whether you’re honoring your amazing wife and mother of your children, or your own mom (and don't forget your mother-in-law!), we’ve got tactical moves and biblical wisdom to help you show up like a pro. From handwritten notes to surprise chores and kid-powered tributes, this episode will give you some tools to make sure the moms in your life feel truly seen. We’ll also look at how Jesus honored His mother—even while saving th...

May 09, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 202

Ep. 201: Finding Joy In The Mundane

Ever feel like fatherhood is just an endless loop of laundry, lunch-packing, and late-night Lego injuries? You’re not alone—and you are making a difference. In this episode, we talk about the quiet strength it takes to do the “mundane” work of being a dad, and why that work might be more meaningful than it seems. From holding down a job that might not spark fireworks to praying for your family when you're running on fumes, we highlight five things godly dads don’t get tired of doing. As Colossia...

May 02, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 201

Ep. 200: We're The Vessel, Not The Source

In this special 200th episode (woo-hoo!), we wanted to talk about one of the most crucial topics when it comes to being a godly dad. If you ever feel like you're not good enough, you don't have it all figured out, or you're just confused on where to go next as a dad, we've got news for you: you're right. If it were completely up to us, we'd never be the fathers God has called us to be. The beauty of being a Christian is that we don't have to do it on out own. We are simply the vessels that God u...

Apr 25, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 200

Ep. 199: Is Being a Biblically Grounded Dad Getting Harder?

Being a godly dad is tough. No one who's been down that road would argue with you there. However, it's easy to fall into the "good old days" trap of thinking this is just a recent development. Instead of trying to figure out who's had it the hardest over the course of history, let's make sure we understand why it's so hard: because Satan doesn't like godly dads discipling their kids. If you're a dad, we've got news for you. You're in a fight, and your enemy is the Enemy. However, God will equip ...

Apr 18, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 199

Ep. 198: By Wisdom a House is Built

Wisdom is one of the most talked about and heavily emphasized topics in Scripture. But what is it? While there are many aspects to a good definition of wisdom, we believe one of the simplest and most concise ways to think about it is this: wisdom equals alignment with God's will. As you search for wisdom, the only place to start is with a firm foundation on God's Word. In today's episode, we look at the ways Scripture personifies Wisdom, what it means to build your life on the Rock, and how all ...

Apr 11, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 198

Ep. 197: Cameron Arnett on Playing The Part Of Jesus

Today, we have a very special guest. Cameron Arnett is an accomplished actor, author, speaker, director, and producer. Most importantly, he is a Christ follower. Our conversation with Cameron goes deep. We talk about how to be a godly dad when you never had one of your own, what it's like being a Christian in what can be a very dark industry, how God rescued Cameron from the evil he was a part of in Haiti, what it means to put Christ over career, and much more. Cameron's biggest piece of advice:...

Apr 04, 202553 minSeason 1Ep. 197

Ep. 196: Lessons in Lyrics - The War Inside (Switchfoot)

Do you ever feel like you're your own worst enemy? Like the biggest fights you have are happening inside your own heart? In today's episode, we wrap up our Lessons In Lyrics series, and we attack those very struggles, using the song "The War Inside" by Switchfoot as our template. We know as Christians that "our battle is not against flesh and blood" (Ephesians 6:12), but sometimes, our own flesh can be our biggest hurdle to following Christ closely (Romans 7:15). We hope this song encourages you...

Mar 28, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 196

Ep. 195: Lessons in Lyrics - The Heat (NEEDTOBREATHE)

Welcome back to our "Lessons In Lyrics" series. Today, we take a look at a song by one of Kent's all-time favorite bands, NEEDTOBREATHE. "The Heat," title track from the band's Sophomore effort, is a powerful song about finding peace in the chaos, being present, forgiving yourself, and much more. We hope you get as much out of it as we did, and that you'll continue to let great music be an asset to you as a husband, father, and Christ follower. "The Heat" on Spotify: here "The Heat" on Apple Mus...

Mar 21, 202533 minSeason 1Ep. 195

Ep. 194: Lessons in Lyrics - River Of Life (Mac Powell)

For the next few weeks, we're going to be exploring some fatherhood and discipleship principles found within the lyrics of some of our favorite songs. We're calling this series "Lessons In Lyrics." In today's episode, we kick that off with a song by Mac Powell, called "River Of Life." This song crams so many worthwhile topics into it, we couldn't wait to unpack some of them. While we do have a few more ideas up our sleeve, let us know if you have any songs you'd like us to tackle! Send us your s...

Mar 14, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 194

Ep. 193: Mac Powell on Being a Present Parent

God Of Wonders, Soul On Fire, I Need A Miracle...do any of those phrases sound familiar to you? If they don't, let us give you a hint: they're all song titles. Third Day is one of those bands in the Christian world that defined the sound of a generation, and in today's episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Third Day co-founder and lead singer, Mac Powell. He's also a husband and a father to five kids, and when we asked him for his biggest piece of parenting advice, he said, "Realize tha...

Mar 07, 202534 minSeason 1Ep. 193

Ep. 192: Josh Kubler on Gospel Centered Parenting

Please welcome to the show special guest, Josh Kubler. Josh is a husband and father, and serves as the Director of Church Engagement at Manhood Journey. In today's episode, we get into things like what it means to view parenting as evangelism, how adoption portrays the love of God, ways to create an environment for growth, and much more fatherhood gold that Josh drops on us. -Connect with Josh: [email protected] -Josh's home church: https://redeemerolivebranch.com/leadership -Learn ...

Feb 28, 202547 minSeason 1Ep. 192

Ep. 191: Teaching Our Kids Key Life Skills

This week, we have a special episode for you...and we really mean it this time! Wait until the end of today's show for a treat you won't forget. Before we get there though, we're diving in to some guidelines on how to teach our kids important life skills. Ever had those moments where you feel like you just can't get through to your kids, or you want to save them from making the same mistakes you did? Let's talk about those. We hope today's episode helps you teach your kids in an even more Christ...

Feb 21, 202546 minSeason 1Ep. 191

Film executive Kevin Downes shares fatherhood lessons from new film “The Unbreakable Boy”

We interrupt your normal programming to bring you this special interview with guest Kevin Downes, co-founder of Kingdom Story Company. In this timely and insightful conversation, Kevin gives us the inside scoop on the upcoming movie, “The Unbreakable Boy." It’s releasing in theaters February 21, 2025, and is jam-packed with countless family and fatherhood lessons. We hope you’ll consider rolling out to the theater and supporting this excellent film! Learn more about the film here: https://theunb...

Feb 18, 202516 min

Ep. 190: Metaphors For Dads

Metaphors are one of the most common ways Jesus chose to teach his followers. Likewise, metaphors can be one of the most effective ways to instill truths into our kids. In today's episode, we're going to look at some of the metaphors Jesus used, as well as some examples of metaphors we have used with our children over the years. Send us your own metaphor ideas! Email them here: [email protected] Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon Support the sh...

Feb 14, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 190

Ep. 189: Restoring Relationships When We Fail

Since we're all imperfect creatures, our relationships with one another are bound to be imperfect as well. Sometimes, we're just going to drop the ball. We're going to hurt the ones we love. In today's episode, we'll examine how to go about healing the connections we've damaged in our lives—and how to avoid creating that kind of relational chaos in the future. Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop ...

Feb 07, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 189

Ep. 188: Building Stronger Relationships

English poet John Donne once wrote, "no man is an island." His point? None of us go through this life alone. No matter where we turn in life, we bump into other people. As husbands and fathers, our most important relationships involve the people under our own roof. Those are the connections we need to strengthen as we continue to move into this year. In today's episode, we'll explore ways we can rely on God's strength to be the relational leaders we are called to be. Buy Kent's new book Don't Be...

Jan 31, 202542 minSeason 1Ep. 188

Ep. 187: Don't Let Perfection Prevent Progress

As members of the human race, we have a problem. We will never be perfect, no matter how hard we try. Yet, so many men derail themselves as husbands and fathers by trying to keep up the facade of perfection. Like the old saying goes, it can be too easy for us to let perfect become the enemy of progress. In today's episode, we'll examine the benefits of ditching our drive for perfection in favor of a commitment to intentionality. It can be a tough transition, but it can make an eternal difference...

Jan 24, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 187

News Flash: Fatherhood Cohorts!

Hear ye, hear ye! Special announcement incoming! We want to let you, our devoted podcast listener, be the first to hear about a brand new opportunity from the team at Manhood Journey and Father On Purpose. Introducing: Fatherhood Cohorts. These are online, fatherhood small group experiences designed to help you accelerate your growth as a father. Listen to the short announcement above or click here to learn more. Craig Bowler's Episode on Spotify: FOP Episode 152...

Jan 22, 20257 min

EP. 186: Psalm 112 for Husbands and Dads, Part 2

Like looking into a mirror, God's Word shows us what we are as husbands and fathers...and it's always an accurate reflection. Thankfully, it also gives us a glimpse of what we can become with God's help. In this episode, we'll continue the deep dive into Psalm 112 and learn more about how this Scripture passage can transform you into a spouse and dad who blesses his family and fits perfectly into God's plans and purposes. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Ama...

Jan 17, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 186

EP. 185: Psalm 112 for Husbands and Dads

The new year is a traditional time to think about forward motion. Nobody wants to stand still. We all want to make progress toward becoming the husband, dad, and man God created each of us to be. In this episode and next week's, we'll take a look at some solid goals for the next 12 months based on the wisdom of Psalm 112. The psalmist's principles and practical applications have the power to transform you and your family for a lifetime. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench ...

Jan 10, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 185

Ep. 184: Embracing Areas Of Growth For The Coming Year

A new year is upon us, and this often gives us a chance to feel like we have a fresh start. Scripture tells us that even Jesus grew intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially. If He had room to grow in those areas, we certainly have room to grow as fathers, husbands, friends, and Christ followers. In this episode, we'll be talking about healthy ways to turn the page in the new year and considering some helpful actions that will help us become more godly dads in the coming months. Buy K...

Jan 03, 202547 minSeason 1Ep. 184
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