Fatherhood Field Notes - podcast cover

Fatherhood Field Notes

Fatherhood Field Notes is where we hear real stories from real men living real lives every week. Fatherhood is not only about being a dad, it incorporates providing and serving a home, loving and serving a spouse, engaging and serving in a community, as well as intentionally serving your children. Fatherhood is an adventure, one full of fun, wild, and messy stories. In this podcast, we will hear stories from real men who have found themselves living the Adventure of Fatherhood. The Craft of Fatherhood episodes are 5-10 minute episodes where your guide Ned Schaut shares stories on his own fatherhood journey.
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Episodes

EP 479 Shawn French: Determination, Fierce Empathy, and Family Dinners

Ned talks with Shawn French, host of The Determined Society Podcast, husband, father, and business owner. Shawn talks about the challenges and rewards of fatherhood, sharing real-life moments that shaped his journey. From the importance of leading by example to navigating personal growth, Shawn opens up about how he’s striving to show up as the best version of himself for his family. Together, they explore the power of fierce empathy, the role fathers play in shaping their children’s lives, and ...

Jan 14, 202559 minEp. 479

EP 478: Three Questions to Kick off Your New Year | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned has three critical questions that he’s reflecting on as a dad and leader: how to protect time, whether success is being pursued in meaningful ways, and how to define success in alignment with core values. He urges dads to pause, evaluate their priorities, and reconsider how they’re showing up for their families. Ned encourages men to rethink their approach to time, work, and fatherhood, aiming to inspire intentional growth and leadership at home. --------- Transform Your Body with Ned & ...

Jan 10, 202511 minEp. 478

EP 477: Identity Check: Are You Living For or From? | Craft of Fatherhood

Are your actions driven for identity or from identity? Ned explains how our motives shape the way we show up as fathers, husbands, and leaders. Sharing moments like coaching his son and planning a Disneyland trip—he wants dads to examine their intentions and recognize when they're seeking validation versus acting from a secure sense of purpose. Ned points out the importance of self-awareness, ownership, and showing up authentically for the people who matter most. --------- Transform Your Body wi...

Dec 27, 202413 minEp. 477

EP 476 Lawrence Dunning: Don’t Compete with your Spouse, Pause for Intention, and Lead by Example

Ned sits down with Lawrence Dunning—author, former pro MMA fighter, investor, and intentional father—for an honest conversation about fatherhood, fitness, and focus. Lawrence shares how his journey from high-stakes competition to intentional parenting shaped his perspective on marriage, personal growth, and raising a son. They discuss the importance of prioritizing marriage before parenting, finding purpose in physical health, and carving out space for mental clarity in a world full of noise. La...

Dec 24, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 476

EP 475: How Being a Great Dad Changes the World—The Next 100 Years Start Today | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned talks about the responsibility each dad holds for shaping not just their children but future generations. He shares insights on how pausing to reflect and plan for the next year ties into a broader vision for 100 years of impact and beyond. Ned has four practical questions, challenging dads to rethink their role, relationships, and schedules with an eye toward generational influence. Ned urges you to embrace your opportunity to create a lasting legacy through intentional living today. ------...

Dec 20, 202413 minEp. 475

EP 474 Chaz Wolfe: Step into Your God-Given Power, Authority, and Responsibility

Ned interviews Chaz Wolfe, a husband, father of four, and serial entrepreneur, to discuss what it means to take full responsibility for the next 100 years of your family’s legacy. Chaz shares what he thinks about stepping into your role as a father and leader, casting a vision for your family, and pulling out the God-given gifts in your children. They also talk about what it looks like to balance ruling well with having a tender father’s heart, the importance of acting from identity rather than ...

Dec 17, 202453 minEp. 474

EP 473: Crappy Days Are NO Excuse + 5 Pillars of Self-Leadership | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned opens up about the hardships and rewards of being a dad, especially on days when motivation feels really low. He talks about how important it is to lead yourself first so you can effectively lead your own family. Ned gives dads 5 steps that explore the power of rest, presence, faith, fitness, and intentional planning. He hopes dads feel encouraged to rise above excuses and fully embrace the messy, yet so impactful, work of fatherhood. Ned wants you to remember: “The small, daily choices we m...

Dec 13, 202417 minEp. 473

Ep 472 Mike Crow: Fatherhood Secrets, Family Meetings, and Making Decisions (REPLAY)

Ned revisits an impactful conversation with Mike Crow, a seasoned father, grandfather, and business coach, who shares timeless wisdom about fatherhood and family life. Together, they talk about important lessons on decision-making in the home, fostering a lasting family culture, and the power of family meetings. Mike’s unique takes, including how confidence, intentional parenting, and making environments where families thrive are so important. This discussion provides dads great advice for leadi...

Dec 10, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 472

EP 471: Imparting Identity to your Son | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned is exploring how the timeless wisdom of St. Benedict, a sixth-century monk, is shaping his approach to fatherhood. He takes us through his morning routines with his son and how reading and discussing "The Rule" has opened the door to meaningful conversations about identity, purpose, and responsibility. Despite the initial pushback from his teenage son, Ned explains how patience and consistency led to a breakthrough moment where his son began connecting these ancient lessons to his own life. ...

Nov 29, 202412 minEp. 471

EP 470 Lane Williams: Changing your Generational Trajectory

Lane Williams brought the heat on this episode. He opened up his notes on his journey from a tough upbringing and time in prison to becoming the kind of man who’s rewriting his family’s legacy. He shared how deciding to be a good man wasn’t just about him—it was about raising a good man and breaking generational cycles. We talked about forgiveness, being vulnerable, and how going into fatherhood with intention can literally change the trajectory of future generations. Lane’s story is a powerful ...

Nov 26, 202457 minEp. 470

EP 469: What Spirit Are You Cultivating in Your Home? | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned talks about the subtle ways insecurities and coping mechanisms can unintentionally shape the essence of a home. He shares a moment of reckoning when his wife’s reaction made him confront a long-standing habit of teasing and judgment. Ned goes into how these behaviors, rooted in his own struggles, have influenced his children and family culture. He is challenging dads to examine the 'spirit' they bring into their homes and invites them to create an environment of stability and growth. This ep...

Nov 22, 202410 minEp. 469

EP 468 Locke Haman: Your Kids Need You to Love Yourself

Ned sits down with Locke Haman to discuss the wake-up calls that shaped Locke’s journey as a father and husband. They talk about overcoming self-doubt, building a stronger marriage, and showing up for their kids in meaningful ways. Locke shares how he’s learning to love himself, the importance of teaching kids how to handle emotions, and why fathers must fight for their families. Together, they explain how vulnerability and intentionality can leave a lasting impact on future generations. Locke H...

Nov 19, 202456 minEp. 468

EP 467: Why Intentionality Matters More Than Solutions | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned talks about the role of questions in fatherhood, challenging the "fix-it" mindset that many dads fall into. He shares how asking thoughtful questions can empower kids to think for themselves and make their own choices, rather than constantly giving them the answers. Reflecting on his own week, Ned discusses the importance of carving out intentional time with his kids, creating those "micro moments" of connection, and even the value of simply being present in the home without always needing t...

Nov 15, 20245 minEp. 467

EP 466 Braden Rubey: Chivalry, Cancer, and CrossFit

Ned has an unfiltered conversation with Braden Rubey, a father, CrossFit coach, and cancer fighter. Braden shares his journey into fatherhood, his battle with stage four melanoma, and how his faith, family, and fitness keep him grounded. From grappling with the raw emotions of a late-stage diagnosis to staying present for his family, Braden’s story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Together, they explore the true responsibilities of fatherhood, the significance of resilience...

Nov 12, 202450 minEp. 466

EP 465: How Did Your Kiddos Experience You This Week? | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned invites fathers to think about how they’re showing up in their kids' lives by simply asking, "How have you spoken to your kids this week?" He talks about the power of silence and self-reflection, encouraging dads to set aside time to ponder how their words and presence impact their families. Ned digs into two common fatherhood traps—being passive or being overly corrective—and asks fellow dads to shift focus from just correcting behavior to building deeper, more genuine connections. Tune in ...

Nov 08, 20246 minEp. 465

EP 464 Josh Seykora: Setting Boundaries, Being Interruptible, and Parenting Without Fear

Ned sits down with longtime friend and fitness coach Josh Seykora to dive into the realities of fatherhood. They talk about the importance of presence, self-control, and guiding children to make their own choices within healthy boundaries. Josh shares what he’s been through as a father and what he hopes to instill in his kids before they step into adulthood. Tune in to hear Ned and Josh’s conversation about the role fathers play in shaping their children’s lives, from cultivating resilience to e...

Nov 05, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 464

EP 463: What or Who Are You Neglecting? | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned opens up about the importance of self-reflection and honest questioning in the journey of fatherhood. After a conversation with a friend that sparked some deep thinking, Ned explores the power of asking meaningful questions—not just to justify actions or criticize oneself, but to dig deeper. He challenges fathers to pause and ask, "Who or what am I neglecting?" From overlooked relationships to missed priorities, Ned reflects on his own life and invites listeners to consider what might be sli...

Nov 01, 20246 minEp. 463

EP 462 Scott Groves: Starting a School and Investing in a World I Want My Kids to Live In

Ned sits down with Scott Groves for an honest look into the realities of fatherhood and balancing family with demanding careers. Scott opens up about the challenges and pivotal moments that shaped his journey as a father, from building a connection with his young kids to reconnecting with a 15-year-old son he didn’t know existed. Together, they explore the small actions and mindful choices that build lasting relationships at home, revealing why being fully present with family isn’t just importan...

Oct 29, 202457 minEp. 462

EP 461: You Are a Prophet in Your Kids Lives | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned reflects on the profound impact fathers have on shaping their children’s identity and future. Drawing from personal experiences and conversations with mentors, he explores the idea that fathers are like prophets in their children's lives, speaking truths—both positive and negative—that shape their kids' sense of self. He emphasizes the critical importance of being intentional with words and actions, noting that the time spent with family offers an unparalleled opportunity for mentorship and ...

Oct 25, 202414 minEp. 461

EP 460 Chris Bruno: The Real Meaning of Vows in Marriage (Replay)

In this replay episode, Ned revisits a powerful conversation with Chris Bruno about the true meaning of marriage vows and the challenges of staying committed through tough times. Chris explains how understanding and embracing both the pain and glory in ourselves and our spouses can transform our relationships. They discuss the idea that love isn’t just a feeling but a choice that requires sacrifice and growth. Men are urged to reflect on their role as husbands and fathers and are offered insight...

Oct 22, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 460

EP 459: Mastering the Art of Connecting with Your Kids | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned shares a story about a weekend camping trip with his 11-year-old daughter. He talks about the importance of making time for one-on-one moments with our kids, even when life gets busy. Through simple activities like camping and zip-lining, he discusses how these experiences can strengthen the father-child bond. Tune in to hear how dads can carve out meaningful time for their kiddos, creating lasting memories that don’t require elaborate planning or big budgets. --------- Transform Your Body w...

Oct 18, 202415 minEp. 459

EP 458 Devon Lind: Freedom from Sexual Brokenness and Creating Family Rhythm

Devon Lind opens up about his journey of healing from sexual brokenness and addiction, and how it impacted his role as a dad and husband. He talks about how important it is to face personal wounds, bringing them into the light, and the freedom that comes with honesty and vulnerability. Devon also discusses the power of building rhythms in the home, creating deeper connections with family, and how healing can lead to stronger relationships. His story offers hope for men who are struggling and enc...

Oct 15, 20241 hr 11 minEp. 458

EP 457: Want a Stronger Connection with Your Kids? Stop Talking and Trying to ‘Fix It’ – Start Listening | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned shares a personal story about spending time with his teenage daughter and the unexpected lessons that came from a simple dinner. He talks about the importance of creating space for real conversations with our kids, listening to them without judgment, and being present in their lives. He discusses how small, everyday moments can help build stronger connections and foster trust, offering advice for dads who want to deepen their relationships with their children. --------- Transform Your Body w...

Oct 11, 202411 minEp. 457

EP 456 Dr. Michael Diamond: Seeing Each Other New - Revitalizing Your Marriage and Family

Michael Diamond joins Ned to discuss the role of a father beyond just providing for the family. Michael talks about how fathers are meant to be grounding forces, bringing order and protection to their homes. He encourages all you dads out there to break out of the routine that often traps men in a life of mediocrity and embrace your responsibility with intention. He also touches on the importance of being present, seeing your children for who they are, and nurturing growth, not just in them, but...

Oct 08, 202444 minEp. 456

EP 455: Stop Criticizing and Start Witnessing | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned is talking about how important it is to witness the small moments in fatherhood. He shares a recent experience where there was tension between coaching and criticizing his teenage son. By choosing not to correct in the moment, he found out the value of giving his child space to reflect and learn on his own. Ned encourages dads to balance their instincts to improve their children with recognizing and celebrating their growth, all while reflecting on how they themselves want to be seen. ------...

Oct 04, 202410 minEp. 455

EP 454 Sergio Duarte: Becoming a Better Father - Health, Family, and Breaking Generational Habits

Sergio Duarte shares how he lost 100 pounds, not just for himself but for the sake of his family. He talks about the challenges he faced with his health, balancing work, and being present for his two daughters. Sergio also opens up about his marriage, the struggle to conceive, and how his faith grew stronger through a seven-year waiting period. His story will help you to realize the importance of being intentional as a dad, prioritizing family, and the impact of showing up for your kids every da...

Oct 01, 202443 minEp. 454

EP 453: The Power of ‘No’: Teaching Kids to Set Boundaries | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned is discussing insights from the book Lovable by Kelly Flanagan, focusing on the importance of teaching kids how to set boundaries and say no. Ned talks about his own experiences as a father and explores how giving children the space to say no helps them develop confidence and healthy relationships. He discusses the balance between discipline and letting kids have agency, especially as they grow older, and wants dads to think about how their parenting choices impact their children's ability t...

Sep 27, 20249 minEp. 453

EP 452 Gary Cucchi: Why Being There for Your Kids Matters More Than Anything Else

In this episode, Gary Cucchi shares his personal experiences and hard-earned wisdom on what it means to be a father. He talks about the importance of making time for your family, being fully present, and showing love through both words and actions. Gary also dives into the challenges of balancing work and family life, the value of setting a strong example for your kids, and the critical role fathers play in shaping their children's futures. With stories from his own fatherhood journey, including...

Sep 24, 202449 minEp. 452

EP 451: The Power of Blessing Your Kiddos | Craft of Fatherhood

Ned is discussing the practice of blessing your children, drawing from both his own experiences and traditions like Shabbat. He shares how simple, intentional words from a dad can deeply shape a child's sense of identity and confidence. Ned encourages fathers to create regular moments—whether at bedtime, during family dinners, or on car rides—to speak life into their kids, reminding them of their strengths and potential. Tune in to hear the importance of consistent, meaningful fatherhood habits ...

Sep 20, 20249 minEp. 451

EP 450 Dale Alexander: “The Talk” (about money) You must have with your Kiddos!

Dale Alexander is an employee benefits broker, Certified Financial Planner®, and founder of Alexander and Company. He and Ned talk about the very important role fathers play in teaching their kids about money and building lasting trust, even after they move out. Dale shares advice on how to become a trusted advisor to your children, why financial education is more important than ever, and how to make sure your kids develop healthy habits around money from an early age. He also opens up about his...

Sep 17, 202449 minEp. 450
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