Modern Dadhood | Unpacking Fatherhood + Parenting for Dads (and Moms!)

How To Thrive As Parents AND Partners | Therapist Eli Weinstein on Teamwork, Communication, Avoiding Resentment

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Feel like you and your partner are ships passing in the night lately? Or keeping a quiet mental scorecard over things like laundry and garbage duty? Maintaining a strong relationship while raising kids isn’t easy—and it’s one of the biggest challenges couples face. So if you’ve ever felt the strain of growing responsibilities, misaligned priorities, or resentments creeping in, you’re not alone.

In this episode, we’re joined by Eli Weinstein—licensed clinical social worker, host of The Dude Therapist Podcast, and author of From I Do to We Do. As a father of two (with a third on the way), Eli offers thoughtful, actionable insights on staying connected, communicating effectively, and navigating the evolving dynamics of partnership during the parenting years.

Conversation topics include:

• Navigating the shifting dynamics of marriage after becoming parents, and how priorities naturally change
• The inevitability of resentment in relationships when needs go unspoken and the importance of open, direct communication
• Creating team unity with your partner—adopting an “us versus the chaos” mindset instead of “me versus you”
• Tangible tools couples can use to defuse tension and process conflict
• Letting go of the past and choosing, together, how to write the next chapter of your relationship story
• Recognizing the necessity of self-care in order to better support your partner and family
• And more!

Stick around to the end for a sub-sub-recurring segment we're calling, Did My Wife Just Hear That Out Loud?

LINKS
Eli Weinstein (homepage)
Dude Therapist Podcast
From I Do To We Do (book)
Eli Weinstein (LinkedIn)
Eli Weinstein (TikTok)
Eli Weinstein (Instagram)
DEATH AND (YouTube)
This Headache Journey (Apple Podcasts)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Parenting Outside the Box | Vikram Kolmannskog on Alternative Family Structures, Gestalt Therapy

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:15:29 +0000

The word “mindfulness” gets thrown around a lot... But have you ever taken the time to consider what it really means to parent mindfully? Or how embracing all of your emotions—even the tough ones—can transform your family life? Gestalt Therapist, certified mindfulness meditation teacher, and father of one, Vikram Kolmannskog, joins us to share wisdom from his upcoming book Reflections on Parenting From a Gestalt Therapist Father: Life With Leo. Vikram shares about his own alternative family structure, the importance of embracing emotional honesty, making space for playfulness, and how the principles of Gestalt therapy can help us raise confident, empathetic kids.

Topics include:

• Understanding Gestalt therapy and its focus on awareness, mindfulness, and relational dialogue in both therapy and everyday life.
• Applying Gestalt and mindfulness strategies to parenting, especially around navigating emotions (both our kids' and our own), while aiming to be a “good enough” dad.
• Exploring co-parenting in an intentional, non-traditional family structure with two fathers and a mother, and the legal, social, and personal challenges encountered.
• The importance of allowing and naming all emotions, including anger, for both children and adults, and breaking emotional taboos in parenting.
• Navigating cultural and institutional heteronormativity around family structures and parenthood, and advocating for greater inclusivity.
• The value of playful parenting, eco-parenting, and the influence of childlike spontaneity and joy on both personal and professional life.
• Creating safe and open environments for children to freely express gender and identity, while preparing them for a world that isn’t always accepting.
• And more!

LINKS
Vikram Kolmannskog (homepage)
Reflections on Parenting From a Gestalt Therapist Father: Life With Leo.
Vikram Kolmannskog (Instagram)
Vikram Kolmannskog (Facebook)
DEATH AND (homepage)
DEATH AND (YouTube)
This Headache Journey (Apple Podcasts)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Author Illustrator Jon Klassen on Cutting Through The Kid Lit Clutter

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We all have them: Those kids’ books we were gifted or we picked up on a whim because the title was intriguing or the characters were familiar. But then we crack them open, and BAM— total schlock. With the sheer amount of content for children out there, it's increasingly difficult to find the good stuff; the content that inspires wonder. The types of shows, movies, and books WE remember loving as kids. In this rewind episode from October 2020, Jon Klassen, father of two and celebrated author and illustrator, joins us to talk about his thoughts on creating books that kids AND parents love. Stick around for the end, where Marc, Adam, and their kids fire off some personal book endorsements and condemnations.

In an age where the amount of content seems to grow exponentially, it becomes equally difficult to parse through it all to find the really good stuff. The hidden gems seem to be few and far between. Sometimes it’s the tried and true movies or books that stand the test of time and still fill our kids with excitement and wonder, but frequently the best recommendations come to us through people we trust. The guys philosophize a bit as they discuss a couple of their kids’ current favorites, before they introduce Jon Klassen into the conversation. Jon is a father of two sons, and an artist and author who gained worldwide notoriety in 2011 with his picture book “I Want My Hat Back,” the success of which spawned two more books in what would become the “Hat Trilogy.” Jon continues to write and illustrate children’s books in addition to frequent collaborations with authors such as Mac Barnett, Sara Pennypacker, and Lemony Snicket. The guys discuss Jon’s inspirations, his thought process and artistic process for creating books that can be enjoyed by kids of any age, and how his approach to his work has changed since he became a father. Other conversation topics include:

• Creating work that sticks out in the age of self-publishing
• How his work in animation influences his art
• Finding your inner third-grader
• The value of simplicity and minimalism
• Reading alone vs. being read to
• “Quintessential” children’s books
• The importance of independent bookstores

Before closing out the episode, Adam and Marc take turns swapping some rapid-fire book recommendations and… unrecommendations?

LINKS
Jon Klassen (Substack)
Jon Klassen (X)
Jon Klassen (Instagram)
Go! Go! Cory Carson
Chrri & Chirra
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig
Frog and Toad
Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth, by Oliver Jeffers
One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey
Toot by Leslie Patricelli
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip and Erin Stead
Bob the Artist by Marion Deuchars
Katy Hudson, Too Many Carrots
Powell's Books, Portland, OR
RiverRun Books, Portsmouth, NH
Water Street Books, Exeter, NH
Longfellow Books, Portland, ME
26 Independent Bookstores
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewriting the Rules | Shannon Carpenter on Owning Stay-At-Home Fatherhood

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:22:00 +0000

There are countless reasons why a parent might choose to step away from their career to stay home and raise their kids—financial considerations, personal values, or simply wanting to be more present during those formative years. But even in 2026, most people still assume it’ll be Mom who makes that move. Enter Shannon Carpenter: a stay-at-home dad of three who traded investigating elder abuse for state agencies for full-time parenting almost 20 years ago, and has never looked back. Shannon is the author of The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad (Penguin Random House), a humorous, heartfelt guide for dads navigating the world of primary caregiving. He opens up about fighting isolation, bucking stereotypes, and how he has redefined success and identity in his life. Listen to the end for Kisses & Disses!

Topics include:
• The decision-making process behind becoming a stay-at-home dad and challenging traditional gender norms.
• Navigating isolation, building community, and the importance of friendships for at-home fathers.
• Strategies for connecting with teenagers and adapting parenting styles for different phases and individual children.
• Mental health for dads: separating personal identity from the parenting role and prioritizing self-care.
• Societal perceptions of stay-at-home dads and ongoing barriers to equality in caregiving roles.
• The impact of workplace policies, cultural changes, and paid family leave on modern fatherhood.
• Writing "The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad" and advocating for actionable, practical advice for fathers.
• And more!

LINKS
Shannon Carpenter (homepage)
The Ultimate Stay At Home Dad (Bookshop.org)
Shannon Carpenter (Instagram)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Moments of Profundity in 2025

Fri, 2 Jan 2026 16:15:00 +0000

In this special episode we're calling Moments of Profundity in 2025, we're revisiting some of the most meaningful conversations from the past year, celebrating the joys and complexities of fatherhood in 2025. The topics range from building trust around screens and social media with Soren Poulsen, to supporting men through the grief of miscarriage with Kelly Jean-Philippe, and reimagining parent-child communication to encourage openness and problem-solving with Nick Hexum of 311.

Links to the full episodes:
Building Trust Around Screens + Social Media | Soren Poulsen on Raising Digital Citizens
Navigating Miscarriage and Grief as a Dad | Kelly Jean-Philippe on Pregnancy Loss + Healing
Breaking The Cycle, Filling The Void | Chris Robbins on Self Development + Empty Nesting
Music, Milestones, and Mindfulness | Nick Hexum of 311 on Raising Creative, Empathetic Girls
Finding Calm in the Parenting Chaos | Kirk Martin on Triggers, Patience, Problem Solving
Father's Day 2025 | Father/Son Reflections on Being a Dad

Thanks, Modern Dadhood listeners for sticking with us, and here's to a positive, healthy, and fruitful 2026!
-Adam & Marc

LINKS
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

How (And Why) to Raise Change-Makers | Dr. Alvin Thomas on Anti-Racism, Mentorship, Empathy

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Have you ever considered why the experience of being a dad can look radically different across cultures and communities? In our 2025 holiday episode, we’re honored to welcome Dr. Alvin Thomas—associate professor, mentor, thought leader, award-winning podcast host, and an internationally respected researcher in human development and family studies. Dr. Thomas has devoted his career to supporting Black fathers, families, and children, and advancing anti-racism efforts, and in our conversation he opens up about anti-racism, modern masculinity, and our responsibility as parents to raise empathetic, informed, and resilient kids.

Topics include:
• Exploring the broad definition of fatherhood—including mentorship, community care, and “cosmic children”—beyond biological ties.
• Dr. Thomas’s anti-racism work and what it means to create spaces for Black children and families to thrive authentically.
• The challenges and responsibilities of teaching kids about racism, empathy, and dualities in the world, especially as white parents in predominantly white communities.
• Storytelling, mentorship, and the creation of The Black Fathers' Pulse podcast as tools for sharing research, building community, and supporting fathers.
• Modern masculinity, vulnerability, and the evolving expectations of men and fathers in society—and how culture and the internet can impact those roles.
• The importance of supportive spaces for men, breaking generational cycles, and building resilient, healthy family ecosystems.
• And more!

LINKS
Dr. Alvin Thomas (homepage)
Dr Alvin Thomas (LinkedIn)
Dr. Alvin Thomas (YouTube)
Dr. Alvin Thomas (Instagram)
Dr. Alvin Thomas (X)
The Fatherhood Depot (Substack)
The Black Fathers' Pulse (TikTok)
The Black Fathers' Pulse Podcast (Apple)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Modern Dadhood listeners! We are so grateful for you.
-Adam & Marc

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Creating Holiday Magic | Author Matt Tavares on Tradition, Creativity, and Fatherhood

Fri, 5 Dec 2025 15:31:30 +0000

The holidays are here, and so is that energy—frantic, magical, and a tad overwhelming. But for children’s book author and illustrator Matt Tavares, it’s also the season of book signings and creative endeavors. Matt is an award-winning author and illustrator of nearly 30 books, among them the beloved Dasher series and its latest installment, Dasher and the Polar Bear. Matt joins us fresh off his book tour and right in the midst of holiday hustle to chat about raising two young adult daughters, and how storytelling and art keep the spirit of the season alive year after year. Don't miss Adam's Instant Regret which found him in an uncomfortable predicament!

Topics Include:
• The journey to becoming a children's author and illustrator, even before having kids
• The creative process behind beloved holiday books like Dasher, including the origins and expansion of the series
• Navigating the collaboration and feedback loop with publishers, editors, and even family
• Exploring new genres such as graphic novels, and the role of children's reading habits in creative evolution
• The upcoming Dasher animated Christmas special for Disney+
• And more!

Links:
Matt Tavares (homepage)
Matt Tavares (Facebook)
Matt Tavares (Instagram)
Matt's Illustrated Prints
Dasher
Hoops
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Mastering "Work From Home" as a Dad | Thom Gibson on Happiness, Health, Fatherhood

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Feel like working from home with kids is a constant juggling act, and you’re dropping balls left and right? More dads than ever are navigating the chaos of Zoom calls interrupted by tiny voices, endless snack requests, and the struggle to be present both at work AND at home at all times. Thankfully, in this episode we're joined by social media strategist Thom Gibson, founder of Work From Home Dads, and proud father of two young kids. After a decade spent teaching middle school math and robotics, Thom made the leap—leaving the classroom to build new businesses (and memories) from his home office. His story is packed with insights on boosting productivity, improving daily and weekly routines, and mastering the real work-life blend for dads. Stick around to the end for a gut-busting installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? and a rock and roll blast from the past from Marc's kid-music-side-project, Stuffed Animal.

Topics include:

• Tips and Advice for Work-from-Home Parents
• Combating Isolation as a Remote Working Parent
• Tom's 6-hr Workday Playbook
• Realistic Approaches to Remote Work Productivity
• And more!

LINKS
Work From Home Dads
6-hr Workday Playbook (free)
Work From Home Dads (Instagram)
Work From Home Dads (X)
Thom Gibson (homepage)
Thom Gibson (LinkedIn)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Finding Calm in the Parenting Chaos | Kirk Martin on Triggers, Patience, Problem Solving

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Ever find yourself losing your cool when your kid melts down, or scratching your head as they refuse to clean up their room (again)? Turns out, there’s a surprising science behind keeping calm amid the chaos of parenthood. We're joined by Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm and host of the immensely popular Calm Parenting podcast. Kirk is the proud dad of one grown son, Casey, and “America’s Calm Coach” to thousands of families around the world. Kirk shares his journey from career military upbringings to a unique problem-solving approach that’s helped countless parents reframe their reactions and connect deeply with their kids. Whether you’re raising a strong-willed, high energy kid, or just want to inspire more harmony at home, Kirk’s insights offer practical, uplifting wisdom for every dad (and mom!)

Topics Include:

• Navigating meltdowns and emotional outbursts in kids and understanding what's really going on beneath the surface.
• Shifting parenting habits from authoritarian styles to problem-solving and connection-based approaches.
• The importance of parents regulating their own emotions to positively impact children's behavior.
• Recognizing and working with individual differences in children, even among siblings and twins.
• Practical strategies for tackling persistent challenges like messy rooms, homework battles, and resistance.
• The significance of affirming and bonding with children, especially in moments of weakness or conflict.
• Normalizing triggers for both parents and kids, and using tools like a “trigger board” to foster open communication.
• And more!

LINKS
Celebrate Calm (website)
Calm Parenting Podcast
Calm Parenting (Instagram)
Calm Parenting (Facebook)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Music, Milestones, and Mindfulness | Nick Hexum of 311 on Raising Creative, Empathetic Girls

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Not everyone instinctively knows when they’ve reached the point in life where they’re ready for kids. For Nick Hexum, the self-proclaimed “dad” of his band 311, that moment came when he realized his wild days were behind him and he was ready to step into family life as a husband and father. Nearly two decades later, he’s a proud dad of three daughters, ages 5 to 16. We caught up with him for a rare in-person conversation during a tour stop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Nick opens up about the challenges and rewards of raising kids while touring, the jaw-dropping story of delivering his own daughter during a home birth, how fatherhood reshaped his songwriting, and the powerful influence his own upbringing has had on the way he parents today.

Episode 130 of Modern Dadhood finds the guys recording in person, outside, over a frosty fall beverage. The guys chat briefly about finding positivity in a world that can feel particularly dark at present, and why the autumn has a certain exciting energy. They catch up with Nick Hexum, lead singer and songwriter for 311, before a gig promoting his 3 new americana/bluegrass EPs (compiled on a full length album called Phases of Hope and Hollow). Nick candidly shares stories about his family and his career as a touring musician, reflecting on how becoming a dad has impacted his work and put his life into perspective. Topics include:

• Touring as a musician dad: balancing life on the road with being present for important family milestones.
• How becoming a father transformed Nick's creative process, songwriting inspiration, and outlook on life.
• Nick's incredible (and dramatic) story of delivering his daughter at home
• The evolving relationship between Nick’s children and music, including their early involvement in creating songs and videos.
• The influence of Nick’s own upbringing, especially his positive relationship with his father, on his parenting style.
• Navigating social media, privacy, and the shifting dynamics as his kids grow into their teen years.
• Maintaining a positive worldview amid challenging news cycles, and fostering open, vulnerable communication with his kids.
• And more!

LINKS
Nick Hexum (website)
Nick Hexum (Instagram)
Nick Hexum (TikTok)
311 (official)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Mortician Victor M. Sweeney on Raising Death-Positive Kids

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We've been teasing it for months; a new podcast that we are producing in conjunction with Wavland which is hosted by former Modern Dadhood guest, Victor M. Sweeney. And now the time has come to make the official announcement and share the trailer. And we couldn't think of a better way to do that, than to couple it with a Rewind episode of our original chat with the Internet's famous mortician himself. Stay to the end for some death-themed movie trivia... And please subscribe to the new podcast using the links below!

LINKS
Victor M. Sweeney (YouTube)
Victor M. Sweeney (Instagram)
Death And (Apple Podcasts)
Death And (Spotify)
Now Departing (Victor's book!)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Trading Careers for Time With My Kid | Joel Costigan on Fatherhood, Adventure, Summer Bonding

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:30:00 +0000

Does the idea of a whole summer one on one with your kid sound idyllic... or intimidating? If you’ve ever been the primary parent for a whole season, you've likely experienced both of those extremes. In this episode, we’re joined by Joel Costigan, a longtime educator, soccer coach, and dad to a 7-year-old daughter named Ruby. Joel recently made a major career move, trading a lucrative healthcare job for an Ed Tech position, which brought him back to his roots and awarded him an entire summer to spend with Ruby. Joel shares what he learned navigating a busy, adventure-filled season as both planner and playmate, his biggest parenting fears, and the surprising joys (and challenges) of being a hands-on “girl dad." After the chat, stick around for Marc’s family vacation story, complete his boys’ accidental new signature move: "Peen pinching."

Episode 128 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief catch-up between the guys about the back-to-school season, and they discuss their plans to see friend-of-the-show Pete Holmes. Marc shares about an epic family vacation to Bar Harbor before they replay a recent conversation between Adam and longtime friend Joel Costigan. Joel is a husband, a father of one, and an Ed Tech at a public high school in Maine. His recent job change awarded him a full summer to spend with his 7-year-old daughter Ruby.

LINKS
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

A Father's Fight to Reunite | Picasso Cognizance on Child Support + Custody

Fri, 1 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Navigating the legal maze of child support and custody can feel impossible... especially when the system seems stacked against you. Picasso Cognizance learned this the hard way when his partner's family took his son away from him at the age of two. Picasso spent the next nearly two decades paying child support, immersing himself in the world of parental rights, and being ping-ponged between agencies who made no effort to help him. Picasso opens up about the emotional and legal challenges he faced when trying to regain access to his son, and shares why he started Resolute Fathers, an organization dedicated to educating other parents about how to navigate these complicated systems.

Topics include:
Challenges of Child Support and Custody: Picasso Cognizance shares his personal experience navigating the legal and emotional difficulties of losing custody and paying child support.

The Importance of Knowing Parental Rights: Emphasis is placed on the need for parents to understand their rights, state laws, and how the system works in order to protect themselves and their relationship with their children.

Emotional Toll and Resilience: The conversation highlights the emotional hardships, feelings of frustration, and the need for perseverance and hope when facing a complex family court system.

Advocacy and Support: Picasso discusses his work with Resolute Fathers, aiming to educate and support parents (particularly fathers) going through similar struggles.

Encouragement for Constructive Co-Parenting: The value of cooperative co-parenting without unnecessary legal intervention is underscored as a path to healthier family dynamics.

After the interview, Marc shares a tender (and hilarious) story of a 7 year old with big feelings.

LINKS
Resolute Fathers (Instagram)
Who's The Daddy? (Amazon)
Victor M. Sweeney on Modern Dadhood
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Jordan Shapiro on Fatherhood + Feminism

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to be a "feminist dad"? Maybe a better place to start is asking: what does it mean to be a feminist at all... and why is that term so controversial? There are many ideas and misunderstandings associated with the concept of feminism, and in August of 2021, we were fortunate to explore feminism and fatherhood with the brilliant Jordan Shapiro: author, educator, and senior fellow at the Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop. In his acclaimed book, Father Figure: How to Be a Feminist Dad, Jordan unpacks how traditional ideas of masculinity shape our parenting, why inclusivity matters, and what it takes to raise "radically inclusive" kids in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re new to the topic or ready to challenge what you thought you knew, this Rewind episode is full of big ideas and practical takeaways.

Topics include:

• Fatherhood as an evolving, not fixed, role shaped by changing ideas about masculinity and gender.
• Embracing feminism in parenting by modeling inclusivity, equality, and respect for all.
• Challenging traditional masculine norms and embracing vulnerability and growth as a dad.
• Prioritizing responsibility and adaptability over authority in fatherhood.
• The importance of self-reflection and open dialogue about gender, identity, and family roles.
• And more!

LINKS:
Farther Figure: How To Be a Feminist Dad
Jordan Shapiro (official website)
Jordan Shapiro (Twitter)
Jordan Shapiro (Instagram)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Can Cleaning Products Build Stronger Partnerships? | Sean Busch of Dad Mode on Gendered Marketing to Dads

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:46:19 +0000

Ever notice how most spray cleaners and detergents seem to be marketed straight out of the 1950s... and almost always to moms? Entrepreneur Sean Busch is on a mission to flip the script. Sean is a dad of two kids who LOVE to make messes, and he's the founder of Dad Mode, a new line of high-performance cleaning products designed specifically for dads. Sean joins us to talk about why it's important that dads meaningfully contribute to housekeeping, what “choreplay” means (and how it might just be the secret to more balance), and the potential risks and rewards of selling gendered products.

Several of Adam's favorite recent episodes:
Navigating Miscarriage and Grief as a Dad (Kelly Jean-Philippe)
What Will Our Kids Be Saying About Us? (Pete Holmes)
Dismantling Birth Care Stereotypes (Teddy the Doula)

LINKS
Dad Mode (official)
Dad Mode (Amazon)
Dad Mode (Facebook)
Dad Mode (Instagram)
Dad Mode (TikTok)
Dad Mode (YouTube)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Father's Day 2025 | Father/Son Reflections on Being a Dad

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Does it get more "meta" than interviewing your own parent about parenting? For our Father’s Day 2025 Special, Adam Flaherty goes deep with a truly special and personal guest: his own father. Tom Flaherty isn’t just Adam’s dad; he's a father of four (spanning 20 years in age!), an Air Force veteran, a retired police officer, and an inspiration and beacon of hope to many people recovering from alcohol addiction. In a first for the show, Adam and his dad get real about raising kids across two generations, building resilience through tough times, and the evolving role of fathers over the decades. After the interview, Marc and Adam tackle the wild world of kids' slang in a gut-busting So That's a Thing Now about the cringeworthy phrases their children have brought home.

LINKS
What Does It Mean To Be a Modern Dad (article by Adam)
Mom's Guide to Finding Herself Podcast
Storypillar Podcast
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Sesame Street's Emilio Delgado on Fatherhood, Legacy, Family

Fri, 23 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Think back to your childhood... Did you have a TV neighbor, friend, or mentor who you trusted? For millions of young people, that person was Luis from Sesame Street, played for over four decades by the legendary Emilio Delgado. In this Rewind episode which originally aired in July of 2020, Emilio discusses becoming a positive role model and even a father figure to kids around the world, even as he was navigating the joys and learning curves of fatherhood himself.

Episode 123 of Modern Dadhood explores the powerful impact that television father figures and role models can have on our lives and on our parenting. In this Rewind episode, we're joined by stage and screen actor Emilio Delgado, best known for his decades-long portrayal of Luis on Sesame Street—a beloved character who was an advocate for positive Latino representation in media. Delgado shares insights on becoming aware of his influence as a role model, the importance of portraying authentic families and diversity on television, and his own experiences as a father, adoptive father, and stepfather.

The conversation touches on balancing family life with a demanding career, the extended Sesame Street “family” behind the scenes, and integrating personal cultural values into his character.

After the interview, Marc shares a side-splitting edition of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

LINKS
Emilio Delgado on IMDB
Emilio Delgado on Wikipedia
Emilio’s Instagram
Baa Baa Bamba
Quixote Nuevo
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Building Trust Around Screens + Social Media | Soren Poulsen on Raising Digital Citizens

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Do you feel uneasy about handing your kid an internet-enabled device? Or feel like you know very little about what they're doing online? It can be really tough to broach conversations about this stuff without instantly putting our kids on the defense. We're joined by Soren Poulsen, co-founder of Raising Digital Citizens and father of two, who, alongside his wife, created the Essential Conversation Cards for Life Online. After puzzling over how to prepare their own daughter for her first phone, they developed a new approach to help families talk about digital safety, consent, bullying, and online privacy in a casual manner. Whether your kid is begging for their first device or you’re already deep in the world of screen-time debates, Soren’s insights promise to make your family conversations more productive. After the interview, Adam shares an exciting installment of So That's a Thing Now.

Episode 122 of Modern Dadhood opens with a discussion between Marc & Adam about the topic of digital citizenship. The guys discus how this can be a sensitive topic to broach with young people. The guys introduce Soren Poulsen into the conversation. Soren and his wife, author Jessica Joelle Alexander, co-founded Raising Digital Citizens, an organization aims to empower families to cultivate meaningful, trust-based relationships that support children's safe and responsible engagement with the digital world. Rather than relying on fear or restrictive controls, the organization emphasizes open conversations grounded in shared values and mutual respect. Conversation topics include:

• The Essential Conversation Cards for Life Online
• What exactly "hygge" means
• The importance of parent-child communication
• Adapting conversations to different age groups and different needs
• How approaching these conversations early can have positive long-term effects
• And more!

Stay to the end of the episode to learn about a new phase of life for the Flaherty family in a new installment of So That's a Thing Now.

LINKS
Raising Digital Citizens
Buy the Conversation Cards on Amazon!
Raising Digital Citizens (LinkedIn)
Raising Digital Citizens (Instagram)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Thyge Trimble on Preparing For Fatherhood

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Feeling unprepared for the challenges of fatherhood? You’re certainly not alone. In this Rewind episode, Editor-In-Chief Tyghe Trimble, formerly of Fatherly, joins us to navigate the roadmap to modern dadhood. When we chatted with Tyghe in November of 2021, he and his team at Fatherly had just released the insightful book Fatherhood: A Comprehensive Guide to Birth Budgeting, Finding Flow, and Becoming a Happy Parent. Tyghe joined us to discuss the book, as well as actionable strategies for effective communication with your partner, maintaining your social life amid the craziness of parenthood, and the art of roughhousing with your kids. Listen to the end for a sidesplitting installment of Confessions.

Tyghe Trimble, a New York City-based dad of two and former Editor-In-Chief of Fatherly, joins the conversation to chat about:

• What exactly an "Editor-In-Chief" does
• Why (and when) communication with your spouse can be hard
• The importance of shared values
• The unique structure of Fatherly's book
• A staggering statistic around new fathers' social lives
• The profound importance (and many benefits) of roughhousing with your kids

After, the guys get their Confessions on... and Marc takes things to a dark and hilarious place.

LINKS:
Fatherly
Fatherhood (excerpts from the book)
Fatherhood (the book at Powell's
Fatherhood (the book) on Amazon
Modern Dadhood Tees and Dadhoodies
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Making Mealtime a Family Affair | Chef David Nayfeld on Picky Eaters + Family Friendly Recipes

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Struggling with kids who are picky eaters? Want to involve your kids in meal preparation but don't know where to start? This episode is for you. We welcome esteemed professional chef (and professional dad) David Nayfeld, who brings fresh ideas to your family kitchen. With his upcoming cookbook, Dad, What's for Dinner?, David shares recipes and strategies for engaging your kids in cooking—transforming mealtime from a chore into an adventure. And for parents of kids who only like mac and cheese with a side of pre-packaged preservatives, David offers insights into making meals and snacks that are fun, healthy, and easy to prepare. Stay to the end for the first installment of a new segment, How Would You Dad This?

In Episode 120 of Modern Dadhood, hosts Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket delve into the culinary and paternal worlds of David Nayfeld, a professional chef based in San Francisco. Known for his expertise in some of the top kitchens globally, Nayfeld shares insights about his upcoming cookbook Dad, What's for Dinner? which is packed with recipes designed to engage children in the cooking process.

Throughout the interview, they explore key topics such as the joys and challenges of involving kids in cooking, tips for managing picky eaters, and the importance of planning nutritious meals. David also discusses his unique family dynamic, referencing his role as a father to his biological and "bonus" children and how these experiences have influenced his culinary approach. Conversation topics include:

• How inviting your kids into the food preparation process inspires them to take ownership of what they are making, (and more likely to eat it themselves!)
• Strategies for Picky Eaters
• Tricks to get kids to try new foods
• Meal planning strategies
• Family cooking activities
• And more!

After the interview, listeners are invited to participate in a new segment, How Would You Dad This? where they can offer advice on common parenting scenarios. Marc ponders how you might have handled a situation involving scrambled eggs and a kid who was late to the party.

[Episode art photo by Eric Wolfinger]

LINKS
Pre-Order Dad What's For Dinner?
David Nayfeld (Instagram)
David Nayfeld (X)
David Nayfeld (Facebook)
David Nayfeld (LinkedIn)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Breaking The Cycle, Filling The Void | Chris Robbins on Self Development + Empty Nesting

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Dads, ever feel like you're on autopilot, where each day is just running through the same motions? You're not alone. Dad of three Chris Robbins joins us to discuss how Soul Degree seeks to help men interrupt the flow, get outside, and take some well-deserved time to focus on bettering ourselves. Chris also shares candidly about being a new "empty nester" along with his wife, legendary podcaster, author, and self-help thought leader, Mel Robbins. Listen to the end to learn about Marc's "bloody good" weekend!

Episode 119 of Modern Dadhood opens with Adam & Marc discussing a few exciting podcast updates:
1. Adam published an article on Katie Couric Media which references some great child-calming tactics gleaned from Modern Dadhood episodes!
2. The guys will be attending Podcast Movement's Evolutions conference in Chicago in early April and would love to connect with any listeners or fellow podcasters there!
3. The guys have released a podcast trailer for Modern Dadhood (only 5 years too late!) and the video trailer can be seen here.

The guys welcome Chris Robbins into the conversation. Chris is an entrepreneur with a versatile career which took him from the corporate world to owning restaurants, becoming a death doula, opening a world-class podcasting studio in Boston, and founding Soul Degree, a men's personal development program centered around outdoor retreats. Chris shares candidly about this, along with his fatherhood experience, which includes supporting a creative collaboration between his daughter Sawyer and his legendary wife Mel Robbins. Other topics include:

• Chris and Mel Robbins becoming new "empty nesters" after dropping their youngest of three off at college recently
• The importance of slowing down, reflecting, and engaging in meaningful conversations about our lives, roles, and mental health.
• The influence of Chris' father on his own entrepreneurial and fatherhood journeys.
• The power of listening versus offering unsolicited advice.
• And more!

After the interview, Marc shares a recent story of a sibling scuffle that ended in a visit to the local emergency room. (But it didn't stop him from making a great pot of chili!)

LINKS:
Soul Degree (official)
Soul Degree (Instagram)
Chris Robbins (Instagram)
Mel Robbins "Let Them Theory" (book)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Modern Dadhood Podcast Trailer | Parenting Podcast for Dads (and Moms!)

Spencer Albee, Adam Flaherty, Marc Checket, Chris Ballew, Caspar Babypants — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

🎥 Watch the video trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKuKFz1u3_Q

Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket are two dads from suburban New England. And while they might think they’re pretty funny and cool, the world clearly does NOT need another white dude ramble-cast.

That’s why Modern Dadhood explores what it really means to be a "dad" through candid, authentic, and often hilarious conversations with diverse dads of all walks of life… including famous dads, NOT famous dads, dads-to-be, step dads, grand dads, trans dads, and more.

By celebrating present, engaged parenting and commiserating over common fatherhood challenges, listeners will gain new perspectives and feel empowered to become more present and mindful fathers, raising the next generation of kick-ass, world changing kids.

The show features relatable anecdotes from the hosts' own lives, recurring segments like Instant Regrets, Confessions, and Did I Just Say that Out Loud? and plenty of thoughts on the good, the bad, and the ridiculous.

Expect a healthy dose of laughter, sincerity, vulnerability, and 90s nostalgia in each biweekly episode.

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Navigating Miscarriage and Grief as a Dad | Kelly Jean-Philippe on Pregnancy Loss + Healing

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

According to most medical sources, roughly 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Although we probably all know people who have experienced miscarriage (or have ourselves), this is a staggering statistic. But according to Kelly Jean-Philippe, host of The Miscarriage Dads podcast, men are often overlooked and undermined when it comes to grieving the devastating loss of a miscarriage. Kelly shares candidly about his family's multiple pregnancy losses, and why he is working diligently to shed light on the often-overlooked grief and needs of fathers during these challenging times. Stay to the end for an uplifting installment of Kisses and Disses!

Episode 118 of Modern Dadhood broaches a subject that hasn't come up in the history of the show to date: Miscarriage. Adam opens up about his and his wife's experience with miscarriage prior to having their second daughter, explaining what a "molar pregnancy" means. The guys play back a conversation Adam had with father of two and podcaster Kelly Jean-Philippe, whose podcast The Miscarriage Dads aims to normalize the conversation about men and their need for support during the loss of a pregnancy. Topics include:

• The role of a Chaplain in a hospital setting
• Kelly and his wife's miscarriage experiences
• The importance of clear communication between partners
• How society often invalidates or overlooks fathers' grief
• Kelly's goals to provide a platform for discussing fathers' grief
• And more!

LINKS
The Miscarriage Dads Podcast
Kelly Jean-Philippe (Instagram)
Support for Men After Pregnancy Loss
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Activist Jermaine Moore on DEI + Fatherhood

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are more than buzzwords—they’re at the heart of today’s cultural and political conversations. In a time when these topics spark both progress and polarization, it’s a conversation well worth elevating, especially for parents striving to shape the next generation. For parents who feel uncertainty around how to instill these values in your children, we've got your back. In this Rewind episode, Jermaine Moore, founder of the Mars Hill Group—a training, development, and consulting firm specializing in leadership and DEI—joins us. As a father of four, Jermaine brings not just professional expertise but also personal experience to the table. Together, we explore how to raise empathetic kids in a world that sometimes resists change.

Jermaine is Co-Founder of the Mars Hill Group, a New England-based consulting firm which specializes in leadership training, workplace culture, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Jermaine is a father of four children who are currently scattered across the world, and he shares candidly about what led him to this line of work, why it's so important and valuable, and how we as parents can actively exercise it and celebrate it within our families in order to raise empathetic kids. The conversation covers topics including:

• What is DEI? Jermaine defines diversity, equity, and inclusion
• WHY Jermaine is passionate about DEI work
• DEI Misconceptions
• Diversity in NON-diverse areas
• The importance of exposure and representation
• "More is caught than taught" - Modeling behavior for our kids
• Allyship and how to be a true ally

LINKS
Jermaine Moore (LinkedIn)
Mars Hill Group
McKinsey: Diversity Wins / How Inclusion Matters
eXtension Foundation: What Is DEI
Forbes: 15 Key Benefits of DEI
Dr. Joy Degruy: A Trip To The Grocery Store
Jermaine Moore Presentation at Creative Mornings
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Mic Drop Moments: 2024's Most Surprising Dad Stories

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Join hosts Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket in this special compilation episode as they highlight the most eye-opening moments of 2024, sharing insightful and unexpected clips from a year of remarkable guest interviews.

Clips include:

↳ Actor George Basil (HBO's Crashing, Barbie) on how single parenthood awards him a unique relationship with his teenage daughter.

↳ Timothy Gant, Jr. AKA Teddy The Doula on what it means to be a “full spectrum” doula, and the benefits of being a male in a predominately female-led field.

↳ Margaret Ables of the podcast What Fresh Hell – Laughing in the Face of Motherhood, on how society can better support and promote equitable parenting.

↳ Comedian Pete Holmes on his young daughter discovering his body of work as she grows up.

↳ And Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General, on the epidemic of stress and loneliness in parents, and his 2024 advisory “Parents Under Pressure.”

THANK YOU, dads and moms, for 🔊listening, ✅subscribing, ✍️reviewing, and 🔗sharing Modern Dadhood with people you care about, and interacting with us! Here’s to an epic 2025!

LINKS:

Dr. Francois Clemmons (official)
Pete Holmes
What Fresh Hell podcast (official)
Teddy The Doula (Instagram)
Dr. Vivek Murthy
Dr. Murthy's advisory "Parents Under Pressure"
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Inspiring a World of Imagination | Chris Van Dusen on Writing + Illustrating Kids' Books

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:58:36 +0000

Have you ever read a book to your kids and been so disappointed by how uninspired the story is? Or how half-baked the visuals are? Or how poor the grammar is? Same. That's why when you come across the truly great ones, you elevate them and celebrate them. Maine author and illustrator (and father of two) Chris Van Dusen joins us to share about all that goes into creating purposeful, high quality children's literature.

Episode 115 of Modern Dadhood is our holiday episode. The guys open with a discussion about The Clement Moore classic "'Twas The Night Before Christmas" and debate the merits of modifying classic material in the public domain before transitioning to their conversation with author, illustrator, and father of two, Chris Van Dusen. Chris shares his story of coming up in the art world, and the path that led him to writing and illustrating classic kids books such as Circus Ship, the Mr. Magee series, and the If I Built series as well as illustrating the Mercy Watson series for author Kate DiCamillo.

After the interview, Marc shares a story of connecting in person with one of our early guests, singer/songwriter Martin Sexton.

From our families to yours, we wish you happy, safe, and fun holidays. - Adam & Marc

LINKS:
Chris Van Dusen (Official)
Chris Van Dusen (Instagram)
Chris Van Dusen (Facebook)
Martin Sexton
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Fostering Confidence and Gratitude in Teenagers | Ed Gerety on Present Parenting, Communication Strategies

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Any parents of teenagers? (...Or have kids who will be teenagers before you know it?) The seismic shifts that take place during the teenage years can make parenting feel impossible. Inspirational speaker Ed Gerety joins the conversation to impart some wisdom on how to raise curious, grateful, resilient, and self-sufficient teenagers in today's fast-paced world. Hand around after the interview to hear Adam share a recent Instant Regret.

Episode 114 of Modern Dadhood opens with a quick chat between Marc and Adam about gratitude. Adam shares a story about his 7 year old daughter receiving a gratitude award at school, and the guys talk about modeling thankfulness to their kids. The guys transition to Adam's recent conversation with inspirational speaker Ed Gerety who has built an impressive career visiting middle schools, high schools, and companies to inspire kindness, leadership, empathy, and more. The conversation touches on topics such as:

• The significance of being truly present parents
• Creating a list of family values to guide your decisions
• Communication strategies for teenagers who don't want to talk
• The value of fostering curiosity in our kids
• Modeling empathy and vulnerability by admitting your mistakes
• Debunking myths about entitlement
• Separating behavior from identity
• And more!

Listen to the end to hear Adam try to talk his way out of explaining something wholly inappropriate to his 10 year old kid in a new installment of Instant Regrets.

LINKS
Ed Gerety (official)
Shine Your Light (Ed's new book)
Ed on Instagram
Ed on LinkedIn
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Becoming the "Grown Up Dad" You’re Meant to Be | Joe Gidjunis on His PBS Docuseries

Fri, 8 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Every new parent stumbles and bumbles their way through learning the responsibilities of their new job, and adapting to their new lifestyle. Most of the "what to expect" books for dads seem to focus on swaddling and potty training, when what we really need is resources for loneliness or advice on how to keep your cool when you're totally overwhelmed. Today's guest, Joe Gidjunis, spent so much time contemplating fatherhood, that he decided to produce a documentary series about it... and PBS loved it so much, they made it available to millions of people. A father of one and former journalist, Joe opens up about his show Grown Up Dad, and how he hopes it will help new dads find joy in being present and in control. Listen to the end for an uproarious (and disgusting) installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

The guys open Episode 113 of Modern Dadhood with a quick catch-up on the 2nd Annual Checket Family Halloween Party before welcoming Joe Gidjunis into the conversation. Joe is the creator and host of Grown Up Dad, a documentary series airing on PBS that explores many of the same topics that this podcast explores. Joe shares about his early ideas for a film exploring fatherhood, and how he landed on a docuseries which has found him traveling the globe, meeting dads, and diving deep on the value of present fatherhood.

After the interview, Marc shares an installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? that has Adam splitting a gut.

LINKS:
Grown Up Dad (official)
Grown Up Dad (PBS)
Grown Up Dad (Instagram)
Joe Gidjunis (Instagram)
Grown Up Dad (Facebook)
Grown Up Dad (LinkedIn)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

What Will Our Kids Be Saying About Us? | Pete Holmes on Fatherhood, Vulnerability, Comedy

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

What do happiness hacks, magic mushrooms at Bonnaroo, and suburban dadding have in common? Comedian Pete Holmes, that's what. Pete (You Made It Weird podcast, HBO's Crashing) has been a "pie in the sky" guest for since the wee beginnings of Modern Dadhood, and the conversation didn't disappoint. Pete opens up about being a vulnerable dad, the importance of emotional transparency, working six-year-old Lila into his jokes, and more. Listen to the end for an Instant Regret which left Marc feeling like a dink.

Episode 112 of Modern Dadhood opens with the fastest catch-up in the history of the show, so the guys can get straight into their conversation with comedian Pete Holmes, who has been on the Modern Dadhood bucket list since the show was conceived. Pete brought the goods, and the dudes had an in-depth conversation about what it means to be a dad. The conversation took many twists and turns, and includes topics such as:

Listen to the end to hear about Marc's recent Instant Regret!
• How to balance being a friend and a parent to your kid
• The emotional extremes of parenting
• The value of teaching your kids that you are a human
• Modeling behaviors we want to see our kids embody
• Embracing vulnerability to foster a stronger relationship with your kid
• And more!

LINKS
Pete Holmes (official)
You Made It Weird (Apple Podcasts)
I Am Not For Everyone (Netflix)
Faces And Sounds (HBO)
Crashing (HBO)
Comedy Sex God (book)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

High Highs and Low Lows | Ryan O'Connell on Surrogacy + IVF From Dad's Perspective

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a stressful, emotional path to becoming a parent. Adding a surrogate to the equation introduces a new set of risks and stressors. For Ryan O'Connell and his wife, when the stars aligned and their healthy, perfect baby was born, it was nothing short of a miracle... and then they hit the lottery a second time. During our conversation, Ryan opens up about the deeply personal and intricate process of having children via surrogacy, shedding light on the highs and lows that come with it. We explore the emotional challenges, legal complexities, and moments of triumph that the O'Connells faced along the way. Listen to the end for an ego-deflating installment of Kisses and Disses.

Episode 111 of Modern Dadhood opens with a quick catch-up with the guys about the back-to-school process and the crazy, overwhelming nature of parent life. The guys waste no time getting into Adam's conversation with fellow girl-dad Ryan O'Connell, an event manager and prolific blogger. Ryan lives in New Jersey with his family, including his two daughters, nine and four.

Ryan opens up about the highs and lows of dad life, navigating the world of surrogacy, and the emotional rollercoaster involved in starting a family. We discuss the challenges and triumphs he and his wife faced on their path to parenthood, including their experiences with surrogates and the intricate medical and emotional processes involved. Topics include:

• The process of finding a surrogate
• What attributes make a couple and potential surrogate click?
• A brief overview of IVF
• The potential risks and setbacks of working with a surrogate
• The emotional and physical toll of miscarriages
• The legal and financial side of surrogacy
• And more!

Listen to the end for an ego-deflating installment of Kisses and Disses.

LINKS
Giddy Up America (Ryan's blog)
Ryan O'Connell (LinkedIn)
Reproductive Possibilities (surrogacy agency)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Exhausted, Burned Out, And Perpetually Behind | US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy on Parenting, Fatherhood

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:51:08 +0000

Do you feel perpetually behind? Or so stressed each day that it’s debilitating? Well, it turns out you’re not alone. (Far from it, actually.) The US Surgeon General reports that 48% of parents say that most days, their stress is “completely overwhelming.” How do we know this? Because the Nation's Doctor told us himself. US Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, joins us to discuss his new advisory report “Parents Under Pressure,” which explores why so many parents are struggling, and what we as a country can do to begin to reverse this trend.

In Episode 110 of Modern Dadhood, the guys catch up briefly on the beginning of the school year, and offer a quick explanation for why the episode release schedule has been a little slow lately. They reflect on interviewing Dr. Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General and dad of two, about his new Advisory, "Parents Under Pressure," including what inspired him to write it, how his own fatherhood experience informed the topic, and what he sees as solutions to reducing stress and improving the well-being off parents. Topics include:

• What factors are causing so much stress in parents?
• Parenting should be seen as a team effort, not an individual pursuit
• The lack of support available to dads specifically
• High levels of loneliness, especially among single parents
• How do technology and social media play a role?
• Societal capability to make significant changes
• Dr. Murthy's thoughts on solutions / interventions
• And more

LINKS
Read The Advisory "Parents Under Pressure"
US Surgeon General (official)
Dr. Vivek Murthy (Instagram)
Surgeon General (Twitter/X)
Surgeon General (Facebook)
"House Calls" Podcast
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Sean Carrillo on Being Beck's Step Dad

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Still riding the high of seeing Beck perform with a live orchestra (and getting the rare chance to say hello to him post-show), Adam chose to resurface our 2021 interview with Beck's step-dad, the multi-talented Sean Carrillo, for this week's Rewind episode. Sean's story of marrying into a family with two kids who were only 10 and 12 years his junior, is a wonderfully unique tale of a blended family of artists which, at times, felt more like a group of peers hanging around, inspiring each other.

At 60 years old, Sean Carrillo's career has taken him from the performing arts to commercial and film production, directing, and editorial, to curating live events... and that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Sean has been a stepfather for 40 years, and his family dynamic is far from typical. His wife Bibbe Hansen is a performance artist and actress, a protégé of Andy Warhol when she was young. Bibbe’s late father is Al Hansen, the renowned Fluxus artist. And his stepchildren are artist Channing Hansen, and musician Beck—a longtime favorite of Adam’s.

Sean shares about growing up in Los Angeles in the 60s and 70s, meeting Bibbe while a member of the performance art group ASCO, and marrying her in the early 1980s when Beck and Channing were 12 and 10 years old, respectively. In a particularly unique step-parenting situation, Sean found that hanging with Bibbe and the boys, along with Rain Whittaker, a family friend who they took under their wing, felt more like hanging out with a group of peers than a traditional parents/kids dynamic. Topics include:

• The idea of marrying someone with kids close to you in age
• Beck and Channing’s biological father David Campbell
• Los Angeles’ Troy Cafe, owned by Sean and Bibbe
• Did being a stepfather change when Beck and Channing began seeing commercial success?
• Beck and Channing as fathers
• And more

LINKS:
Sean Carrillo
Bibbe Hansen
Beck
Channing Hansen
Beck and Al Hansen: Playing With Matches
Troy Cafe
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Dismantling Birth Care Stereotypes | Teddy The Doula on Empowering New Moms AND Dads

Teddy The Doula, Timothy Gant Jr., Adam Flaherty, Marc Checket — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered about the true value that a doula brings to pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond? We're joined by Timothy Gant Jr., also known as "Teddy The Doula," a trailblazing male doula from Houston, Texas. Timothy shares his journey into the traditionally female-dominated field, the unique challenges and joys of his practice, and the vital role of educating and empowering dads-to-be.

Episode 108 of Modern Dadhood opens with the guys swapping stories about their evenings, with Marc venting about being emotionally beaten down by his kids, and Adam enjoying some beach time and booking a dream guest. The guys transition the conversation to the topic of doulas, and introduce Timothy Gant Jr., known professionally as Teddy The Doula, into the conversation. Teddy shares openly about his full-spectrum doula practice, and how being a man in a female-dominated industry awards him some unique opportunities. Topics discussed include:

• What unique challenges come with being a male doula?
• Why did Timothy pursue his passion in the face of adversity?
• What are the unique benefits of having a male doula?
• The importance of education around pregnancy and childbirth for both partners.
• The various ways that a doula can support and advocate for the new parents
• And more!

LINKS
Teddy The Doula (Instagram)
Teddy (the documentary)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | She / Her / DAD | Tessa White on Trans Fatherhood

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 18:50:21 +0000

This "Rewind" episode doubles as our Father's Day 2024 episode! The guys chat about what an ideal Father's Day would look like, play a fun quiz game, and then throw back to the 2022 interview with trans dad Tessa White who shares candidly about her unique journey of trans fatherhood. Tessa opens up about her family's dynamics, the challenges she faces with public scrutiny, and the profound impact of a meaningful pin she received, which reads "She/Her/DAD."

The guys open Episode 107 of Modern Dadhood with a chat about what an ideal fathers day would look like (spoiler alert... pretty much anything as long as the kids aren't fighting!) They discuss beers on the beach at night, a giant ball of snakes, and then play a Father's Day Quiz before throwing to their 2022 interview with trans dad Tessa White. Tessa owns an HVAC company in Oklahoma City, is a transgender woman and proud LGBTQ+ advocate and activist, and is a parent to 5 children (including two sets of twins) who call her DAD. The powerful conversation touches on topics including:

• The meaning of the phrase "She/Her/DAD" found on a pin by Dads Hug Too
• Navigating the world as a trans woman and a parent
• The debate over transgender athletes
• Trans discrimination, and the effects on Tessa's kids
• Giving kids some space and distance to accept who their father is
• Pronouns, including nonbinary pronouns

Happy Pride Month, and Happy Father's Day to EVERYONE who identifies as a dad.

Links:
Dads Hug Too
PFlag Oklahoma City
OKC Pride
Diversity Center of Oklahoma
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

U Mad Bro? | Men's Coach Sean Hotchkiss on Anger, Trauma, and Healing

Fri, 31 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

According to Men's Coach and Somatic Practitioner Sean Hotchkiss, everyone carries traumatic experiences with them from when they were young. These can be major emotional traumas like the divorce of your parents, or they can be micro traumas... but when they are left unresolved, they can shape who we are as adults (and parents), how we navigate life, and how we relate to others. In this episode honoring Mental Health Awareness Month, Sean Hotchkiss joins the conversation to discuss the real value of expressing anger and the benefits of unpacking our traumas of the past, all the way down to a cellular level.

Episode 106 of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Marc open the show by welcoming new listeners, and giving shout-outs to Hark Audio, where Adam recently created his first Harklist, and Pocket Casts for generously highlighting Modern Dadhood in the Kids & Family category. The guys acknowledge Mental Health Awareness Month and introduce the guest into the conversation. Sean Hotchkiss is a Men's Coach, Somatic Practitioner, and Embodiment Guide. He works with men (many of whom are dads) to uncover and process traumas of their past. The conversation gets deep, covering topics like:

• What it means to be a somatic practitioner and embodiment guide
• What inspired Sean to transition from fashion writing to coaching
• What are the most common sources of trauma for men?
• How are repressed traumatic experiences accessed and processed?
• Who can benefit from this kind of coaching?
• And more!

Marc rounds out the episode with a quick installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

LINKS
Sean Hotchkiss (official website)
Sean Hotchkiss (Instagram)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Mother's Day Special 2024!

Fri, 10 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

It's Mother's Day 2024, and we dedicate this episode to ALL the moms—the real superheroes who make our families run like well-oiled machines with their dedication, selflessness, and boundless love. Marc and Adam wager guesses on what would make for an ideal Mother's Day for their wives (and then hear directly from their wives about how accurate they were!) Then we turn the mics over to some of the top podcasters who specialize in all things MOTHERHOOD to share their insights and sound advice for us dads.

THANK YOU to all the amazing motherhood podcasters who shared their recordings with us! You are awesome!

LINKS
Bite Your Tongue (Podcast)
Oh Crap! Parenting (Podcast)
Momwell (Podcast)
Real World Peaceful Parenting (Podcast)
Modern Mom Probs (Podcast)
Moms On Call (Podcast)
Peaceful Parenting Podcast
Motherhood Simplified (Podcast)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | The Today Show's Craig Melvin on Fatherhood, Parenting

Fri, 3 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In July 2021, Dateline NBC reporter and Today Show personality Craig Melvin joined us to talk fatherhood. He shared candidly about the process of writing his book Pops: Learning To Be A Son And A Father, including stepping out of his comfort zone to conduct a number of interviews with his own dad. Craig reflected on his childhood, his relationship with his father, and how the men in his life have shaped the dad that Craig is to his own kids. Listen to the end of the episode for a round of dad Confessions.

In this Rewind episode, the guys welcome NBC anchor/personality Craig Melvin’s new book Pops: Learning To Be A Son And A Father, a book he began working on during a 2020 quarantine. For much of Craig’s life, he and his brothers didn’t have much of a relationship with their father Lawrence, largely due to his alcohol and gambling addictions. A 2018 family intervention cleared a path to recovery for Lawrence, and an opportunity to redefine relationships with his sons and grandchildren—Including Craig’s son and daughter. Craig shared candidly about his family, and the process of interviewing his father for Pops. Topics include:

• The inspiration for writing Pops
• The fear of interviewing a parent
• The importance of other “father figures” in Craig’s life
• The nature of addiction
• How the notion of “it takes a village” has shifted
• Craig’s kids’ relationship with their grandfather
• What “Modern Dadhood” means to Craig
• And more!

The guys round out the episode with a new batch of dadhood Confessions.

LINKS:
Craig Melvin (Instagram)
Dads Got This!
"Pops: Learning To Be A Son And A Father"
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal
Modern Dadhood (website)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Breathe, Feel, Then Move | Ryan Cooper on Fitness, Breathing, Combating The Dad Bod

Ryan Cooper, Caspar Babypants, Adam Flaherty, Spencer Albee, Marc Checket — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Dads, raise your hand if becoming a parent resulted in falling out of healthy routines like exercise and mindful eating? Yeah, same here. And it's only natural... when there's a new baby in the picture your priorities immediately shift to your partner, the baby's well-being... and your own survival. But months (or years) later, it can be very intimidating to think about combating that "dad bod," and often, we don't even know where to start. Fitness founder Ryan Cooper joins us to share some actionable tips dads can use to revitalize their fitness journeys. As a bonus, Ryan extends listeners an exclusive Modern Dadhood discount code for his online fitness program CooperFit. Stick around to the end for an emotional roller coaster of a Kisses & Disses segment!

Episode 103 of Modern Dadhood opens with a chat about the infamous "dad bod" and the factors that contribute to it being so common among dads in the earliest stages of parenthood. The guys talk about their own relationships with diet, exercise, and wellness around the time when their kids were born, and where things stand now, years later.

The guys welcome Ryan Cooper into the conversation. Ryan is a model, an actor, a producer, and founder of CooperFit, an online physical fitness program for men and women in which Ryan programs weekly routines that include exercises, pilates, meditation, breathing, and more. Ryan shares about his personal journey as a dad of one daughter, what led him to start CooperFit, and how his program can benefit dads who might not now where to start when it comes to getting their health back on track. Conversation topics include:

• What CooperFit is, and how it offers structured convenience for busy dads
• Fitness as a form of therapy form to tackle the root of problems
• The importance of stepping out of your comfort zone
• The real value of breathing and breathwork
• How modeling behavior can positively influence children
• And more

Ryan generously offers a deeply discounted rate for listeners of Modern Dadhood using the code DAD50 when you sign up for CooperFit using this link.

After the interview, the guys share a very nice podcast review from a happy listener and a... not-so-nice one. Leave your review and you might be featured in a future episode!

LINKS
Cooperfit (homepage)
Cooperfit Modern Dadhood Exclusive Offer - Use code DAD50
Ryan Cooper (Instagram)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Matt Gourley on Being a New Dad, Finding Balance

Sat, 6 Apr 2024 19:52:52 +0000

Episode 59 originally aired in February, 2020.

Becoming a new parent can be a special kind of mayhem. Add a global pandemic into the mix, and the chaos of the first few months are elevated to a new level. But depending on your situation, those challenges may be coupled with opportunity. In Episode 59, podcaster, producer, actor, and all around creative human, Matt Gourley, joins the conversation to discuss the joys, challenges, and insanity of new fatherhood—and how this shift has helped him discover some new perspective on what’s truly important.

Episode 59 of Modern Dadhood kicks off with a short discussion about the podcast's brief winter hibernation where the guys describe life chugging forward and the typical madness of having young kids. Adam shares the story leading up to landing a conversation with new dad Matt Gourley. Matt is the host of Superego, producer and co-host of Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, actor, musician, and designer. In our time together, we discuss topics including:

• Finding peace in the first few months of parenthood
• The importance of a paternity leave
• Redefining work/life balance
• The importance of maintaining a sense of self
• Anxiety associated with trying to keep your newborn safe during the pandemic
• What kind of dad Matt envisioned he'd be before having kids

Post-guest, Marc shares a whopper of a Did I Just Say That Out Loud? which can't be described... the story must be heard to be believed.

LINKS:
Matt Gourley (website)
Matt Gourley on Twitter
Matt Gourley on Instagram
Housecat And Home
Keys to the Kingdom
Mallwalkin'
Townland
Superego
Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend
With Gourley and Rust
I Was There Too
James Bonding
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Many Ways To Say I Love You | Dr. Francois Clemmons on Cosmic Fatherhood + Fred Rogers

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

For those of us who grew up watching Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, Fred Rogers taught us many lessons via his cast of characters in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe; the most prominent of which is that there are many ways to express your love and appreciation for someone. One member of that cast in particular, Dr. Francois Clemmons ("Officer Clemmons" on the show), carries forth that message even today. Dr. Clemmons joins us to discuss his "cosmic father, cosmic son" relationship with Fred Rogers, spreading love and kindness through music, and how paternal love can flourish even in the absence of a biological relationship.

The guys kick off Episode 101 of Modern Dadhood with a short therapy session where Marc vents about the illnesses that have run rampant in his home and the unfortunate passing of the Checket family dog. The guys quickly celebrate crossing the 100 episode threshold, give major thanks and props to audio engineer + mixer Pete Morse, and let the audience know about the passing of Aram Delgado, the son of the late Modern Dadhood guest and Sesame Street star Emilio Delgado.

The guys transition to their recent conversation with teacher, actor, singer, and "cosmic father" to many, Dr. Francois Clemmons. For decades, Dr. Clemmons played the beloved character Officer Clemmons on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and in the early days, he quickly developed a professional relationship and close personal friendship with Fred and Joanne Rogers. Dr. Clemmons joins us to talk about his lifelong desire to be a father, and how he has achieved that despite not having biological kids of his own. He also shares about experiences working with Mister Rogers, including the famous scene where the two men bathe their feet in a kiddie pool on a hot day. Other conversation topics include:

• Fred & Francois' mutual love of studying and discussing the Bible
• Francois' sexuality and how it was handled on and off the show
• Life lessons that Francois learned from his time on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
• Francois' passion for mentoring students in a fatherly manner
• The Harlem Spiritual Ensemble
• The historical significance of the most famous "Officer Clemmons" scene
• Francois' ability to identify cosmic parents around the world
• And more!

LINKS
Dr. Francois Clemmons (homepage)
Most Famous Officer Clemmons Scene (with commentary)
Won't You Be My Neighbor documentary (Netflix)
Francois Clemmons' GoFundMe
Aram Delgado GoFundMe
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Modern Dadhood (website)
AdamFlaherty.tv
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids' music)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (YouTube)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Boredom Is The Birth of Art | Author Brady Smith on Parenting, Skateboarding, Kids' Books

Fri, 8 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

What do bugs, sandwiches, skateboarding, comics, Saved By The Bell, mural painting, a chicken coop... and DADHOOD all have in common? Well, they have author and artist Brady Smith in common. (Duh.) Brady returns to the podcast to chat about many of the seemingly random things listed above... but most of all, how much he and his wife Tiffani Thiessen love being Harper and Holt's parents. After, Adam shares a straight-forward but delightfully odd Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Despite being a rather epic milestone, Episode 100 of Modern Dadhood starts off like most other episodes, with a quick catch-up between the guys. Marc shares about his twin boys' epic Star Wars themed 6th birthday party (complete with home-made games) before they welcome author, artist, and friend to the show Brady Smith back for a second appearance. Brady shares what's new in his fatherhood journey (Spoiler alert: lots of skateboarding & Sephora), how he and Tiffani work hard to raise creative, kind, and empathetic kids, and he shares a teaser of his newest book "Bug Sandwich." Topics include:

• The feeling of celebrating your partner's 50th birthday
• Getting comfortable being the "dorky" skateboarding dad
• The freedom of self-employment
• The unexpected challenges of painting a mural
• The first time Brady's daughter watched "Saved By The Bell"
• Involving Brady's kids in his work
• And more!

After, Adam discloses an odd dinnertime exclamation in an installment of "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?"

Episode art photography by Rebecca Sanabria

LINKS
Brady Smith (official website)
Brady Smith (Instagram)
Bug Sandwich (Powell's books)
Random Acts of Drawness!
You're Missing It!
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal
Modern Dadhood (website)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewind Episode | Danny Tamberelli on Nickelodeon, Nostalgia, Fatherhood

Fri, 1 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

A Day-Glo orange splatter of paint. A geyser of green slime. A seductive forearm tattoo named Petunia. If this doesn't conjure up some serious nostalgia, you either weren't a kid in the 90s, or your mom banned you from watching Nickelodeon. We invited Nick veteran and new dad Danny Tamberelli to the podcast to chat about growing up in the spotlight and how fatherhood is treating him 19 months into his journey. Tune in to find out whether Danny and Adam have actually been cosmically linked ever since one fateful day in 1997 at Universal Studios. Also, Marc exclaims profanities as he is doused with bodily fluids.

Episode 35 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief conversation about milk, and speculation on why Adam's daughters both decided that they no longer care for it. The guys briefly address their guest selection process before introducing Danny Tamberelli into the conversation. Danny is best known for playing little Pete on Nickelodeon's The Adventures of Pete and Pete in the 90s, though he continued with the network for over a decade, appearing in seasons of All That and the game show Figure It Out. Additionally, Danny appeared in films such as Igby Goes Down and The Mighty Ducks, acting alongside former Nickelodeon pal Kenan Thompson, and has voiced many animated characters for television and video games. Danny discusses the events that led to him landing prominent acting roles as a child, as well as his own experience as a new dad to 19 month old Alfie. Topics include:

• The joy of being the fun uncle
• An examination of Sandra Boynton's catalog
• Old fashioned names coming back into style
• Being a child actor
• Weezer's Blue album
• How creativity can evolve when you become a father

The episode culminates with a rather "shitty" installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Danny Tamberelli (official website)
Tuesdays With Alfie (Instagram)
The Adventures of Danny and Mike
Jounce
Nostalgia Personified
Man Boobs Comedy
The Undone Sweaters
The Adventures of Pete And Pete (YouTube)
Danny + Katelyn's books
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal
Modern Dadhood (website)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

What Is a "Lead Dad" ...And Could I Be One? | Paul Sullivan on Fatherhood

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

When you hear the phrase "Lead Dad," what does it make you think? A "stay at home" dad? A dad who prides himself on being the more involved parent? To Paul Sullivan, Founder of The Company of Dads, being a "Lead Dad" is much different... and many of us naturally fall into the category. Hear Paul discuss The Company of Dads' mission to inspire more men to be Lead Dads, and inspire families to experience their full potential. At the end, Marc shares a curious installment of "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?"

Modern Dadhood Episode 98 opens with a brief catch-up between the guys before Adam shares about a video that recently crossed his feed about a group of dads who meet at a local elementary school to greet kids as they arrive for their school day. The video was shared by Paul Sullivan, Founder of the Company of Dads and father of three daughters between 6 and 14. Paul joins us to chat about his organization, its mission, and what it means to be a "Lead Dad." Topics of conversation include:

• How did The Company of Dads come to be?
• What is a Lead Dad?
• By labeling oneself a Lead Dad, is it taking credit from the mom?
• Average maternity & paternity leaves in the USA
• Resources available to Lead Dads
• And more!

Stay tuned for an installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? featuring the newly 6-year-old Checket twins.

LINKS:
The Company of Dads
The Company of Dads (Instagram)
Paul Sullivan (LinkedIn)
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal
Modern Dadhood (website)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Parenting Podcast Collab | Margaret Ables + Amy Wilson of What Fresh Hell

Fri, 2 Feb 2024 13:10:16 +0000

What fresh hell is this episode all about? Well, it's a collaboration with our new friends Amy Wilson and Margaret Ables, hosts of the popular momhood podcast What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood. The four parenting podcasters waste no time digging into why there are so many more motherhood podcasts than fatherhood podcasts, the value of gaining new perspectives, and how the role of the father has dramatically shifted over the decades... and could stand to continue evolving!

Episode 97 of Modern Dadhood kicks off with Adam ribbing Marc for neglecting to call or text him on his birthday which he shares with both his dad and his daughter. Marc clearly feels no guilt, and Adam proceeds to inhale a helium balloon to introduce the show. The guys quickly welcome Margaret Ables and Amy Wilson, hosts of the podcast What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood into the conversation to discuss the "WHY" behind each podcast, the moms' take on the current state of fatherhood, and more. Topics include:

• The story behind the name (and phrase) "What Fresh Hell"
• How topics are chosen for their motherhood podcast
• The benefits of having access to experts and people we admire
• How "Modern Dadhood" is different than "Modern Fatherhood"
• How women and men often prioritize the role of "parent" differently
• Shifting gender roles
• And more!

After the interview, the guys share a roller-coaster-of-a Kisses & Disses segment.

LINKS:
What Fresh Hell (Podcast)
What Fresh Hell (Website)
WFH (Instagram)
WFH (TikTok)
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal
Modern Dadhood (website)
MD (Instagram)
MD (Facebook)
MD (TikTok)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

An Actor's Guide to Thriving in Single Parenthood | George Basil on Fatherhood, Raising a Teenager

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 14:17:16 +0000

Being a single parent may result from an unplanned pregnancy, the relationship between two partners evolving or ending, or a purposeful decision. No matter the reason, it's fair to assert that single parents will navigate some unique challenges when raising a kid. George Basil (HBO's Crashing, Netflix's Flaked) joins us to reflect on raising his teenage daughter as a working actor and improv comedian, and how their relationship, in many ways, is a true partnership. George hangs around for a round of Confessions!

The guys kick off Episode 96 of Modern Dadhood with a quick discussion on dinnertime conversations with our kids and the types of questions which can inspire them to open up and share about their school day. The guys waste no time introducing actor and improv comic George Basil who listeners might know as Lief from HBO's "Crashing" starring comedian Pete Holmes, Cooler from Netflix's "Flaked" acting opposite Will Arnett, or the clothing shop proprietor in the Barbie movie. George is a proud parent to his teenage daughter Lula, and he joins us to share his story of bringing her up as a single dad and working actor in LA. Topics include:

• George's self-described partnership with his daughter.
• The joy of traveling abroad with his kid
• Acting with, and directing his daughter
• The benefit of introducing new partners to your child
• The importance of inspiring a love for creativity in our kids
• Getting the call to be cast in Barbie
• And more!

At the end of the chat, George sticks around for a gut-busting Confessions session.

LINKS:
Crashing (HBO/Max)
Flaked (Netflix)
Six Pack (Short Film)
Peanut (Short Film)
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Best of 2023 | Adam & Marc's Top 3 Clips

Fri, 5 Jan 2024 13:39:05 +0000

2023 has come to and end and Adam & Marc reflect on the guests, topics, and great conversations from the past year. The guys each present their Top 3 clips from the various episodes, and Marc closes out the episode with an utterly explicit edition of "So That's a Thing Now."

The guys open Episode 95 of Modern Dadhood by catching up briefly on health, fatherhood, and Christmas before jumping right into their "Top 3" lists of their favorite soundbytes from 2023 episodes. The episodes referenced in the top 3 lists are:

Ep 081 - Interabled Parents-To-Be | Shane Burcaw
Ep 083 - The Brick Wall That Is Fatherhood | Chris Gethard
Ep 084 - Being Cool With Not Being Cool Anymore | Chris Gethard
Ep 087 - Raising Privacy-Conscious Kids in the Digital Age | Marc Groman
Ep 091 - The Art of Explaining Farewells | Victor M. Sweeney
Ep 093 - Reviving Empathy Through Images of Real Leadership | Pete Souza

LINKS:
Modern Dadhood Instagram
Modern Dadhood Facebook
Modern Dadhood TikTok
Modern Dadhood YouTube
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal Music

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Saint Nick Sets The Record Straight | A Chat With Santa Claus

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:23:56 +0000

In our holiday 2023 episode, we landed an interview with Father Christmas himself, Santa Claus. This episode is designed for parents and kids to enjoy together, as we ask Santa some hard-hitting questions which are on the minds of children around the world... and Santa delivers! Happy Holidays from our families to yours. We are grateful for you!

Episode 94 of Modern Dadhood is a unique one-- it's meant to be enjoyed by both parents and kids, as the guys got VERY lucky and booked an interview with Father Christmas himself, Santa Claus. Adam asks Santa a number of questions which many young people wonder about in hopes of shining a bit of light on some of the bigger mysteries of Santa's superhuman capabilities.

After the interview, Marc shares about an illness he's been dealing with and how his wife Jamie has risen to the occasion to make the holiday season special for the boys even though Marc's been unable to contribute.

Adam closes out the episode by sharing a preview of his almost 10-year-old's progress playing the recorder. (Spoiler alert, she's gotten very good very quickly!)

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from our families to yours. Thank you for listening. We appreciate you and wish you a happy, healthy, entertaining, and prosperous 2024.

LINKS:
NORAD Santa Tracker
Modern Dadhood Instagram
Modern Dadhood Facebook
Modern Dadhood TikTok
Modern Dadhood YouTube
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal Music

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Reviving Empathy Through Images of Real Leadership | Photographer Pete Souza on Empathy, Dignity, Fatherhood

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

There are certain qualities, like leadership, empathy, kindness, respect, and compassion, that we all aspire for our children to embody as they grow. In this episode, Adam and Marc get a bit deep with Pulitzer Prize winner and Official White House photographer for two presidential terms, Pete Souza, who had the remarkable opportunity to capture these qualities in iconic moments throughout the Obama presidency. The guys chat with Pete about dangerous situations, split-second decisions, and the tremendous responsibility of working in the highest office in the land, documenting the values we wish to see in our leaders and our children.

Episode 93 of Modern Dadhood opens with a conversation about storytelling and what features make for a strong spoken word story. The guys waste no time welcoming Pete Souza into the chat. Pete's credits an accolades include International Photography Hall of Fame Inductee, Pulitzer Prize winner, documentary film subject, and Chief Official White House Photographer for both terms of Barack Obama's presidency. He has taken some of the most iconic photos in history over his decades-long career, and while he still stays very busy putting out books, public speaking, and teaching photography workshops, his main photography subject matter... has become his grandkids.

Pete opens up about his method for capturing authentic moments with a leader who exemplifies traits that all parents hope to see in their children. Topics include:

• Pete and his wife Patti's marriage and children
• How Pete's "always on" work schedule impacted his personal life
• The choice to work under physically dangerous circumstances
• The shift from film to digital photography
• The qualities that make a photo "authentic"
• And more!

LINKS:
Pete Souza (official)
Pete Souza (Instagram)
Pete Souza (Twitter/X)
The Way I See It (Documentary on Amazon Prime Video)
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal

PETE'S BOOKS (please buy locally if you can!)

Obama: An Intimate Portrait
Shade: A Tale of Two Presidents
Dream Big Dreams Photographs from Barack Obama's Inspiring & Historic Presidency Young Readers
Rise Of Barack Obama
The West Wing and Beyond: What I Saw Inside the Presidency

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Encouraging Independence and Personal Responsibility in Our Kids | Bunthol Kim on Teenage Fatherhood

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:42:40 +0000

Is there a "right" way to reach our children to be independent and self-reliant? If we always do everything for them, they may never learn to own their responsibilities. But it can be emotionally trying (and short-term inconvenient) to allow them to fail and learn from their mistakes. B Kim joins us to discuss his family's approach to instilling a sense of personal responsibility in their two teenage kids, allowing them to fail safely, and preparing them for adulthood. Don't miss a "squeaky" new installment of So That's a Thing Now! at the end of the episode.

In Episode 92 of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Marc open with a discussion of Marc's idyllic, spontaneous neighborhood gathering which resulted in Marc being moderately "lubricated" for our episode. The guys chat about the first month of school for their kids, including their morning routines, and how each family navigates moving things along in the morning to ensure that everything gets done before their kids are off to school for the day. They welcome in Bunthol "B" Kim, and the conversation pivots from "what happens if they miss the bus?" to "what happens if they run out of money?" B shares his family's approach to instilling a sense of personal responsibility, ways in which he has allowed his kids to "fail safely," and times that his kids have pleasantly surprised him with their self-reliance.

Listen to the end where Adam shares about his fourth grader's current music class lesson that will bring back memories for most listeners!

Links:
Creatives Not Robots (B's creative social gathering)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal Music

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Art of Explaining Farewells | Mortician Victor M. Sweeney on Fatherhood, Death, Balance

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 13:17:53 +0000

There are a million idioms about death: It's "the only certainty in life." It's "the end of the road." It's "the great equalizer." But even as adults, death can be impossibly difficult to understand and process, let alone to know the best way to explain death to our kids. Mortician Victor M. Sweeney joins the conversation to share his wisdom on how to answer our kids' questions, and why it's important to include them and be honest with them rather than try to shield them or protect them from grief. Stick to the end for a segment on good and bad death scenes in children's movies!

Episode 91 of Modern Dadhood gets right down to business with Adam and Marc chatting about discussions they've had with their kids around the concept of death. They share about their own experiences with attending funerals, and how they've broached the subject when their kid have brought it up. They introduce Victor M. Sweeney into the conversation. Victor is a dad of 4 who has worked in the funeral industry for the last 15 years, earning the reputation of a sought-after funeral director and mortician. Victor opens up about his career, the relationship between his line of work and his family, and some ideas on how to include young people in the death process.

Post interview, Marc names a number of death-related scenes in kids movies and the guys rate them on a "helpful or hurtful" scale, debating whether the scenes could support a kid's understanding of death, or simply traumatize them.

Links:
Wired Segment 1
Wired Segment 2
Wired Segment 3
Wired Segment 4
Victor M. Sweeney (Instagram)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Back to School, Back to Pod | Scott Mazuzan on Fatherhood + Parenting

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:45:00 +0000

The guys make a formal apology for ghosting listeners for a short late-Summer stretch before talking "back to school" season with friend and dad of two, Scott Mazuzan.

Episode 90 of Modern Dadhood starts with a rapid-fire catch up between Adam and Marc in which they each share several quick life updates in just a few words with no additional context. As you might expect, hilarity ensues! The guys welcome Adam's friend Scott Mazuzan into the conversation. Scott is a dad to a fourth grader and second grader, and the guys waste no time getting into topics like:

• Dealing with feelings about returning to school
• Back to school shopping and fashion
• Making new friends, and the sibling dynamic
• School bus etiquette
• And more!

Links:
Modern Dadhood (homepage)
Modern Dadhood on Instagram
Modern Dadhood on Facebook
Modern Dadhood on YouTube
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Unattainable Myth of Work-Life Balance | Young Han on Fatherhood, Business, Happiness

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:45:00 +0000

"Work-Life Balance" is a buzzworthy phrase that has taken on new meaning since 2020. And it's a funny one, because it essentially divides your time into two camps: Work... and everything else. As parents, we all strive to set boundaries such that when we're NOT working, we can be present with our family or rediscover our sense of self... but it's rarely as simple as it sounds. In fact, Young Han, an entrepreneur, business consultant, and father who has ownership in over a dozen companies, would argue that human beings aren't even programmed to segment our lives in that way. Young shares his method for prioritizing both the work he is so driven to do with the family he loves so much... and the challenge of staying present and focused throughout. Stick around until the end to hear Marc's misophonia-themed installment of "So That's a Thing Now!"

Episode 89 of Modern Dadhood opens with a discussion between Marc and Adam about the challenges of being present with your family when work is busy. They discuss how they individually manage their time, and the pros and cons of working from home, including setting appropriate expectations with co-workers and clients. Adam shares a recent conversation he had with Young Han, an entrepreneur who owns stake in over a dozen businesses via his business consulting agency Owners Club. On his podcast, The Girl Dad Show, Young interviews successful businesspeople about how they structure their lives to prioritize what's most important to them. Young shares his philosophy that work-life balance is a myth, and they discuss other topics including:

• A mutual appreciation of coffee
• The struggle to be a better dad than your own
• The importance of self-care
• Modeling behavior to be benchmarks, not to raise clones of ourselves
• Why Young considers work-life balance a myth
• And more!

LINKS
Owners Club
The Girl Dad Show
Forever Young Agency
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Understanding Our Digital Footprint | Marc Groman on Online Privacy for Kids

Fri, 7 Jul 2023 21:13:10 +0000

One of the most important things we must drive home to our children before putting a device in their hand, according to Privacy Professional Marc Groman, is that what they share on the internet should be treated as public and permanent... even if they only intend for one person to see it. Groman, who served in the Obama administration as chair of the Federal Privacy Council and Senior Advisor for Privacy in the White House, joins us to discuss kids and online privacy. This is part 2 of a 2 part episode.

Episode 88 of Modern Dadhood opens with the guys catching up about their recent outing to Boston to see recent guest Dustin Nickerson perform, and a chat about sexting before they pick up with part 2 of a conversation about privacy, social media, and digital footprints with Privacy Professional Marc Groman. Topics of conversation include:

• The surprising responses from people over 20 when asked about their first devices
• The responsibility of parents AND industry to teach privacy protection
• Privacy protection legislation currently being developed by Marc and others
• Privacy concerns with online gaming
• The "wrong question" most parents ask about devices and screen time
• How AI forces us to recalibrate our "bullshit meters"
• And more!

Stick around until the end for a new installment of "Instant Regrets!"

Links:
Their Own Devices (Marc's phenomenal podcast)
Marc @ Family Online Safety Institute
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal
Mr. Boodaddy "No Shirt Like My Dad"

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Raising Privacy-Conscious Kids in the Digital Age | Marc Groman on Fatherhood and Privacy

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 12:45:22 +0000

We've all heard (or experienced) the horror stories around cyber bullying, the consequences of sexting, or kids accidentally blowing through thousands of dollars on a popular video game. And as dads, contemplating how (and when) to grant our kids access to certain types of technology can be overwhelming. But even beyond which social media accounts or how much screen time we allow, it's imperative that they understand privacy. It's a big, loaded word, and thankfully there are experts like Marc Groman who can help us understand the important benefits of protecting one's privacy... and the very real threats when we don't. Listen to the end for a hilarious Father's Day-themed quiz! [This is part 1 of a 2 part episode.]

Episode 87 of Modern Dadhood kicks off with some shared stories between Marc and Adam about their kids' struggles with listening, and a great recommendation from Marc on how to entice your kids to be self-accountable. The conversation transitions to privacy and technology when Adam asks Marc about how he intends to address privacy protection when his twin five-year-olds are old enough to start really interacting with internet enabled devices. Spoiler alert: neither dad has a great plan!

The guys welcome privacy professional Marc Groman into the conversation. Among many other privacy-related jobs, credentials, and accolades, Marc was the first chief privacy officer of the US Federal Trade Commission, and he served in the Obama administration as chair of the Federal Privacy Council and Senior Advisor for Privacy in the White House. Marc and his husband David Reitman have a 17 year old son who they no longer monitor on social media, and trust that he has a good understanding of privacy-related issues! The conversation covers a LOT of ground, including:

• Kids' inability to perceive potential consequences of their actions
• Why smartphones should not be called "phones" at all.
• How social platforms stoke FOMO which is very harmful to kids
• The question that's far more important than "what's the right amount of screen time?"
• What you post is permanent
• The vital importance of being familiar with the platforms and games your kids are using
• And more!

If you've made it this far, you're in for a treat: Marc has cooked up some Father's Day themed trivia!

Subscribe to Modern Dadhood to be alerted when Part 2 of this episode drops on Friday 7/7.

Links:
Their Own Devices (Marc's phenomenal podcast)
Marc @ Family Online Safety Institute
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Funny Side of Fatherhood | Comedian Dustin Nickerson on Fatherhood, Comedy, and Work Ethic

Fri, 9 Jun 2023 08:45:00 +0000

It was never all that easy to predict the future, but it always felt like there were at least a few things you could rely on. However, these days, the fate of even some of the more historically steadfast institutions is murky at best: for example, the notion of attending college to get a degree so you can venture out on the path to your career. What will any of that look like in five or ten years? Will affordable higher ed even exist? Will AI scoop up all the jobs? Will our kids live with us until they have kids? Comedian, podcaster, husband, and dad of three Dustin Nickerson can tell you that regardless of the ambiguity the future may hold, modeling a strong work ethic can have a net positive effect on the kids who witness it. Listen in as Adam, Marc, and Dustin wax philosophical about standup comedy, raising kids, strong work ethic, and the permission to laugh.

Episode 86 of Modern Dadhood opens with a quick catch-up about the recent podcast siesta and a few laughs about recent celebrity dad news before the guys welcome Dustin Nickerson into the conversation. Dustin is a stand-up comedian, a husband, a father of three (including two teenagers!) an author and a fellow podcaster. The guys hit it off quickly, covering topics such as:

• The challenges of touring with three kids at home
• Touring alone vs. with family
• The craziness of teaching your kid to drive
• The shift in work ethic and motivation to leave home
• The uncertain future of higher education
• Finding true happiness in your career
• And more!

LINKS
Dustin Nickerson (official)
Dustin Nickerson (YouTube)
Dustin Nickerson (Instagram)
Dustin Nickerson (TikTok)
How to Be Married to Melissa (book)
Don't Make Me Come Back There (podcast)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Mother's Day 2023 | Revisiting The Mom Takeover

Fri, 19 May 2023 08:45:00 +0000

We love and respect all the mothers all year 'round... and can't think of a better day than Mother's Day to turn the show over to our wives to let them catch up about "modern momhood." This episode features the "Mom Takeover" by Sarah Flaherty and Jamie Checket, originally shared in June of 2021.

With little instruction and a batch of questions and prompts to address at their will, Sarah and Jamie jumped right into conversation about motherhood. They covered topics such as:

• How they learned about (and didn't learn about) the "Mom Takeover" concept
• Motherhood myths
• The benefits and pitfalls of social media to a new mother
• Being your child's "entertainer"
• Letting go/stepping back
• Listening vs. problem solving
• Pregnancy mindsets
• Sleep deprivation
• Mom confessions
• Dumb dad moves
• And more!

We celebrate you, Sarah, Jamie, and ALL moms, step moms, bonus moms, and moms-to-be! THANK YOU for being you! (And for accepting us and loving us for the idiots we are, too.)

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Hunt, Gather, Parent
How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

An "Epical" Orlando Vacation | Universal Orlando Resort 2023

Fri, 5 May 2023 09:35:28 +0000

Adam and his 9-year-old daughter Summer share about their epic family vacation to Orlando which included several days at Universal Orlando Resort, and their once-in-a-lifetime invitation to join hosts David and Kari on the Discover Universal podcast.

Episode 85 of Modern Dadhood, a "bonus episode," opens with a chat about April vacation. Marc shares that at 5 years old, his twin boys don't yet conform to school vacation schedules, but that Kindergarten is feeling closer and closer, with the boys quickly realizing that big changes are coming.

Adam shares about his recent Orlando vacation which included several fun-packed days at Universal Studios Orlando, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and Universal's Volcano Bay. He shares the story of how this crazy vacation came to be, and how he and his family ended up in Universal's Radio Broadcast Studio for an episode of the Discover Universal podcast.

The guys play back a detailed recap of the vacation by Adam and his 9 year old daughter Summer, which includes discussion of attractions in all of Universal's parks (including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter) and Volcano Bay.

LINKS
Natural Nature Youth (9 year old Summer's podcast)
Universal Orlando Resort
Discover Universal Podcast
Universal Studios Florida
Universal's Islands of Adventure
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Jurassic Park
Universal's Volcano Bay
Universal's Endless Summer Resorts: Dockside Inn and Suites
Universal on Instagram
Universal on Twitter
Universal on Facebook
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Being Cool With Not Being Cool Anymore | Chris Gethard on Fatherhood, Being Lame

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

[This is part 2 of a 2 part conversation] In "The Lonely Dad Conversations," comedian Chris Gethard interviews a dozen dads to explore commonalities between their fatherhood journeys. What he finds, is that, plain and simple, when we become dads, we turn pretty lame. That's not to say that becoming a parent isn't an amazing, powerful, and positive life change, but think about it... are you as cool as you used to be before you had kids? Me neither. Chris joins us to laugh, ponder, and dissect some of the recurring themes in "The Lonely Dad Conversations."

In Episode 84 of Modern Dadhood, the guys quickly recap Easter and Adam asks Marc to kindly share some compliments about his wife, before returning to Part 2 of their conversation with Chris Gethard. Chris is promoting his new book on Scribd called "The Lonely Dad Conversations," and the guys ask him about some of the recurring themes that pop up in the book, including:

• How dads are like "backseat passengers"
• How the baby boomer generation are different dads than we are
• The role of your social life when you become a dad
• Our kids observing our screen time
• And More!

Before closing out the 'sode, Adam and Marc share a quick round of "Kisses and Disses" inspired by recent podcast reviews. Leave a review for the show and you, too, could be featured in an upcoming segment!

LINKS:
Chris Gethard (official)
The Lonely Dad Conversations (Scribd)
Chris on Twitter
Chris on Instagram
Chris on Facebook
Beautiful Anonymous
New Jersey Is The World
Career Suicide (HBO)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Brick Wall That Is Fatherhood | Chris Gethard on Loneliness, Connection, Parenting

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 08:45:00 +0000

Most new-dads-to-be do the obligatory preparation: You look through the couple of "survival guide" style books gifted to you by a friend. Watch YouTube videos on swaddling techniques. Read up on tips for potty training. Buy a new coffee maker to elevate your caffeine game. And ready your mind for the impending insanity of parenthood. But somehow, despite all the "thorough" preparation, every new parent gets sideswiped with a slew of unexpected emotions and challenges. And here's what those "survival guide" books can't possibly set you up for: Becoming a parent will change you... And it can bring on some intense emotions and self-revelations. Comedian, writer, actor, and podcaster Chris Gethard returns to Modern Dadhood to chat about the cultural shift that's enabling dads to examine these feelings. In classic Gethard style, even the heavier themes which appear in his new book The Lonely Dad Conversations are explored with openness, sincerity, and a lot of humor, and the same is true of our chat in this episode. Don't drop off before another installment of the beloved (sub)segment Did I Just Hear That Out Loud? [This is part 1 of a 2 part episode.]

Episode 83 of Modern Dadhood opens with Marc & Adam trying out an exercise where they expedite their catch up by reducing it to 5 words. They keep it brief because they know that their first returning podcast guest, comedian Chris Gethard, is going to bring the goods. Chris hosts his own podcasts Beautiful Anonymous and New Jersey Is The World, he stars in standup specials, has appeared in numerous TV shows and films, and he returns to Modern Dadhood to discuss his new book The Lonely Dad Conversations.

Chris and Hallie's son Caleb ("Cal") is 4 years old, and as Chris shares candidly, he's potty trained, but can't yet wipe his own butt. After reassuring him that Cal will hit that game-changing milestone soon, we get down to business and talk loneliness. When Cal was born, Chris found himself in a state of deep loneliness, and in an effort to better understand these feelings, he interviewed a bunch of fellow dads about their unique fatherhood experiences. Chris grouped the answers by common themes that came up, and spoiler alert... it turns out he wasn't alone in his loneliness.

The guys discuss a number of themes which pop up in The Lonely Dad Conversations, including:

• The rejection of "Hustle Culture"
• Focusing on your own death when you become a parent
• The importance of maintaining your sense of self
• How your concept of time shifts when you become a parent
• And more!

The conversation will span two episodes, so please subscribe to Modern Dadhood so you'll be alerted when episode #2 releases!

The guys round out the episode with an installment of Did I Just Say Hear Out Loud?

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Raising Digital Natives | Tom Adjemian on Screen Time, Privacy, Fatherhood

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:45:00 +0000

Remember AOL Instant Messenger? ICQ? Friendster? Do you recall the excitement and curiosity of exploring these platforms and connecting with new people? The internet was new, and our parents were either learning it alongside us... or maybe not interested in it at all. Either way, for many of us, our parents were not closely monitoring our exploration of the internet, or even aware of the inherent risks. Our kids are growing up in a very (very) different world, and as parents, it's our job to ensure they develop a healthy and safe relationship with the technology which will only become a more prominent fixture in their lives as they grow. Father of three, Tom Adjemian, joins the conversation to discuss how his family is navigating this complicated journey. Don't skip out before our dad Confessions!

Episode 82 of Modern Dadhood opens with the guys chatting about Marc's twin boys' birthday party which had been rescheduled due to a last minute illness. Marc shares some of the nice, funny, and sometimes downright eerie handwritten birthday cards his boys received.

The guys introduce guest Tom Adjemian into the chat. Tom's three kids range from ages 4 to 13, and from very little exposure to technology, to a lot of exposure. Tom shares how he and his wife are traversing things like screen time, internet safety, privacy, boundaries, and more, with their 13 year old. Spoiler alert: They're figuring it out as they go. Conversation topics include:

• When (and why) Tom and his wife got their eldest daughter her first smartphone
• The conversations they've had as a couple and with their kids about technology use
• How to not scare your kids away from the internet
• How to not entice your kids to hide their internet usage from you
• Tools for limiting and monitoring internet/app usage
• The ethics of monitoring your kid's internet usage
• The importance of open communication
• When your kid betrays your trust
• And more

The guys invite Tom to stick around and participate in a gut-busting round of Confessions before closing out the 'sode.

Links:
ConnectSafely
Bark app
How and When to Limit Kids' Tech Use (NY Times)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Interabled Parents-To-Be | Shane Burcaw on In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Fatherhood

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:45:00 +0000

You know that feeling when you really want to be a dad but you've been in a powered wheelchair since you were two years old and you aren't sure if your balls can produce enough viable sperm that you and your partner can conceive so you do some testing and find out that the doctors aren't certain either which means that you can totally TRY but you're carefully considering all your options because you KNOW you'll be awesome parents despite what all the trolls on the internet want you to believe? ... No? Well then allow influencer, author, and disability advocate Shane Burcaw (Squirmy & Grubs) to enlighten you. This is Part 2 of a 2 part episode. [Episode photo by Studio Twelve:52]

[Listen to Part 1 of this episode here]

Episode 81 of Modern Dadhood opens with a Marc sharing about the unexpected postponement of his twin boys' 5th birthday party. The guys waste no time diving back into the second half of their interview with Shane Burcaw. Shane candidly shares about his shared desire with his wife Hannah to become parents, and the unique challenges that they may face as a result of his Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Conversation topics include:

• Alternative options to conceiving via IVF
• How to encourage healthy sperm when you are in a wheelchair
• The pros and cons of sharing your private life on YouTube
• Managing trolls and negative/hateful comments
• Exposing our kids to technology
• Would Shane and Hannah's baby be genetically predisposed to his disability?
• And more!

The guys close out the episode by sharing a positive AND a negative review of the show in a new installment of Kisses and Disses. Leave a review of Modern Dadhood on Apple Podcasts for a chance to be featured in a future segment!

Links:
Squirmy and Grubs (website)
Squirmy and Grubs (YouTube)
Junkyard Mayhem Podcast (Apple)
Shane's books
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

IVF, Disability, and the Road to Fatherhood | Shane Burcaw on IVF Testing, Interabled Parenting

Fri, 3 Feb 2023 09:50:00 +0000

Shane Burcaw wants to be a dad. He and his wife Hannah Aylward make no secret of their desire to become parents as they share some of the most private aspects of their unique interabled life together in weekly videos and podcast episodes on their YouTube channel Squirmy and Grubs. But will their ability to have biological kids be thwarted by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), the disease that has found Shane in a powered wheelchair since he was two years old? Only testing and time will tell. Shane joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share candidly about their journey with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). This is part 1 of a 2 part episode.

Episode 80 of Modern Dadhood opens with Adam and Marc quickly recounting their recent experience at Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando. They shout out to a handful of new podcaster friends and gleefully giggle as they recount their antics. Then shit gets real when they introduce Shane Burcaw into the Modern Dadhood conversation. Shane is a 30 year old author, influencer, podcaster, and founder of a nonprofit called Laughing At My Nightmare, a name which brilliantly sums up Shane's amazing sense of humor and attitude toward his lifelong disability, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Shane shares candidly about his disability, his attitude toward his disability, and why he and his wife Hannah (who is not disabled) dedicate their time to advocating for those with physical disabilities, proudly representing the interabled couple population, and living an adventurous and unique life. They've documented the beginning stages of their In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) journey on their channel and their podcast Junkyard Mayhem, and Shane openly discusses it with us. Topics include:

• What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)?
• The advancements in treatment
• Young Shane's vision for his future
• Shane's shift in his feelings of self-worth
• Challenges of conceiving when you are dependent on a wheelchair
• Shane and Hannah's options for trying to conceive
• The "testing" process and results
• The odds of having multiples through IVF
• And more!
This is part 1 of a 2 part episode.

Before closing out the episode, Adam shares a quick and ridic installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Links:
Squirmy and Grubs (website)
Squirmy and Grubs (YouTube)
Junkyard Mayhem Podcast (Apple)
Shane's books
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Podfest Multimedia Expo
Cycle Chats Podcast
Magical Mindset Moments Podcast
Keeping Up With The Chaos Podcast
Rich Does a Thing
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The 2023 "New Years" Episode

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 09:45:00 +0000

January 2023 marks the third birthday of Modern Dadhood. And at 79 episodes in, we've had some remarkable conversations with dads of all walks of life. In line with our mission, we've gained plenty of new perspective on what it means to be a father... but the learning and laughs don't stop here! In the "New Years" episode, we ponder new topics to cover and guests to invite in 2023. Don't drop off before Marc drops a jaw dropping installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Do YOU want to hear about the topics the guys want to cover in 2023?

Or their "pie in the sky" dream guests?

Well, you're just gonna have to listen to the 'sode.

LINKS:
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Normalizing Autism One Kid at a Time | Joe Mandravelis on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Fatherhood

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 11:18:32 +0000

Joe Mandravelis was about to become a dad to twins when he and his wife learned their two year old daughter had Autism Spectrum Disorder. What they also learned, was having one child with autism means any other children you have are 20 times more likely to be on the spectrum. Joe joins Modern Dadhood to discuss the joys, challenges, and general insanity of raising three amazing and powerful kids who each need support in unique ways as they navigate through school, therapies, and social situations.

Episode 78 of Modern Dadhood releases the day before Christmas Eve eve, 2022. The guys discuss the energy level in their homes and Marc shares about the misadventures of his boys which may potentially land them on the "naughty" list. The guys welcome Adam's long time friend and fellow dad, Joe Mandravelis, into the conversation. Joe's three kids, all under the age of 7, all have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Joe shares candidly what has been difficult an what has been awesome about his fatherhood experience. Topics of the conversational include:

• The signs that Joe's family noticed prior to his oldest daughter's diagnosis
• What are ABA services, and how do they work?
• When you have one child on the spectrum, what are the odds that their siblings will also be on the spectrum?
• Insurance coverage for autism-related services
• Integrating them into public schools vs. private schools which offer more intensive support
• Normalizing ASD
• How Joe's fatherhood experience has opened his mind
• And more!

Marc kicks off the episode close with a (bad) joke.

We wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday, and a HUGE and positive 2023!

Get tickets to the Podfest Multimedia Expo here and see the guys in Orlando, FL January 26-29th, 2023!

LINKS:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (CDC)
Autism Speaks
Autism Society of America
Joe Mandro Music (Instagram)
Joe Mandro Music (YouTube)
Joe Mandro Music (Facebook)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion | Jermaine Moore on Fatherhood, Raising Empathetic Kids

Fri, 9 Dec 2022 09:45:00 +0000

Everyone wants to belong. According to Jermaine Moore, to feel welcome, respected, seen, and heard, comes second only to our human desire to be loved. That's why Jermaine, a father of four, has devoted his career to teaching and training business leaders on the vital importance (and proven benefits) of prioritizing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace, while also teaching young people, including his own children, the true value of empathy. Jermaine joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share some wisdom about DEI, raising empathetic children, and why he's so encouraged by today's youth.

Episode 77 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief catch-up between hosts Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket. The guys announce they'll be at Podfest Multimedia Expo 2023 in Orlando in January, where Adam will present a breakout session on the use of video to promote podcasts.

The guys briefly discuss the excitement (and stress) about the upcoming holidays, before welcoming Jermaine Moore into the conversation. Jermaine is Co-Founder of the Mars Hill Group, a New England-based consulting firm which specializes in leadership training, workplace culture, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Jermaine is a father of four children who are currently scattered across the world, and he shares candidly about what led him to this line of work, why it's so important and valuable, and how we as parents can actively exercise it and celebrate it within our families in order to raise empathetic kids. The conversation covers topics including:

• What is DEI? Jermaine defines diversity, equity, and inclusion
• WHY Jermaine is passionate about DEI work
• DEI Misconceptions
• Diversity in NON-diverse areas
• The importance of exposure and representation
• "More is caught than taught" - Modeling behavior
• Allyship and how to be a true ally

LINKS
Jermaine Moore (LinkedIn)
Mars Hill Group
McKinsey: Diversity Wins / How Inclusion Matters
eXtension Foundation: What Is DEI
Forbes: 15 Key Benefits of DEI
Dr. Joy Degruy: A Trip To The Grocery Store
Jermaine Moore Presentation at Creative Mornings
Podfest Expo
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Deconstructing Paternal Postpartum Depression | Journalist Joe Keohane on Stigma, Stoicism, New Fatherhood

Fri, 4 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

What new dad doesn't feel over tired, overwhelmed, and thrown for a life-changing loop? But how do you know if YOUR experience is more intense than any other new dad—or when it warrants seeking help? Journalist and Editor Joe Keohane (Men's Health, Entrepreneur, The New York Times) joins the conversation to share about his research on, and personal experience with, paternal postpartum depression. He dissects the stigmas, describes warning signs, and shares helpful resources for those experiencing it. Don't drop off before Adam shares a spooky Instant Regret!

Episode 76 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief banter about the guys' Halloween experiences before they get into a conversation about postpartum depression. Marc shares about his wife's experience with postpartum depression in the months after their twin boys were born. The guys bring up an article in Men's Health (linked below) by journalist Joe Keohane, in which he interviews a number of fathers who experienced paternal postpartum depression. Joe shares candidly about his own experience with it, and what he learned from his many interviews with dads and doctors about how the condition can be identified (but is hard to "diagnose"), the stigmas attached to it, and what the options are for new dads who think they may be experiencing it.

Post-interview, Adam shares a Halloween-themed Instant Regret. (What a dummy!)

LINKS:
Joe Keohane (official)
The Unrelenting Agony of Being a Depressed New Dad (Men's Health)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rewarding My Younger Self | Jon Heder on Fatherhood, Priorities, NFTs

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 08:45:00 +0000

At what point in your life did you realize that you wanted to be a father? Even as a kid, actor Jon Heder recognized he was born to be a dad. When the cultural phenomenon Napoleon Dynamite unexpectedly launched him into the spotlight in 2004, Jon knew how he’d balance that with family life: family would simply always take priority. Nearly 20 years and four kids later, Jon works when he wants to, indulges selfie-hungry fans, and keeps his priorities in check.

Episode 75 of Modern Dadhood opens with a chat about when in their lives Adam and Marc knew they wanted to have kids, and some discussion of whether the family you grow up in might impact your vision or plans for your own family. The guys introduce Jon Heder, who grew up in a family of 6, who reflects on a positive upbringing. Jon, known for his roles in films like Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory, Mama's Boy, and Tremors: Shrieker Island, knew even as a kid that he was going to be a dad. He was married young, and he and his wife began growing their family several years after the release of Napoleon Dynamite brought him international fame. Jon shares candidly about his decision to continue acting while being selective about the roles he took so that his family and faith could always remain his priorities. The conversation goes deep, and covers topics like:

• The pros and cons of raising twins
• Does growing up in a large family influence your desire to have multiple kids?
• The various ways parenthood is hard AND rewarding
• How Jon balances family with his acting career
• Bringing family to set when filming
• The fear of “oversaturating” your kids
• How Jon addresses fan interactions when he’s with his family
• The importance of modeling kindness and respect
• Jon’s NFT project “Order of the Tigons”
• And more!

LINKS:
Jon Heder (Instagram)
Jon Heder (Twitter)
Order of the Tigons (NFT Project)
Napoleon Dynamite
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

"Lovable Idiot" Reformed | SNL's Bobby Moynihan on Fatherhood, Playfulness, Self Care

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 08:45:00 +0000

What do a sheep with a jetpack, a drunk uncle, and a pot smoking manatee have in common? They’re all hilarious characters from the brilliant mind of actor/comedian Bobby Moynihan. The Saturday Night Live alum joins Adam and Marc to swap dad stories, drop a little sage advice about meditation, and talk about his new children’s book “Not All Sheep are Boring!” Spoiler alert: some are actually quite dull. Stick around after the interview for another installment of the sensational new segment Kisses & Disses.

Episode 74 opens with a brief discussion about the upcoming Halloween season, including chatting briefly about SNL's now famous "Haunted Elevator" sketch featuring Tom Hanks as David S. Pumpkins. The guys share some laughs about Bobby Moynihan, the talented SNL alum who, since leaving SNL, has created and appeared in multiple TV shows, movies, and cartoons. Bobby is welcomed into the conversation to discuss fatherhood and the inspiration behind his new kids' bedtime story "Not All Sheep Are Boring!" Conversation topics Include:

• How being a father has changed in the past couple of years
• The inspiration for the unique characters in his new book
• Bobby's dream for his young daughter to one day organically discover SNL
• How Bobby's comedy style shifted after becoming a dad
• Being on SNL vs being a dad
• The benefits of breathing and mindfulness
• And more!

After the interview, the guys follow up Episode 73's inaugural "Kisses + Disses" segment with a second rip-roaring installment.

LINKS
Not All Sheep Are Boring! (Powell's books)
Bobby Moynihan (Instagram)
Bobby Moynihan (Twitter)
Loafy
David S. Pumpkins
Bobby in SNL's "Gilly"
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

A Breadwinner's Balancing Act | Keith Belanger on Balance, Mindfulness, Fatherhood

Fri, 9 Sep 2022 10:11:33 +0000

Raise your hand if you’re sort of done with the buzz phrase work/life balance? Same. As parents, the balance that we strike every day goes far more granular than just “work” and “life.” Stress, mindfulness, nourishment, sleep, play, relationships, role modeling, mental health, social life… that’s a challenging equilibrium! And when you don’t put in the work to keep this balance in check, it can easily slip out of whack. Dad of three and early adopter of Modern Dadhood, Keith Belanger, joins us to discuss that balancing act. Don’t drop off before the “Piano Man” challenge, and a ROFLMAO-worthy new segment Kisses & Disses.

Episode 73 of Modern Dadhood opens with some laughter about the hosts' inability to grow real facial hair, and a brief back-to-school catch up. The guys quickly welcome Keith Belanger into chat. Keith divides his time between managing operations for a transportation company and entertaining crowds from behind a piano. And when he's not doing those things, he's a devoted husband and a father of three young boys. Keith speaks candidly about how he balances the various aspects of his personal life and professional life in a single income family. Keith also shares about his history as a Modern Dadhood listener, learning of the show very early on. At the end of the chat, things get bit playful when Marc quizzes Keith on Billy Joel lyrics.

Don't skip out before the end... we debut a new segment (complete with a theme song from Adam's eight-year-old) called Kisses & Disses.

LINKS:
Keith Belanger Music (official)
Keith Belanger on Instagram
Keith Belanger on YouTube
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Breaking Down The Mystery of Money | Chris Miles on Financial Freedom + Fatherhood

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 08:30:00 +0000

As if there isn’t enough we parents have to keep straight between juggling work, kids’ schedules, meal prep, endless laundry, and maybe the occasional workout sesh… And on top of it all, we’re expected to manage our finances and plan for the future. When money is abundant, this can be a fun and exciting challenge. But when money is scarce, it can be a colossal source of stress. Self-proclaimed “Anti-Financial Advisor” Chris Miles, father of 8 and host of Money Ripples, joins Adam and Marc to dispel some money myths, share advice directly from his personal experiences, and educate us on some best practices when it comes to our finances. Stick around after the interview for a new installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Episode 72 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief catch-up between the guys as they reflect on a recent get together with their families. Marc goes awkward and asks Adam if he has money, which breaks the ice for a great chat about becoming parents and how your relationship with money changes. For many young parents, in addition to student loans, rent, mortgage, insurance, utilities, and more, they're suddenly faced with childcare expenses and the idea of saving for future college tuition. The guys welcome Chris Miles into the conversation. Chris is a self-proclaimed "Anti-Financial Advisor," whose company and podcast "Money Ripples" educates listeners on best practices for saving money, creating passive income, and building wealth to work toward not only financial independence, but financial freedom. Chris also happens to be a father of 8 kids! Conversation topics include:

• How work/life balance works as an entrepreneur and father of 8
• The mistakes that Chris made along the way that helped him solve the mystery of money
• How typical financial advisors work... and why Chris disagrees
• "Financial independence" vs. "financial freedom"
• Tips for how to manage your expenses
• How to change the way you think about money
• How and when you should start talking to your kids about finances
• And more!

The guys round out the episode with Marc sharing a quiz-based installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Links:
Money Ripples (official)
Chris Miles (LinkedIn)
Money Ripples (Apple Podcasts)
Money Ripples (YouTube)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Superpower: Unlocked | Jeff Fajans on the Benefits of Creative Thinking

Fri, 5 Aug 2022 08:45:00 +0000

Announcement: Modern Dadhood is featured in the August 2022 issue of Podcast Magazine! Subscribe at http://podcastmagazine.com or follow Modern Dadhood on Facebook or LinkedIn to view the article.

Part of being a parent is helping to teach our kids to have—and utilize—a creative mindset. And even though sometimes it can be a struggle to bring a creative idea to life, there are plenty of lessons to be learned from the process itself. Jeff Fajans, a Creative Performance & Executive Coach, joins Adam and Marc to chat about the potential benefits of carving out time in our lives for creative passion. To round out the episode, Marc shares some recent bedtime routine struggles.

Episode 71 of Modern Dadhood opens with a discussion of Marc's 4 year old son's new chosen moniker and accompanying hand signal, followed immediately by Adam sharing a recent grocery store experience for a conscience check. The guys begin talking about the value of dads expressing themselves creatively, and Marc gives an update on his musical project Stuffed Animal before they play back a recent chat with Creative Performance & Executive Coach and musician, Jeff Fajans. Jeff lives in Colorado with his wife and son Hendrix, and releases music for kids under the name "MrBoodaddy." Conversation topics include:

• How Jeff uniquely blends executive coaching and inspiring people to follow their creative passions
• What holds so many parents back from pursuing creative endeavors
• Jeff's inspiration for starting the MrBoodaddy project
• His writing and recording process
• What Jeff hopes that Hendrix will get out of the experience
• And more!

To round out the episode, Marc shares some recent bedtime routine snuggles.

Links:
Jeff Fajans (official)
MrBoodaddy (official)
MrBoodaddy (Spotify)
MrBooDaddy (Instagram)
Strategies to Get (and Stay) Unstuck (LinkedIn Learning)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Creating A Safe Place To Fail | Pete Murray on Boy Scouts, Leadership, Fatherhood

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 08:40:00 +0000

There’s no argument that we, as humans, learn from our mistakes. As we grow, we apply learnings from our negative or challenging experiences in order to be happier, more comfortable, or more prepared in the future. As parents though, it can be a challenge to give our children the opportunity to fail at something—especially when we have the foresight to see it coming and the ability to prevent it. But is it doing our kids justice if we always shield them from the often valuable lessons that come from failing? Our guest Pete Murray, a father of two teenagers and former Boy Scouts of America troop leader, says no. Pete joins us to chat about his childhood in the Boy Scouts program, and the art of balancing Scoutmaster and Dad.

Episode 70 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief session of commiserating about emotional children and the desire to leave one's body in order to escape the drama. The guys begin talking about Boy Scouts of America. Though neither Adam nor Marc participated in the program, they ponder about the values of the organization before welcoming Pete Murray into the chat. Pete works for Firaxis Games by day, and until recently, served as Scoutmaster for his teenage son's Boy Scouts troop. Pete candidly shares his experiences with Boy Scouts both as a scout he was growing up, and as a leader when his son went through the program. Pete shares a lesson that he learned during his time with Boy Scouts which centers around the notion of failing in a safe environment, and learning from your mistakes to become a more experienced and well rounded person. Other topics include:

• Pete's journey spanning multiple roles at Firaxis Games
• Boy Scouts as a family tradition
• The value of giving young people opportunities to fail and learn from their mistakes
• Positive peer pressure
• Dad bonding
• And more!

LINKS
Pete Murray (LinkedIn)
Boy Scouts of America
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Workaholics Anonymous | Matt Fox on Balance, Fulfillment, Fatherhood

Fri, 8 Jul 2022 08:40:00 +0000

Though the phrase “work/life balance” has taken on new meaning in recent years, the concept is one that many parents struggle to achieve. Balance is a very individual thing, but at its core, it’s about identifying what’s important to us and consciously making time for those things. Matt Fox coaches men to live happy and fulfilled lives as dads and working professionals. Matt joins Modern Dadhood to share some wisdom. Afterward, Marc shares a blasphemous So That's a Thing Now.

Episode 69 of Modern Dadhood opens with the guys catching up on Marc's 4 year old fraternal twin boys, followed by Adam's recount of his 8-year-old daughter's first time at an overnight camp. The guys briefly discuss the work of Matt Fox, a London-based father of two, and coach who works with dads to identify their personal priorities and balance their work with their families and passions. They share a recent conversation between Adam and Matt, which covers topics like:

• Breaking the "workaholic" habit
• Setting, and sticking to, personal boundaries
• Personal income as it relates to happiness
• The value of meditation and/or stillness
• And more!

After the interview, Marc shares a blasphemous So That's a Thing Now which finds one of his boys blaming his woes on a divisive political figure.

LINKS:
Matt Fox Coaching (official website)
Matt Fox Coaching (LinkedIn)
Matt Fox Coaching (Facebook)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Setting The Fatherhood Foundation | Kendall Smith on First Time Fatherhood

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 08:30:00 +0000

First time dads-to-be might receive a satiric book from a friend or relative on "how not to screw up" as they experience the first year of fatherhood. And sure, there's value in step-by-step instructions on executing the perfect swaddle... but what about remembering to communicate respectfully with your partner when you both are at the end of your rope? And what about being a role model to your child when you might not have had a dad who was a role model for you? Author (and dad) Kendall Smith addresses this and more in his new playbook for first-time dads, "Rookie Father," and he joins us to talk all about it. Stick around after the chat as we rate a series of ridiculous DAD JOKES submitted by our listeners!

Episode 68 of Modern Dadhood opens with a reflection on Marc's love for vintage diner-style coffee mugs. The guys discuss early Summer in New England, and Adam shares about his daughters' (5 and 8 years old) very different stages of bike riding. The guys tease that after the interview portion of the show, they'll share some dad jokes submitted by listeners, and will rate them in real time. Adam and Marc welcome Kendall Smith to the conversation. Kendall is a father of one and the author of "Rookie Father: A Playbook For Men Experiencing Fatherhood For The First Time." Kendall grew up estranged from his father from age 8 on, and recently released his book for dads-to-be who also may not have had a father figure in their lives. Conversation topics include:

• Men and "self help" books
• The structure of "Rookie Father"
• Kendall's tenure with Men's Health
• Men growing up in a single parent home
• Learning to be a dad if you didn't have one present
• The value of positivity and a positive mindset
• The importance of fiscal responsibility
• And more!

More than two years ago, we invited listeners to leave us a voice mail with their best DAD JOKES. We got a bunch of great submissions, and then our plan was derailed... but we've finally put them to use! Marc and Adam react to dad jokes submitted by our amazing (and hilarious!) listeners.

Happy Father's Day Weekend!

Links:
The Rookie Father (website)
The Rookie Father (Indie Bound)
Kendall Smith (Facebook)
Kendall Smith (Instagram)
Kendall Smith (Twitter)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Looking at Problems With Perspective | Ben Feller on Fatherhood, Empathy, Problem Solving

Fri, 3 Jun 2022 08:30:00 +0000

It's easy to get frustrated when your kid loses their mind over something that you know is inconsequential. The old adage "don't sweat the small stuff" doesn't really apply when they don't have enough life experience to know what the "small stuff" even is. As parents, with decades of life experience under our belts, it's our job to help them examine the actual magnitude of their problems. (And if we're lucky, maybe the next problem they encounter will involve less theatrics.) Ben Feller, former Chief White House Correspondent and father to 10-year-old Sam, joins us to shed some light on how best to approach putting problems into perspective with our kids... and how they can surprise us with their wisdom, too.

Episode 67 of Modern Dadhood opens with a rather shocking discovery around anagrams of Adam's and Marc's names. The guys chat about a new milestone for the 4-year-old Checket twins: verbal altercation. The guys use the example of Marc's boys new found communication style to transition into a chat about problems and perspective. They welcome Ben Feller, former Chief White House Correspondent for the Associated Press, Father of a ten-year-old son, and author of "Big Problems, Little Problems" into the conversation. Ben talks about the inspiration for writing his book, the value of helping your kids understand the true impact of their problems, and how they too, can help us as dads understand that our problems may not be as big as we sometimes feel they are. Conversation topics include:

• The importance of slowing down and listening to your kid
• How to help your child understand the actual impact of their problem
• The importance of a single father/son dynamic in a children's book
• How Ben dealt with a stressful problem aboard Air Force One
• And more!

The guys conclude the episode with a soul-bearing series of Confessions.

LINKS:
Big Problems, Little Problems (official book website)
Ben Feller (Instagram)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Searching For Answers on Masculinity | Michael Ian Black on Manhood, Strength, Vulnerability

Fri, 20 May 2022 08:30:00 +0000

The concept of masculinity is straight-up intimidating to even begin to comprehend. There’s no real cut-and-dry definition. Like so many big concepts, it’s far easier to throw your hands up and say, “it’s too complicated!” rather than commit to understanding the topic more deeply. Luckily for us, comedian Michael Ian Black has spent countless hours exploring masculinity. In his book A Better Man, he approaches what it means to be masculine through an open letter to his teenage son. His musings pave a clear path for any father, son, mother, daughter (or, incidentally, saber-tooth tiger) to approach the subject with an open mind and heart.

Episode 66 of Modern Dadhood open with Marc reflecting on his recent experience with Covid, and a belated Happy Mother's Day wish to all of the moms, before the guys throw it to the second half of the chat with Michael Ian Black. Michael is a father of two college-age children, Elijah and Ruthie, and is best known for his roles in Wet Hot American Summer, The State, and the comedy troupe Stella. Additionally, he hosts the podcasts "Obscure," "How To Be Amazing", and Topics (with Stella cohort Michael Showalter). Michael has written books for grown-ups and kids, and his 2020 book A Better Man: A (Mostly Serious) Letter to My Son, which balances the exploration of topics like "toxic masculinity" and gender inequality with personal anecdotes from his childhood and career in comedy. Conversation topics include:

• Emotional strength and vulnerability
• The value of men expressing when they need help
• Why the concept of masculinity is hard to define
• Various ways to approach thinking about masculinity
• The cultural importance of A Better Man
• The importance of demonstrating healthy masculinity to our children
• And more!

This is part two of a two part conversation.

LINKS:
Michael Ian Black (official)
Michael Ian Black (Instagram)
A Better Man (book)
Obscure (podcast)
Stella
Michael & Michael Have Issues
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Working Toward A Better Man | Michael Ian Black on Fatherhood, Empty Nesting, Ironic Detachment

Fri, 6 May 2022 08:30:00 +0000

Episode 65 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief discussion about being run down and defeated by our children. The guys gab for a bit before introducing comedian Michael Ian Black into the conversation. Michael is a father of two college-age children, Elijah and Ruthie, and is best known for his roles in Wet Hot American Summer, The State, and the comedy troupe Stella. Additionally, he hosts the podcasts "Obscure," "How To Be Amazing", and Topics (with Stella cohort Michael Showalter). Michael has written books for grown-ups and kids, and his 2020 book A Better Man: A (Mostly Serious) Letter to My Son, which balances the exploration of topics like "toxic masculinity" and gender inequality with personal anecdotes from his childhood and career in comedy. Conversation topics include:

• Becoming empty nesters
• How your relationship with your kids changes as they grow
• Kitchen appliance trends
• Sarcasm vs sincerity as a dad
• Ironic Detachment
• What is "strength," really?
• And more!

This is part one of a two part conversation. Subscribe now to be alerted when part two drops!

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

She / Her / DAD | Tessa White on Trans Fatherhood

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 08:45:00 +0000

What does it mean to be a dad? Does it require a certain degree of commitment to loving, protecting, and raising your offspring to bestow the title of dad? Or at its most basic, are you a dad if you've used your penis to procreate with a woman? In episode 64, Tessa White, a transgender woman and parent of 5, joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to declare proudly that you don't even have to be a MAN to be a DAD. Have a different opinion? Go pound sand.

Episode 64 of Modern Dadhood opens with an ASMR exercise from Marc, as he takes immense pleasure in destroying a half-deflated foil birthday balloon. Your brain will tickle as the knife enters the now pathetic remnant of a bygone celebration and the weak mostly-just-air-helium from Dollar General encounters the otherwise clean air of Marc's home studio. The guys move on to a discussion about guest conversations which take them out of their comfort zones (in a good way!) before they introduce Tessa White, the episode's guest. Tessa owns an HVAC company in Oklahoma City, is a transgender woman and proud LGBTQ+ advocate and activist, and is a parent to 5 children (including two sets of twins) who call her DAD. The powerful conversation touches on topics including:

Links:
Dads Hug Too
PFlag Oklahoma City
OKC Pride
Diversity Center of Oklahoma
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Dad on Pills (Part 2) | Chris Gethard on Parenting and Mental Illness

Fri, 1 Apr 2022 08:40:00 +0000

How do you prepare for the day when your toddler is old enough to uncover a part of you that they didn't know existed? Comedian, writer, podcaster, and dad Chris Gethard opens up candidly about his fear of this inevitable day in this second half of our our interview. Be sure to listen for a heart warming surprise during the conversation. After, Adam ruminates on a recent Instant Regret involving a beloved doll we'll call "Baby Baby." This interview with Chris Gethard is part two of two. [Listen to part one here.]

Use this link for a free month subscription to Scribd where you can access Chris Gethard: Dad on Pills and many other amazing titles!

Episode 63 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief conversation about something called an "amuse-bouche," and a story from Marc about one of his 4-year-old twins working through some big emotions like a true champion. Marc shares that something very special happens during the second half of our interview with comedian Chris Gethard: Previous Modern Dadhood guest Brian Manor (Episode 41) is invited back to meet Chris, whose 2017 HBO special "Career Suicide" had a meaningful impact on Brian's own journey with mental illness. The conversation covers topics including:

• The uncluttered, unbiased love that a kid shows their parent
• Chris' fear of his son Cal discovering his writing and stage work
• Previous guest Brian Manor addresses Chris directly
• Beard growing techniques
• The risk of becoming a spokesperson for depression
• And more!

Use this link for a free month subscription to Scribd where you can access Dad on Pills and many other amazing titles!

Adam shares an Instant Regret involving a doll and an emotional 8-year-old.

LINKS:
Chris Gethard (official)
Dad on Pills (on Scribd)
Chris on Twitter
Chris on Instagram
Beautiful Anonymous Podcast
Career Suicide (on HBO)
The Chris Gethard Show
Diane Alber: A Little SPOT Of Emotion Books
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Dad on Pills (Part 1) | Chris Gethard on Mental Health, Fatherhood, Vulnerability

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 09:27:17 +0000

There’s no definitive guidebook to parenthood. (It would sure be a lot easier if there were though, huh?) In episode 62, Adam and Marc wax lyrical with comedian, actor, writer, fellow podcaster, and dad Chris Gethard about toddler poop, fatherhood fears, vulnerability, and destigmatizing mental illness. With Chris’ essay Dad On Pills serving as a guidepost, the conversation explores Chris’ determination to normalize the conversation around mental health. After, Marc shares a mildly macabre incident in the segment "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?" This interview with Chris Gethard is part one of two.

Use this link for a free month subscription to Scribd where you can access Chris Gethard: Dad on Pills and many other amazing titles!

Episode 62 of Modern Dadhood opens with an acknowledgement of the passing of the amazing Emilio Delgado, who played Luis on Sesame Street for decades, and was kind enough to join us on the podcast in July of 2020. The guys get right into part one of their conversation with comedian, actor, writer, and fellow podcaster Chris Gethard. Chris is promoting his new essay on Scribd called "Dad on Pills" which is a powerful piece about his history with mental illness, his experience becoming a father, and the art of balancing these two big pieces of his life. Chris discusses topics such as:

• Fleeing from his home in Queens with a newborn when the pandemic hit
• Getting poop on your hands
• Potty training: boys vs. girls
• Normalizing the mental health/mental illness conversation
• Moving away from "workaholic" culture
• Being "too soft" vs being "tough"
• And more!

The second part of the conversation will be featured in our next episode.

Use this link for a free month subscription to Scribd where you can access Dad on Pills and many other amazing titles!

Marc shares a particularly stabby Did I Just Say That Out Loud? before the guys out the episode.

LINKS:
Chris Gethard (official)
Dad on Pills (on Scribd)
Chris on Twitter
Chris on Instagram
Beautiful Anonymous Podcast
Career Suicide (on HBO)
The Chris Gethard Show
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Nurturing Healthy Food Habits For Our Kids | Joel Feren on Fatherhood, Diet, Nutrition

Fri, 4 Mar 2022 09:45:00 +0000

Does this sound familiar: You painstakingly prepare a delicious, balanced dinner. Next, you curate the food on plates in a way that definitely highlights your attention to detail. Then, finally, you set the culinary masterpiece in front of your kids to a chorus of moans and gags. Instead of a “looks delicious!” you get an “ew gross!"... Heartbreaking, right? Thankfully, there are dads like Joel Feren, accredited Nutritionist and Dietician, who are willing to drop some mealtime wisdom while commiserating right along with us. Joel—known as “The Nutrition Guy”—talks with Adam and Marc about encouraging healthy food choices and what works with his own two-year-old daughter, Ruby. After the interview, test your knowledge of 90s cereal mascots!

Episode 61 of Modern Dadhood opens with a rather long, disgusting, and frankly uncalled for belch from Marc. The guys discuss their relationships with food, the eating habits of their families when they were growing up, and how they try to instill positive eating habits and food choices in their kids. The guys welcome Joel Feren into the conversation. Joel shares about diet and nutrition both from the perspective of an accredited nutritionist and dietician, and as a father of a two-year-old daughter. Joel shares colorful, fun, colorful, (and sometimes mouthwatering) photos on his Instagram channel "The Nutrition Guy" which feature some of his favorite recipes and demonstrate how he invites Ruby to participate in food preparation. The conversation covers topics such as:

• When is snacking appropriate and when is it a problem?
• Are regimented "mealtimes" important?
• The concept of "Your body knows best"
• How to incorporate your kids into the meal planning process
• The benefits of involving your kids in cooking/food prep
• What "safe foods" are
• Techniques for introducing your kids to new foods
• The best language to use when discussing "good foods" vs "bad foods"
• How to handle food and meal prep when you have a newborn
• And more!

Post-interview, Marc surprises Adam with a round of "90s Cereal Mascot Trivia." Play along while you listen!

LINKS:
The Nutrition Guy (website)
The Nutrition Guy (Instagram)
The Nutrition Guy (Facebook)
The Nutrition Guy (Twitter)
The Nutrition Guy's Kitchen (E-Book)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Being You, Unapologetically | Owen Janes on Acceptance, Self Confidence, Influencing Young People

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 09:40:00 +0000

Ever find yourself scrolling, and suddenly you’re thumb to face with someone so striking it stops you in your tracks? You click through and find that even though their content may not directly apply to you, the creator has a magnetic energy that draws you in? That’s Owen Janes, a sales professional-turned-influencer whose social media presence shares an important message of love, acceptance, and self-confidence through quirky lip-syncing and beard care tutorials. Owen joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to chat about his magnificent ginger hair, Viking-inspired beard, and positive influence on young people. Don’t duck out before Adam shares his recent Instant Regret!

The guys open the episode with a conversation about an old photo that Adam found of Marc and his wife from the early 2000s. Adam describes Marc's wardrobe and inquires about Marc's fashion choices have shifted in the past 20 years (and why.) The guys chat about conforming to societal norms a bit before welcoming social media influencer Owen Janes into the chat. Owen explains that for many years, he conformed to the traditional "masculine" look, but after getting married, decided to grow his ginger hair out. Then, when the pandemic hit in March of 2020, Owen took to social media with the goal of inspiring some positivity and laughter. He began growing out his beard, and before long, his signature look and quirky posts began to cultivate a following. Fast forward a couple of years and Owen's content is a mixture of fun and quirky lip-sync videos, FAQs from his followers about hair and beard care, and tutorials and product demonstrations centered around hair care and beard grooming. Those who follow Owen are treated to a generous dose of positive energy, and an an important takeaway: Be yourself, and reject the opinions of those who can't accept that. Topics include:

• When and why Owen started actively posting to social channels
• Being bullied for having ginger hair
• Receiving thankful DMs from parents
• The importance of being unapologetically YOU
• Rejecting trolls and bullies
• Discovering and following what makes you happy
• How to support your kids in exploring their interests
• And more!

Adam shares a recent Instant Regret demonstrating what NOT to say when your kids are arguing in the car.

LINKS:
Owen on Instagram
Owen on TikTok
The Beard Struggle (OJ's 20% discount/referral link!)
Owen on Facebook
Owen on Twitter
Owen on YouTube
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Finding Balance as a New Dad | Matt Gourley on Fatherhood, Establishing Personal Priorities

Fri, 4 Feb 2022 09:45:00 +0000

Becoming a new parent can be a special kind of mayhem. Add a global pandemic into the mix, and the chaos of the first few months are elevated to a new level. But depending on your situation, those challenges may be coupled with opportunity. In Episode 59, podcaster, producer, actor, and all around creative human, Matt Gourley, joins the conversation to discuss the joys, challenges, and insanity of new fatherhood—and how this shift has helped him discover some new perspective on what’s truly important.

Episode 59 of Modern Dadhood kicks off with a short discussion about the podcast's brief winter hibernation where the guys describe life chugging forward and the typical madness of having young kids. Adam shares the story leading up to landing a conversation with new dad Matt Gourley. Matt is the host of Superego, producer and co-host of Conan. O'Brien Needs a Friend, actor, musician, and designer. In our time together, we discuss topics including:

• Finding peace in the first few months of parenthood
• The importance of a paternity leave
• Redefining work/life balance
• The importance of maintaining a sense of self
• Anxiety associated with trying to keep your newborn safe during the pandemic
• What kind of dad Matt envisioned he'd be before having kids

Post-guest, Marc shares a whopper of a "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?" which can't be described... the story must be heard to be believed.

LINKS:
Matt Gourley (website)
Matt Gourley on Twitter
Matt Gourley on Instagram
Housecat And Home
Townland
Superego
Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend
With Gourley and Rust
I Was There Too
James Bonding
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Fatherhood, Art, and Intergalactic Portals | "Louie and Bear" Author Brady Smith

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:50:00 +0000

When Brady Smith takes something on, he goes all in on it. Whether it’s raising his two children, being a devoted husband, designing and painting a 12 foot wide mural, or keeping an illustrated journal EVERY DAY for 20 years, Brady gives it 100%. Adam and Marc talk with Brady—an artist, actor, and author—about his latest endeavor: creating a fun-filled action-adventure graphic novel series complete with secret portals and a bear-sized hamster. After the interview, stick around to hear Marc’s latest Instant Regret.

Episode 58, the final Modern Dadhood episode of 2021, opens with some reflection by Marc and Adam on comic books and graphic novels. Marc reflects on about some of his favorite comics growing up, and discovering graphic novels that he can enjoy with his nearly 4-year-old twins.

The guys welcome author, artist, and actor Brady Smith into the conversation. Brady is known for his acting roles in Parks & Recreation, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Alexa & Katie, for his amazing and unique artwork, for his pandemic-inspired Instagram-series-turned-book "Random Acts of Drawness"... and most recently, for his newly published graphic novel for young readers, "Louie and Bear in the Land of Anything Goes." (Let it also be noted that his life partner is the amazing Tiffani Thiessen, who you may remember from EVERYTHING!

Brady chats candidly about writing for young readers, his unique illustration style, the inspiration for Louie and Bear, and other topics including:

• Brady's daily illustrated journal
•. WHY and HOW he works important life lessons into his work
• Accidentally writing his own version of "Dog Man"
• The difficulty of looking at your creative work objectively
• The future of Louie and Bear
• And more!

Marc shares a new installment of the smash hit segment "Instant Regret" which involves an unfortunate exclamation in front of his kids, before the guys close out the episode.

LINKS:
Brady Smith (official website)
Brady Smith (Instagram)
Louie and Bear in the Land of Anything Goes
Random Acts of Drawness!
You're Missing It!
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Adam's Top 5

Fri, 3 Dec 2021 09:45:00 +0000

Through the last 50 plus episodes, the conversations on Modern Dadhood have ranged from silly to serious, covered topics from dealing with big emotions to what it’s like raising children when you live on a boat. The guys have been joined by an assemblage of old friends, new friends, and, on occasion, notable celebs. Two episodes ago (Ep 55), Marc ushered a trip down memory lane sharing 5 of his favorite selections from our conversations. Now it's Adam's turn!

Episode 57 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief conversation about Thanksgiving, and the guys commiserate about the picky eating habits of their kids. Adam tees up the compilation episode: He has chosen short selections from 5 past episodes that he found enjoyable, educational, and memorable. Additionally, he answers several questions about some of his favorite episodes and "pie in the sky" guests.

Adam's selected clips were extracted from the following episodes:

Episode 32: Astronaut Dad (Winston Scott)
Episode 23: Father Figure, On Camera and Off (Emilio Delgado)
Episode 34: Podcasting Dads Talk Dad Podcasts (Rory Scovel)
Episode 33: A Father Facing Mortality (Robert Bailey)
Episode 40: The Gang's All Here (Sean Carrillo)

LINKS:
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids music)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Roadmap To Dadhood | Fatherly's Tyghe Trimble on Communication, Social Life, Roughhousing

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 09:45:00 +0000

Try to transport yourself back to the months before you became a dad. What did the word "fatherhood" mean to you? Prior to kids, your definition may have been colored by your relationship with your own father. Would your current definition of "fatherhood" be different? Modern Dadhood welcomes Thyge Trimble, father of two, and Editor in Chief of Fatherly, to chat about his team's new book, aptly titled "Fatherhood." The book has something for everyone—whether you're a dad-to-be or a seasoned professional. Also, things get dark in a new installment of "Confessions."

Modern Dadhood Episode 56 opens with reflections on Marc and Adam's preparedness to become fathers, which includes far more than learning how to change a diaper or do a proper swaddle. The guys discuss relationships with their spouses, family values, and pushing forward when times get tough. The conversation is inspired by a new book from the editors of Fatherly entitled "Fatherhood: A Comprehensive Guide to Birth, Budgeting, Finding Flow, and Becoming a Happy Parent." Tyghe Trimble, a New York City-based dad of two and Editor in Chief of Fatherly, joins the conversation to chat about some of the topics in the book and why it's a valuable read for ALL dads. Topics include:

• What exactly an "Editor in Chief" does
• Why (and when) communication with your spouse can be hard
• The value of shared values
• The unique structure of the book "Fatherhood"
• A staggering statistic around new fathers' social lives
• The profound importance and many benefits of roughhousing

The guys get their "Confessions" on... and Marc takes things to a dark and hilarious place.

LINKS:
Fatherly
Fatherhood (excerpts from the book)
Fatherhood (the book at Powell's
Fatherhood (the book) on Amazon
Modern Dadhood Tees and Dadhoodies
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Marc's Top 5

Fri, 5 Nov 2021 10:20:16 +0000

Through the last 50 plus episodes, the conversations on Modern Dadhood have ranged from silly to serious, covered topics from dealing with big emotions to what it’s like raising children when you live on a boat. The guys have been joined by an assemblage of old friends, new friends, and, on occasion, notable celebs. In episode 55, Adam and Marc take a slight detour from the usual banter/interview/recurring segment format and take a trip down memory lane. In the first of a two-part series, Marc recounts moments from five interviews that he found particularly insightful. We’ll hear Adam reveal his top five in an upcoming episode.

Episode 55 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief conversation about Halloween before Marc tees up the format of this compilation episode: He has chosen short selections from 5 past episodes that he found particularly insightful. Additionally, he answers several questions about some of his favorite episodes and "pie in the sky" guests.

Marc's selected clips were extracted from the following episodes:

Episode 17: Expanding the Definition of Creativity (Chris Ballew)
Episode 26: Crying Over Spilt Milk (Scotty Iseri)
Episode 29: Discovering The Hidden Gems (Jon Klassen)
Episode 37: Heavy Topics, Young Minds (Patrick Coleman)
Episode 50: How To Be A Feminist Dad (Jordan Shapiro)

LINKS:
Stuffed Animal (Marc's kids music)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Sometimes Good Things Take Time | Ryan Murphy's IVF Journey Part 2

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:50:00 +0000

Previously, with guest Ryan Murphy, things got downright honest when he recounted his and his wife’s long and, at times challenging journey through IUI and now with IVF. In part two of the conversation, Adam and Marc get a real-time progress report. Also, the guys unveil a new Mike-Birbiglia-inspired segment: Instant Regret. [This is part two of a two-part interview.]

[Click here to listen to Part One of Modern Dadhood's conversation with Ryan Murphy]

The guys open episode 54 by continuing their conversation about some challenges with one of Marc's twins before returning to their conversation with guest Ryan Murphy. Ryan continues to detail the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) process which he and his wife are currently immersed in. The conversation touches on:

• Statistics/rates of success with IVF
• The emotional rollercoaster of hope and disappointment
• Selecting the sex of your child
• "Geriatric" pregnancy
• Having a hopeful mindset
• And more

Post-interview, the guys try out a brand new segment (with a spiffy new jingle): Instant Regret. (No explanation necessary.)

[Click here to listen to Part One of Modern Dadhood's conversation with Ryan Murphy]

LINKS:
Chukka Talk With Ryan Murphy (Apple Podcasts)
Intrauterine Insemination
In Vitro Fertilization
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

An Arduous Path Toward Parenthood | Ryan Murphy's IVF Journey Part 1

Fri, 8 Oct 2021 08:45:00 +0000

Natural conception, in vitro fertilization, intrauterine insemination, adoption... Heck, even accidental pregnancy. The path to parenthood can take many forms. For some, it’s more arduous than others. Long-time friend of Marc, fellow podcaster, and all-around great guy, Ryan Murphy joins the show to share his and his wife’s journey with IVF. Things even get a little... personal here and there. At the top of the show, Adam obliges a much-need therapy session for Marc. [This is part one of a two-part interview.]

In Episode 53 of Modern Dadhood, the guys open with a discussion around a stressful and exhausting situation in Marc's home which involves one of his twins. The guys welcome one of Marc's longtime friends into the conversation. Ryan Murphy shares candidly about his and his wife's unsuccessful attempts to conceive a child naturally, which led them to IUI (intrauterine insemination) and then to IVF (in vitro fertilization). In Part 1 of the conversation, the guys discuss topics including:

• The expectation that it will be "so easy" to get pregnant
• "Geriatric pregnancy"
• IUI versus IVF
• What is a "Collection Room"?
• A typical IVF timeline
• And more

The conversation continues in the next episode of Modern Dadhood on 10/22/21

LINKS:
Chukka Talk With Ryan Murphy (Apple Podcasts)
Intrauterine Insemination
In Vitro Fertilization
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Work From Home Dadding | Pete Morse on Entrepreneurship, Fatherhood, WFH

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 08:35:00 +0000

For the last year and a half, many parents have been forced to adjust their work schedules to accommodate online learning, changes to child care, and more. For some of us, working from home has become second nature. For others of us, it's a chosen lifestyle. Today's guest is Pete Morse, a name you hear in the credits of each episode. Pete is a sound engineer, mixer, musician, and composer who constructed his state-of-the-art studio "Red Vault Audio" off the side of his house, awarding him the flexibility to work non-traditional hours and be more present with his wife and two young daughters. Listen to the end for a Paw Patrol-themed Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Episode 52 of Modern Dadhood opens with the guys reminding listeners that they are NOT experts in fatherhood, and then catching up on Marc and his wife's first kid-free getaway. The guys welcome Pete Morse into the conversation. Pete is the beauty and brains behind Red Vault Audio, a studio in Portland, Maine, which Pete designed and constructed within his home. Pete describes his line of work, and the joys, challenges, and general insanity of operating a business attached to your home when you have 5- and 7-year-old daughters. The conversation covers:

• Inspiring curiosity in your kids for what you do
• Supporting our kid's interest in music and instruments
• Kids crashing meetings and recording sessions
• The importance/impossibility of setting boundaries
• Tips for getting better audio in your Zoom meetings
• And more!

Marc rounds out the episode with a rather alarming and mildly outrageous Paw Patrol-themed Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

LINKS
Red Vault Audio (homepage)
Red Vault Audio (Instagram)
Pete Kilpatrick Band - Songs From The Green Room (mixed and mastered by Pete Morse)
Ohmaga! Guster With The Omaha Symphony (mixed my Pete Morse)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Fatherhood Lessons From The Bedside | "Nurse Papa" David Metzger on Love, Life, and Loss

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 08:45:00 +0000

One might expect that a career spent in a hospital caring for sick children and grieving families would be a terribly depressing way to spend your life… but it’s all about perspective. Pediatric Oncology Nurse, David Metzger, uses words like "laughter" and "joy" when describing a typical day caring for children battling cancer. And at the end of his shift, he carries new lessons home to his wife and his two healthy kids, with an enlightened perspective on fatherhood and life. David joins us to share stories of love, life, and loss, and to chat about his book (and podcast) Nurse Papa.

Episode 51 opens with the guys catching up over a bit of a therapy session, which finds Adam venting about the constant bickering between his children. How can you diffuse the situation when literally anything you say elevates the emotion even more. When the therapy session comes to a close, the guys introduce David Metzger, R.N. to the conversation. David is a father of two, and a Pediatric Oncology Nurse at UCSF Beniof Children’s Hospital in Oakland, CA where he cares for children with cancer. He also hosts a podcast and recently authored a book of the same name, “Nurse Papa,” which chronicles many experiences, stories, and lessons he has learned as a nurse and a father. They discuss topics including:

• The path that led David to pediatric cancer care
• The presence and importance of humor in his line of work
• The unique relationship between nurse and patient
• The shift between caring for sick children and fathering healthy ones
• How becoming a father better prepared David for his job
• And more

Marc shares an absolute “laugh riot” of a So That’s a Thing Now which involves something called “pink sauce” before the guys close out the show in typical asinine fashion.

Links:
Nurse Papa (the book) on Amazon
Nurse Papa (the podcast) on Apple
Nurse Papa (official website)
David Metzger (Instagram)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

How To Be A Feminist Dad | Jordan Shapiro on Feminism, Toxic Masculinity, Misconceptions

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 08:45:00 +0000

What is "feminism"? What does it mean to be a feminist? Is it for women only? Do feminists hate men? As it turns out, there are many misconceptions about what it means to be a feminist. We invited professor, author, thought leader, and dad, Jordan Shapiro, to discuss what feminism REALLY means... and how as dads, we can actively work to be better parents and better people.

Episode 50 finds Marc and Adam returning from a short Summer hiatus, and after a brief catch-up, they dive head first into a topic which they both are painfully unqualified to opine on: feminism! The guys discuss several definitions of the term, as well as some of the misconceptions about feminism. They introduce Jordan Shapiro into the conversation. Jordan is a professor, thought leader, and author of the new book "Father Figure: How To Be a Feminist Dad". Jordan's book has received impressive reviews and accolades, and in our conversation, we cover topics such as:

• The REAL definition of feminism
• The importance of modeling compassion and inclusivity to our kids
• #metoo movement
• Cancel culture
• Toxic masculinity
• Gender essentialism
• And more!

Adam shares a stabbing-themed "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?" before the guys close out the episode.

Links:
Farther Figure: How To Be a Feminist Dad
Jordan Shapiro (official website)
Jordan Shapiro (Twitter)
Jordan Shapiro (Instagram)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal Music
Adam Flaherty

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Learning to be a Son and a Father | Craig Melvin on his book "Pops"

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 08:45:00 +0000

Have you ever sat down to interview one of your parents? It’s not always an easy task—even for someone who interviews influential people for a living! Adam and Marc welcome guest Craig Melvin, father of two and acclaimed news anchor/personality on Dateline NBC and The Today Show, to discuss his new book “Pops: Learning To Be A Son And A Father.” Listen to the end of the episode for a round of “Confessions.”

Episode 49 opens with a brief reflection on the show; specifically, how our collective experiences as dads can share so many similarities and be so different at the same time. The guys share a bit about NBC anchor/personality Craig Melvin’s new book “Pops: Learning To Be A Son And A Father”, a book he began working on during a 2020 quarantine. For much of Craig’s life, he and his brothers didn’t have much of a relationship with their father Lawrence, largely due to his alcohol and gambling addictions. A 2018 family intervention cleared a path to recovery for Lawrence, and an opportunity to redefine relationships with his sons and grandchildren—Including Craig’s son and daughter. Craig shared candidly about his family, and the process of interviewing his father for “Pops.” Topics include:

• The inspiration for writing “Pops”
• The fear of interviewing a parent
• The importance of other “father figures” in Craig’s life
• The nature of addiction
• How the notion of “it takes a village” has shifted
• Craig’s kids’ relationship with their grandfather
• What “Modern Dadhood” means to Craig

The guys round out the episode with a new batch of dadhood “Confessions”.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Buy “Pops” at Powell’s
Craig’s digital series “Dads Got This”
Craig Melvin on Instagram
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Dad I Never Knew | Hypnotist Paul Ramsay Redefines "Family"

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 09:36:46 +0000

What does the word "family" mean to you? Is it your immediate blood relatives with whom you share DNA? Or can "family" be chosen based on interpersonal relationships, regardless of ancestry? And who gets to decide the official definition, if not each one of us individually? Today, Adam and Marc welcome guest Paul Ramsay, a certified hypnotist, to share a compelling story about the dad he never knew, and how his experience as a son redefined the word "family" for him. Also, Marc's boys go a bit wild with some new rubber drinking straws!

Episode 48 finds the guys back together recording in person for the first time in almost 16 months. They open the conversation by reminiscing about the past year or more, and discuss their skepticism about fully accepting a return to normalcy. The guys welcome guest Paul Ramsay into the conversation. Paul is a Certified Hypnotist and a longtime friend and collaborator of Adam's. The guys quickly turn the show over to Paul, who recounts a compelling story about his experience with an absentee father, a stepdad who swept in and selflessly filled that paternal role, and what happened when a half sibling reached out to make contact after decades of silence.

In an installment of "Did I Just SayThat Out Loud?", Marc shares an exclamation which might sound confusing (or even perverse) without explanation.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Paul Ramsay, Hypnotist
Best Hypnosis Training
Best Hypnosis Training on Instagram
The Partnerhood
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Everything is Everything’s Everything | Ben Lee on Dadhood and Life

Fri, 2 Jul 2021 08:45:00 +0000

In part two of the conversation, Adam and Marc jump back into things with Ben Lee after pausing while he fields a phone call from a child in distress. The. Dadding. Never. Stops. From there, the guys explore a willingness to discuss heavy topics, leading by example, the importance of balancing skill with intuition, and speaking to the kid inside the grown-up... really, a little bit of everything. Finally, stick around to the end to hear about Marc’s new musical side project: Stuffed Animal.

Episode 47 is the second half of a two part conversation with songwriter, activist, and rockstar dad Ben Lee. The guys open the show with a gush-session about Ben’s wisdom, grace, and talent before diving right back into the interview. Conversation topics include:

• How to create space for forward motion in your life
• "Three dimensional experiences"
• What it means to be an "activist"
• Leading by example with our children
• Why we should not assume that we know better than our kids
• Writing music for kids and families

In lieu of a recurring segment, Marc announces his new solo musical venture “Stuffed Animal,” which he simply describes as “rock music for kids.” Samples of “PB+J” and “Nervous Dog” are debuted before the guys close out the episode.

Links:
Ben Lee on Instagram
Ben Lee on Twitter
Weirder Together
B is for Beer
Ben Lee in Quarantine
Stuffed Animal
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Adam Flaherty

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Science of Living | Ben Lee on Fatherhood, Culture, Lifelong Learning

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 04:15:00 +0000

Parents are teachers. Even those of us without degree in education. Our children are constantly observing us and learning from our behaviors, personalities, and how we navigate adventures, crises, relationships, and life in general. Musician, activist, and rockstar dad Ben Lee joins the conversation for a deep dive on fatherhood, leading by example, and promoting a love for lifelong learning to our children. Plus, Marc recalls a time he got the flop sweats, and Adam's children drive him to literally question his very sanity!

Episode is Part 1 of a 2 Part conversation with the multi-talented artist Ben Lee.

The episode opens with a quick recap and reflection on Episode 45: Mom Takeover. The guys tee up the conversation with Australian musician, activist, and dad, Ben Lee, by discussing the unique challenge of trying to teach our children without OVER-teaching. How to impart wisdom without forcing a teachable moment into every experience. And how to allow yourself to step back and let them experience things for themselves when it’s appropriate.

The guys welcome Ben Lee into the conversation. Ben is an artist in every sense of the word, and along with his wife Ione Skye, they are parents to 19 year old Kate (a stepdaughter to Ben), and 11 year old Goldie. Ben discusses post-pandemic life in Sydney, returning to live performance, and offers a deep dive on fatherhood, sharing candidly about topics including:

• How live music has changed post-pandemic
• Meeting his future wife at 18 years old
• The beauty of "blended" family structures
• Kids and technology
• The value of expressing interest in their interests
• Giving people space to have their own experiences
• And more

The conversation with Ben will carry on in Episode 47. Adam shares about what’s “a thing now” in the Flaherty home to round out the show... a "thing" which has led him to questioning his own sanity. And the guys close with well-wishes to all the dads on this Father’s Day Weekend 2021!

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Ben Lee on Instagram
Ben Lee on Twitter
Weirder Together
B is for Beer
Ben Lee in Quarantine
Author Jordan Shapiro
Colleen Ballinger
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal
Adam Flaherty

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Mom Takeover! | Sarah Flaherty and Jamie Checket on Modern Momhood

Adam Flaherty — Fri, 4 Jun 2021 08:15:00 +0000

Episode 45 of the podcast takes a slight detour from the usual format. The guys turn their mics over to their wives and hand over a bowl full of questions for the podcast’s first-ever Mom Takeover. Sarah Flaherty and Jamie Checket chat about everything from dad tropes and mom myths to “aha!” moments and moody kids. Finally, some real talk from the moms behind the dads behind Modern Dadhood. Perhaps this is the beginning of an annual event.

A concept originally teased in Episode 43, hosts Adam and Marc turn the show over to their wives, Sarah and Jamie. With little instruction and a batch of questions and prompts to address at their will, the goal of the exercise was to celebrate and honor mothers by giving them the floor and full control of the show. How did they spend their time? Well, they discussed topics including:

• How they learned about (and didn't learn about) the "Mom Takeover" concept
• Motherhood myths
• The benefits and pitfalls of social media to a new mother
• Being your child's "entertainer"
• Letting go/stepping back
• Listening vs. problem solving
• Pregnancy mindsets
• Sleep deprivation
• Mom confessions
• Dumb dad moves
• And more!

We celebrate you, Sarah, Jamie, and ALL moms, step moms, bonus moms, and moms-to-be! THANK YOU for being you! (And for accepting us and loving us for the idiots we are, too.)

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Hunt, Gather, Parent
How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

When Life Throws You a Curve Ball | Adam & Marc Talk Moms and Life

Fri, 21 May 2021 07:30:00 +0000

Episode 44 of Modern Dadhood is a bit different than what you’ve grown accustomed to. Adam had a significant and deeply personal event in his life recently, spurring an impromptu recording session. The guys take a little time to catch up about family, life, and playing the role of dad—even if, at times, it’s hard to think about playing any other role besides son.

Stay tuned for the Mother's Day "takeover" episode which will be our next release.

Links:
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Hearing Beyond the Words | Richard Capriola on Adolescent Substance Abuse

Fri, 7 May 2021 08:40:00 +0000

At the end of the COVID tunnel, the thought of light is very appealing — 2020 was a whopper. The pandemic has affected us all differently. We’ve developed our own ways of navigating hurdles and managing emotional stress. Middle and high school kids faced unique challenges as they missed iconic milestones and were robbed of social lives. While drugs and alcohol have always been a concern for parents, 2020 saw a rise in addiction among adolescents looking for a coping mechanism. Author Richard Capriola brings decades of experience to the conversation and shares ideas on how parents can best support their kids. His book, “The Addicted Child,” lays out the warning signs and offers seasoned advice to help turn this trend around.

Episode 43 of Modern Dadhood opens with a brief catch-up on Marc’s solo-dadding weekend and a realization that the release of this episode falls on the Friday of Mother’s Day weekend. The guys quickly formulate a plan to let their wives take over the next episode and mom it up for half an hour!

The guys discuss their (quite different) experiences with their second doses of the Pfizer vaccine, which leads into a conversation about the pandemic, the light at the end, and the impacts that the past year has had on people of all ages. The guys discuss the differences between younger children and high school aged adolescents and coping mechanisms for stress, depression, and trauma—including drugs and alcohol. Marc brings up a recent episode of NHPR’s The Exchange, covering a similar topic with guest Jessica Lahey, before playing back a recent conversation with author Richard Capriola.

Richard is a father one grown son who has spent much of his career counseling young people with alcohol and substance abuse issues, and recently published the book The Addicted Child, A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse. Rick joins to promote his book, and we discuss topics including:

• Raising his son as a widower
• The importance of writing a simple and clear guide for parents
• The harm in labeling someone an "addict"
• When is the right time to discuss substance misuse with your kids?
• The neuroscience of adolescent substance use
• What has changed from the "Just Say No" era to now?
• Warning signs to watch out for in our kids
• The importance of listening to words and the feelings behind them
• What assessments are, and why they're important
• The impact of the pandemic on young people

The episode culminates with a no-explanation-needed installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? in which Adam finds himself doing... some dirty work.

Stay tuned for Episode 44, when our wives will take over the podcast—and do whatever the heck they want with the time!

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Richard Capriola [website]
The Addicted Child [Amazon]
DrugFree.org
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Stuffed Animal [Marc's musical project]

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Do Twin Dads Do It Better? | Shaw Flick on the Joys and Challenges of Raising Twins

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 08:40:00 +0000

Does being a parent to twins simply mean two of everything? There are certainly twice as many diapers to change, two bladders to potty train, and double the tears during teething. But to twin parents, the emotional impact and physical toll often feels more than double… it feels exponential. In this episode, Adam and Marc welcome Shaw Flick, a fellow dad of twins, to examine the unique challenges that twin parents endure. Also, Marc and his wife try not to bust a gut when their three-year-old son puts them in their place, in an installment of So That’s a Thing Now.

Adam and Marc open the show by catching up on Marc’s new Disney+ subscription, and Marc shares an update to one of his recent Confessions regarding a bouncy ball from hell which made a brief comeback recently, before being permanently banned from the Checket household.

The guys welcome creative copywriter and father of twin daughters, Shaw Flick, into the conversation. Shaw is a co-worker of Marc’s, though living in Portland, Oregon, they have only meet and collaborated virtually. As fathers of three-year-old twins, Marc and Shaw have plenty of twin-dad experiences to compare and contrast. Topics of the conversation include:

• The annoying things that people call out when they see twins
• Shaw’s history as the front man of the band Ra Ra Riot
• The unique set of challenges that twin parents are faced with
• The chaos of newborn multiples
• Encouraging individuality
• How to address when one twin takes on an alpha role
• Twin parent camaraderie
• And more

Post-interview, Marc shares a So That’s a Thing Now which finds him getting scolded by one of his boys (and trying not to laugh when it happens).

[Episode transcript]

Links:
Shaw Flick (LinkedIn)
Shaw Flick (Instagram)
Ra Ra Riot
Red Vault Audio
Stuffed Animal (Marc's musical project)
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Behind The Dad Mask | Brian Manor on Anxiety, Mental Illness, Fatherhood

Fri, 9 Apr 2021 08:35:00 +0000

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness. If anything, that statistic tells us that those who are struggling are not alone in their struggle. Still, reaching out for help can sometimes feel insurmountable. In this episode, guest Brian Manor, a dad to two, shares his personal story and talks openly about his challenges with clinical depression, social anxiety disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Stick around to the end for another round of the infamous recurring segment, Confessions.

Episode 41 opens with hosts Adam and Marc briefly recounting their experiences getting their first doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, coincidentally scheduled on the same day. The guys transition to a discussion of mental illness; specifically the ways in which society addresses mental health, and how the conversation has shifted over the past 30 years. The guys welcome Brian Manor to the conversation. Brian is a husband and a father of two. He lives in Wisconsin, works for a blood donation organization, and writes for his fatherhood-themed Fatterhood: A Humorous New Dad's Blog. Brian shares openly, (both in his blog and during our conversation), about his history with mental illness and how it has affected his life, his job, and his role as a father. The conversation covers many topics including:

• Why Brian is not ashamed of his mental health
• The difficulty in diagnosing mental health conditions in children
• Overlapping symptoms of clinical depression and anxiety disorders
• The importance of SEEKING HELP!
• The importance of checking on your friends if you’re concerned about them
• The rise of discussing mental illness publicly and without shame
• How educating his support system is helpful
• How finding the right provider led to significant improvement
• Being aware of potential signs in your children
• Shop around for the right provider if you are able to
• "It's not your fault, but it's your responsibility."

The episode culminates with arguably one of the strongest Confessions sessions to date.

On a personal note from Adam and Marc, in each episode, we invite our listeners to reach out to us by e-mail. If you can relate to Brian's experience or you connect with this episode for any reason, you are more than welcome to reach out to us. While we are not experts on mental illness, fatherhood, or much of anything, really—we are good listeners. And we are here for you.

We've included links below that pertain to our conversation with Brian, as well as some additional resources that we'd encourage you to explore. But as a reminder, there is no shame in seeking help. And, despite how it may feel, you are NOT alone. We love you and appreciate you!

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Fatterhood: A Humorous New Dad's Blog
Chris Gethard "Career Suicide"
Hannah Gatsby "Nanette" (Netflix)
Marcus Parks / The Last Podcast on the Left
Jordan Raskopoulos "Living With High Functioning Anxiety" TEDxSydney
5 Minute Guide to Men's Mental Health
BeThe1To
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Anxiety & Depression Association of America
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Gang’s All Here | Sean Carrillo on Beck, Channing, and Step-Fatherhood

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 08:45:00 +0000

Sometimes, two people fall in love and choose to get married, one or both of those people have young children from a previous relationship, and a wonderful new blended family is formed. But it’s not always so clear cut. Enter Sean Carrillo, a media maker, technical director, writer, former-famous-coffee-shop-owner, and family man. Sean also happens to be the stepfather of accomplished musician Beck and artistic polymath Channing Hansen. Sean joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to discuss his family of artists, and how his parenting experience has felt a lot like hanging out with a group of friends. Also, find out why Marc’s wife is less than thrilled with her doctors!

Episode 40 is a very special and personal one for Adam, and he wastes no time sharing about it. The episode is a continuation of Modern Dadhood’s exploration on what it means to be a stepfather. In a sharp contrast to Episode 39’s guest Rafael Torres, the guys welcome Sean Carrillo into the conversation. At 60 years old, Sean’s career has taken him from the performing arts to commercial and film production, directing, and editorial, to curating live events... and that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Sean has been a stepfather for almost 40 years, and his family dynamic is far from typical. His wife Bibbe Hansen is a performance artist and actress, a protégé of Andy Warhol when she was young. Bibbe’s late father is Al Hansen, the renowned Fluxus artist. And his stepchildren are artist Channing Hansen, and musician Beck—a longtime favorite of Adam’s.

To close out an epic episode, in a spinoff of the hit segment Did I Just Say That Out Loud?, Marc shares a story about his wife, his twin boys, a surgery, and some less than desirable operating conditions.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Sean Carrillo
Bibbe Hansen
Beck
Channing Hansen
Beck and Al Hansen: Playing With Matches
Troy Cafe
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Stepdad? Nah... Bonus Dad | Rafael Torres on Step Parenting, Stigma, Fatherhood

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 09:50:00 +0000

Parenthood is a challenging adventure. And in a blended family, step parenting comes with its own set of unique obstacles. From custody arrangements to personal conflicts to social stigma, step-fatherhood, in particular, has developed a curious reputation over the decades. Rafael Torres, a father to two young daughters, (one biological and one step), shares perspective and advice that all dads could benefit from hearing—and why he prefers the term “Bonus Dad" to step dad all day long. Stick around to the end for the special subsegment of "So That’s A Thing Now:" So Those Are Things Now.

Modern Dadhood Episode 39 opens with a quick catch-up between hosts Marc and Adam in which Marc shares about his twin boys’ recent third birthday celebration. They briefly discuss Adam’s uncharacteristic (and moderately unbecoming) mustache, and a miraculous and unlikely victory by Modern Dadhood on TheOnlyPodcastAwardThatActuallyMatters.com... before transitioning to the episode’s ACTUAL topic: step parenting.

Neither Adam nor Marc have step parents or step children, so the perspective discussed prior to guest Rafael Torres joining, are solely based on observations of their friends, and cultural interpretations and stigmas. They quickly welcome Rafael, a father to one biological daughter and stepdad a second daughter, into the conversation. Rafael is a structural steel designer and drafter, as well as the moderator of the Bonus Parents Facebook group. Through a candid discussion about Rafael’s own experience as a stepfather (which he proudly refers to as a “Bonus Dad,”) as well as his observations from moderating a group of fellow bonus parents, Rafael sheds light on the best parts, and the most challenging parts, of a blended family. Topics include:

• Witnessing your partner as a parent from the beginning of your relationship
• ALL the parenting acronyms!
• References and support for step parents
• Custody and other common blended family issues
• Navigating relationships with biological parents
• Overcoming misconceptions and stigmas around step parenting
• Learning to decode your stepchild’s language

Marc shares a So That’s A Thing Now involving one of his three-year-olds and a new recurring question before closing out the episode.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Bonus Parents (Facebook)
Co-Parenting SubReddit
Blended Family Frappe
National Stepfamily Resource Center
The Stepfather
The Only Podcast Award That Actually Matters
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Shared Values Make Tough Conversations Easier | Journalist Patrick Coleman on Questions, Opinions, Not Having All The Answers

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 09:45:00 +0000

How do we maintain a positive dialogue with our kids when examples of adversity seem ever-present in daily life? Journalist and Parenting Editor at Fatherly, Patrick Coleman, joins Adam and Marc to discuss how a set of family values can provide a foundation for engaging in challenging conversations. And how complex, real-world examples, if framed the right way, can be valuable in helping our kids become resilient. Also, the guys each take a deep breath and leap into another installment of the fan-favorite segment, Confessions. [This is part one of a two-part interview.]

Episode 38 is Part 2 of a two-part episode featuring guest Patrick Coleman, a father of two and journalist who serves as the Parenting Editor for Fatherly.

The episode opens with a comedy of errors as hosts Adam and Marc struggle to nail their timing. They briefly discuss some key takeaways from the first previous episode in which Patrick recounts watching (and discussing) the January 6th, 2021 insurrection at the US Capitol building with his family. Patrick offers some wonderful (and applicable) insight into how to approach conversations about tragedies such as the insurrection with young people, and encouraging questions and dialogue as they process what they are learning or seeing.

Part 2 of the conversation takes a step back and looks at how we as parents can help our kids understand and process larger overarching problems such as racial injustice, terrorism, or climate change. Topics include:

• What is "Ecophobia?"
• Approaching and navigating tragic topics with your kids
• How to build a set of family values
• Passing our opinions and biases onto our kids
• Being comfortable with not having all the answers
• How to raise curious kids

The episode wraps up with the hosts releasing some deep, dark dad Confessions.

[Episode transcript]

LINKS:
Fatherly
Patrick Coleman (Twitter)
How To Watch A Coup Attempt With Your Kids
Patrick Coleman’s articles
Researcher David Sobel on Tragedy
Ask The Goodfather
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Heavy Topics, Young Minds | Patrick Coleman of Fatherly on Tragedy, Honesty, Fatherhood

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 09:20:00 +0000

Our world is full of big, heavy topics: War, politics, racial injustice, poverty... The list goes on. What’s the best way for dads and moms to approach these topics with our kids? Do we let them come to us? Avoid them at all costs? Hope that through some combination of teachers, YouTubers, and headlines, our kids will draw their own conclusion? Adam and Marc sit down with Patrick Coleman, father of two and Parenting Editor at Fatherly, to discuss his work exploring big topics, and sometimes big feelings, with our children. Plus, Adam’s kids learn a new phrase and get introduced to a classic 90's cartoon.
[This is part one of a two-part interview.]

Modern Dadhood’s 37th episode opens with a brief reflection on the trying year of 2020 and a chat about broaching major current events with children. Marc and Adam discuss the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995. At 12 or 13 years old, both hosts share their experiences of learning about it via the news, and how as young teenagers they processed the tragedy.

The conversation shifts to the rage-fueled insurrection at the US Capitol building on January 6th, 2021, and the guys tee up part one of their recent conversation with journalist Patrick Coleman, a father of two boys and the Parenting Editor for Fatherly. Patrick’s recent article How to Watch a Coup Attempt With Your Kids provides some powerful and applicable strategies for contextualizing heavy current events for our children in a way that promotes discussion… and doesn’t scare the shit out of them. Other topics include:

• Being a “buffer” for your partner, and leaning on them as your own buffer.
• Processing your own feelings and emotions first
• Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory
• Explaining current events in real time
• The value of Inviting your kids to ask questions
• When the heavy news doesn’t have a happy ending

To round out the episode, Adam recalls a recent moment of craziness which involves Ren, Stimpy, and the phrase “skinny dipping,” which is a new addition to his children’s lexicon. Episode 38 will feature the second part of our conversation with journalist Patrick Coleman.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Fatherly
Patrick Coleman (Twitter)
How To Watch A Coup Attempt With Your Kids
Patrick Coleman’s articles
Ask The Goodfather
Social Learning Theory
Oklahoma City Bombing 1995
US Capitol Insurrection 2021
Resource: Explaining The News To Our Kids
Resource: How To Explain Scary News To Kids
Resource: How To Talk To Your Child About The News
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Ailing Dad And The Urgent Donation | John Dorlean on Fatherhood, COVID, Gratitude

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 09:20:57 +0000

At a rare moment of peak polarization in American history, John Dorlean, a hospitalized father of three, receives an anonymous, crucial donation of convalescent plasma to combat his intensifying case of COVID-19. An article shared thousands of times over 24 hours, along with a bit of good timing, just may have saved John’s life.

Episode 36 opens with an examination of "viral" content and some of the key factors that result in content being shared widely. The guys declare that beyond inimitable fail videos captured by accident, outrageous unicorns pooping rainbow sherbet, or tug-at-the-heartstrings branded content, there is a category of viral content that is underrepresented: the call for help from one’s community.

Adam chats with John Dorlean, a personal friend and a father of three from Maine. In December, despite willfully adhering to safety precautions, John and his wife both contracted COVID-19. Wanda didn’t have an easy go of it; intense flu-like symptoms knocked her out of commission. And while she was suffering and John was caring for her and their three children, his own symptoms started presenting. With two sick parents and three kids under the age of 13, now just days before Christmas, the Dorleans’ world was upside down. As Wanda improved, John’s condition worsened, rendering him increasingly short of breath and feverish, eventually landing him in Intensive Care.

Unaware of how tenuous his situation really was, John was told that he required a transfusion of convalescent plasma… (whatever that meant…) but his rare AB Negative blood type meant that the plasma was not immediately available.

While the hospital desperately searched their network, Wanda and a family friend got to work and ultimately got John’s story picked up by regional news networks and by Seacoast Online in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, their regional news outlet. And then the magic started to happen.

The article was shared thousands of times, and within 24 hours, there were multiple leads and interested parties, and a donation of AB Negative convalescent plasma was delivered to the hospital specifically for John the next day. The transfusion saved his life.

Now at home recuperating with lingering symptoms, John shares his incredible story and lends some words of advice to other parents about how to protect their families, and how to continue spreading kindness and generosity, just as it was shown to him.

Also, in an installment of So That’s A Thing Now, we learn that Marc’s kids suddenly love dancing naked!

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Article: Kittery Dad Fighting COVID-19 Needs Emergency Plasma Donation
Article: Kittery Man Battling COVID-19 Gets Overnight Plasma Donation
Wife of Kittery Man Fighting COVID-19 'Blown Away' by Support
American Red Cross
Plasma Donation Information
Half Court Basketball Shot
Balloon Boy Hoax
Dove "Real Beauty Sketches"
Squatty Potty Commercial
Harmon Brothers
“Wonky Donkey” by Craig Smith
“Funky Dunky” by Harry Connick, Jr.
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Bonus Episode: Big Feelings | Scotty Iseri and The Imagine Neighborhood Podcast

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 09:15:00 +0000

Back in Episode 25, we spoke with Social Emotion Learning specialist Scotty Iseri. In addition to Scotty's important work with Committee For Children, he invented (and stars in) a wonderful and impactful podcast for kids called The Imagine Neighborhood. In a previously unreleased portion of our conversation, Scotty shares about the show's philosophy, goals, and storytelling mechanisms which help children navigate their "big feelings."

Scotty shares tips and insights into how we can help our children navigate their feelings, and what The Imagine Neighborhood is doing to support that effort.

Links:

The Imagine Neighborhood
The Imagine Neighborhood (on Apple)
Committee For Children
Scotty Iseri (Twitter)
Scotty Iseri (YouTube)
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

From Green Slime To Story Time | Danny Tamberelli on Nickelodeon, Nostalgia, Fatherhood

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 09:30:00 +0000

The episode culminates with a rather "shitty" installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Danny Tamberelli (official website)
Tuesdays With Alfie (Instagram)
The Adventures of Danny and Mike
Jounce
Nostalgia Personified
Man Boobs Comedy
The Undone Sweaters
The Adventures of Pete And Pete (YouTube)
Sandra Boynton Books
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Podcasting Dads Talk Dad Podcasts | Rory Scovel of Dads: The Podcast

Fri, 1 Jan 2021 09:45:00 +0000

Let me guess: You thought it was SOOO unlikely that 2020 would serve up not one, but TWO hilarious fatherhood-themed podcasts... didn’t you, you Doubting Thomas, you? If 2020 has demonstrated nothing else, it’s that anything is possible. In Modern Dadhood's first anniversary episode, we welcome comedian and fellow podcaster Rory Scovel of Dads: The Podcast. We laugh, we laugh, and we wax philosophical on the role of the dad and why this fatherhood conversation is important. Also, our final Confessions of the year!

Episode 34 marks the one year anniversary of Modern Dadhood with a shamelessly self-indulgent conversation about the significance of discussing fatherhood with fellow dads from all walks of life. The guys catch up briefly on Christmas, and recount their early ideation sessions for the podcast, before welcoming comedian Rory Scovel into the conversation. Rory is a comedy writer, actor, performer and fellow podcaster who co-hosts the outstanding Dads: The Podcast on TeamCoco. The three reflect on their inspirations for starting dad-themed podcasts, and the wisdom they've gleaned through rich conversations with their guests. Topics include:

• The identity shift when you become a dad
• The dad "club"
• How our parents shape our identity and we in turn shape our children
• Rory's episodic show Robbie and parallels to his real life
• Ways in which the role of the dad has evolved over time

The guys bid farewell to Rory and transition to the final Confessions of 2020, which largely revolve around food.

Thank YOU for making Modern Dadhood's first year so exciting and fulfilling! Your involvement and support means the world to us. We wish all of our listeners (dads or otherwise) a healthy 2021.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Rory Scovel (Official Website)
Dads: The Podcast
Robbie on Comedy Central
Rory Scovel Tries Stand-Up For The First Time (Netflix)
Pen Pals With Daniel and Rory
Rory on Instagram
Team Coco Podcasts
Rory @ Fatherly's 100 Coolest Dads, 2018
Modern Dadhood Store
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

A Father Facing Mortality | Robert Bailey on Building a Legacy

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Do you ponder your own death? Is it something you worry about? Wonder when it will happen? Did your perspective on death change when you became a father? Death is inevitable, and it can be uncomfortable, even stressful to talk about, especially when children are in the picture. For Robert Bailey, this is a familiar conversation. Robert has stage 4 cancer which started in his bladder and has taken over his body in just over two years’ time, leaving him no option but to prepare for the inevitable much sooner than anyone should. Robert joins us to share about his fatherhood joys, his impossibly hard journey, and how he is using his remaining time to build a legacy for his two-year-old son to remember him by.

Episode 33, the final episode of Modern Dadhood to release in 2020, opens with a disclaimer from Adam and Marc: Frequent listeners will know that Modern Dadhood is generally quite light-hearted, and though we don't avoid heavy or sensitive topics, today's theme is uncomfortable. We are examining mortality, particularly as it relates to fatherhood.

Before getting into the discussion, Adam shares a short recording of a recent meet up with past guest (and brand new dad) Chad Richardson. Chad and his wife Katie recently gave birth to their son, and despite the current state of the world, their hospital experience was positive, and their newborn son is healthy and thriving.

Marc poses the question "When was the first time you remember fully understanding what death was?" This prompt leads to a discussion on first experiences with relatives passing away, and transitions to the ways that we ponder and consider our own death, and whether that changed upon becoming a father.

The guys share some context about guest Robert Bailey, who began experiencing symptoms of bladder cancer over two years ago. By the time it was diagnosed, the cancer had spread, and after multiple treatments by different providers, Robert was told that his tumor was inoperable. They welcome Robert into the conversation, and Robert shares his heartbreaking and maddening story of failed diagnoses, constant pain, and coming to terms with the fact that his two-year-old son Parker will have limited (if any) memory of him. Robert has dedicated the remainder of his life to creating a legacy (by way of writing letters, cards, music, and even a book) that will show parker who his dad was, and how much he loved his son. Topics covered in the conversation include:

• The emotional swings of receiving hopeful and dreadful news from providers
• Appreciating what you have and not letting small things bother you
• How easily everything can be taken away from you
• What it means to create a "legacy"
• "Living" versus "just living"
• Emotional vulnerability and men

Adam rounds out the episode on an entertaining note, sharing a "So Thats A Thing Now" regarding his younger daughter and a dirty prank.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Robert Bailey GoFundMe
Medium article by Robert 11/2019
Robert Bailey "Legacy" on Spotify
Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Astronaut Dad | Captain Winston Scott on STEM, Fatherhood, and Outer Space

Fri, 4 Dec 2020 09:30:00 +0000

Real talk: What’s more remarkable than being an astronaut? Being an astronaut dad, that’s what. Adam and Marc are joined by former astronaut Winston E. Scott, who shares stories of his NASA space missions, his tenure as a US Navy Captain, the crucial importance of STEM education, and his own unique perspective on raising children to be bold, confident adults. Also, learn the answer to the burning question on everyone’s minds… what the hell is Adam’s middle name?

Modern Dadhood episode 32 opens with Marc and Adam playing a halfhearted game of “guess each others’ middle names” before alluding to an early episode of the podcast where Adam recalls his brief childhood desire to be an astronaut when he grew up... and realization that he wasn't cut out for it!

The conversation pivots to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and its vital importance in school curriculum starting at a young age. As technology evolves at a rapid pace, many current jobs will be replaced by AI, while other new career opportunities arise. Critical thinking, a component (or perhaps a valuable byproduct) of STEM education, will be essential to solving future world problems.

The guys tee up a recent conversation with a major proponent of STEM: Winston E. Scott. Winston is a former US Navy Captain, a former Astronaut, and yes, a father of two. Winston shares about his acclaimed career, his experience raising two children while continuously relocating around the country for his Navy career, how his family prepared for his departures to outer space, and how his personal philosophies on confidence and fear have influenced his kids’ interests and career paths. Topics of the conversation include:

• The nomadic lifestyle of a Navy pilot
• Aeronautical Engineering
• Instilling a sense of excitement and opportunity in our children (over fear)
• A new perspective that only comes from looking at Earth from outer space
• Winston's family's reaction when he was selected by NASA
• Spacewalking and Extra Vehicular Activity
• Space flight is a team effort that requires specialists across many fields
• What "critical thinking" means
• How can we, as parents, encourage our kids to explore STEM?

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Winston E. Scott (Wikipedia)
Winston @ TheHistoryMakers
Reflections From Earth Orbit
NASA
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

It Takes A Village To Raise A Child | Seth Romano on Divorce and Single Fatherhood

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 09:15:00 +0000

Single parenthood is a common phenomenon and it occurs for a number of reasons, the most common of which is divorce. In the United States alone, an estimated 2.4 million divorces take place each year, many of them involving children. Seth Romano, a Los Angeles-based musician and single father of one joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share his personal story of realization that he wasn't happy as a married person, and how he and his daughter's mother, and their families have worked together to create a positive situation where their seven-year-old can thrive. Also, Adam and Marc own up to another batch of "Confessions!"

Episode 31 of Modern Dadhood opens with a story of frustration, confusion, and resolution in the Checket household. Before long, Adam and Marc transition to a conversation about the amount of time parents are able to spend with their children as they grow up. Prior to Covid, many of us found ourselves in a very structured routine which awarded us little time with our kids during the week. The guys discuss feelings of guilt and a fear of missing out on important milestones in the lives of their young children.

Adam and Marc welcome Seth Romano into the conversation. Seth is a professional musician and a single father of one seven-year-old daughter. Seth shares his story of moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, falling in love and getting married, being amazed by the miracle of the birth of his first daughter, and realizing that being in a marriage wasn't right for him. He explains that despite the difficult and hurtful situation they found themselves in, they have landed on their feet in a situation that works. With the support of their families, their daughter Sydney is growing up in loving and nurturing environments with parents who respect and care for each other. Other topics of conversation include:

• The idea that marriage is something you're "supposed to do."
• There is no single definition of "family"
• The experience of seeing your first child being born
• How having a child changes your perspective on life
• Managing your time as a single father

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Seth Romano Livestream Concerts
The Trip
90s Rock Show
"Gonna Save You" on YouTube
Seth Romano on Instagram
Seth @ Rockstars of Tomorrow Musicians Academy
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Daredevil Dad | Peter Shankman on ADHD, Skydiving, and Fatherhood

Fri, 6 Nov 2020 09:30:00 +0000

Remember life before kids? We did things a certain way, we went places, we stayed up late, had hobbies, and some of us were even thrill seekers. Did that change when kids came into the picture? Or were you able to strike a balance between caring for kids and doing things for you? Peter Shankman, a best-selling author, entrepreneur, Ironman triathlete, and single dad, joins the show to talk about his experiences with balancing things in his “Faster Than Normal” life. Plus, in a new installment of So That’s a Thing Now we learn about the latest questionable thing Marc has inadvertently taught his kids to say. (Or perhaps it wasn’t so inadvertent after all.) Stick around until the tail end of this one for a special treat.

Episode 30 of Modern Dadhood debuts just shy of a week after Halloween, which for most of us, looked very different in 2020 than any Halloween we’ve experienced in the past. Marc and Adam begin by discussing their socially distanced fright nights and Adam’s pathetic, insatiable sugar addiction. Adam poses to Marc: “Growing up, did your parents have hobbies or habits that, even as a kid, you recognized were dangerous?” Marc goes on to share about his father’s woodworking hobby, and the machinery sounds which haunted a young Marc as he tried to fall asleep. When the discussion turns to risky or dangerous hobbies that we ourselves enjoy, Adam shares about his love for skydiving, a daredevil activity which he has abstained from since becoming a father. The guys welcome Peter Shankman to the Modern Dadhood conversation. Peter is a father to a seven-year-old daughter in addition to being a social media expert, a keynote speaker, an author, a podcaster, and yes, a fellow skydiver. Peter shares his technique for balancing work, play, and fatherhood, while remaining clear-headed and productive all the while. Other topics include:

• Making time for what’s important to you
• Making ADHD work to your advantage
• Skydiving and dopamine
• Coming back from the dead to haunt people
• The danger of complacency (in all aspects of your life)
• Eliminating choice
• Finding effective routines

Post-interview, Marc shares a proud dad moment in a mad-as-a-hatter installment of “So That’s A Thing Now.” You might stick around until the tail end of the episode to hear the theme song that accompanies Marc’s groin-themed story.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Peter Shankman [website]
Peter on Facebook
Peter on Twitter
Peter on Instagram
Peter on YouTube
Shankminds
Faster Than Normal [website]
Faster Than Normal [book]
FTN Instagram
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Discovering The Hidden Gems | Jon Klassen on Publishing Picture Books for Kids

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 06:00:00 +0000

We all have them: Those kids’ books we were gifted or we picked up on a whim because the title was intriguing or the characters were familiar. But then we crack them open, and BAM— total schlock. With the sheer amount of content for children out there, it's increasingly difficult to find the good stuff; the content that inspires wonder. The types of shows, movies, and books we remember loving as kids. Jon Klassen, father of two and celebrated author and illustrator of I Want My Hat Back, joins us to talk about his thoughts on creating books that kids and parents love. Stick around for the end, where Marc, Adam, and their kids fire off some personal book endorsements and condemnations.

The guys open the episode with a conversation about television shows and movies that are made for kids. In an age where the amount of content seems to grow exponentially, it becomes equally difficult to parse through it all to find the really good stuff. The hidden gems seem to be few and far between. Sometimes it’s the tried and true movies or books that stand the test of time and still fill our kids with excitement and wonder, but frequently the best recommendations come to us through people we trust. The guys philosophize a bit as they discuss a couple of their kids’ current favorites, before they introduce Jon Klassen into the conversation. Jon is a father of two sons, and an artist and author who gained worldwide notoriety in 2011 with his picture book “I Want My Hat Back,” the success of which spawned two more books in what would become the “Hat Trilogy.” Jon continues to write and illustrate children’s books in addition to frequent collaborations with authors such as Mac Barnett, Sara Pennypacker, and Lemony Snicket. The guys discuss Jon’s inspirations, his thought process and artistic process for creating books that can be enjoyed by kids of any age, and how his approach to his work has changed since he became a father. Other conversation topics include:

• Creating work that sticks out in the age of self-publishing
• How his work in animation influences his art
• Finding your inner third-grader
• The value of simplicity and minimalism
• Reading alone vs. being read to
• “Quintessential” children’s books
• The importance of independent bookstores

Before closing out the episode, Adam and Marc take turns swapping some rapid-fire book recommendations and… unrecommendations?

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS
Jon Klassen Twitter
Jon Klassen Instagram
Mac Barnett
Go! Go! Cory Carson
Bluey
Chrri & Chirra
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig
Frog and Toad
Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth, by Oliver Jeffers
One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey
Toot by Leslie Patricelli
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip and Erin Stead
Bob the Artist by Marion Deuchars
Katy Hudson, Too Many Carrots
Powell's Books, Portland, OR
RiverRun Books, Portsmouth, NH
Water Street Books, Exeter, NH
Longfellow Books, Portland, ME
26 Independent Bookstores
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Deconstructing The Dad Bod | PappaStrong's Courtney Wyckoff On Fatherhood Physique

Fri, 9 Oct 2020 08:30:00 +0000

The Dad Bod: Is it a myth? A legend? A joke? Does it happen to all dads? How can we avoid it? Or better yet, how can we effectively combat if we choose to? Modern Dadhood welcomes its first female guest, Courtney Wyckoff, to the conversation. Courtney’s success as a Certified Personal Trainer and the creator of MommaStrong/PappaStrong gives her unique insight into some of the real underlying issues that spawn postpartum changes in dads’ bodies. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just having a “beer gut.” Plus, we survey our favorite fatherhood Facebook group to hear first hand what factors led to their dad bods.

Episode 28 of Modern Dadhood wastes no time getting into the theme of the conversation: the common shift in male physique that occurs in the months or years after becoming a father—a phenomenon widely known as the “dad bod.” Adam and Marc explore definitions of the slang phrase while swapping stories of their own challenges making health a priority upon becoming fathers. Adam welcomes the first woman (and mom) to the podcast; the phenomenal Courtney Wyckoff, creator of the MammaStrong and PappaStrong exercise programs, mom of three, and total badass. Courtney challenges the idea that the “dad bod” is just about allowing ourselves to eat too much junk or drink too much beer, but rather that there are physical, mental, and emotional stressors that come with fatherhood which can manifest physically—and that returning to exercise, even in 15 minute-per-day increments, can help facilitate a return to strength and health. Other conversation topics include:

• Body image in men vs. women
• Redefining what it means to be “strong”
• Common structural issues in men
• Anchor points of the body
• Do men have a “pelvic floor?”
• The secret to habit building
• Finding the motivation to start
• Ignoring the “bully voice” in your head

The guys check in with their favorite fatherhood-themed Facebook group to take a poll on the driving factors of their change in physique. Unsurprisingly, the most cited reasons centered around time management and food consumption. (Surprisingly, there were many other unexpected answers as well!)

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS
PappaStrong
MammaStrong
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Regression, Rewards, and Puddles on Floors | Evan Ozimek-Maier on Potty Training

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 09:59:55 +0000

Every parent hopes to cruise through potty training so they can be rewarded with the sweet liberty of a diaper-free lifestyle. But sometimes the toilet training journey is less of a cruise and more of a crawl… or worse yet, a series of fits and starts. Marc and his wife Jamie know this journey all too well as they’re currently navigating the harsh (and sometimes messy) terrain with their twin boys. Guest Evan Ozimek-Maier, along with his wife and two-year-old daughter, on the other hand, are just buckling in. Will they discover the perfect technique? Will they encounter regression road blocks? Or will they careen down a YouTube rabbit hole? Evan joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share his perspective, and to get down and dirty on the journey of potty training.

Episode 27 of Modern Dadhood begins with an acknowledgement that the past two episodes have been heavy. “Heavy topics for heavy times,” as noted appropriately by Marc. The guys have decided to lighten things up with a topic that every parent goes through: Potty training. As it turns out, the Checkets are currently fully immersed in the potty training adventure with their twin boy toddlers, so Marc, in particular, has plenty in common with guest Evan Ozimek-Maier. Evan is the Associate Director of Creative Services at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, and is a father of a two-year-old daughter Louis.

Evan shares about his family’s journey training Louis (who he and his wife Alyssa affectionally call Lulu) to ditch the diapers and commit to using the toilet. The guys discuss various techniques that they’ve read about, heard about, and tried themselves, and they share what has been most successful in their own experiences. Other topics include:

• The value of including your child in the conversation
• Letting your kid take the initiative vs. encouraging it based on age
• Associating feelings of negativity with the toilet/peeing or pooping without a diaper
• Parents’ reactions to their child successfully using the toilet
• Incentivizing potty use
• Being influenced by peers who are potty trained
• Embarrassment/shame around pooping
• Regression
• The Respectful Parenting Method
• The "Oh Crap!" method
• Potty training books/videos/resources

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Evan Ozimek-Maier
Oh Crap! Potty Training
RIE / Respectful Parenting Method
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Crying Over Spilt Milk | Scotty Iseri on Strengthening Social-Emotional Skills In Kids And Their Dads

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 01:14:45 +0000

Social-emotional learning, mindfulness, soft skills, emotional intelligence— call it what you want. Learning how to understand and deal with emotions plays a significant role in our ability to handle all varieties of problems we face throughout our lives. In this episode, we get into the nitty-gritty with Scotty Iseri, father of a 7-year-old son and fellow podcaster, on the true value of social-emotional learning (SEL) in school and at home. Also, we test out a new drinking game and encounter a commode-themed mystery in the Flaherty household.

Episode 26 of Modern Dadhood opens with a conversation about the emotional effects of quarantine on our kids. Adam shares about his daughters spent their Summer, and how their experience likely differs from that of an only child. Despite kids, generally speaking, being resilient little beings, the current state of the world is different than anything they (or we) have ever experienced, so it shouldn't be a surprise that there could be some behavioral side effects.

The guys welcome to the conversation Scotty Iseri, a father of one 7-year-old son. Scotty works at Committee for Children, and hosts a podcast called The Imagine Neighborhood, among many other unique talents and experiences. And he also deeply understands the importance of social-emotional learning. Scotty teaches us that the social-emotional conversation impacts everyone regardless of age, sex, or whether they're a child or parent. Topics of conversation include:

• It's just as important for us as fathers as it is for our kids, to understand and manage our emotions
• Learning how to redirect our energy
• Teaching ourselves to be okay with big emotions
• Social-emotional growth and strengthening isn't inherent - it takes work
• How schools are starting to place importance on these skills
• Tips for dads when these conversations don't come naturally
• The rise of kindness and empathy

Adam shares a So That's a Thing Now concerning his daughters' deuces before the episode comes to close.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Scotty Iseri (YouTube)
The Imagine Neighborhood
The Imagine Neighborhood (Apple Podcasts)
The Imagine Neighborhood (Instagram)
Committee For Children
Social-Emotional Learning
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Rethinking Back to School | High School Teacher Jon L’Ecuyer on The Contentious Return To Learning

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 10:15:01 +0000

Entering into a new school year is anxiety-inducing as it is. This year, for many parents it feels like teetering on a precipice— each way down lined with more questions than answers. We sit down with Jon L’Ecuyer, a high school Government teacher and dad to a second grade daughter, to discuss the choices that his family is contemplating. We talk navigating hybrid learning models, juggling homeschooling with working from home, getting creative with hands-on assignments, and the myriad other back to school considerations. Also, find out whether Marc’s kids share his preferred method of eating an ice cream cone.

Episode 25 dives with reckless abandon into a discussion on the concerns, contemplation, and contention around the fast-approaching school year. Adam and Marc discuss their own arrangements before welcoming guest Jon L'Ecuyer, a father of one 7-year-old daughter and a freshman Government teacher at a school of 3,300 students in New Hampshire.

Jon candidly shares his his personal opinions regarding the return to school for both younger and older students, as well as his district's plans for a safe return. The conversation touches on topics including:

• The challenges of being a two-teacher family
• Being forthright with our kids about the dangers of the virus
• The moment the news came in about remote learning in March 2020
• Expectations for the remainder of the 2020 school year
• Expectations for the future of learning
• Why remote learning is often harder for teachers
• The importance of socialization for high school students
• What most classrooms look like now

Marc shares a recent unusual exclamation in an installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud? before closing out the episode.

We would like to sincerely wish all parents and students a smooth and safe transition back to learning, whatever that may look like.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

First Time Dad: 3 Month Countdown | Chad Richardson Ponders His Forthcoming Life Change

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 03:17:41 +0000

Expecting your first child can be both exciting and unsettling. There’s so much to learn, do, prepare, and buy before you take on the single most important job you’ve ever had. Becoming a first time dad in 2020, when it feels like the whole planet could just fold in on itself at any given moment, is a different kind of unnerving. Thankfully, Chad Richardson is feeling optimistic and focused on the silver linings as he prepares to take on fatherhood in three short months.

Chad Richardson grew up in rural Wisconsin and gained plenty of experience with babies and small children as he was a teenager when two of his younger sisters were born. Now he lives with his wife Katie in their home outside of Boston, and in non-pandemic times, they both commute into the city for work. Chad and Katie also happen to be host Adam Flaherty's brother- and sister-in-law, and in three months, they’ll introduce a new little member into the family. While on vacation together recently, Chad and Adam retreated to the back porch to enjoy the scenic mountain vista, a cold pop, and a conversation about Chad’s hopes, fears, and dadhood goals. They broached topics including:

• Dad humor
• Having a baby during a worldwide pandemic
• How to handle visit requests when the baby is born
• The positives of working from home during the pregnancy
• Redirecting kid meltdowns and tantrums
• Threatening your child with consequences
• The different styles of dad-to-be resources
• Taking pride in teaching your kid life skills
• The importance of a coffee maker with a programmable timer

Before the conversation concludes, Chad commits to making himself available for a follow up conversation in the baby's first two weeks of life. Adam is excited to capture genuine and unadulterated brain fog, and the prospect of witnessing a full grown man be reduced to tears due to lack of sleep.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
I’ll Tell You What! Podcast
Chad Richardson on Instagram
The Expectant Father
The New Dad's Survival Guide
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Father Figure, On Camera And Off | Sesame Street’s Emilio Delgado on Being a Role Model and Dad

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 03:50:57 +0000

Imagine, if you will, you’re a young Latino man in your late twenties living in Los Angeles. You’ve just had your first child and you’re pounding the pavement, working your ass off to land any acting gig you can get. And then one day the telephone rings, and the opportunity of a lifetime presents itself… three thousand miles away. That’s the beginning of Emilio Delgado’s journey as both a father and an esteemed actor best known for portraying the beloved Luis Rodriguez on Sesame Street. Emilio joins us on Modern Dadhood to discuss being a father to his son, stepsons, and adopted daughter—and a role model and father figure to millions of kids across the world.

The episode opens with a conversation about paternal influences on kids. Adam shares about how he was not only shaped by his own father’s personality, but by a family friend with a very different parenting style. The guys discuss the communal activity of gathering around the television as kids, and some of the actors who played trusting paternal characters on network television, serving as role models to young people.

Adam and Marc welcome actor Emilio Delgado into the conversation. Emilio is most well known for his role as Fix-It-Shop owner Luis Rodriguez, a Latino actor who joined the cast in 1971 and earned the impressive superlative of “longest running role played by a Mexican American actor in a television series.” The characters of Luis and his wife Maria portrayed the Mexican Americans realistic/accurate/real realistically, which was rare at the time on American television. Emilio’s character literally introduced the Latino culture to millions of American-born children, exposing many to their first Spanish words and providing a launch ramp for further exploration of the many cultures of the world.

Emilio shares fond memories of his time on the set of Sesame Street, the camaraderie with the cast and crew, and working with Jim Henson. Simultaneously, off camera, Emilio was raising his own children and step children, frequently traveling between Los Angeles and New York to keep up with a rigorous filming schedule. We discuss topics including:

• Being a role model to young people
• Becoming “part of the family” to viewers
• The familial set culture on the show
• Working with child actors
• Recognizing the impact of Sesame Street
• Learning what it means to be a father, a husband, and a man
• Bringing his son Aram to the set of Sesame Street
• Raising his daughter Lauren later in life
• Being a mentor to newer cast members
• The stress of being away from home for months at a time
• Knowing Jim Henson

To close out the show, Marc describes in detail saving his naked toddlers from disaster in an installment of “Did I Just (Have To) Say That Out Loud?”

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Emilio Delgado on IMDB
Emilio Delgado on Wikipedia
Emilio’s Instagram
Baa Baa Bamba
Quixote Nuevo
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Father My Father Never Was | Andre Jalil on Absentee Dads and Black Fatherhood in America

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 08:58:16 +0000

How often does your kid do something so funny, cute, smart, or outrageous that you wish you could capture it and share it with the world? (And how often do you follow through on that?) Multi-talented content creator and father of one, Andre Jalil, is a master of documenting life with his-two year-old daughter Lyric Sanaa on video. The result is a treasure trove of hilarious and heart melting content that leaves no doubt that Andre, who grew up without his own father, embraces and adores his role as Lyric’s dad.

Most episodes of Modern Dadhood center around topics or themes that hosts Adam and Marc have some degree of experience with… but not this one. Episode 22 finds the guys welcoming guest Andre Jalil, father of one daughter (2 year old Lyric Sanaa), content creator, influencer, music producer, writer, musician, and emcee, to talk about growing up without a father at home, and how Andre uses his social media platform to show aspiring dads how fulfilling and fun fatherhood can be. The guys discuss:

• The perception and narrative of the Black father
• Absentee fathers
• The desire to be present and involved when Andre had kids
• Inspiring other dads and dads-to-be via social media
• Protecting your kids without being overprotective
• Building a family legacy
• The importance of introducing prominent Black artists and historical figures to our kids
• Rewriting the history books
• Developing a plan before having kids. And staying present and available even if you don’t yet have a plan.

A second installment of hit mega-hit Talkin' With Toddlers carries Adam through a range of emotions including giddiness, excitement, pride, confusion, disbelief, and rage... and pleases Marc to no end.

[Episode Transcript]

LINKS:
Andre Jalil on Instagram
The Dad Chronicles on YouTube
Andre’s song “It’s You”
Andre Jalil on Spotify
Andre Jalil Visual Art Store
Joy Marilie
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Bedtime Stories I Tell My Kids, But Maybe Shouldn't | Author Michael Addis on Honesty and Fatherhood

Fri, 3 Jul 2020 01:03:22 +0000

Take a moment to think back across your life. Do you have certain experiences that have always resonated with you, whether significant or unremarkable? Commercial director, editor, show runner, and author Michael Addis has spent years documenting his favorite life stories, and he joins the Modern Dadhood conversation to share about his new book Who’s Your Daddy?: Bedtime Stories I Tell My Kids, But Maybe Shouldn’t. Mike shares some wisdom about honesty and the value of being open and direct with our kids about complex issues, dealing with life’s pitfalls, and questioning the narrative. Also, the the long-awaited return of the super smash hit segment Confessions.

Modern Dadhood Episode 21 opens with a few shout-outs to some listeners we love, before Marc and Adam swap humorous stories about their kids’ bedtime routines which sometimes include baths, books, and inventing songs on the spot. Adam introduces a routine called “Switcheroo,” and promptly fails to explain what it actually means. The guys introduce guest Michael Addis, father of two sons, a commercial director, editor, and showrunner, by day, and an author by night. Michael’s new book, “Who’s Your Daddy?: Bedtime Stories I Tell My Kids, But Maybe Shouldn’t,” documents many stories from his life which he has shared with his two sons, in hopes that they would find valuable and applicable lessons from his experiences. The conversation centers around the value of being honest with your children and yourself, and not being afraid to share your life’s adventures (and misadventures) with them. Topics include:

• Using your experiences to make your kids better people
• Teaching your children to question the narrative and to lack certainty
• Demonstrating that dad is capable of making mistakes (and being an idiot!)
• The value of honesty
• The danger of dishonesty

The guys close out the episode with another round of “Confessions” where Adam reveals a secret celebrity crush, and Marc brags about another podcast that he was invited onto.

[Episode Transcript]

Links:
Who's Your Daddy?: Bedtime Stories I Tell My Kids, But Maybe Shouldn't
Michael Addis: Showrunner & Director
Chukka Talk (ft. Marc Checket)
Rick's Big Heart - GoFundMe
Cosmic Kids Yoga
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Putting Your Soul Into Dadhood | Martin Sexton on Fatherhood, Following Your Bliss

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 10:07:16 +0000

Whether it's singing your heart out on stage or spending an afternoon smashing rocks into a lake with a Wiffle ball bat, our kids learn valuable lessons when they see their dad immersed in something he loves. To kick off Father's Day weekend, the guys share the qualities of a solid Father's Day, and Marc waxes philosophical about the values he took away from his own father's woodworking hobby. They welcome legendary musician, dad, and all-around soulful human being, Martin Sexton onto the show and have a marvelous conversation about passion, soul, heartbreak, and fatherhood. And we learn to stay away from the throw pillows at the Flaherty house.

The 20th episode of Modern Dadhood kicks off Father’s Day weekend 2020, with Adam and Marc discussing what an ideal Father’s Day might look like. They quickly realize they’re on the same page… it’s about spending quality, low-key time with the people you love the most. The conversation shifts to the value of our children seeing us express appreciation and excitement for the things we love to do.

Moving into the episode topic, Adam reminds Marc of a conversation prior to the launch of Modern Dadhood, where Marc quickly identified legendary singer/songwriter Martin Sexton as a guest he’d love to have on the show. Marc shares that Sexton’s music has been there for him since he was a teenager, and accompanied him through joyous times and challenging times. The theme of family frequently appears in Martin’s music, and since having children, the lyrics speak to Marc on a totally different level.

Martin shares stories of growing up in a Catholic family of 12. He describes his own kids, each with a unique story, and what being a dad means to him. Unsurprisingly, the soul that you see Martin emanate on stage is the same passion that he finds in digging in the dirt or playing Wiffle ball with his 11-year-old son Shane. Other topics include:

• Supporting your kids’ interests (even when they’re very different from your own)
• Valuing time together
• Bringing your all to your work
• Following your bliss
• Growing up in a large, diverse Catholic family
• Giving and receiving “tough love”
• The importance of hope, faith, and optimism
• Experiences from your childhood that leave lasting impressions on you

The guys wrap up the episode with another installment of “Did I Just Say That Out Loud?” which might leave you hoping that Adam thoroughly cleans the upholstery in his home.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

Links:
Martin Sexton
Martin on Facebook
Martin on Instagram
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Kevin White: The Full Conversation

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 04:45:03 +0000

This conversation with Army Officer Kevin White is an extended version of the conversation featured in Modern Dadhood Episode 18.

We understand that with the short-form nature of our show (30 minute episodes), sometimes the conversations with our guests leave our listeners wanting more. Kevin White, Officer in the US Army and father of one, was particularly candid, and we thought you'd like to hear the remainder of our conversation with him.

LINKS:
The Military Father: A Hands On Guide For Deployed Dads (book)
2017 Webinar on Resources for Military Dads
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Finding Adventure In Active Duty | US ARMY Officer Kevin White on Military Fatherhood

Fri, 5 Jun 2020 01:05:37 +0000

The military lifestyle can be hard. Uncertainty and risk are ever-present, and that stress can affect family members just as much as the active duty soldier... Perhaps even more. US Army Officer and dad of one daughter, Kevin White, shares openly about his family's experience navigating a challenging, rewarding, and often nomadic military lifestyle. Plus, Marc shares about a recent trip to the ER. And, in a new segment called "Confessions," Adam reveals a deep dark secret that might just make his kids lose their very minds.

Marc begins another remote recording session by recounting a recent (and rather traumatic) trip to the emergency room with one of his toddler twins. (Spoiler alert: everyone's okay!)

The guys discuss the phrase (and the act of) "social distancing," and decide that while it's easy to form an opinion based on one's personal situation, there are many variables which impact peoples' social distancing experience. Many don't have the luxury of collecting income from the safety of their home while spending more time than they're used to with their immediate families-- in fact, many people risk their own lives each day serving others. And in the case of our guest, US Army Officer Kevin White, sometimes you are required to put yourself at risk and physically distance from your family for weeks or months at a time.

Kevin candidly discusses his experience in the military including the challenges of being deployed with a wife and young daughter at home, and the unique opportunities that military life presents to his family. Our conversation also touches on:

• The various types of deployments and missions
• Making fast friends in new places
• How to explain to a toddler that their dad will be away for an unknown length of time
• How to communicate to your child the inherent danger in your line of work
• Reintegrating back into civilian life as a father

Adam and Marc round out the episode by revealing their deep, dark dad secrets in a new segment aptly titled Confessions.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

LINKS:
The Military Father: A Hands On Guide For Deployed Dads (book)
2017 Webinar on Resources for Military Dads
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Expanding The Definition of Creativity | Chris Ballew on Fatherhood, Raising Creative Kids

Fri, 22 May 2020 02:12:30 +0000

How do you define creativity? If we encourage our kids to be creative, will they be more successful in life? Adam and Marc explore the topic of creativity with Chris Ballew, lead singer of Presidents of the United States of America, creator of Caspar Babypants, and, dare we say, friend of the show. Also, the trials of talking to our kids about how to say no when something feels off. And what was Marc's childhood buffoonery that should have cursed him with gingivitis for life?

Episode 17 opens with a discussion on... you guessed it: creativity. Why is it important? How is it useful? How does teaching and encouraging creativity as dads help our kids in the long run? The guys waste no time introducing a guest who is celebrated frequently on the show, and who is a supremely creative being: Chris Ballew. A father of two, Chris shares stories of his stately tenure with Presidents of the United States of America, his time writing, recording, and performing Caspar Babypants, and of course, being a dad. Born to a line of musicians and immersed in music and art since birth, Augie and Josie Ballew have creativity in their blood. Now in their 20s, Chris explains how they have used that creativity to carve their own paths. Chris shares a personal philosophy on giving your children the tools for success and then releasing them into the world—but confesses that in his own experience, letting go is easier said than done. Other conversation topics include:

• Involving your kids in your own creativity
• How to encourage creativity in your kids when you’re not an inherently creative person
• The Ballew kids' involvement in Caspar songwriting and shows
• Chris’ recent fatherhood joys and challenges
• Letting your creation run free
• The future of Caspar Babypants

In an installment of So That’s a Thing Now, Adam chronicles his six year old daughter’s curiosity around “red flags” and “green flags” as described in a book by Zack and Kimberly King.

There’s still time to submit your dad jokes to the Modern Dadhood voice mailbox at 603-431-5465. Along with the help of guest judge Comedian Juston McKinney, the top 3 winners will receive a swell prize from BrüMate.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

LINKS:
Caspar Babypants
Babypants on FB
New Album: BUG OUT!
Tiny Song Jukebox
Chris Ballew
Chris' Art!
Chris on Instagram
Presidents of the United States of America
Kate Endle Illustration & Fine Art
I Said No!
How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk
Why Creativity is the Most Important Skill in the World
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Raising Our Boys To Be Respectful Men | Ted Bunch on Gender, Consent, Fatherhood

Fri, 8 May 2020 02:36:10 +0000

Gender inequality. Vulnerability. Consent. No doubt, these can be tough subjects to broach with our sons. But if we hope to raise our boys to be respectful, emotionally healthy men, then these are conversations which must be had. Adam explores these themes and more with father of six and Chief Development Officer of A CALL TO MEN, Ted Bunch. Plus, Marc has yet another awkward, dairy-themed encounter with his kids.

As life in quarantine continues, Adam and Marc dig in on the topic of talking to boys about valuing women as equals. This sparks a deeper exploration of how, among themselves, men talk about and ally with women—and how these things have evolved over time. Adam introduces guest Ted Bunch, father of six and chief development officer of A CALL TO MEN, an organization devoted to promoting healthy and respectful manhood and shifting attitudes and behaviors toward women. Adam and Ted cover many topics, including:

• Defining the “Man Box”
• The “collective socialization” of men
• Calling men out using affirmation instead of accusation
• Encouraging young men to be vulnerable
• What “consent” really means
• Techniques for having the “birds and the bees” talk with your son
• Modeling gender equality, and respectful and loving behavior with your spouse
• Raising your son to be his authentic self

Also, Marc asks himself (twice), “Did I Just Say That Out Loud?" The guys promote an upcoming episode on the topic of “dad jokes” and invite listeners to leave their best dad joke in the Modern Dadhood voicemail box at 603-431-5465 for a chance to win a prize from Brümate!

Happy Mother’s Day, Moms!

Links:

A CALL TO MEN
ACTM Virtual Trainings
Ted Bunch on Instagram
A Mighty Girl
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Comedy In The Time Of Covid | THE DAD's Matt Fisher on Humor, Dad Jokes, and Quarantine

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 01:22:02 +0000

Humor can be a welcomed distraction for the writer, reader, performer, and audience alike. And in times of despair, it can be hard to make heads or tails of what’s funny. Matt Fisher, comedian, writer, and on-screen talent with The Dad, joins the podcast to wax about why the role of dad is so ripe for comedy. Things get a wee bit deep as we discuss how a shift from sarcastic and cynical comedy to sincerity and empathy has the potential to bring people together and encourage escapism. Plus, Adam discovers breathing, and Marc gets his punchline stolen.

The guys welcome a new wave of subscribers to the Modern Dadhood family before diving right into a weighty conversation with comedian Matt Fisher of “The Dad.” The three swap stories of life in quarantine during the current Coronavirus pandemic and wax philosophical about suddenly being thrust into full-time-teacher mode while also balancing work, parenting, and maintaining your own identity. Matt discusses his work with “The Dad,” a revered organization which self-describes as “not a person; a lifestyle.” But our listeners will likely know The Dad as a website and immensely popular Facebook community constantly churning out dad-themed articles, memes, and videos that are shared widely among fathers and mothers alike. The Dad has offices and a production studio in Brooklyn, but the team—whose content depends on close collaboration—is now forced to create individually in isolation. We discuss how The Dad continues to delicately write and produce humorous content in a time of global panic, and other topics including:

• How life has changed since quarantining
• How comedy has evolved in response to the pandemic
• The decline of sarcasm in comedy, and the introduction of empathy and respect
• Why dad humor is so relatable (and shareable)
• Humor as a tool for escapism
• Utilizing The Dad’s platform to celebrate present and involved fathers

The guys give a big thank you and send off to intern Nic Roes, and remind the listeners about collecting dad jokes for an upcoming episode.

You could hear your voice on Modern Dadhood and win a great prize from BrüMate by leaving your best dad joke on our voicemail at 603.431.5465.

Links:
The Dad
The Dad on Facebook
Matt Fisher on Twitter
Matt Fisher on Instagram
Scary Mommy
Carly Jo Carson Breathwork
Caspar Babypants
Red Vault Audio
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

(LIVE) Nostalgia And Ninja Turtles | TMNT Artist Steve Lavigne on Comics, Kids, Dadhood

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 01:26:04 +0000

Nostalgia, man. It can be brought on by an errant lego or a beloved movie. A longing affection for days gone by can be nearly overwhelming, especially when we catch our own children staring, transfixed at a Matchbox car. For Adam and Marc, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are a catalyst for a nostalgic trip. In this special, partly live episode, our hosts meet with Steve Lavigne, one of the original TMNT artists, to talk about his experiences and, of course, nostalgia.

Episode 14 finds Adam and Marc on stage at 3S Artspace in Portsmouth, NH after a screening of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, to moderate a Q&A with TMNT comic artist Steve Lavigne. Between the on-stage portion and a pre-event conversation in the green room, Steve shares stories about his long history with Turtles creators Eastman and Laird, and the many incredible opportunities that his involvement in the Ninja Turtles franchise has presented. Topics of conversation include:

• The birth and early days of the Turtles
• The people who inspired the characters
• Steve’s reaction to seeing his artwork translated to live action cinema
• Being on the set of the film
• Meeting Jim Henson
• Visiting Henson’s Creature Shop in London
• How Steve’s children felt about the Turtles growing up
• What inspired Steve to get into comic illustration

The guys continue to discuss the allure of revisiting things from our past, and share comments from their favorite “dad” group about nostalgic movies, items, and experiences other dads are excited to share with their kids.

DADS: We’re working on an episode on DAD JOKES. Leave us a voicemail featuring your favorite dad joke, and you could be featured in the episode AND win an awesome prize from BrüMate. Share your joke by leaving a message at 603-431-5465.

LINKS:
Shellback Artworks on Facebook
Shellback Artworks on Instagram
TMNT film (1990) Wikipedia
Mirage Studios Wikipedia
Jim Henson's Creature Shop
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Red Vault Audio

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Protecting My Kid During A Crisis | Kevin Sturtevant on Fear and Fatherhood

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 02:09:58 +0000

For most dads, when our first child is born, a switch flips inside our brains which alerts us that we're now responsible for protecting another human... and we'll go to extremes to fulfill that responsibility. But how do we protect our kids from an intangible, invisible threat that upends our daily routines and challenges our stability? Kevin Sturtevant shares the story of his six-year-old son Sam's high risk infancy and dangerous vulnerability to viruses like Covid-19, and what his family is doing to stay safe during an uncertain time.

Episode 13 finds Adam in self-isolation, recording at a makeshift work station in his daughters' basement playroom. At two weeks in, social distancing and isolation is starting to become the "new normal", and Modern Dadhood will adapt. Adam chats with childhood friend Kevin Sturtevant, a father of two, from Kevin's family's home in rural Maine. Kevin, his wife Moe, and the kids have wisely vacated their apartment in Portland to isolate and spend time in nature in an effort to keep immunocompromised Sam shielded from the Coronavirus. We discuss topics including:

• Being a stay-at-home dad for several years
• Vaccination awareness
• Having your own identity outside of "dad"
• The feeling of helplessness in protecting your kid from an infections disease
• How to explain Coronavirus to your child
• Modeling strength, stability, and honesty
• Finding the positives and becoming better parents during a pandemic

From the recent Modern Dadhood archives, the boys discuss the irrational "NO!" in another installment of "So That's a Thing Now!"

Not to fret, Marc's now setup with a mic at home and Squadcast will enable the dads to return to their typical asinine banter.

Links:

Boston Children's Hospital: Saving Sam
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Unlearning Process | Stephen Stratton on Transgender Parenting

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 01:35:45 +0000

The mission of Modern Dadhood is to meet and learn from dads whose fatherhood experiences are different than our own. In this episode, guest Stephen Stratton gives us some new perspective and helps us realize the transgender taboo we grew up with doesn't exist in the same way for our kids. If we can bypass the stubborn notion that we might offend someone by asking the wrong question, we might find there’s a ton we have in common simply by being present, engaged dads.

Adam begins Episode 12 by recalling the recent “sweetheart dance” he attended with his kindergarten-aged daughter, and how it differed from their first time attending last year. The guys introduce guest Stephen Stratton, a stay-at-home father of one, who happens to be transgender. Stephen shares his compelling story from his childhood as a “tomboy” in rural Connecticut, through planning his own family, becoming a father, and raising his son with his partner Josh. Stephen candidly answers questions about his own story, about his son who was assigned female at birth but now chooses “he/him” pronouns, and about how to have a conversation with a transgender person without being disrespectful, pissing them off, or sounding like a dope. Topics include:

• Getting past the instinct to avoid people who are different than you
• Language and questions that are appropriate (or inappropriate) regarding transgenderism
• Discovering as a teen that the feelings Stephen had been experiencing had a name, and that it was an option he could pursue
• Stephen’s desire to be a parent, and his personal goals surrounding fatherhood
• Being a pregnant man (without turning heads!)
• How a transgender person handles discovering the sex of his baby
• How to talk to our kids about sex/gender/the transgender community
• Our children don’t have the same baggage that we have from our childhoods when this was considered much more taboo

The show wraps up with a riveting “So That’s a Thing Now” (spoiler alert... the twin boy toddlers are fighting! When will it stop?) and the guys gush about Marc’s cherished Hopsulator Trio by BrüMate. Turns out, Modern Dadhood listeners can get 15% off your first order by using the code “DADHOOD”. So use it!

Thanks to Tanner at Portland Pod for hosting and engineering our session with Stephen.

Links:

Stephen Stratton's blog
BrüMate (use code DADHOOD at checkout!)
Portland Pod
Red Vault Audio
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Making Presence A Priority | Musician Tyler Ramsey on Focused Fatherhood

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 03:35:42 +0000

This world is full of distractions. And those nagging distractions often pull us away from the people we care about the most. Tyler Ramsey, solo artist and former songwriter and lead guitarist for Band Of Horses, has actively worked to create a life for his family that reduces distraction and promotes living in the moment. In this episode, he shares that when he’s not touring the world on a bus, a slower-paced, self-sufficient lifestyle leads to a deeper connection with nature and his family.

To kick off the 11th episode of Modern Dadhood, Adam and Marc shout out to a few loyal listeners and MD supporters. Then things get real when Marc recounts his childhood in rural Pennsylvania, and expresses hope that his own sons will develop similar imagination and sense of adventure as they grow, despite the unrelenting distraction of modern technology.

Adam introduces guest Tyler Ramsey, who shares the story of raising his infant daughter while on tour with Band of Horses, and how he balances world travel with a slower paced lifestyle in his quiet home outside of Asheville, NC. Tyler, his wife, and now five year old daughter work, play, learn, and share meaningful time together as they explore the great outdoors right in their backyard. Now releasing solo albums, Tyler explains, he has more freedom and ownership over his schedule, resulting in more time being a present dad. Our conversation covers topics including:

• Tyler's decision to move away out of the city
• The impact of nature on Tyler's lifestyle, music, and family
• Demonstrating to your child that you are constantly learning
• Teaching your kid to be self-sufficient
• The importance of imagination and play
• Offsetting tour life with solitude and space
• Self discipline when working from home
• The raw emotion of holding your newborn
• Being fully present and appreciating the time you have with your family

Links:
Tyler Ramsey (official website)
Tyler Ramsey albums and merch
Forest Creature Dolls (Tyler's wife's company)
I'll Tell You What! Podcast
TMNT Screening & Modern Dadhood Q&A with Steve Lavigne
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Bubby Lewis
Red Vault Audio

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Spose: The Full Conversation

Marc Checket, Adam Flaherty, Spose, Ryan Peters, Caspar Babypants, Chris Ballew — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 03:38:37 +0000

This conversation with rapper Spose is an extended version of the conversation on the topic of music that demands our kids' attention, featured in Modern Dadhood Episode 5.

We understand that with the short-form nature of our show (30 minute episodes), sometimes the conversations with our guests leave our listeners wanting more. Our conversation about Spose was a particularly fun one, which we feel warrants its own episode. Laugh along as we discuss fatherhood, music, and topics such like:

• The pros (and cons) of Alexa
• The days of requesting a song on the radio
• The death of the Compact Disc
• The various ways our children are exposed to music
• What makes a particular artist or song appealing to young people?
• Censoring songs for our kids
• The formula for a catchy pop song
• Spose's kids book "Pinecone Pete is Not Impressed"

Links:

Spose
Spose Podcast
Pinecone Pete is Not Impressed
Tascam Porta-02 (we both used to record on this awesome 4 track)
Weezer - Lost in the Woods
Black Pink "Dududu"
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
TMNT Screening @ 3S
(^ this event includes a Q&A with Ninja Turtles comic artist Steve Lavigne, hosted by Marc & Adam!)

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Fun Dad Dilemma | Greg Kretschmar on Dad Pranks, Respect

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 03:00:11 +0000

Are you a dad who loves pulling pranks? Are you unable to stop goofing around with your kids, even when it's past their bedtime? Would your spouse say that you're the "fun dad"? If so, this episode is for you. We rap with legendary radio personality Greg Kretschmar about how to maintain authority as the dad, when you also seek the mischief and companionship of a friend.

Episode 9 finds Adam and Marc discussing the thrill of playing a good prank, and the joys and challenges of being a playful parent. Guest Greg Kretschmar shares his own "fun dad" stories, while imparting some wisdom on how to navigate playing the role of both "dad" and "friend." Topics include:

• The satisfaction that comes from making your kids belly laugh
• When your influence comes back to bite you
• When does a boy become a man?
• Embarrassing your kids in public intentionally
• Embarrassing your kids in public unintentionally
• Doing funny voices
• A prank that crossed the line
• Switching from friend to disciplinarian

The guys round out the episode with another installment of Did I Just Say That Out Loud?

Links:

Greg and the Morning Buzz
Greg Kretschmar Photography
Morning Buzz Podcasts
TMNT Screening & Modern Dadhood Q&A @ 3S Artspace
Steve Lavigne/Shellback Artworks
Caspar Babypants
Bubby Lewis
Spencer Explores the Universe

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Terry O'Quinn: The Full Conversation

Thu, 6 Feb 2020 21:30:10 +0000

We understand that with the short-form nature of our show (30 minute episodes), that sometimes the conversations with our guests leave our listeners wanting more. Well, we're here to deliver. In an extended cut of our conversation with actor Terry O'Quinn, he candidly speaks about his experience growing up in a family of 11 with a father who was a prominent and sometimes intimidating figure, and raising his two sons in Maryland, working hard to make a living as an actor. Topics we discuss include:

• The implications of having a father who is also your school principal
• Moving your wife and kids around the country for months at a time
• Going to see a movie that you didn't know your DAD was in
• Hitchhiking in Hawaii
• The trend of recreating successful films
• Financial strain
• The joys of grandkids
• Terry's parenthood advice for young actors
• The rise of "binge watching" and "watch parties"
• Alec Baldwin's babies
• The Stepfather 1, 2, and the reboot
• What NOT to say in the delivery room when you set eyes on your newborn for the first time

Links:
Terry on Twitter
Terry on Instagram
Terry O'Quinn Filmography
Perpetual Grace, Ltd.
The Sea Captains' "You Were Wrong" (the song about Locke!)
Red Vault Audio
Izotope Rx7
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Balancing Fame With Fatherhood | Actor Terry O'Quinn on Parenting, LOST, Getting Recognized

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 03:25:01 +0000

You might be known as “sir” to your subordinates, “doc” to your patients, or “officer” to the person you're handcuffing. But to your kids, you're just plain old "dad"... even when you're on the big screen opposite Luke Wilson or expertly throwing knives on The Island. In Episode 7, we chat with veteran actor Terry O’Quinn about his on screen roles, as well as the role he didn't have to audition for: Hunter and Oliver's dad.

In Episode 7, Marc and Adam commiserate about heartbreaking daycare drop offs and the importance of consistency and routine. They introduce guest Terry O'Quinn, whose storied career includes roles in The Stepfather I and II, The Rocketeer, Millennium, Heaven's Gate, Star Trek, The X-Files, Patriot, Perpetual Grace, Ltd., and of course, LOST.

Terry shares stories from his own childhood, growing up one of 11 siblings with a father who was also his school principal, and being a young actor raising two boys in Maryland. We learn what life was like for his sons both before and after "Terry O'Quinn" became a household name. Other topics we discuss include:

• Moving your family around the country for months at a time
• Going to see a movie that you didn't know your DAD was in
• Terry's parenthood advice for young actors
• The rise of "binge watching" and "watch parties"
• What NOT to say in the delivery room when you set eyes on your newborn for the first time

Keep you eyes on ModernDadhood.com for the full conversation with Terry.

The boys wrap up the episode with a rousing game of "Talkin' With Toddlers," and open it up to the dads listening to decipher the final sound byte. Dads, cast your vote -- hey@moderndadhood.com

Links:
Terry on Twitter
Terry on Instagram
Terry O'Quinn Filmography
Perpetual Grace, Ltd.
The Sea Captains' "You Were Wrong" (the song about Locke!)
Red Vault Audio
Izotope Rx7
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Carpe Diem, Kids! | Peter Jude Ricciardi on Fatherhood and Following Your Dreams

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 22:00:02 +0000

Making your own way, seizing the day, putting yourself out there. Describe it however you like, but Peter Jude Ricciardi is here to tell you that if you put in the effort, step out of your comfort zone, and don't be afraid to "fake it 'til you make it," you can achieve great things. The best part? Your kids are observing and learning from your work ethic!

In episode 6, we discuss the merits of talking to our kids about pursuing their passions. Adam confesses his dream of once wanting to become a game show host (despite his aversion to being in front of a camera). Marc remembers he once wanted to be a cartoonist (despite his poor drawing skills). Spoiler alert: neither of those careers panned out. During the interview with Peter Jude Ricciardi, we learn that taking chances can yield excellent results and that sometimes you have to fake it 'til you make it — and that's okay. Other things we discuss include:

• How we talk to our kids about their future
• Instilling confidence in our kids
• Encouraging creativity
• Discovering what makes us passionate
• The value of hard work
• Failure to do anything on time anymore
• Explaining personal responsibility to a 6 year old
("YOU need to realize you have to go pee before we leave the house!")
• Our kids are watching us and learning from us all the time

Lastly, Marc takes yet another stab at saying "thank you" to the listeners — and you get to decide whether it's a success or failure.

Links:
Brandartica (website)
Brandartica (Instagram)
Woodstock Inn Brewery ("Daddy's Art")
PJR @ CreativeMornings (video)
Marc Summers
Double Dare
Radio Disney
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Explores the Universe

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Songs, And The Kids Who Demand to Hear Them | Rapper Spose on Fatherhood and Music

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 22:00:13 +0000

Have you had it up to your ears with “Into The Unknown”? Or is your kid more of the “Shake it Off” type? Music can create memories, influence decisions, drive creativity, and can even become the lens through which you view the world around you. We thought someone who writes, performs, and produces awesome songs might possess unique insight into why certain music captivates our kids. Rapper (and dad of 4) Spose proved us right, and dropped some science.

In Episode 5, Adam shares a story of a close call involving his kindergarten-aged daughter's tongue and an icy cold metal mailbox. The remainder of the episode is dedicated to the discussion of music: why is it that our children are drawn to certain songs, artists, or genres? Is there a formula to writing a song that will grab the attention of a young person? Adam and Marc gush way too much over their mutual admiration of Caspar Babypants before introducing guest Spose.

From Spose's own studio, he and Adam discuss dadhood-related themes including:

• Kids music being associated with a story/characters
• The elements of a successful pop song
• The music of Frozen and Frozen 2, and composers Robert and Kristen Lopez
• The pros and cons of Alexa
• The ability for our kids to "DJ with their voice"
• Living in a world where there's instant access to any song
• Requesting songs on the radio
• Taylor Swift
• Songwriting specifically for film

Links:
Spose
The Spose Podcast
Pinecone Pete Is Not Impressed
Weezer "Lost In The Woods"
Bull Moose Music
Robert and Kristen Lopez
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

Making Memories and Building Self Reliance | Justin Kelcourse on Boat Life

Thu, 9 Jan 2020 21:00:17 +0000

Some parents take their kids to Disney. Some visit Grandma in Boise every July. And some move their family into a small boat for most of the year. Justin Kelcourse, a real estate agent and father of two, shares with us how he and his partner manage to raise their family on a boat.

In Episode 4, Marc shares the top three most useful travel tips that he put to use on a recent family vacation with his wife and twin toddlers. Marc and Adam discuss vacation-planning strategies, what types of experiences may leave a lasting impression on your children as they grow, and which ones will disappear from their memory.

They welcome guest Justin Kelcourse, a successful realtor and owner of Kelcourse and Company, a division of Keller Williams Coastal Realty. Justin shares stories of his family's unique lifestyle that surely will result in lifelong memories: living for months at a time on a small boat in New England. In Justin's conversation, the guys touch on topics including:

• the allure of an alternative lifestyle
• financial security
• compact sized baby furniture
• living minimally
• encouraging and building self-reliance in your children
• building confidence and competence
• lack of technology/devices promoting more interpersonal connection

Adam and Marc round out the episode with a "The Grudge"-inspired installment of "So That's a Thing Now!" and continue to struggle with the proper send-off.

Links:
Kelcourse and Company
Beastie Boys "Ch-Check It Out"
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Explores the Universe

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

I'm Not Crying, You're Crying | Christian Hayes on Vulnerability

Wed, 1 Jan 2020 03:30:00 +0000

Dads have emotions too, and sometimes those emotions make your eyes leak all over your face. It's nothing to be ashamed of, but it is something that makes you wonder: Are other dads out there letting their emotions all hang out? We chat with Christian Hayes, father of two, ex-rock star and current restauranteur star about emotional vulnerability.

In this episode of Modern Dadhood, Marc and Adam catch up about the stinkiest smells from their kids, and the things that make them emotionally vulnerable dads.

Guest Christian Hayes shares of his own vulnerabilities as the front man of hard rock band Sidecar Radio, as the owner of two businesses in a notoriously tough industry, and as a father of two young daughters.

The episode wraps up with Modern Dadhood's homage to "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" in a segment called "Did I Just Say That Out Loud?" where Marc and Adam share stories about ludicrous exclamations that came out of their mouths lately in the presence of their kids.

Links:
The Garrison, Yarmouth, Maine
Sidecar Radio
Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
Diaper Genie
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

When Our Schedules Don't Align | Josh Cecot on Parenting

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 03:30:00 +0000

People have to work, no mystery there. What is a mystery, though, is how best to make sense out of busy schedules when kids are in the picture. Do you want to know who holds the key to that mystery? Us too! That's why we talked with Josh Cecot, someone who juggles an irregular schedule as the General Manager of a restaurant with being a husband and a dad of two.

In this episode of Modern Dadhood, Marc and Adam commiserate about the aches and pains that come with getting older, and about graduating from a crib to a toddler bed.

The podcast's introductory guest is Josh Cecot, and the three discuss the pros of having one-on-one time with your children when you're solo parenting, and the cons of having less time as a complete family unit than you'd like. Additionally, we discuss:

• the feeling of guilt when work prevents you from being with your kids
• the importance of distraction
• restaurant etiquette when you're dining with kids
• staying at work a little later than you need to as a favor to your spouse
• the desire to take your children on adventures
• the need for hand signals with other parents in public
• the importance of letting it go-- (not like the song)

Josh Cecot proved his candidacy as a returning guest right away. He'll be on our short list... especially because he showed up with 80s movie references at the ready, and good craft beer.

Links:
York River Landing
Caspar Babypants

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast

The Setup

Caspar Babypants, Adam Flaherty, Chris Ballew, Marc Checket, Spencer Albee — Sun, 29 Dec 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Welcome to Modern Dadhood, an ongoing conversation about the joys, challenges, and general insanity of being a dad in this moment. Meet the hosts Adam Flaherty and Marc Checket, and enjoy the first installment of "So, That's a Thing Now!"

In our introductory episode, Adam Flaherty and Marc introduce themselves, reveal the inspiration behind starting Modern Dadhood, and set the stage for what you can expect from the podcast moving forward.

Links:
Anchor Line
Calypso Agency
Caspar Babypants
Spencer Albee
Spencer Explores the Universe

#moderndadhood #fatherhood #parenthood #parenting #parentingpodcast #dadding #dadpodcast