Dad Without Borders

In this episode, I open up about the emotional and practical realities of long-distance fatherhood and how to nurture a balanced bond between parents after separation. With insights from counsellor Catherine Williams and research on the Kelly & Johnston Continuum, I discuss healthy attachment, the difference between affinity and alienation, and why a child’s best outcome depends on both parents being supported.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why self-care and emotional health come first for separated parentsHow to stay connected through letters, FaceTime, and shared ritualsThe Kelly & Johnston Continuum explained — from balance to alienationLanguage that fosters security instead of divisionSimple activities that reconnect families across distanceProfessional insight and practical tools for parents navigating separation

In this episode, I open up about the emotional and practical work of supporting a young child through high anxiety — and what it means to stay grounded as a parent when your child’s fear takes over. With thanks and insight from psychologist Sean Larsen, hypnotherapist Catherine Williams, and family counsellor Erica Spink, I explore how “bottom-up” fear works in a child’s nervous system, why storytelling can be more powerful than reassurance, and how gentle exposure and family balance helped our son heal.What you’ll hear in this episode:Simple family moments that restore connection — nature play, empathy, and advocacyHow a mild infection triggered deep anxiety in a six-year-oldWhy logic doesn’t calm body-based fearHow storytelling can re-train a child’s brainThe emotional load of co-regulation and the need for parental balanceThe small daily shifts that made a difference: softer mornings, more play, less pressure

This episode explores the emotional terrain of letting go and showing up. I reflect on the early days of co-parenting — the handovers, the tension, and the quiet rituals that helped my son feel safe — and how those lessons continue to shape the way I parent today.From the big goodbyes of long-distance fatherhood to the daily drop-offs at daycare, I’ve learned that transitions are where connection is built — if we stay present and consistent through them.What you’ll hear in this episode:The power of predictable handovers and simple goodbye ritualsWhy short, steady transitions work best for kidsLessons from co-parenting through conflict with compassionHow long-distance parenting shaped my approach to daily connectionA reminder that presence matters more than perfection

In this Dad Diary, I reflect on the dual challenges of fatherhood across distance and at home. Saying goodbye to my eldest son after a summer visit — complete with a broken arm and his first solo flight — pushed me to hold space for his sadness while staying steady. At the same time, helping my three-year-old navigate daycare transitions has reminded me that even small daily goodbyes ask for presence, consistency, and soft strength.What you’ll hear in this episode:The emotional goodbye of my son’s first solo flight back to the UKRituals our family uses to anchor connection through goodbyesHow daycare transitions mirror the bigger separationsReflections on Jason Wilson’s idea of being “the man the moment demands” 

In This Episode:Blue's podcast journey from 2020 pandemic start to presentHow a brutal custody battle became a gift for better parentingThe inspiration behind returning after a 2-year breakSeason 3 announcement: Dad Diaries format launching September 2025Upcoming Season 3 Topics:Handling anxiety in young childrenNavigating germ phobiaRaising a highly sensitive childManaging distance parenting as children approach teenage yearsStaying connected from afar - and should we?Time as a gift, not a sacrificeConnect with Blue:Visit bluenetherclift.com for more resources on international parentingFind all episodes at dad-without-borders-e10084dc.simplecast.comConnect with Blue on Instagram @dadwithoutbordersSeason 3: Dad Diaries launches September 2025 - subscribe wherever you get your podcastsResources Mentioned:International parenting challenges and solutionsBlended family dynamics across continentsProfessional consultation for parenting strugglesCommunity: Whether you're tuning in from Toronto or Tokyo, Manchester or the Middle East, if you're a parent trying to figure it all out, you're part of this community. Remember - there are no borders when it comes to a parent's love.

David Stegman's offerings include:The Courageous Way - Business and Mindset coaching https://www.thecourageousway.com/The Rad Dad Collectivehttps://www.raddadcollective.org/

In this episode of Staying Connected: Fatherhood After Separation, we dive deep into the challenges and opportunities fathers face in maintaining a strong bond with their children after divorce, separation, or limited parenting time. No matter your circumstances, you can build a powerful connection with your child. So, whether you have limited time, live far away, or are adjusting to co-parenting, this episode offers hope and practical ways to make every moment count. ❤️ Parenting norms are shifting, but traditional stereotypes still paint fathers as mere providers and protectors. In reality, modern dads are stepping into both nurturing and leadership roles, proving that emotional intelligence, empathy, and presence are just as important as financial stability. Drawing from my own journey of co-parenting across borders, I share practical strategies for staying connected, from adjusting expectations to embracing shared activities that strengthen attachment. Whether you're a single dad navigating separation, a co-parent trying to redefine your role, or even a mother looking to understand the father’s perspective, this episode is for you. Key Topics Covered: ✅ Redefining Fatherhood: Moving beyond the outdated "breadwinner" model to embrace a holistic parenting approach. ✅ The Power of Shared Activities: How playing, learning, and adventuring together builds deep, lasting bonds. ✅ The Science of Connection: Exploring how dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins strengthen the parent-child relationship. ✅ The Role of Nature: Why spending time outdoors (hiking, canoeing, biking, or simply throwing stones on a beach) can create powerful emotional anchors. ✅ Navigating Emotional Challenges: How fathers can show up authentically and consistently, even when facing court battles, distance, or personal struggles. ✅ Resilience & Adaptability: Embracing both traditional strength and nurturing care without sacrificing masculinity. Why This Episode Matters: 💡 Fatherhood is evolving, and men are stepping into deeper, more emotionally present roles in their children's lives. 💡 Small moments matter. From baking and watching shows together to skateboarding and camping, it’s about being present and engaged. 💡 Dads have permission to nurture. Leaning into both masculine and feminine traits is a strength, not a weakness.

In this episode, I open up about navigating fear, fatherhood, and maintaining a deep connection with my son despite the challenges of an international blended family. After my first wife was granted full custody and relocated overseas with our child, I had to redefine my role as a father - challenging the traditional archetype of being a provider and protector when my child was an ocean away. I share my personal journey of overcoming fear - fear of the unknown, financial instability, losing my connection with my son, and the stigma of failure. Through trial, error, professional guidance, and leaning into love over fear, I’ve learned what truly matters in co-parenting and long-distance fatherhood. This episode is for any parent - especially fathers - facing separation, uncertainty, or the struggle of maintaining a strong bond with their children. You are not alone. Join the conversation! DM me on Instagram @DadWithoutBorders or email me at dadwithoutborders@gmail.com to share your story.

This is part 2 of a conversation with fellow dad Jasper as we build support for each other through our friendship. Topics we touch on: Staying engaged with your child's school timetable activities and teachers Advocating for therapy for the kids Honesty and openness with our kids Being a safe and trusted space for your kid The importance of being present Meditating with kids Importance of nature for connecting with children and as a family Renovations vs quality time with family Focusing on how our children feel in their home Investing time in our partners and meeting their needs Understanding our partners love language The importance of personal growth

Navigating Fatherhood with Heart and Grit In this raw and honest episode, your host Blue sits down with Jasper, a local dad and close friend, for a deep dive into the realities of modern fatherhood. This episode marks the first part of an ongoing conversation about the ups and downs of being a dedicated and present father. Together, they explore the challenges that many dads face, from dealing with anxiety around being “worthy” as a parent, to the importance of seeking professional help through counselling. Jasper shares his personal journey, and the two discuss how our children often become our teachers, offering valuable insights into our own emotional growth. A key theme of the episode is the struggle with anger, and the impact it can have on our relationships with our children. They also touch on the responsibility we have as fathers to not burden our children with our emotions, and how to maintain a healthy emotional environment in the family. This episode is a must-listen for any dad—or parent—navigating the complexities of fatherhood. Whether you’re dealing with separation, blended families, or simply looking to grow in your parenting journey, this conversation will offer perspective, support, and practical advice. Stay tuned for future episodes as Blue continues to share his personal experiences, offer solo reflections, and invite professionals to weigh in on the important topics shaping fatherhood today.

In this episode, I aim to reintroduce myself as the host and a father who has embarked on a tumultuous journey through separation and divorce from the mother of my first child. Throughout this turbulent period, I encountered immense challenges within the court system, grappled with a sense of isolation and lack of support within the community, and felt unfairly represented in society as a father. The absence of relatable role models further exacerbated my struggles, leaving me feeling adrift in a sea of societal expectations and stereotypes that did not align with my experiences and values. The challenges I have faced and ultimately losing custody of my first child, who then moved overseas with his mother - has been actually been a gift, allowing me to discover a deeper side of myself and develop a more mindful and creative approach to parenting as a father with an international blended family, and a long distance relationship with my eldest son. Despite the separation and distance my role and presence is integral to his well being. I just find ways of showing up in his home, his school and everyday life. So stay positive, listen and know that there is another way.

This is a chance to share some recent "wins" as a long-distance parent and offer some hot tips to anyone that might need some advice in navigating long-distance relationships with their kids. It is not easy to be away from your kids, even for a week. I have to deal with many months separated from my oldest son who lives in the UK, and making him feel like a part of my family here in Canada is not an easy task. But my three young sons are incredibly close and this it the result of thoughtful, creative parenting. I hope this short episode provides some hope for other dads that might be struggling.

This week I share my recent experience with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) - dealing with the trauma of a child custody trial - as an effective way to deal with any residue impact on the mind and body. It was a really interesting and productive experience for me and I want to encourage other Dads to consider seeking therapy in some form if they have not already done so. As part of the parenting journey, we need to own our own shit and confront our demons to become the best parents we can be - in my opinion. Kids are our best teachers, so it's a great opportunity for personal development. This leads to a reflection on parenting from a distance with a child overseas, and actually how it's possible to be as connected as any day-to-day parent, if not more so. I then touch on current challenges with our three-year-old boy that anyone with young kids might be able to relate to - and how we are dealing with it.

A great conversation about how to show up as a parent with the author of Parenting for a Peaceful Home. Drew Tupper is an Author, life coach, husband, and father of two. He has dedicated his life to seeking truth and creating purpose. He practices these intentions by examining and analyzing questions such as: Why are we here? How should we live? What matters? And how can we BE so that our lives are an outward projection of our being? He has overcome struggle and knows what it feels like to feel stuck, angry, and lost. His life is a testament to the adage that growth is not always a straightforward path, but that it is always a worthwhile pursuit. In his words, he “found liberation in loving himself unconditionally,” which “allows him to create his life, rather than react.” Now, this is what he helps his clients do. Do you have to try really hard to be successful? Or do you need to tune into your self and act from a place of calm, so you can co regulate with your kids. Energy is everything when you are parenting. If you want to find a way to calm your child, this is a good episode for you. Do you ever had a bad reaction to your child crying? Like me, have you been obsessed by nap times and do you know how to regulate yourself so you don't freak out? We also talk about acceptance and forgiving yourself. Consider the impact of your tone with your kids. How were we impacted by our upbringing. What happens to adults that were raised with a negative tone? What kind of tone do we need to have? The key takeaway could be that we all need to 'do the work' and seek professional guidance as we navigate parenting. Or maybe just subscribe and listen to all these episodes.

I was in a counselling session yesterday with Catherine Williams, a registered social worker. A friend of the show and someone who has been a great source of inspiration and support over the years. One of the topics that was discussed was the fact that it is important that kids don't feel responsible for their parent's emotions. This had me reflecting on some of the situation I have been in as a parent, when I am being triggered or I voice my frustrations. It was a great reminder for me to watch my language and actions around my three children to make sure I am taking ownership of how I feel and not putting expectations on them to show up in a certain was to appease me. I also share a brief update of how things are going for our family with a new baby, and the relationship of the siblings.

Resources:The article Emily wrote that mentioned a fake Snapchat account: https://emilycherkin.medium.com/im-43-i-made-a-fake-snapchat-account-pretending-to-be-a-15-year-old-3c7e7a7e1786Everyschool.org is where you can find the EdTech TriangleMy YouTube channel with Tech-Intentional Tips videos: YouTubeBrief Bio:Emily Cherkin, MA Ed, is The Screentime Consultant, an internationally recognized consultant who has worked with families and schools over the last fifteen years. A former classroom teacher and current parent, Emily helps families go from tech-overwhelmed to tech-intentional. She's been featured on The Today Show (twice), Good Morning, America, and in The New York Times. She can be found on the major social media platforms and at www.thescreentimeconsultant.com. Social Media handles: www.facebook.com/thescreentimeconsultantwww.facebook.com/groups/techintentionalfamiliesunitedwww.instagram.com/thescreentimeconsultantwww.linkedin.com/in/emily-cherkinYouTube channelTwitter

We have a new baby boy! Dad Without Borders is back after a summer break enjoying family time as we transition into life with a new baby and juggling the needs of three sons aged 0, 3 and 9. I have lots more to say about this, but in this episode I focus on sharing my experience of welcoming our baby boy into the world.

So the baby is now several days over due. We are waiting patiently for labour to start. We are all feeling calm but are we ready? I am sharing some post labour thoughts as we get ready for the big event. Is it time to head to the hospital? Will the mid wife make it on time? Is it time to leave the home and head to the hospital. We are an hour drive from the hospital and the mid wife is even further away. Do we pull the trigger and leave our toddler with family and friends? As we prepare ourselves for a huge family shift, I am looking forward to sharing the adventures of a new born and an international blended family. As if life was not already complicated enough but I am really looking forward to the next phase of our family. Please enjoy! Please enjoy! LIKE, SHARE and FOLLOW these pages: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadwithoutborders/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dad-Without-Borders-104442641427419 Website: https://dad-without-borders-e10084dc.simplecast.com/

This episode starts with a brief update as today is the due date of our baby boy (my third son). I then get into conversation with Eric Taylor aka The Breastfeeding Father, an ex military man who is now studying clinical psychology with a focus on children and adolescents. Eric is based in Canada with his wife and baby, but it also has a young daughter living in the USA. Covid has been incredibly challenging for them with a long period of separation between him and his daughter. We talk about international parenting, the role of the father with new borns and babies, supporting Mothers breastfeeding, the importance of understanding and forgiving his father, engaging with a child in a long distance relationship, the need for more information for Dads in their role in the child and parent relationship, and more. This is a great conversation for any Dads (or Moms), wondering about their role as fathers, especially with young children. There were some great reminders for me, as I prepare to welcome our son to the world and get ready to support the Mom in child birth and postpartum. Please enjoy! Please enjoy! LIKE, SHARE and FOLLOW these pages: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadwithoutborders/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dad-Without-Borders-104442641427419 Website: https://dad-without-borders-e10084dc.simplecast.com/

This is a great conversation with Curt Storring from Dad.Work. We share the struggles of becoming a father. The episode starts with some personal updates, including the fact that we are about to have a baby (boy number 3!) and gearing up for that reality. In this episode we learn about Curt who lives in an authentic way as a father after a difficult transition to parenting left him feeling "overwhelmed, angry and lonely" ultimately not being the father that he wanted to be. "The first few years of fatherhood were hard for me. I was so overwhelmed, angry, and lonely, that it caused chaos in every other part of my life. My suffering was so great that I finally had to face the problem head-on and do something about it, or risk losing everything. My marriage, my family, my business…" Curt decided to dive deep when he realized that... "To become a better father, I needed to go one step deeper and learn how to truly become a better man." He now runs a platform supporting men and fathers become better versions of themselves and I highly recommend that you check out Dad.Work to find out more. Please enjoy! LIKE, SHARE and FOLLOW these pages: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadwithoutborders/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dad-Without-Borders-104442641427419 Website: https://dad-without-borders-e10084dc.simplecast.com/