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Dad Tired

Dad Tired
Author: Jerrad Lopes
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You’re tired.
Not just physically; though yeah, that too.
You’re tired in your bones. In your soul.
Trying to be a steady husband, an intentional dad, a man of God… but deep down, you feel like you’re falling short. Like you’re carrying more than you know how to hold.
Dad Tired is a podcast for men who are ready to stop pretending and start healing.
Not with self-help tips or religious platitudes, but by anchoring their lives in something (and Someone) stronger.
Hosted by Jerrad Lopes, a husband, dad of four, and fellow struggler, this show is a weekly invitation to find rest for your soul, clarity for your calling, and the courage to lead your family well.
Through honest stories, biblical truth, and deep conversations you’ll be reminded:
You’re not alone. You’re not too far gone. And the man you want to be is only found in Jesus.
This isn’t about trying harder.
It’s about coming home.
Not just physically; though yeah, that too.
You’re tired in your bones. In your soul.
Trying to be a steady husband, an intentional dad, a man of God… but deep down, you feel like you’re falling short. Like you’re carrying more than you know how to hold.
Dad Tired is a podcast for men who are ready to stop pretending and start healing.
Not with self-help tips or religious platitudes, but by anchoring their lives in something (and Someone) stronger.
Hosted by Jerrad Lopes, a husband, dad of four, and fellow struggler, this show is a weekly invitation to find rest for your soul, clarity for your calling, and the courage to lead your family well.
Through honest stories, biblical truth, and deep conversations you’ll be reminded:
You’re not alone. You’re not too far gone. And the man you want to be is only found in Jesus.
This isn’t about trying harder.
It’s about coming home.
487 Episodes
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What does it really mean to follow Jesus when the cost is high?In this week’s episode, Jerrad reflects on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk; not just as a political figure, but as a brother in Christ who boldly proclaimed the gospel until his final moments.Drawing from Luke 9 and his own experiences at the Dad Tired retreat, Jerrad challenges men to slow down, quiet the noise, and seriously ask: Am I all in with Jesus?You’ll hear:Why silence matters for hearing God’s voiceHow Charlie Kirk’s final words point us to courage and hopeThe danger of being overly eager or overly cautious in discipleshipWhat it means to “count the cost” before putting your hand to the plowThis episode is a sobering call to examine our “but first” excuses and to step fully into the life Jesus is calling us to live.
What if the very thing you fear most—suffering—was actually the place God wanted to meet you most deeply?In this episode, Jerrad opens a new series through 1 Peter, a letter written to Christians facing intense persecution under Nero. With raw honesty and pastoral encouragement, he reminds us that suffering isn’t a sign that God has abandoned us—it’s often the very soil where our faith takes root.Drawing from Peter’s opening words, Jerrad shares personal stories of walking with grieving families, parenting through pain, and clinging to identity in Christ when the world speaks lies. More than tips or quick fixes, this episode centers us on the truth that even in suffering, we can bless God—because our hope and inheritance are secure in Jesus.With insight from 1 Peter 1:1–5 and the broader historical context, you’ll discover:Why Peter calls us “elect exiles” and why that matters for your identity todayHow to hold onto hope when life feels like it’s falling apartWhy remembering who you are in Christ can anchor you through hardshipThe difference between the world’s identity labels and God’s declaration over youNine reasons Peter gives us to bless God, even in sufferingWhether you’re grieving, discouraged, or just need a reminder of where your true hope lies, this episode will help you lift your eyes to the One who guards both your inheritance and your soul.Scriptures Mentioned1 Peter 1:1–5Exodus 14–15Philippians 1:62 Corinthians 4:16–18John 16:33Psalm 34:18Resources & LinksToday’s Sponsor: World Watch NewsInvite Jerrad To Speak At Your ChurchBecome A Monthly Partner
Watch on YouTubeWhat if the hardest thing you’ve ever faced wasn’t 60 days in the wilderness, but the weight of leading your family through suffering?In this episode, Jerrad sits down with Alone Season 5 winner, Sam Larson, whose victory on national TV was followed by a far heavier reality at home: all three of his children being diagnosed with CLN3 Batten Disease, a rare terminal illness.With raw honesty and gospel hope, Sam shares how grief stripped away every illusion of control, what it means to father children with a limited timeline, and how Jesus became more real than ever in the middle of heartbreak.With insight from 2 Corinthians 12, Matthew 5, and Romans 8, you’ll discover:Why suffering can feel like an uninvited gift that drives us closer to ChristThe difference between choosing hardship (like Alone) and enduring pain you never asked forHow to anchor your family in gospel hope when life feels unbearableWhy men need brothers in Christ to speak truth when they’re drowning in liesWhat it looks like to find joy, purpose, and community even in seasons of deep sufferingWhether you’re walking through grief, feeling the crushing weight of fatherhood, or just longing for purpose in your everyday life, this episode will remind you that Jesus has conquered even the darkest parts of our story—and He is with you.Scriptures Mentioned2 Corinthians 12:9–10Matthew 5:4Romans 8:18–25John 16:332 Corinthians 4:16–18Psalm 34:181 Peter 1:6–7James 1:2–4Philippians 1:6Resources & LinksToday’s Sponsors: World Watch NewsVisit Sam’s church: Redemption Hill Bible Church – Hickman, NebraskaInvite Jerrad To Speak At Your ChurchBecome A Monthly Partner
Watch on YouTubeWhat if the biggest battle you’re fighting isn’t around you, but inside your own head?In this episode, Jerrad gets real about the lies men quietly believe every day—the voices that whisper (or shout), “You’re not enough, you’ll never change, you’re unlovable, you don’t matter.” Drawing from personal struggles, conversations with friends, and the truth of Scripture, he unpacks how to recognize these destructive thoughts and replace them with what God actually says.With insight from John 8:44, Romans 8:1, 2 Corinthians 5:17, and Ephesians 2:10, you’ll discover:The 10 most common lies men believe—and how they quietly shape our marriages, parenting, and walk with GodWhy these lies don’t just stay in your head but impact your words, actions, and relationshipsHow Satan, the father of lies, plants accusations that erode your identity in ChristThe practical, biblical way to combat lies—not with pep talks or hype—but with the Word of God and gospel-centered communityWhy truth spoken by brothers in Christ can break through lies when self-talk can’tWhether you’ve felt the sting of shame, the weight of failure, or the loneliness of “I have to do this on my own,” this episode will help you step back onto the solid ground of God’s truth and live as the healed man He created you to be.Scriptures MentionedJohn 8:44Romans 8:12 Corinthians 5:17Ephesians 2:10Proverbs 24:16Philippians 1:61 John 3:1Romans 5:81 Corinthians 6:19–201 Peter 2:92 Corinthians 12:9Ecclesiastes 4:9–10Galatians 6:2John 15:5Resources & LinksToday’s Sponsors: Courage For Life Study BibleInvite Jerrad To Speak At Your ChurchBecome A Monthly Partner
Watch on YouTube HereWhat would your wife and kids say if someone asked, “Is your dad full of joy?”In this episode, Jerrad gets honest about why so many dads feel grumpy, short-tempered, and exhausted, and why joy often feels out of reach. Sharing personal stories, biblical truth, and ten practical steps, he unpacks how Christian dads can move from frustration to deep joy rooted in Jesus.With insight from Psalm 16:11, Galatians 5:22–23, and John 15:10–11, you’ll discover:The hidden reasons dads lose joy (unconfessed sin, silent pressures, numbing out)Why God actually cares about your joy as a manHow joy flows from God’s presence, obedience, and salvationPractical rhythms to restore joy in your home—like confession, gratitude, play, rest, and communityWhether you’ve been stuck in grumpiness or just long to be a more joy-filled dad, this episode will help you step back into the life God designed for you.Scriptures MentionedPsalm 16:11Galatians 5:22–23Psalm 51:12James 1:2–4John 15:10–11Philippians 4:6–71 Thessalonians 5:16–18Ecclesiastes 3:12–13Matthew 18:3John 16:24Mark 10:45Matthew 11:28–29Hebrews 10:24–25Resources & LinksToday’s Sponsors: Dwell Bible App & World WatchInvite Jerrad To Speak At Your ChurchBecome A Monthly PartnerFunny Video Jerrad Laughed AtScientific Benefits of Gratitude
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vNdWKOY3wmAWhat would it look like if every part of your life was lived in the light. No shortcuts, no secrets, no lies?In this episode, Jerrad challenges men to step into radical honesty, starting with the smallest details. Drawing from his own healing journey, he unpacks why healed men are truth-tellers, how integrity builds confidence, and why it matters to look more like your Heavenly Father—the Father of light—than the father of lies.With biblical insight from 1 John 1:6–7, Proverbs 10:9, and Luke 16:10, you’ll discover:Why even “small” lies keep you stuckHow walking in the light transforms your confidence and relationshipsPractical steps to start telling the truth in everythingThe role of trusted friends, counselors, and community in your healingWhether you’re holding onto a hidden struggle or just want to live with more integrity, this episode will help you take your next step toward freedom.Scriptures Mentioned:1 John 1:6–7Proverbs 10:9Luke 16:10John 8:44James 1:17Resources & Links:Today's Sponsor: Hands On BibleInvite Jerrad To Speak At Your ChurchBecome A Monthly Partner
Watch on YouTube HEREWhat if the most powerful discipleship moments with your kids weren’t planned, but hidden in the everyday?In this heartfelt solo episode, Jerrad Lopes shares the honest struggle of staying connected with your kids; especially as they grow into pre-teens and teens. From the exhausting early days of parenting toddlers to the emotional complexity of raising a 14-year-old, Jerrad opens up about his own wins, failures, and surprising lessons learned.Through a spontaneous UTV adventure in the Arizona desert, he discovered a truth that changed how he parents: deep connection isn’t built in big, perfectly planned moments, it’s formed in the small, mundane ones. With biblical insight from Deuteronomy and the example of Jesus, Jerrad shows how ordinary life can become the best classroom for pointing your kids to Christ.This episode is an encouragement to slow down, notice the moments you might be missing, and remember that God uses the everyday to shape both your kids’ hearts and yours.What You’ll Learn:Why parenting often gets harder as your kids grow olderHow to build “relational equity” with your kids in simple, everyday waysWhy the mundane moments are often the most spiritually impactfulHow Jesus used ordinary life to disciple His followersPractical ideas to connect with both younger kids and teensHow God uses parenting moments to shape your own faithMentioned in This Episode:Deuteronomy 6:4–7 — Teaching your kids in everyday lifeMatthew 6 & Mark 4 — How Jesus used lilies and storms to teach spiritual truthsArizona ATV AdventuresBook Jerrad to speak: jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving ItToday’s Sponsors: Courage For Life Bible & World Watch News
Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/l6cKcqatpt8?si=yIQMZfIQxc-W2pPFWhat if your emotions weren’t the enemy—but the invitation to grow into the man God’s calling you to be?In this powerful solo episode, Chris Hilken explores the complicated relationship men have with their emotions. Most guys tend to fall off one side of the horse: either rejecting their emotions altogether or letting them run the show. But what if there’s a better way?With biblical insight and real-life examples, Chris makes the case that emotions aren’t something to obey or ignore—they’re something to redeem. He shares a practical framework for navigating emotions like anger, fear, and sadness through a gospel lens, helping men avoid the extremes of emotional numbness or chaos.This episode is a call for men to stop being passive with their emotions and start learning how to steward them like Jesus did—intentionally, righteously, and powerfully.What You’ll Learn:Why men are more emotional than they realizeThe 3 questions every man should ask when he feels something deeplyHow to know if your emotions are leading you toward Christ—or away from HimWhy “being true to yourself” is not a biblical ideaWhat Jesus, Nehemiah, and Esther teach us about godly emotionHow to break the pattern of reacting emotionally and start responding spirituallyWhy redeemed emotions can actually strengthen your leadership as a husband and fatherMentioned in This Episode:“Emotions are a check engine light, not a GPS” analogyJonathan Edwards on righteous vs. carnal affectionsMark 11 (Jesus’ righteous anger)Genesis 4 (Cain’s destructive jealousy)Nehemiah 1 and Matthew 27 (sadness that rebuilds vs. sadness that destroys)Esther 4 and Luke 22 (courage vs. fear)Book Jerrad to speak: jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: Amazon LinkToday's Sponsor: Classical Conversations
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7qy-dTUtTA4Most men have learned how to clean up well.We look calm. Composed. Put together.We show up to church, crack a few jokes, keep the peace; and no one would know what’s actually happening in our hearts.But Jesus isn’t fooled by appearance. He sees straight through the polish and into the pain.In today’s episode, Kaleb unpacks what it means to “clean the inside of the cup.”He shares a raw story about how God confronted him in the middle of the night, while he was busy rehearsing a bitter argument in his head, and revealed just how much unhealed junk was still living in his heart.This isn’t about behavior management. It’s about soul work.Because your wife doesn’t need a perfect version of you. Your kids don’t need a dad who looks impressive.They need a man who is whole on the inside.In this episode:The hidden difference between external discipline and internal healthHow to know if you’re just “managing the outside”The biblical call to clean the inside of your cupWhat makes a man useful to GodWhy your family needs a healed version of you—not a polished one"Woe to you… You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. First clean the inside of the cup…”— Matthew 23:25–26Resources:Bring A Conference To Your Church: https://www.dadtired.com/conferencesSupport the mission: https://www.dadtired.com/donateToday's Sponsor: Hands On Kids Bible by TyndaleGo deeper:If this episode hit you—share it with a friend or take 30 seconds to leave a review. It helps us reach more men who are ready to do the hard work of becoming whole.
Lectric Xpedition Bike: Watch HereWhat if the pain you’ve buried is the very thing blocking you from becoming the man God created you to be?In this raw and emotional episode, Jerrad sits down with Dr. Brad Johnson—also known as BJ Communicates—to talk about grief, father wounds, and how trauma shapes us more than we realize. BJ shares the heartbreaking story of holding his newborn son as he took his last breath, walking through the fog of loss in his marriage, and later grieving the death of his own father before reconciliation could happen.Together, they unpack how fatherlessness, unprocessed emotions, and generational pain keep men stuck—and why ignoring it doesn’t make it go away. They talk about how grief shows up in unexpected ways (like road rage and burnout), why most men lack true friendships, and how healing begins with honest conversations.This episode is an invitation to stop carrying what God has called you to cast—and to believe that the best version of you is on the other side of your pain.What You’ll Learn:Why men are emotional—even when they say they’re notHow father wounds affect your identityThe power of grief and what it revealsWhat it means to carry trauma in your bodyHow to connect with your wife through emotional check-insWhy men struggle to form deep friendshipsHow generational patterns repeat if we don’t interrupt themWhy healing is spiritual—and why it matters for your familyMentioned in This Episode:BJ Communicates’ books: Hard Conversations seriesSupport group for grieving dads: Sad Dad“Feelings Wheel” for emotional check-insBook Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GB
Watch this interview on Youtube: https://youtu.be/4c_qHfeSGAEWhat if the lie you're believing is the very thing keeping you from peace?In this powerful and convicting episode, Jerrad sits down with bestselling author Gary Thomas to dismantle one of the most common, but rarely admitted lies Christian men believe: God owes me. Together, they talk about the quiet entitlement that sneaks into our faith, why peace feels so elusive, and how the Gospel offers something far deeper than comfort or success.Jerrad and Gary explore how social media fuels discontent, how unspoken expectations erode intimacy with God, and why healing begins when we face our sin instead of hiding it. They share personal stories, biblical truth, and hard-won wisdom for men who want more than just behavior change, they want transformation.This episode is a much-needed reminder: God’s not holding out on you. He’s already given you more than you deserve.What You’ll Learn:Why entitlement might be the root of your spiritual frustrationHow believing a lie can sabotage your faithThe difference between comfort and peaceWhat Gary learned through suffering, silence, and surrenderWhy social media subtly kills gratitudeHow to be a man of peace in a world full of chaosWhy facing your sin leads to deeper joyHow the Gospel frees you—from your past, for your futureMentioned in This Episode:Gary Thomas’ new book: The Life You Were Reborn to LiveGary’s website: https://www.garythomas.comBook Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBWatch and subscribe on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4c_qHfeSGAE
Watch this conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ihMjsKPxdA8What if your greatest strength… is also the thing that wears you out the most?In this honest and inspiring conversation, Jerrad sits down with Michael Seifert—founder of PublicSq. and EveryLife—to talk about identity, pressure, purpose, and the hidden cost of success. Though Michael leads some of the most mission-driven companies in America, he opens up about the soul battles behind his ambition—and why Sabbath rest might be his greatest act of obedience.They talk about legacy, fatherhood, and how a rebellious teenager found Jesus at a ranch in Northern California. Michael shares how a single week transformed his relationship with his dad, the real reason behind his inner drive, and the moment he realized that working for the praises of man would eventually break him.This episode is a reminder that God doesn’t just care about what you build—but who you're becoming while you build it.What You’ll Learn:Why your identity can’t come from what you accomplishThe four roles a dad plays (caretaker, cop, coach, consultant)How pressure to succeed impacts father-son relationshipsWhat Michael learned about humility from his dadThe beauty of building with God—and learning to restHow to lead your family while healing from your own woundsWhy starting a values-driven business invites both criticism and purposeMentioned in This Episode:J.H. Ranch: https://jhranch.comPublicSq: https://publicsq.comEveryLife Diapers: https://everylife.comToday's Sponsor: dwellbible.com/dadtiredMichael's South Korea launch at Yoido Full Gospel ChurchJerrad’s mantra: “Strong families begin with healed men”🔗 Resources:Book Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBWatch and subscribe on YouTube
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/B50C1AlD3aoWhat if the things that slow you down… are the very things God wants to use to form you?In this slow, soulful conversation, Jerrad sits down with Jake Weidmann—a master penman (yes, that’s a real thing) and artist whose life and work are marked by discipline, creativity, and deep intentionality. From carving sacred art to raising four kids, Jake shares how slowing down has reshaped not just his craft—but his soul.They talk about the connection between beauty and time, why being creative has nothing to do with being “artsy,” and how discipline and delight can co-exist in the life of a godly man. Jake opens up about the doubts that haunted his early career, what it means to “exult in monotony,” and the emotional moment he hoisted an Amish barn beam onto his shoulder—realizing he was quite literally taking up his cross.This episode is a breath of fresh air in a world that worships speed.What You’ll Learn:Why slowing down might be the most spiritual thing you do todayHow discipline, doubt, and beauty all shape a man’s soulThe lost art of doing one thing well over a long timeWhat it means to create as a reflection of the CreatorHow parenting and craftsmanship have more in common than you thinkWhy creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s for every man made in God’s imageThe surprising story behind Jake’s “Old Rugged Cross” artworkMentioned in This Episode:Jake’s book and artwork: https://jakeweidmann.comG.K. Chesterton’s OrthodoxyThe story of the “pen wizard” and the golden age of handwritingBenedictine wisdom: To work is to prayJerrad’s mantra: “Decades over days”🔗 Resources:Book Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBWatch the episode on YouTube and subscribe!
WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/Uovkiigw4gwWhat if the thing that nearly destroyed you… became the thing God used to heal others?In this raw and redemptive episode, Jerrad sits down with Sammy Perez, a man who grew up without a dad, entered the system at age 8, and spent much of his early life in prison. But that’s not where the story ends. Through a prison cellmate, an unexpected visitation, and the unlikely love of a spiritual father, Sammy’s life was completely turned around.Together, they talk about father wounds, the ache for belonging, how prison both broke and saved him, and the long road to healing as a man and dad. Sammy shares the tear-filled moment he gave his life to Jesus behind bars, the first time he saw his son through glass, and how God turned his pain into purpose.This is one of the most powerful stories we’ve ever told.What You’ll Learn:Why boys without dads often become men without directionHow shame disconnects us from our story and how healing reconnects usThe surprising moment Sammy met his son for the first timeWhat it looks like to father when you were never fatheredHow a consistent man named Terry changed everythingWhy God’s love can rewire even the hardest heartsThe full-circle moment that brought Sammy back into prisons… this time with purposeMentioned in This Episode:Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree ProgramSammy’s work helping former prisoners reintegrate into societyThe story of Clarence; the cellmate who wouldn’t stop asking Sammy if he wanted to know JesusJerrad’s teaching on 2 Kings 6 and the power of new perspective🔗 Resources:Book Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBLearn more about Prison Fellowship: https://www.prisonfellowship.org
Watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JEN5VOBXp9gWhat if being a “man” had nothing to do with bench press numbers or beard length—and everything to do with becoming a safe place?In this vulnerable and soul-stirring episode, Jerrad sits down with Brant Hansen to talk about what it really means to be a man. From playing the flute and battling shame to protecting the vulnerable and bringing peace to your home, Brant flips the typical narrative of masculinity on its head.They unpack the ache many men feel to be better, why muscle doesn’t equal maturity, and how a man’s deepest strength might just be his gentleness. Brant shares the heart behind his book The Men We Need, what it means to be a “keeper of the garden,” and how every man, no matter his story, can begin again.This one gets deep fast.What You’ll Learn:Why your presence is more than physical proximityHow spiritual formation leads to true masculinityWhy “being strong” often looks like tendernessWhat your tone of voice says about the kind of man you areThe one vision for manhood that could reshape your homeHow to become a non-anxious presence for your wife and kidsWhy it’s never too late to pivot and become the man God’s calling you to beMentioned in This Episode:Brant’s book: The Men We NeedThe Hebrew word for God’s covering in Eden—“royal garments”Lamentations 3 and Philippians 4 as anchors for anxious menBible Memory App for rewiring shame loopsThe “Keeper of the Garden” vision of masculinityHow passive men still make their homes unsafe🔗 Resources:Book Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBGet Brant’s book The Men We NeedToday’s Sponsor: Classical Conversations
Watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LLFfgIW8OH4In this honest and gritty conversation, Shane Winnings and Jerrad talk about the ache behind every man’s desire to be a good dad—and why good intentions still leave so many guys feeling like they’re failing.Shane shares his own story of growing as a father while leading a national movement to fight fatherlessness. They unpack how wounds from our own dads often fuel our desire to be better, but why motivation alone won’t cut it. From military discipline to spiritual revival, from being physically present to emotionally absent, this conversation gets real fast.They also dive into Shane’s bold new campaign Make Dads Great Again, what’s sparking revival in Gen Z men, how fatherhood videos are breaking algorithms and breaking men open, and why the greatest threat to your calling might be your unchecked hustle.What You’ll Learn:Why proximity doesn’t equal presence in your homeHow to stop “tinkering” and start truly engaging your kidsThe real reason father wounds hurt so deeplyHow to love your family in the way they actually receive loveWhy being faithful at home matters more than platform or ministry successHow revival might already be happening—just not the way we expectMentioned in This Episode:Shane’s viral Make Dads Great Again campaignWesley Huff’s surprising influence on Joe RoganWhy Gen Z men are leading the way back to churchThe trap of high-output, low-impact fatherhoodHow to heal the pain that productivity can’t coverBook Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comGrab Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBToday’s Sponsors:DwellBible.com/DadTired
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8QC4kcRPwbQWhy do so many dads feel like they’re failing, even when they’re doing their best?In this honest and soul-stirring conversation, John Eldredge helps us trace the ache beneath our anger, our addictions, and our constant striving. He explains why most men are still chasing love and validation they never received, how childhood wounds shape adult behavior, and why true healing—not behavior modification—is the key to becoming the man your family needs.Jerrad and John unpack father wounds, mother wounds, emotional detachment, and the deep desire for adventure that often gets twisted into sin. If you've ever felt like you're just trying to survive—numbing your pain, doubting your worth, or holding your breath through life—this conversation will help you breathe again.What You’ll Learn:Why behavior change won’t work without soul healingHow father and mother wounds still shape your adult lifeThe two core needs every boy carries into manhoodWhy adventure and validation matter to your spiritual lifeHow to begin healing old attachments and rewire your storyWhat it looks like to fight for your family, your faith, and your futureMentioned in the Episode:Wild at Heart and Resilient by John EldredgeExperience Jesus (John’s new book on healing)Why boys need a thousand moments of delight from their dadsHow your unhealed story gets passed to your kidsJerrad’s punching bag story (and why it felt amazing)Invite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comRead Dad Tired and Loving It: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBToday's Sponsors: Tyndale Study Bibles + World Watch News
What if the part of you that you hate the most is the part God is most eager to heal?In this episode, Jerrad opens up about a moment that nearly ended him, and the journey that brought him back. He shares a powerful story from his two-week intensive recovery experience, including the surprising object that became a symbol of grace and compassion. If you’ve ever carried shame, hidden pain, or felt like your sin disqualifies you from being loved, this conversation is for you.Whether you’re a husband, father, or man who’s just tired of pretending, this episode is an invitation to drop the shame and discover the healing God offers to the parts of you that feel unlovable.What You’ll Learn:Why shame makes healing so hard, and what finally breaks its grip.The powerful metaphor that helped Jerrad see himself through God’s eyes.How childhood wounds shape adult sin patterns.What Jesus actually thinks about your sin (hint: it’s not what you assume).The difference between guilt, shame, and compassion.A fresh way to view your struggles, and the small boy inside still seeking safety.Mentioned in the Episode:The Dwell Bible App – dwellbible.com/dadtired (25% off for listeners).The two-week men's recovery intensive Jerrad attended.A simple but profound healing exercise involving a stuffed monkey.Invite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comRead The Dad Tired Book: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GB
Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/1iY74eYwYBQWhat if your marriage wasn’t just surviving—but actually healing you?In this powerful episode, Jerrad sits down with author and speaker Gabe Lyons (The Fight for Us) to talk about the real work of building a thriving marriage—especially when life throws curveballs like special needs parenting, trauma, and unspoken pain.They unpack:The power of radical honesty (and why most couples never get there)How to stop nursing wounds in silence and start creating real intimacyWhy “no secrets” might be the most life-changing marriage ruleWhat to do when you feel emotionally disconnectedHow confession and emotional leadership can radically change your marriage and parentingIf you’ve ever felt stuck in your marriage or unsure how to lead your family spiritually—this conversation is for you.📘 Check out Gabe’s new book: The Fight for Us: Overcome What Divides and Build a Marriage That ThrivesInvite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comRead The Dad Tired Book: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GBToday's Sponsor: Classical Conversations Homeschooling
Why do so many men feel stuck—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—even while doing all the “right” things? In this vulnerable conversation, Kyle Idleman talks about the inner battles men face in silence. He explains why many men hide behind performance and productivity, how healing begins with connection (not accomplishment), and what it really looks like to take every thought captive.Kyle and Jerrad dig into thought patterns that keep men stuck, the mental load of leadership, and why confessing weakness isn’t whining—it’s spiritual obedience. If you’ve ever felt alone, overburdened, or ashamed of not “being further along,” this conversation will help you breathe again.What You’ll Learn:Why men around age 40 often face unexpected internal crisisHow emotional connection—not productivity—defines your healthWhat it looks like to take every thought captive in practical termsThe healing power of confession and friendshipHow to recognize and break negative thought patternsMorning routines, prayer habits, and spoken truth as tools for renewalMentioned in the Episode:Every Thought Captive (Kyle Idleman’s new book)Galatians 6: “Bear one another’s burdens”The power of saying Scripture aloud to renew your mindHealthy male friendships and confession as healing rhythmsThe “+/- 3 of 40” principle: why men change between 37–43Invite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.comRead The Dad Tired Book: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GB
The way you present the gospel is beautiful. Thank you brother.
This was awesome! Thank you for your vulnerability.
This was great I haven’t been able to write it down yet but I can tell you that just thinking about it in my mind I can already see it’s way out of wack. Guess I got a lot of work to do.
This was the second of these podcast from Dad Tired that I've listened to, and I believe that I will find some much needed inspiration here. Thank you for putting the time in to provide this to husband and dads.
I'm only to the end of the first year so far (about episode 40) but I really enjoy it. I appreciate how Jared is real with the listener and isn't afraid to share his problems and issues in his personal life.
this was so useful. so simple but just what I needed to encourage me (a Mum) with my family
Really good. Hit me in the soft under belly. After listening to this episode I was convicted to pull over and pop the hood on my life and see what the idiot lights were trying to say. Thanks for you insights.
This podcast has helped me so much, ive been missing it this summer! i found it at the beginning of summer a couple months ago, and by the time i had gotten all caught up i was in a good routine and i felt good about where i was at with my relationship with my wife and with God, and now its only been about a week and i already feel like im falling. I dont rely on the podcast to keep me right but God will, however it is so helpful to listen to new reminders every day
Suicide NEEDS to be talked about... Well done.
Thanks for the words of encouragement! Great to hear a fellow Christian's journey through this world.
Love the topics. they are always on point
Really needed to hear this bro, on point!