Startup Dad

Oji Udezue is an AI Product Expert at ProductMind, and a veteran product leader with more than 25 years of experience across Typeform, Twitter, Calendly, Atlassian, Bridgewater, and Microsoft. He’s known for his deep thinking on product craft, leadership, and the future of work. He’s also the co-author (with his wife, Ezinne Udezue)  of Building Rocket Ships, a guide for builders and operators navigating high-stakes decision-making in fast-moving environments.In this episode, we explore Oji’s philosophy on parenting through the lens of resilience, how it’s shaped, why it matters, and the role adversity plays in preparing kids for the real world. Oji shares a perspective informed by his multicultural upbringing, his frameworks for fostering independence, and the intentional choices he and his wife have made while raising two teenagers in a dual-career household. We discussed:Building resilience: What resilience means to Oji and why discomfort and challenge are essential for kids.Independence through decisions: How his 10,000-hour framework helps kids practice choice-making and responsibility.Learning through mistakes: Why micro-failures matter and how parents can stop rescuing children from small consequences.Kids as expanders: How children rise to expectations and adapt when treated as capable from an early age.Shepherding, not owning: Why parents should guide their kids’ path rather than shape them as extensions of themselves.Balancing careers and family: How he and his wife navigate dual careers and maintain steady routines and connections.Where to find Oji UdezueLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ojiudezue/ X: https://x.com/ojiudezueWebsite: https://www.productmind.co/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Oji Udezue(03:12) Starting a family while holding high-pressure, fast-growing careers(05:26) Early parenting years: maintaining identity and bringing kids into adult life(07:16) Defining resilience and why modern parenting often gets it wrong(10:45) The 10,000 hours of independent decisions framework(13:16) Lessons from Nigerian boarding school and developing early autonomy(17:15) Letting kids fail safely: micro-failures, consequences, and growth(19:51) Evaluating resilience through reactions under pressure(22:31) Kids and career visibility: why children don’t care what you do for work(24:27) Individuation: why Oji’s teens want their own paths, not his(26:21) Rituals, routines, and staying connected in a dual-career household(28:13) Advice for new parents: clarity of purpose, instinct, and overcoming fear(31:17) Core parenting frameworks: oxygen mask, expanders, and shepherds(43:10) AI, technology, and raising creative lateral thinkers in a changing world(50:19) Lightning round: humor, parenting quirks, and closing reflectionsResources From This Episode:Building Rocket Ships (Book by Oji Udezue & Ezinne Udezue): https://a.co/d/0nMe2WM  ProductMind (Substack Newsletter): https://productmind.substack.com/ ProductMind.co (Website): https://productmind.co/ Lenny’s Podcast (Episode featuring Oji & Ezinne): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-ai-is-reshaping-the-product-roleThe Time Machine (Book by H.G. Wells): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2493.The_Time_MachineTypeform: https://www.typeform.com/Calendly: https://calendly.com/Atlassian: https://www.atlassian.com/Bridgewater Associates: https://www.bridgewater.com/Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/Amazon Echo: https://www.amazon.com/echo Big Hero 6 (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2245084/—Support Startup DadFor sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Allison Daminger is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she specializes in gender, family dynamics, and social inequality. She’s also the author of What’s on Her Mind: The Mental Workload of Family Life, which explores the often invisible cognitive labor that drives the daily operations of households.In this episode, we talk about the concept of cognitive labor, how it’s defined, why it’s disproportionately placed on women in heterosexual partnerships, and the emotional and mental toll it takes. Allison shares insights from her years of research, including interviews with over 170 individuals in diverse family structures, shedding light on how cognitive labor impacts both professional and personal lives. We discussed:What is Mental Load and Cognitive Labor: Defining and explaining these concepts and her research.Understanding cognitive labor: How the mental work of anticipating needs, making decisions, and following through often falls disproportionately on women.Real-world examples: The everyday household tasks where cognitive labor shows up and how couples can divide this invisible work more equally.The Superhuman and The Bumbler: How gendered expectations shape household dynamics, with women often taking on the “Superhuman” role and men the “Bumbler” role.Breaking the mental load myth: Why cognitive labor isn’t about personality traits but about societal pressures and norms that influence how responsibilities are shared at home.Strategies for rebalancing: Practical ways couples can collaborate on household responsibilities, including setting up routines, improving communication, and managing expectations.Where to find Allison DamingerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisondaminger/ Website: https://www.allisondaminger.com/Substack: https://allisondaminger.substack.com/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Allison Daminger, assistant professor of sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison(02:44) Defining cognitive labor in the home and workplace(04:27) Real-life examples of cognitive labor(07:56) The invisible mental load: What it means for parents(13:42) Research on cognitive labor and family dynamics(19:53) Household dynamics and gender roles in domestic labor(26:01) Rationalizing the imbalance in cognitive labor at home(46:56) Exploring gender roles in household leadership(48:11) Motherhood and cognitive labor: The unseen work(48:43) Ideologies vs realities of balanced households(49:15) Career dynamics and household roles: The juggling act(49:54) Challenges in achieving cognitive labor equality(55:04) Balanced households: Structures for satisfaction(01:15:36) Personal insights and reflections on cognitive labor(01:27:47) Lightning Round: Final Thoughts and Quick TipsResources From This Episode:What's On Her Mind (Book by Allison Daminger): https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Her-Mind-Mental-Workload/dp/069124538X The Daminger Dispatch (Newsletter): https://allisondaminger.substack.com/ The Second Shift (Book by Arlie Hochschild): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51848.The_Second_Shift Fair Play (Book by Eve Rodsky): https://www.amazon.com/Fair-Play-Game-Changing-Solution-When/dp/0525541942 Love To Dream Swaddle: https://lovetodream.com/ The Little Mermaid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097757/ University of Wisconsin, Madison: https://www.wisc.edu/NYT Wirecutter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/gifts/—Support Startup DadFor sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Jamie Nacht is the co-founder and CEO of Havium, a company he built from the ground up with his wife and co-founder, Cristin. Together, they’re raising two young kids while juggling the nonstop realities of startup life, marriage, and modern parenting, all as a fully integrated team.In this episode, Jamie shares his honest and often hilarious take on building a company with your spouse, creating parenting systems that actually work, and why sometimes the best way to help your kid process big emotions is to scream right along with them. We discussed: The value of routines and structure: How simple systems like Pizza Friday and bedtime rituals help reduce friction and create predictability for young kids.Why “screaming it out” works: Jamie shares how he defuses tantrums by yelling alongside his kids, helping them process their emotions without shame.Teaching negotiation and responsibility: From chore taxes to bedtime story debates, Jamie’s approach helps his kids understand how the world really works.Practicing perspective as a parenting superpower: Whether it’s a hard week at work or spilled art projects, Jamie explains how he reframes moments to build resilience.“Anything is possible” parenting: How Jamie’s confidence borders on delusional (his wife’s words), and why he’s intentionally passing that belief on to his kids.Where to find Jamie NachtLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamienacht/ Website: https://havium.com/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Jamie Nacht, co-founder and CEO of Havium(01:56) Building a startup with your spouse while raising kids(06:58) Parenting frameworks that actually work(07:05) Why perspective is Jamie’s superpower(09:32) How much of your kid’s personality is already baked in(15:06) Pretending to be a mermaid changed my parenting(27:51) Teaching negotiation and real-world responsibility(33:34) Your kids hear everything (even when you think they don’t)(35:57) The rule we use for yelling in our house(37:25) Giving kids tech that’s just annoying enough(40:04) Using AI to make custom coloring books for your kids(42:51) Why my in-laws moved 5 minutes away(48:09) The bond with your kid doesn’t always start right away(51:58) What I hope my kids learn from me(56:35) Lightning Round: Must-haves, Laughs, and Dad hacksResources From This Episode:Havium: https://havium.com/Do Not Ring Doorbell Sign: https://a.co/d/4AK9A3j Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet: https://a.co/d/glUlvO5 Bluey (TV Show): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7678620/ Sword In The Stone (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0057546/ Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091042/ The Little Mermaid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5971474/Migration: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6495056/?ref_=fn_t_1Kia EV: https://www.kia.com/us/en/ev—Support Startup DadFor sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Dave Simnick is the founder and CEO of Soapbox, a company with a mission to provide personal care products while donating soap to those in need. He's also a husband and the father of a one-year-old son, Noah.Listen to the whole episode for an amazing discount code at Soapbox! In this episode, Dave shares insights about the changes he faced when becoming a parent and how he’s adjusted his role as a CEO to manage his new responsibilities at home. We talked about the systems he and his wife have in place, the challenges of balancing work and parenting, and his personal frameworks for being a present and intentional Dad. We discussed:Parenting adjustments: How becoming a dad led Dave to shift his focus and say no to professional commitments to be more present with his son.Family support systems: The importance of clear communication and shared responsibilities with his wife to manage their dual-working household.Time management lessons: How being a parent has made Dave more intentional with his time, balancing professional and personal priorities.Parenting frameworks: The trifecta of clear communication, consistent boundaries, and overflowing affection, all modeled after his experience in education.Leadership lessons from fatherhood: How watching Noah learn to walk has taught Dave about perseverance and leadership.Where to find Dave SimnickLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsimnick/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidsimnick/Soapbox: https://www.soapboxsoaps.com/ Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Welcome Dave Simnick, founder and CEO at Soapbox, and Dad of one(02:12) Preparing for fatherhood as a CEO(05:47) Adjusting time management after becoming a parent(07:07) Saying no to professional commitments for family time(09:05) Balancing work and parenting responsibilities(11:12) Family systems for a dual-working household(13:39) Learning from being a parent: the surprising aspects(15:36) Time management hacks post-parenthood(17:04) Parenting frameworks: communication, boundaries, and affection(19:36) Embracing imperfection in parenting(22:39) Leadership lessons from fatherhood(25:09) Advice for younger self about parenting(30:53) Parenting disagreements and challenges(33:00) Soapbox’s mission and global impact(37:10) Parenting superpower: joy(41:00) Lightning Round: Parenting hacks and travel tipsResources From This Episode:Soapbox: https://www.soapboxsoaps.com/ Teach for America: https://www.teachforamerica.org/ Bum Brush (Poop Spatula): https://a.co/d/2ONUFid Bluey: https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/shows/bluey Mulan: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1856101/ The Sandlot: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108037/Kia Carnival: https://www.kia.com/us/en/carnivalKia Telluride: https://www.kia.com/us/en/telluride Mike Malloy’s episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJ9K0oR1nt4Discount code: startupdad15Baby Brezza: https://babybrezza.com/Tulum: https://www.tulum.com/Little Blue Truck: https://www.littlebluetruckbooks.com/books/—Support Startup DadFor sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Chet Kittleson, serial founder and co-founder of Tin Can, an analog phone for kids that helps families stay connected without screens. He’s also a dad of three, building a hardware company from his kitchen table while raising a young family in Seattle.Chet opens up about the inspiration behind Tin Can, how his childhood landline shaped the idea, and why he believes kids need more analog connections in a digital world. He talks candidly about the challenge of being “distracted dad” while building something he’s intensely passionate about, how he and his wife run their household like a startup, and why learning to unplug is still a daily work in progress. We discussed: Creating balance at home: The systems, boundaries, and frameworks that help Chet stay grounded as a founder and father.Lessons from failure and obsession: What Chet’s learned about being present when work and family both demand everything.The art of analog parenting: How Chet and his wife teach their kids healthy relationships with technology and boredom.Raising kids is like running a business: From household “OKRs” to making space for unstructured family time.Hope for the next generation: Why Chet believes we’re entering an analog revival and what it means for parents raising digital natives.Where to find Chet Kittleson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckittleson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tincan.kids/Tin Can: https://tincan.kids/  Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ X: https://x.com/fishmanafInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Chet Kittleson(02:31) The childhood inspiration that sparked the idea for Tin Can(11:13) Finding balance between family life and startup life(13:38) Lessons learned from building, failing, and trying again(16:21) Partnering in parenting and business with his wife(21:34) Building Tin Can from an idea to a real product(35:22) How parenting priorities shift as kids grow(36:16) What team dynamics look like inside a family-led startup(37:14) Early prototypes and how the family helped shape Tin Can(38:50) Seeing kids’ real reactions to the analog phone(40:02) Teaching kids to balance tech time and real-world connection(46:38) Finding optimism and practical solutions for modern parenting challenges(50:11) How to support Tin Can’s mission to connect families(53:10) Lightning round: paper calendars, dad hacks, and dishwasher rulesResources From This Episode:Tin Can: https://tincan.kids/ Paper calendar: https://a.co/d/dbPXEsG Brooks: https://www.brooksrunning.com/ The Anxious Generation (book): https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/ Brick (app): https://getbrick.app/ The Hundred-Foot Journey: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2980648/ Chef: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2883512/ Toy Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114709/ The Mighty Ducks: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104868/ Honey, I Shrunk the Kids: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097523/ Freaky Friday: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0322330/ Freakier Friday: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31956415/ The Parent Trap: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120783/ Little Big League: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110363/ Rookie of the Year: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107985/ The Green Mile: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120689/ Rewind & Play: ABC The Millennial Way (book): https://a.co/d/6GI6tdC Tween Magazine: https://tweenmag.com/ —For sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Colin Anawaty, technologist and founder of Flying A Capital. He’s also a single dad of two boys, navigating the challenges of fatherhood and entrepreneurship after divorce.Colin opens up about how his kids have become his greatest teachers, why he believes accountability and independence should start young, and how joining a men’s group helped him prioritize relationships, including the one with himself. From Montessori principles to Mario Kart lessons, Colin shares how parenting frameworks and founder mindsets overlap in surprising ways. We discussed: Parenting through divorce: What it’s like to reset life as a single dad and how his kids’ resilience has inspired him.Learning from mistakes: How modeling vulnerability and apologizing to his kids has built trust and maturity.Resilience vs fragility: Why Colin believes kids are more robust than we give them credit for.Why no dad has it all figured out: Colin’s honest take on navigating career, parenting, and personal growth.The role of technology and AI: From skepticism to playful experiments, turning kids’ crayon drawings into Pixar-style characters.Where to find Colin Anawaty:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinanawaty/ X: https://x.com/colinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/colinanawaty/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ X: https://x.com/fishmanafInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Colin Anawaty(02:13) Adjusting to life as a single dad of two young boys(05:37) Why Colin joined a men’s group and what he learned(09:43) Taking stock of good and bad parenting lessons from past generations(11:49) Kids as teachers and the power of apologizing as a dad(14:31) Why kids are more resilient than we think(16:29) Teaching accountability at an early age(20:22) Montessori principles at home: independence, structure, fewer toys(23:50) Parenting lessons from Mario Kart and screen time boundaries(28:22) Bonding through haircut sessions with his boys(31:27) Helping his 6-year-old overcome fear of surfing(33:51) Social media dangers for kids and for parents(37:43) What relationship Colin wants his kids to have with technology(40:54) Using AI for parenting frameworks and creative projects(46:17) Why no dad has it all figured out(49:10) Lightning round: Parenting gear, funniest moments, and dad quirksResources From This Episode:5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom: https://a.co/d/0H7Evju The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids: https://a.co/d/12730G0 The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be: https://a.co/d/ji8u48g The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the First Year: https://a.co/d/chjTYyA Montessori Method: https://montessori.org/ Dad Jokes Instagram (Logan Lisle): https://www.instagram.com/loganlisle/ Potty Training Seat: https://a.co/d/54kwn6oLEGO: https://www.lego.com/ The Karate Kid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087538/ Endless Summer: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060371/ Swiss Family Robinson: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054357/ Cars: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317219/ The Grinch: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2709692/ Inside Out: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2096673/ Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087469/ Nintendo Switch: https://www.nintendo.com/switch/ Duke Nukem: https://2k.com/games/duke-nukem/20th-anniversary/ Super Mario Bros: https://mario.nintendo.com/characters/ Mario Kart: https://mariokart8.nintendo.com/ Milo and Chip: https://www.youtube.com/@miloandchip/videos Athena Health: https://www.athenahealth.com/Alex’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOa9mS-CIuQJosh Jones-Dilworth & Culturati: https://culturati.info/—For sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Chad Pytel is the founder and CEO of thoughtbot, a product development consultancy, and co-founder of 12 Sided Studios, a gaming and production company. He’s also the longtime host of the Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast, a husband, and the father of two teenagers.In this episode, Chad and I talk about raising kids while running companies, blending family life with creative projects, and the importance of designing systems at home, just as you would at work. He shares stories about parenting teenagers, shaping company culture around sustainable pace, and why even the smallest rituals matter when time with your kids feels fleeting. We discussed:Building systems at home: How collaborating with his kids on routines turned daily battles into shared ownership.Parenting teenagers with balance: Why being relaxed, supportive, and flexible helped his kids thrive through responsibility and independence.Dinner as a cornerstone: The daily ritual that kept his family connected through the busiest startup years.Redefining company culture: How Thoughtbot built practices like sustainable pace and four-day client weeks to make room for life outside of work.Embracing differences: The importance of parenting each child as an individual, not a template, and adjusting expectations along the way.Where to find Chad PytelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpytel/ X: https://x.com/cpytelWhere to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Chad Pytel, founder and CEO at thoughtbot and dad of two(04:37) Exploring the aging space with AI(06:06) Starting a gaming and production company(08:43) Navigating teenage years(18:33) Balancing work and family life(19:23) Sustainable pace and company culture(23:48) Parenting realizations(24:56) Frameworks for parenting(25:21) Daily routines and systems(27:17) Sunday date concept(29:50) Parenting styles and screen time(35:34) Halloween traditions(37:37) Keeping up with the Joneses(41:19) Lightning Round: Being a relaxed and reasonable dadResources From This Episode:Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots (Podcast): https://podcast.thoughtbot.com/thoughtbot: https://thoughtbot.com/12 Sided Studios: https://12sidedstudios.com/ Critical Role (Actual Play Series): https://critrole.com/ Dimension 20 (Actual Play Series): https://www.dropout.tv/dimension-20 American Society on Aging: https://www.asaging.org/ Wall-E (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0910970/Monty Python and the Holy Grail (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071853/Kia Rondo (Car Model): https://www.edmunds.com/kia/rondo/ thoughtbot: https://thoughtbot.com/ 12 Sided Studios: https://12sidedstudios.com/ —For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Jonathan Jamil, founder and CEO of Springboard, shares his story of growing up in a two-bedroom apartment with six family members, building a business powered by stay-at-home moms, and raising two daughters while redefining what success means.In this episode, Jonathan opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, the lessons he has carried from his upbringing, and the realities of being a dad and founder at the same time. We discussed:Why work-life balance doesn’t exist: Jonathan explains why he believes balance is a myth, and instead focuses on being fully presentRedefining success as a father and founder: He shares how his definition of success shifted from chasing cars and houses to prioritizing comfort, family health, and presence.Breaking generational patterns with love: From hugs to family vacations, Jonathan reflects on how intentional affection and kindness help him parent differently than he was raised.Partnership and parenting: He talks about how he and his wife share the load, why he ignores outdated cultural norms around gender roles in parenting, and the promise he kept to support her becoming a stay-at-home mom.Why nice guys don’t finish last: Jonathan describes how leading with empathy and kindness has shaped Springboard’s culture, strengthened client trust, and fueled growth.Where to find Jonathan JamilLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjthatcxguy/ Springboard: https://www.springboardhq.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejonathanjamil/ X: https://x.com/jjthatcxguyWhere to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Welcome Jonathan Jamil(03:55) Starting Springboard and working with stay-at-home moms(06:41) Why Springboard never posts job listings(08:33) Building a business while raising a newborn(10:19) Why work-life balance doesn’t exist(13:27) Redefining success as a dad(14:46) Why you can’t parent alone without community(16:06) Advice to his younger self before becoming a dad(18:23) Never stop dating your wife(20:35) The power of vacation and taking breaks(24:14) His simple fatherhood framework: Show up, listen, love(26:22) Espresso-fueled speeding ticket during the colic phase(28:54) Parenting disagreements: Screen time and sugar(30:56) Tech boundaries and raising daughters in a digital world(32:55) Using AI to plan family vacations(34:39) Why “nice guys finish last” is a myth(37:14) Lightning round: Parenting wins and toy assembly failsResources from this episode:Jambys: https://www.jambys.com/Disney Store: https://www.disneystore.com/toys-plush/toys/ Lime Green Bed Sheets: https://www.amazon.com/Lime-Green-Bedding/s?k=Lime+Green+BeddingCocomelon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbCmjCuTUZos6Inko4u57UQWreck-It Ralph: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1772341/Ratatouille: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0382932/Home Alone: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785/ The Santa Clause: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111070/Play-Doh: https://shop.hasbro.com/en-ca/play-dohToyota Sienna: https://www.toyota.com/sienna/Siqi Chen’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2Nm5Mkj0s0Cape May: https://www.capemay.com/Ocean City: https://www.ocnj.us/Rehoboth Beach: https://www.rehobothbeachde.gov/Disney World: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/UPPAbaby: https://uppababy.com/Boppy: https://www.boppy.com/Jamby’s: https://www.jambys.com/—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, I sit  down with Adam Lieb, the founder and CEO of Gamesight, a marketing technology company that helps video game studios connect with players and launch their biggest titles. Adam started his first gaming business at just 11 years old and has spent his entire career building in the industry ever since.As a dad of 11-year-old twins and husband to Camille, a lawyer who now leads the legal team at Gamesight, Adam shares what it’s like to grow a company and a family at the same time. From the challenges of raising twins to why he doesn’t believe in separating work mode from dad mode, Adam offers an honest look at the overlap of parenting and entrepreneurship. We discussed: Raising twins while building a company: Why he compares it to running three startups at once.The sleep training strategy: How it became the most important defensive move for survival with twins.Work mode vs dad mode: Why Adam believes in being the same person everywhere.AI at home: Creative ways his kids use AI for learning, projects, and fun.The mantra “show up and try”: Why presence is the foundation for leadership and parenting.Where to find Adam Lieb:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamslieb/ X: https://x.com/adamslieb Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ X: https://x.com/fishmanafInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Adam Lieb(02:16) What Gamesight does and how Adam started in gaming(05:32) Raising 11-year-old twins with his wife, Camille(07:38) Running “three startups” at once: company and twins(09:34) Working with his wife inside the business(10:01) What’s unique about having twins, and why sleep training mattered(16:05) Why doesn’t Adam separate dad mode and work mode(18:30) Cheering from the baseball field while sending emails(20:13) The mantra that guides parenting and leadership: show up and try(24:30) Lessons learned since becoming a dad and mistakes along the way(26:17) The balance between coaching your kids and supporting them(29:16) Aligning with his wife on parenting philosophy(31:29) Setting limits on video games and tech at home(39:46) Raising kids with AI and creative projects they’ve built(47:16) Lightning round: indispensable products, useless gear, quirks, and dad superpowersResources From This Episode:Gamesight: https://gamesight.io/ Collapsible Wagon: a.co/d/dmFVnSI Table For Two: https://buytablefortwo.com/ Alexa: https://alexa.amazon.com/ Happy Gilmore: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116483/Happy Gilmore 2: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31868189/ The Lord Of The Rings: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120737/ —For sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Rishabh Jain, the CEO of FERMÀT Commerce, a company he launched when his oldest daughter was just a few weeks old. He’s also a husband and father of two kids under the age of four.In this conversation, Rishabh shares why he believes parenthood actually makes entrepreneurship easier, how he manages family life alongside scaling startups, and the frameworks that help him stay focused and balanced. We discussed:Starting a company as a parent: Why Rishabh believes kids force you to prioritize what really matters.Advice to colleagues: Why he seriously tells stressed-out founders to “have kids” and how it improves their work.Family as an anchor: How a strong marriage allows him to take big risks in his professional life.Balance through kids: How playing, creating, and connecting at home helps him show up sharper at work.Technology in parenting: Using AI and voice assistants to answer kids’ questions and prepare them for a tech-driven world.Where to find Rishabh JainLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishabhmjain/ X: https://x.com/rishabhmjain The Intelligent Marketer: https://www.intelligentmarketerpod.com/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ X: https://x.com/fishmanafInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Rishabh Jain(02:10) Why starting a company as a parent is easier(05:14) Advice to stressed-out colleagues: “Have kids”(07:18) Traveling internationally with toddlers(09:44) Hacks for surviving long flights with young kids(12:40) Starting FERMÀT Commerce with a newborn at home(16:56) Why kids should see parents doing what they love(18:21) Raising expectations of adults and patience with kids(21:02) Morning routines for balance and presence(25:56) How time with kids makes work more energizing(33:25) Technology and AI as parenting tools(41:35) Lightning Round: Dad superpowers, minivans, and moreResources From This Episode:FERMÀT Commerce: https://www.fermatcommerce.com/ The Bum Brush:  https://www.amazon.com/Bumco-Diaper-Cream-Spatula-Mom-Invented/dp/B00LYQ53JW What to Expect When You’re Expecting: ​​https://www.amazon.com/What-Expect-When-Youre-Expecting/dp/0761187480 Twitter: @rishabhmjainRishabh’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rishabh-jain-show-marketing-podcast-for/id1656571291Rishabh’s Website: https://www.therishabhjain.com/Zootopia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2948356/ Lion King: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110357/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 Iron Man: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0371746/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 VW Electric Bus: https://www.vw.com/en/models/id-buzz.html —For sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Zach Teutsch is the founder of Values Added Financial, and a former leader at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He’s also a husband, father of two, and a master of weaving big-picture life principles into day-to-day parenting.In this episode, Zach and I talk about building independence in kids, creating household shortcuts to reduce decision fatigue, and why boredom is one of the best gifts you can give your children. He shares his unique frameworks for parenting, money, relationships, and emotional resilience. We discussed:Parenting with the end in mind: Zach shares how picturing his kids as independent, kind 18-year-olds shapes his daily parenting choices and guides when to step back versus step in.Fostering independence and confidence: Why letting kids take on age-appropriate challenges, from solo store trips to handling money, builds resilience and reduces anxiety.Teaching money through experience: Zach’s allowance and charitable giving system helps kids make “safe” mistakes and understand value, trade-offs, and generosity.You can’t change feelings: The science behind why emotions can’t be reasoned away in the moment, and how validating kids’ experiences builds trust and emotional maturity.Boredom as a virtue: How slowing down, resisting screens, and embracing quiet moments leads to more creativity, mindfulness, and deeper connections.Where to find Zach TeutschLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-teutsch/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zteutsch.bsky.social Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Zach Teutsch, founder at Values Added and dad of two(02:58) Parenting with the end in mind(04:25) Raising confident, independent kids(12:02) Teaching kids about money early(17:48) Why you can’t change feelings(26:52) Advice Zach wishes he had(31:22) Being your kids’ emotional go-to(32:38) Simple rules for parenting(33:43) The power of showing up(36:25) Boredom as a parenting superpower(38:45) Being a kid is hard(42:44) Relationship principles that work(49:09) Talking AI with your kids(53:10) Lightning round: parenting wins, fails, and quirksResources From This Episode:How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1451663889 Bluey (TV Series): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7678620/ My Cousin Vinny (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104952/ Claude AI: https://claude.ai/ Values Added Financial: https://valuesaddedfinancial.com/ Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/Carla’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcrzFhbeIVsLaw & Order SVU: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0203259/George Kinder: https://www.georgekinder.com/Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com/ @zteutsch.bsky.socialzach@valuesadded.comMelatonin: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-melatonin/art-20363071 —For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Jeremy King, co-founder and CEO of Ocean Orchestra and former CEO of Attest, shares his journey as a founder, ocean advocate, and father of two daughters.In this episode, Jeremy opens up about building systems for both his family and his startups, why ocean conservation is personal to him, and how parenting has informed his leadership style. We discussed:Blending startup leadership with family life: Jeremy reveals how he and his wife, both busy professionals, use calendar “parenting time” to protect family routines. He explains why blocking time for his daughters on the calendar is non-negotiable.Parenting by design, not default: From food to sleep schedules, Jeremy shares how he applies science and structure to family life. He talks about the influence of the book Save Our Sleep and the “no choices on food” philosophy that’s helped his kids develop adventurous tastes.Impact at home and beyond: Jeremy discusses his role as chair and board member at Reach Two, a UK nonprofit transforming primary schools. He reflects on how improving outcomes for kids at scale has changed his perspective on equity, systems, and the basics that matter at home and in education.Adventures, travel, and core memories: The Kings’ family travels stretch from London to Melbourne, and Jeremy shares practical advice for surviving epic flights with little kids. He also highlights the moments that matter most like standing up for your child in the big moments, and creating core memories that build trust and resilience.Technology, ocean advocacy, and looking ahead: As a founder working at the intersection of tech and conservation, Jeremy discusses how he wants to introduce his daughters to technology, why he’s bullish on AI for ocean impact, and how parenting is shaping his approach to building solutions for the planet.Where to find Jeremy KingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremykingjk/ Website: https://www.askattest.com/ Ocean Orchestra: https://www.oceanorchestra.ai Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Jeremy King(01:33) From business to marine life(03:24) Nature's lessons for business(06:28) Parenting strategies for busy professionals(09:35) Improving UK education(16:04) Long flights tips for traveling with kids(19:53) Unique accents and vocabulary(22:51) Parenting principles: no food choices(24:49) Favorite foods and cultural influences(26:11) Parenting principles: standing up for your kids(27:05) Birthday party drama(29:56) Technology and kids(34:51) AI in parenting(37:05) Playground adventures(39:28) Sea otter presentation(42:34) Lightning Round: Groclocks and Magic Misties Magical Crystal BallResources from this episode:Groclock: https://www.tommeetippee.com/en-gb/product/groclock-sleep-trainer-clockDog Man: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10954718/The Goonies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/Flight of the Navigator: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091059/Magic Mixies Magical Crystal Ball: https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Mixies-S2-Crystal-Ball/dp/B09Q4B7CZH?th=1Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0357413/ Attest: https://www.askattest.com/ Reach Two: https://www.reach2.org/ Ben William’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5ex9UczN5w Harvard: http://harvard.edu/ MIT: https://www.mit.edu/Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNVCQZG1?ref_=MARS_NAVSTRIPE_desktop_kindle_kindle&th=1 Finding Dory: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2277860/ Mckinsey: https://www.mckinsey.com/Tizzie Hall, Save Our Sleep: https://www.saveoursleep.com/baby-whisperer/Church of England: https://www.churchofengland.org/ Angler Fish: https://www.mbari.org/animal/deep-sea-anglerfish/Henry VIII: https://www.royal.uk/henry-viiiMulti Academy Trust: https://alumnismat.org/multi-academy-trusts/NFL: https://www.nfl.com/Peppa Pig: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOtE1V7Ots4DjM8JLlrYggClaude.ai—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Jeff Selingo, a bestselling author, journalist and education expert, to discuss the complexities of college admissions and how parents can help their kids find their "Dream School." Jeff has spent over two decades researching higher education and is the author of Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, Who Gets in and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, There Is Life After College: What Parents and Students Should Know About Navigating School to Prepare for the Jobs of Tomorrow, and College Unbound:  The Future of Higher Education and What it Means for Students.  As a dad of two nearly college-bound kids, Jeff offers a unique perspective on navigating the college decision-making process from the lens of a parent and expert. We discussed:Breaking down the college admissions process: Why it’s important to look beyond the Ivy League schools and focus on the best fit for your child.The concept of "Dream Schools": What makes a school the right fit and how to identify it.Parents' influence on the process: How societal pressures and the desire for prestige can shape college decisions.Finding value in education: The importance of ROI, Merit Aid, and balancing prestige with affordability.Tools for parents: Resources like the College Scorecard and how to use them to make informed decisions.Where to find Jeff SelingoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffselingo/ X: https://x.com/jselingoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jselingoWebsite: https://jeffselingo.com/ Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ X: https://x.com/fishmanafInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Jeff Selingo(02:22) Inspiration behind Dream School(06:45) The college application boom(08:59) The role of colleges in the application frenzy(14:20) The Moneyball approach to college selection(18:49) Early decision and early action explained(23:17) Parents' role in college admissions(25:16) Research insights from 'Dream School'(28:54) Skipping over rankings(29:19) The value of college prestige(30:04) Choosing a major for the right reasons(31:51) Defining your dream school(33:14) Underappreciated factors in college fit(35:15) Addressing neurodiversity in college admissions(37:16) Examples of lesser-known dream schools(42:43) Future outlook on college education(50:55) Lightning Round: Quick takes on college myths and advice for parentsResources From This Episode:Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You: https://jeffselingo.com/books/dreamschool/ College Confidential: https://collegeconfidential.com/ Reddit Threads on College Admissions: https://www.reddit.com/r/ApplyingToCollege/ Next Newsletter by Jeff Selingo: https://jeffselingo.com/next-newsletter/ Future U Podcast: https://www.futureupodcast.com/ Dickinson College: https://www.dickinson.edu/ St. Olaf College: https://wp.stolaf.edu/ Denison University: https://denison.edu/ Furman University: https://www.furman.edu/ Michigan State University: https://msu.edu/ Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University: https://barretthonors.asu.edu/ SEC: https://www.sec.gov/ Arizona State University: https://www.asu.edu/ Gordian Knot: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Gordian-knot Who Gets In and Why: https://jeffselingo.com/books/who-gets-in-and-why/Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/Us News and World Report: https://www.usnews.com/Bill Royall: https://news.vcu.edu/article/Bill_Royall_former_vice_rector_of_the_VCU_Board_of_Visitors_andMoneyball Book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1301.MoneyballMoneyball Movie: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210166/New York Yankees: https://www.mlb.com/yankeesCollege Scorecard: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/UCLA: https://www.ucla.edu/Harvard: https://www.harvard.edu/ Yale: https://www.yale.edu/ Princeton: https://www.princeton.edu/ Stanford: https://www.stanford.edu/Ithaca College: https://www.ithaca.edu/Toy Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114709/Karate Kid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087538/ —For sponsorship inquiries, email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Peter Kazanjy is the best-selling author of Founding Sales and co-founder of Atrium. He’s also a dad to a seven-year-old son, Michael, and husband to Tracy, a designer and entrepreneur.In this episode, Pete reflects on building companies, building capabilities, and building a family. He talks about the grit and perseverance behind their seven-round IVF journey, delivery room chaos, and how he now teaches his son to embrace responsibility, reduce entropy, and take pride in doing things well. We talked about: The road to parenthood: Pete shares his seven-round IVF journey, what he wishes he’d known sooner, and why he champions fertility education.Making time on purpose: Pete breaks down his calendar philosophy and how he builds in quality time, from Muni rides to museum visits.Raising with purpose: He talks about teaching values like grit and responsibility—whether it’s cleaning up after others or training for soccer.Tiger Light parenting: Pete models excellence without pressure, helping his son stick with hard things and celebrate progress.Why sound matters: He reflects on recording audio memories—and how a child’s voice can bring back moments photos can’t.Where to find Peter KazanjyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kazanjy/ X:  https://x.com/kazanjy   Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Pete Kazanjy(02:13) Pete’s family and personal life(06:20) The IVF journey to parenthood(13:00) Michael’s birth story(17:38) Balancing fatherhood and entrepreneurship(23:53) Instilling values and duty in children(27:02) The importance of grit and a growth mindset(34:53) Capturing memories: the power of audio(37:00) Balancing professional and personal life(41:52) Technology and parenting(55:05) Lightning round: silly stories and smart solutionsShow references:Founding Sales (book by Pete!): https://www.foundingsales.com/Atrium: https://www.atriumhq.com/ UCSF Center for Reproductive Health: https://fertility.ucsf.edu/ Modern Fertility: https://modernfertility.com/ 23andMe: https://www.23andme.com/ Exploratorium: https://www.exploratorium.edu/ California Academy of Sciences: https://www.calacademy.org/ The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt: https://www.amazon.com/Goal-Process-Ongoing-Improvement/dp/0884271951/ The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.tablegroup.com/product/the-five-dysfunctions-of-a-team/ The Phoenix Project: https://itrevolution.com/product/the-phoenix-project/ Use of Knowledge in Society by Friedrich Hayek: https://fee.org/articles/the-use-of-knowledge-in-society/ Brain Flakes: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N8GWZ4M Lego: https://www.lego.com/ Blippi: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5PYHgAzJ1wLEidB58SK6Xw Avatar: The Last Airbender: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0417299/ Ghostbusters: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087332/ —For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

James Currier is a serial entrepreneur, founding partner at NFX, and a father of 4 boys. Known for his sharp insights into human behavior and startup dynamics, James brings that same clarity and intention to his parenting. He’s not just raising kids, he’s cultivating creators, adventurers, and independent thinkers.In this episode, James shares how he designed his family life with the same care and foresight as he would a startup. From helping his son sail solo across the Atlantic at 16, to building secret passageways in their home, James offers a deeply personal and practical look into parenting with purpose. We discussed:Parenting with realism and intention: James explains why he doesn’t take too much credit as a parent, and how genetics, not just parenting techniques, shape a child’s destiny. Parenting inevitably includes heartbreak, so embrace the ride without trying to control every outcome.Fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance: James never gave allowances. Instead, he paid his kids a dollar for every new business idea and had them pitch startup concepts at the dinner table. Adventure and risk as tools for growth: Rather than shielding his kids from danger, James leaned into it. He saw risk as a necessary ingredient for confidence. His boys climbed 80-foot trees, explored Burning Man, and one even became the youngest person to sail solo across the Atlantic. The goal? Face the wild and learn who you are.The seven-to-one rule for feedback: James shares a powerful framework for encouraging positive behavior. For every one piece of correction, offer seven moments of genuine, specific positive reinforcement. It works for parenting and leadership.On technology, phones, and the limits of control: Despite thoughtful efforts, James admits that his kids were guinea pigs for the smartphone era. He reflects honestly on what worked, what didn’t, and why he believes delaying access to tech, and encouraging real-world adventure is more important than ever.Where to find James CurrierLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescurrier/ X: https://x.com/jamescurrier Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing James Currier, general partner at NFX and dad of four(02:52) Fostering entrepreneurship in kids(05:19) The neuro camp initiative(06:47) Teaching kids about money and avoiding entitlement(14:12) The importance of a strong marriage(27:39) The importance of wilderness experiences(28:15) Learning new skills with your kids(29:50) Prioritizing individual time with each child(31:44) Building projects and secret layers(34:25) Focusing on who your kids hang out with(36:05) Positive reinforcement over reprimanding(38:59) Talking to kids like adults(42:03) The role of a dog in the family(43:20) Managing technology in the household(47:12) Lightning Round: Parenting insights and embarrassing momentsResources From This Episode:300 (Graphic Novel): https://www.amazon.com/300-Frank-Miller/dp/1569714029 300 (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/ White Noise Machine: https://a.co/d/6YqDwMMBaby Einstein: https://www.kids2.com/pages/baby-einsteinMadagascar: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Mike Malloy is the founder of Malloy Industries, a firm that connects scaling entrepreneurs with vetted fractional executives. He's also a Georgetown professor, a husband, and the father of Max, the company's self-declared Chief Cuteness Officer. Mike’s life is an intersection of serious business systems and silly dad jokes, all woven together by an intentional approach to work-life integration.In this episode, Mike shares how building a business around his family values helped him show up better both as a parent and as a professional. We discussed:Parenting in public: From potty training during a client call to his son interrupting meetings to demand frisbee time, Mike embraces the chaos of parenting while working from home, and sometimes those interruptions help close deals.The transition to camp and growing independence: Mike opens up about the emotional milestone of sending his son to camp for the first time after three years of full-time care. Designing a business with family in mind: Mike started Malloy Industries not just to serve founders, but to reclaim his own time. After losing his mom and learning he was about to become a dad, he redesigned his business to run without relying solely on him, and has since built a network of 400+ fractional executives.Time-blocking and nightly maps: Mike walks us through his framework for managing energy and focus throughout the week, including why he blocks off Wednesday mornings for uninterrupted dad adventures.Dad jokes, magnet tiles, and parenting hacks: Whether he’s swapping jokes at the library or bringing a second monitor to Panera for a “crush-it day,” Mike brings levity and intentionality to every corner of life as a founder and a father.Where to find Mike MalloyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwmalloy/ X: https://x.com/mwmalloyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mwmalloy/Website: https://malloyindustries.com/ Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Mike Malloy(02:35) Max the deal-closer and executive artist(04:50) First day of camp and emotional milestones(07:17) Starting Malloy Industries and the fractional future(10:07) Grieving his mom and preparing for fatherhood(14:28) The "who not how" mindset shift(15:35) Be where your feet are and present parenting(19:35) The great cheese stick negotiation(23:28) Pro dad hacks for books and lullabies(24:36) Time blocking and scheduling around energy(29:16) Monthly “crush it” days and managing flow(30:54) Nightly maps and intentional daily planning(34:37) The wooden box and tech boundaries(38:08) Chef Jacques and using AI to plan meals(41:18) Modeling tech habits and setting rules(43:56) Advice to his pre-dad self during nap traps(46:23) Lightning round: parenting quirks and dad jokesResources From This Episode:Daddy and Me: https://www.amazon.com/Daddy-Me-Tiya-Hall/dp/1680524526Never Touch a Porcupine: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Touch-Porcupine-Believe-Ideas/dp/1788439856A Crack in the Track (Thomas and Friends): https://www.amazon.com/Crack-Track-Thomas-Friends/dp/0375827552Fox is Coming!: https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Coming-James-Patterson/dp/0316572837Like a Boss Play Kit: https://shopping.mattel.com/en-gb/products/fisher-price-2-in-1-like-a-boss-activity-center-hbm26-en-gbLewis Library Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lewisulibrary/Zootopia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2948356/Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0784896/Cars: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317219/Blank Check: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109287/Empire Records: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112950/Santa Clause: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111070/ Cal Newport: https://calnewport.com/Georgetown U: https://www.georgetown.edu/Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamworkby Dan Sullivan, Benjamin Hardy: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/who-not-how-dan-sullivan/1136703973The Daily Dad: 366 Meditations on Parenting, Love, and Raising Great Kidsby Ryan Holiday: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-daily-dad-ryan-holiday/1141941652Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Beby Becky Kennedy: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/good-inside-becky-kennedy/1140501121Nir Eyal’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqogSRDhzeUNotion: https://www.notion.com/Door knob safety cover: https://www.amazon.com/Door-Knob-Covers-Child-Safety/dp/B071GWJX4DMuppet Babies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086764/Super Wings: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3600266/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_suoper%2520wingsToy Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114709/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_1_tt_7_nm_0_in_0_q_toy%2520storyGoofy Movie: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113198/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1Mini Magnatiles: https://magnatiles.com/products/micromags-travel-set?srsltid=AfmBOopwJyPjVfhLblqNFq2f1QIUtupBKjvD0tqIrY8kydu8LlX00XYH—Help Support Startup Dad:For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.comFor Startup Dad Merch:

Michael Leibovich is the Head of Growth at Adobe, but at home, he’s dad to a curious two-and-a-half-year-old and husband to a full-time working partner. With a previous career as a touring musician and a current career in creative tech leadership at companies like Vimeo and Abstract, Michael brings an emotionally grounded, inventive lens to fatherhood.In this episode, Michael shares how parenting has reshaped his worldview from his leadership style at work to his daily routines at home. Patience in parenting and work: Michael reflects on the contrast between startup urgency and toddler-paced mornings. Learning to slow down and “trust the process” has become a guiding principle both at home and professionally.Changing the channel: One of Michael’s favorite frameworks for toddler meltdowns is simple: change the channel. Whether it’s bath-time resistance or cereal drama, he shares how quick pivots can shift the energy and restore peace.Tech meets parenting: Michael talks about building a custom AI-powered meal-planning app called Picky Eater to handle his daughter’s shifting food preferences, and how it's just one example of tech meeting real-life parenting.Parenting without Google: Instead of doomscrolling for answers, Michael and his wife formed a text thread with parents they admire. It’s a real-time advisory board filled with insight, lived experience, and calm advice.Music, creativity, and messy art: A former touring musician, Michael is intentional about nurturing creativity at home. From drum time to digitizing toddler scribbles, he shares how he’s creating space for curiosity.Where to find Mike LeibovichLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelleibovich/ Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Michael Leibovich(02:02) The patience of parenting a toddler(03:41) Balancing work and family life(05:13) Navigating toddler tantrums(07:44) Caring for aging parents(11:09) Nurturing creativity in children(14:41) The torrent of preschool artwork(16:38) Michael's musical journey(19:47) Transition from music to tech(20:38) Unique parenting advice approach(28:43) Emergency c-section and complications(31:55) First moments with daughter(34:40) Advice for expecting parents(42:23) Balancing parenting approaches(46:03) Technology and parenting(48:07) AI Solution for picky eaters(51:26) Advice to younger self(54:43) Lightning Round: Parenting products and hacksResources From This Episode:Fidget Spinner Suction Cup: https://www.amazon.com/Suction-Spinner-Sensory-Popping-Auditory/dp/B0BVGZGN3QNoseFrida: https://frida.com/products/nosefrida The Goonies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/Back to the Future: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088763/Adobe: https://www.adobe.com/Behance: https://www.behance.net/AppFolio: https://www.appfolio.com/Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/Abstract: https://www.abstract.us/Ben Erez Episode: youtube.com/watch?v=st2qxaybgw8Severance: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11280740/Adobe Fresco: https://www.adobe.com/products/fresco.htmlPure Volume: https://www.purevolume.com/Napster: https://www.napster.com/us/Limewire: https://limewire.com/Cal Poly: https://www.calpoly.edu/Myspace Records: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MySpace_RecordsHanson: https://hanson.net/homeGin Blossoms: https://www.ginblossoms.net/Jimmy Eat World: https://www.jimmyeatworld.com/The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0421715/The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-giving-tree-shel-silverstein/1100830900Lovable: https://lovable.dev/Bolt: https://bolt.new/https://open.spotify.com/Crocs: https://www.crocs.com/—Support this podcast:For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Lauren Dugan and Neil Vidyarthi are the husband-and-wife co-founders of Feel Good Games, creators of Little Magic Stories, an AI storytelling platform designed to spark creativity and independence in kids. They’re also parents of two boys (ages 3 and 8), longtime partners in both life and work, and startup veterans bringing a playful, grounded perspective to the founder-parent journey.In this episode, Neil and Lauren talk about how parenting fuels their creativity, how they’ve evolved their marriage while running a company together, and why their son insists he’s the real CEO. We discussed:From bedtime stories to startup idea: How their son’s early-morning storytelling sessions inspired the vision for Little Magic Stories, and why they included him as “co-creators” from day one.Building a company with your spouse: What Neil and Lauren have learned about navigating startup stress, creative tension, and parenting chaos as co-founders and partners and the systems they use to stay grounded.Parenting with freedom and play: Why they embrace a “gardener not engineer” model of parenting, how they balance screen time and independence, and the moments that made them rethink control and creativity.The case for structured chaos: From timeboxing and project boards to flexible rituals and tag-team parenting, Neil and Lauren share the habits that help them stay focused while juggling business, marriage, and raising two kids.Redefining success as parent-founders: Why they believe having children has made them more ambitious, not less, and how they’ve reshaped their values around creativity, joy, and freedom.Where to find Lauren DuganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurendugan/ X: https://x.com/lauren_dugan?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/laurencdugan/Where to find Neil VidyarthiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilv/X: https://x.com/neilvidyarthiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilv9999/Where to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Neil Vidyarthi and Lauren Dugan(02:56) The dynamics of working with family(05:29) Balancing work and family life(13:52) Inspiration behind Feel Good Games(18:30) Advice for founders and parents(33:30) Parenting challenges and social media(34:20) Ash's CEO video(36:09) Parenting philosophies and boundaries(39:20) Kids and technology(43:12) Creative uses of AI in parenting(44:50) Parenting mistakes and lessons(47:59) Connecting with Feel Good Games(49:43) Lightning round: routines, quirks, and family timeShow references:Yoto: https://eu.yotoplay.com/Wipes Warmer: https://urbanessentials.com.ph/products/prince-lionheart-ultimate-wipes-warmer-dispenserGreat Wolf Lodge: https://www.greatwolf.com/Super Mario Brothers: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6718170/My Neighbor Totoro: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096283/The Karate Kid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087538/Beetlejuice: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094721/Todoist: https://www.todoist.com/Polygon: https://www.polygon.com/Avail: https://www.avail.co/landlords/featuresFeel Good Games: https://www.feelgoodgames.xyz/Little Magic Stories: https://www.littlemagicstories.com/Robert Wolfe’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bsi-iOjodMPokemon: https://www.pokemon.com/usPomodoro: https://pomofocus.io/Time Boxing: https://clockify.me/timeboxingThe Freedom App: https://freedom.to/Jay Vidyarthi - Reclaim Your Mind: https://www.jayvidyarthi.com/Game of Thrones: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0944947/Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/Reed Hastings: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reed_HastingsArachnaphobia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099052/The Tao of Parenting The Ageless Wisdom of Taoism and the Art of Raising Children By Greta K. Nagel: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/331083/the-tao-of-parenting-by-greta-k-nagel/Cry Babies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11067738/—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Aaron White, founder of six companies including Appy People, Profitwell, Boundless and Blissfully discusses the intersection of startup life and fatherhood. In this episode, he shares how the challenges of becoming a parent have reshaped his approach to leadership, the unexpected lessons he's learned, and his evolving perspective on success. We discussed:The unpredictable journey of parenthood: Aaron talks about the trauma of his son’s premature birth, the shock of an emergency C-section, and the mental toll of navigating the NICU. Through it all, Aaron reflects on how he and his wife adapted, growing through the challenges and celebrating their son’s healthy arrival.The realities of modern parenting: With no extended family nearby, Aaron describes the strain of modern, nuclear family dynamics. He discusses the unnatural pressure on parents to "do it all" and the importance of asking for help, especially in those exhausting first few months. His mantra: don’t feel guilty about getting help.Learning new strengths as a parent: Parenting has brought out a new side of Aaron that he didn’t expect. He shares how he’s surprised himself with his patience, endurance, and the emotional connection he has developed with his son. Parenting has tested him in ways far beyond his previous experiences with endurance sports.Just say yes: Whether it’s career, parenthood, or life, Aaron advocates saying yes to opportunities. From taking on new projects to engaging with his son, he believes saying yes to difficult things leads to growth.Your child becomes who you believe them to be: Aaron explains how a positive perspective and belief in his son’s potential have shaped their relationship and how he approaches fatherhood.Where to find Aaron WhiteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronmwhite/ X: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronmwhite/ Website: www.appy.aiWhere to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Aaron White(01:50) Diving into API AI and building businesses with AI(02:52) The future of AI and its impact(05:43) Balancing startup life and parenthood(16:41) Modern parenting and embracing help(20:14) Surprising discoveries of fatherhood(29:18) Reengaging with the world as a parent(33:26) Empathy and Leadership as a Parent(40:25) The importance of partnership in parenting(44:23) Technology and parenting in the modern age(47:02) Creative uses of AI for parenting(48:40) Advice for future founders and dads(51:02) Lightning round: wipe warmers and hatch nightlightsShow references:Wipe warmers: https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Diaper-Wipe-Warmers/zgbs/baby-products/677976011Hatch Nightlights: https://www.amazon.com/Hatch-Baby-Machine-Trainer-Soother/dp/B08QVG9759?th=1Mushed Parnips: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/239206/mashed-parsnips/What Does The Fox Say?: https://youtu.be/jofNR_WkoCE?si=Glykjvv2W3wP0OaJThe Goonies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/The Ewok Adventure: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087225/Kilimanjaro: https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/kilimanjaro/Suno: Suno.com—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Olav Sindre Kriken is a four-time founder, husband, and father of three who’s currently leading Tana, an AI-powered productivity startup. Originally from a small town in Norway, Olav now lives in Palo Alto, and splits his time between scaling a company and staying deeply present for his family. He believes his family is the most important startup he’ll ever build.In this episode, Olav reflects on what it means to raise resilient, independent kids in a tech-saturated world, how parenting frameworks shape his decisions as a founder, and why being a dad made him rethink everything about success and legacy. We discussed:From dad dates to startup deadlines: Why Olav sets aside sacred, tech-free time with each of his kids every week, and how that ritual strengthens their relationships, even during long stretches apart.Parenting with one voice: Olav shares how he and his wife approach disagreements as co-founders of their family, and why behind-the-scenes alignment helps create stability for their kids.Letting kids struggle: How growing up in Norway taught Olav that adversity is essential, and why he believes challenge, failure, and independence are some of the greatest gifts you can give your children.The power of modeling: From bedtime story world-building to watching their dad lead a company, Olav’s kids are already writing business plans and experimenting with entrepreneurship, all without being told to.Tech is not the enemy: Olav makes the case for embracing technology at home, from ChatGPT storytime to self-taught art via YouTube. He explains how AI can support creativity and learning when paired with values and conversation.Where to find Olav Sindre KrikenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kriken/ X: https://x.com/OlavSindreWhere to find Adam FishmanFishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Introducing Olav Sindre Kriken(00:58) Kids come through You, not from you(01:54) Parenting in Norway vs. the US(08:36) Dad Dates are quality time with kids(10:39) Balancing startup life and family time(12:38) Unified parenting approach with one voice(22:23) Parenting frameworks and philosophies(29:38) Modeling entrepreneurship for kids(32:00) Daughter's mask business(32:46) Parenting through example(33:36) Embracing technology for kids(36:57) Creative uses of AI in parenting(39:08) The story of the son and the window(41:12) Say “Yes” More(44:57) Lightning Round(49:28) Funniest and Most Embarrassing Parenting MomentsShow references:Rocking chair with vibration: https://www.amazon.com/Massage-Recliner-Vibration-Ergonomic-Overstuffed/dp/B0D41M8TRV?th=1 First Time Dad by Jason Petterson: https://www.amazon.com/First-Time-Dad-Understanding-Parenthood/dp/1088045677Salish: https://www.youtube.com/@salishmatterCars: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317219/Star Wars: https://www.imdb.com/list/ls070150896/Tana: https://tana.inc/Magnus Hillestad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magnushillestad/Sanity: https://www.sanity.io/The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable, 20th Anniversary Edition by Patrick M. Lencioni: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-five-dysfunctions-of-a-team-patrick-m-lencioni/1100520484The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-prophet-kahlil-gibran/1116648147Home Depot: https://www.homedepot.com/Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/ChatGPT: Chatgpt.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/YouTube Kids: https://www.youtubekids.com/The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-catcher-in-the-rye-j-d-salinger/1100192775Liverpool FC: https://www.liverpoolfc.com/Manchester United: https://www.manutd.com/Frozen: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2294629/Richard Branson: https://www.virgin.com/branson-family/richard-bransonBeyonce: https://beyonce.com/Capybara: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/cabybara-facts—For sponsorship inquiries email: podcast@fishmana.com.For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com