Dadicated Joe

I was punished constantly as a kid. I was undiagnosed as autistic and literally incapable of following a lot of the strict rules at school and at home. What punishment taught me wasn't responsibility. It taught me to fear authority, to lie when I needed to, and to focus enormously on pleasing others to avoid getting in trouble. And left me with a deep sense of shame when I constantly fell short, which has taken years of therapy to heal.  In this episode, I explain why we chose not to use punishment or rewards with our daughter. If kids only behave because they're afraid of you, they'll only behave when you're watching. And if they're doing the right thing for a treat, you'll eventually need a bigger treat. That's not character. That's control. And not only does it not work very well, it's also actually a lot harder on us!  Instead, we use an evidence-based that focuses on natural consequences. So if they're using a toy dangerously, we take away the toy. If they make a mess, they clean it up. The point isn't to cause suffering or prove a lesson through pain, it's to help her understand cause and effect and build intrinsic motivation. I don't want a compliant kid who behaves because she's afraid of me. I want a daughter who tells the truth when she messes up because she trusts me. 👇 In this episode, we explore: • What punishment actually teaches kids • Why fear-based discipline fails long-term • How natural consequences build independence • Why rewards damage intrinsic motivation • How to discipline without shame Resources mentioned:  If you're deep in toddler behavior right now, go watch the Toddler Tantrums episode. It'll give you more context on what's actually happening under the surface.  Also there are times when natural consequences don't work, so checkout my upcoming episode on "Smart Discipline" to see what to do for those moments.  Watch on YouTube The Parenting Mistake That Makes Tantrums Worse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7dE_MOlwXk&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=23  And if you want to go deeper into shame-free discipline, check out Janet Lansbury's No Bad Kids and the work from Big Little Feelings. Both are great foundations for raising kids without fear-based control. 👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

"You are talking about a seven-year-old being addicted to something that was designed to manipulate her." That's uncomfortable to hear. It's also what this week's DadicatedJoe guest, Dr. Susan Linn, said to me. Screen addiction starts earlier than many parents are aware of, and at the same time, we have to acknowledge the real pressure families face. Because screens are everywhere, work demands are high, exhaustion is real, and drawing firm boundaries often feels harder than ever. Excessive screen time is linked to attention issues, poor school performance, sleep disruption, and emotional regulation challenges, which is why I wanted to speak with an expert. Dr. Susan Linn has spent decades studying how media and Big Tech shape children's behavior, attention, and values, and advocating for change. As a psychologist, writer, researcher, and Harvard lecturer, she explains how digital culture is designed to pull children into consumerism and brand loyalty, and how games and devices are built to create dependence for stimulation and soothing. In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the truth behind educational claims, why ad-free does not automatically mean harmless, and how using screens as rewards can quietly increase their power. We also talk about practical screen time boundaries, what health guidelines actually recommend for babies and toddlers, and how parents can reduce screen dependence without constant battles. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How does excessive screen time affect a child's brain development? What are the official screen time guidelines for babies and toddlers? Is screen addiction real in young children? Do educational apps actually help kids learn? How can parents set healthy screen time boundaries in a tech-saturated world? If screen time is already becoming a battle in your house, go watch my episode with Tucker Max on Raising Kids Without Screens. It'll give you a very different lens on what's actually possible. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zweLLC9wkm8&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=21  About Dr. Susan Lin  Susan Linn, a psychologist, an author, and an award-winning ventriloquist, is a world-renowned expert on creative play, and the impact of tech and commercial marketing on children. She is Research Associate at Boston Children's Hospital, and Lecturer on Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.   A passionate advocate for children, Dr. Linn was Founding Director of Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (now called Fairplay) from 2000-2015. She has lectured on the importance of creative play, the impact of tech, media, and marketing on children, and on puppetry as a therapeutic tool, Dr. Linn's books have been praised in publications as diverse as The Wall Street Journal and Mother Jones. Her most recent book, Who's Raising the Kids? Big Tech, Big Business and the Lives of Children received a rave review from The New York Times, which called it "engrossing and insightful." Check out Dr. Susan Linn's latest book, Who's Raising the Kids?: Big Tech, Big Business and the Lives of Children. And to learn more about Susan's incredible work, visit her website https://www.consumingkids.com/ 

When can babies eat meat? As soon as they're eating solid foods, which is around six months old. Meat is a CRITICAL first food, and here are three major reasons why. My wife and I became experts on this topic before starting Serenity Kids Baby Food, and we've heard the same question again and again: Do babies really need meat? Why not start with rice cereal or fruit? In this episode, I walk through the three core reasons meat is the ideal first food. Babies' brains and spines develop rapidly in their first year. They need dense nutrition, fat, and highly absorbable heme iron to support that growth. I also talk about why early exposure to savory foods during the six to eighteen-month flavor window can shape long-term eating habits — and why I recommend meat first, vegetables second, and waiting on grains and sugars. 👇 In this episode, we explore: • When can babies start eating meat? • Why is meat easier to digest than other foods? • How much fat do babies actually need each day? • What is heme iron and why is it important for infants? • Does starting with fruit increase sugar preference later? Resources mentioned:  How to Make Liver Bone Broth: https://myserenitykids.com/blogs/news/how-to-make-liver-bone-broth?srsltid=AfmBOoqCrQ25Q mW4wkmC3JprXZRfXHSGz821UT4vYmjr_V0T3u8TnNhk  If you're introducing solids soon, don't miss my full Dad's Guide to Starting Solids where I walk through timing, foods, and what to avoid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qtgMhJtIQw&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=14  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/  Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe    

Father-daughter relationships are shaped long before kids have the words to explain what they feel, and I've learned that firsthand with my daughter, Della. The moments that seem small, the ones we rush through or don't think twice about, can often be the moments that teach our kids what they're worth and how they should expect to be treated. Madeline Anderson, author of Girl Dad, brings a daughter's perspective to what actually shapes father-daughter relationships beneath the surface. We talk about how attention communicates worth and what it looks like to set boundaries around work and life without making our daughters feel rejected. 👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

Sex education can still be such a taboo topic that by the time we talk to our kids about it we may avoid, freeze, or fumble, and even accidentally pass down the same shame we grew up with. In this episode, I sit down with Megan Brinkerhoff, a mother of two, to talk about what actually helps kids feel safe, informed, and confident in their bodies. We get into why naming body parts early matters more than people realize, how whispering sends signals we don't intend, and why boundaries and consent start in toddlerhood. This conversation isn't about having one perfect sex talk. It's about building an ongoing, shame free foundation that grows with your child. We also talk honestly about why so many parents feel stuck. Poor sex education, fear based messaging, and cultural silence leave adults feeling unprepared. Megan shares how parents can reclaim their role, stay involved as kids grow, and create homes where questions are welcomed instead of avoided. If you want to help your kids navigate bodies, boundaries, and relationships without fear or secrecy, this episode will give you a grounded place to start. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How do you talk to kids about sex without creating shame? When should parents start sex education conversations? Why naming body parts early supports safety and autonomy How parents can teach boundaries and consent at different ages starting in toddlerhood What to do when your own sex education makes this uncomfortable 👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe About Megan Brinkerhoff Megan Brinkerhoff is a Mother, Artist, Educator and Sacred Sexuality Practitioner. Her current work is developing a fresh approach to sex education for children, one that addresses both sex and relating and is rooted in the relationship to oneself. This work educates both children and their parents in tandem with the goal of empowering parents to be the stewards of their children's sexual and relational development and create space for meaningful conversations about sex and relating within the family. Megan lives in Austin, TX with her two hilarious, ridiculous and glorious kids, Marigny (6) and Rory (3).  

Parenting feels hardest on the days when you are already running on empty. I used to think my daughter was just being difficult. Something as small as her spilling a drink could send me over the edge. What I eventually realized was that a lot of what was driving me crazy had nothing to do with her and everything to do with what was being reflected back to me. In this episode, I break down the four reasons our kids push us the most and why those moments usually hit when we are stressed, overwhelmed, or emotionally tapped out. We talk about how kids mirror our emotional state, how the environments we create shape their behavior, and how our own triggers and unresolved childhood stuff quietly show up in our parenting. This is not about blaming yourself or trying to be a perfect parent. It is about learning how to regulate your reactions so parenting does not feel so hard all the time. 👇 In this episode, we explore: Why do kids act out more when parents are exhausted or stressed?  How do children mirror their parents' emotional state?  What parenting triggers actually come from our own childhood?  How can emotional regulation change your child's behavior?  Why does parenting feel so hard even when you are doing everything right? Previous DadicatedJoe Episodes to Go Deeper on this Topic: If this idea of reparenting yourself resonates, listen to the DadicatedJoe episode on Reparenting Yourself While Parenting Your Kids, where I go deeper into how inner child work changes the way we show up as parents.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXatbr_sOa0&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=5  I also reference a previous DadicatedJoe episode on Fatherhood Nearly Broke Me—But Here's What Saved Me, where I talk more about breaking generational patterns and using past experiences to become more intentional parents. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkhwndKnVhc&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=44  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

Survival mode, self-sacrifice, and avoidance are not strengths. They are the drift. Fatherhood doesn't fall apart all at once, it erodes quietly. You keep showing up, you keep providing, you keep telling yourself this is just a season, and then one day you realize you're exhausted, disconnected, and not totally sure how you got here. In this episode, I sit down with Larry Hagner, host of the Dad Edge Podcast, one of the original and most listened-to dad podcasts in the world. Larry calls this slow erosion the Dad Drift. It's what happens when survival mode becomes normal, when self-sacrifice replaces emotional presence, and when your marriage and parenting start to feel transactional instead of connected. We talk honestly about emotional leadership and why anger is almost never the real issue. We unpack why white-knuckling your way through fatherhood can actually push your family further away, how validating emotions changes everything at home, and why so many marriages quietly slip into roommate mode even when both people care. Larry shares what it looks like to catch yourself in the drift, own it, and lead differently without pretending you've got it all figured out. 👇 In this episode, we explore: Why do so many dads feel burnt out, even when life looks good on paper? What is the Dad Drift, and how does it sneak into marriage and parenting? Why anger is usually a signal, not the real problem How emotional leadership creates safety and connection at home What it actually means to lead your family without white-knuckling it Larry Hagner is the founder of The Dad Edge—an organization dedicated to equipping men with the tools and community they need to thrive as husbands, fathers, and leaders - and the host of the globally recognized Dad Edge Podcast, which has surpassed 40 million downloads. With over 1,000 interviews to date, Larry has welcomed an impressive range of guests including Matthew McConaughey, Jon Bernthal, Kirk Cameron, Mike Rowe, Chris Daughtry, Sean Patrick Flanery, Greg Olsen, Bear Rinehart, Nikki Sixx, and many more Follow Larry on Instagram: @thedadedge   https://www.instagram.com/thedadedge/ Listen to The Dad Edge Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ge/podcast/the-dad-edge-podcast/id986223478  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

Moms spend between 400 and 650 hours breastfeeding in the first six months alone. When my wife, Serenity, started breastfeeding our daughter, I had no idea how hard it actually was. How many things can go wrong? I've always wanted to be an involved father, but like a lot of men, I assumed breastfeeding was mostly her thing and that my role in it would be minimal. Watching her deal with pain, latch issues, and the emotional weight of it all was eye-opening. I was involved in every other part of our daughter's life, so why would feeding her be any different? Breastfeeding turned out to be a team sport, and my role mattered more than I realized. In this episode, I share what Serenity and I learned during our breastfeeding journey, the mistakes I made as a dad, and what actually helped us move through it with more calm, confidence, and connection. I go over lactation consultants, pumping, tongue and lip ties, myths around low supply, and why avoiding early formula matters more than most people realize. This isn't about perfection or blame. It's about showing up with intention and protecting your partner's confidence during one of the most vulnerable seasons of parenthood. 👇 In this episode, we explore: What is and isn't normal about breastfeeding  What dads might get wrong when trying to support breastfeeding How dads can help without micromanaging or checking out What breastfeeding really demands from moms When dads should step in and when to step back When to hire a lactation consultant or other professional  Why to avoid "topping off" with formula How to protect your partner's confidence in the early months Get 15% Off IQ Bars: https://www.eatiqbar.com/DADICATED15  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/  Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

​​​​Fatherhood starts way before the delivery room, but most dads don't realize it until the stakes get high. Sometimes conception may feel like luck, pregnancy like something mom handles, and birth like the starting line. Then we wonder why we feel behind once the baby is here. In this episode, I sit down with Ben Greenfield, a health consultant, New York Times bestselling author of Boundless and Boundless Parenting, and a dad to 17-year-old twin boys. Ben shares the framework he lives by: optimize the dad first, then design the family system around what you actually value. We talk fertility and preconception health, fitness and biohacking, pregnancy preparation, what happened when their home birth plan turned into a hospital C-section, and how Ben approaches discipline, recovery, and building a family culture without damaging trust.  This conversation made fatherhood feel less like guesswork and more like something you can lead with intention. If you want a snack that actually supports focus and steady energy. Get 15% Off IQBAR: https://www.eatiqbar.com/DADICATED15  If this conversation was helpful, you might also like: Baby Biohackers: Dave Asprey on Optimizing Pregnancy & Parenting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgCk7FklL3M&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=17  Resources mentioned Boundless Parenting by Ben Greenfield: https://www.amazon.com/Boundless-Parenting-Tactics-Habits-Parents/dp/0999722778 Boundless by Ben Greenfield https://www.amazon.com/Boundless-Upgrade-Brain-Optimize-Aging/dp/1628603976 Boundless Life podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/boundless-life/id283908977 Follow Ben on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bengreenfieldfitness/  Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

It's been said we're the first generation reparenting ourselves at the same time we're parenting our kids. Becoming a dad didn't just change my schedule. It exposed parts of me I didn't know were still running the show. A wounded inner child is desperately in need of a loving parent. My parents did their absolute best, but just didn't have the tools and skills we have today to allow for feelings and set healthy boundaries without shame. I discovered it isn't just my child who needs that support, but my inner child needs it as well!  I found myself getting triggered by my child or wife. Disproportionately angry about things that didn't make sense. Hearing a tone in my voice that sounded familiar in a way I didn't like. The moments where I caught myself saying things my parents said, that I swore I never would. In this episode, I talk honestly about how I am noticing and using these moments to choose something different. I outline how my wife and I are actively reparenting ourselves, healing our childhood wounds, in the midst of parenting a child and running a business. I share personal examples of how I'm learning to interrupt my triggers, heal the past trauma, and develop a new and exciting relationship with my inner child.  Turns out, my daughter loves playing with "little Joey". My wife loves how he receives her love. And he is the source of my fun, joy, gratitude and fulfillment! So instead of sacrificing myself like my parents thought they were supposed to, I'm learning that I'm actually a better dad and husband when I prioritize my inner child's needs!  This conversation is for dads who want to be present but feel caught off guard by their own responses. It's for parents realizing that doing the inner work is part of showing up well for their kids. Parenting yourself first isn't selfish. It's how cycles get broken, and trust gets built at home. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How do dads recognize when they are parenting from old conditioning? What does reparenting ourselves look like in everyday moments? How can we pause instead of reacting when emotions spike? What does repair actually look like after you mess up? How do we permanently heal our past childhood traumas?  How can we develop an active relationship with our inner child while parenting and working?  If this episode hit close to home, watch next: Fatherhood Nearly Broke Me — But Here's What Saved Me https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkhwndKnVhc&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=37  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

It is largely just accepted that new parents don't sleep for a year. But does it have to be that way!? Sleep deprivation does more than make us tired. It messes with our heads, our patience, our relationships, and our general sanity. When I became a dad, I accepted exhaustion as part of the deal. I assumed this was just how newborn life worked and that struggling through it was normal. Dr. Harvey Karp, a child sleep expert and the author of Happiest Baby on the Block, decided to question this assumption. He asked, why has baby sleep barely improved in decades? He then developed a safe, scientifically backed technology to help, that when utilized correctly is now getting newborns up to two extra hours of uninterrupted sleep a night! Today's guest is Lewis Krell, a dad of two and part of the team at Happiest Baby, the company behind Dr. Harvey Karp's SNOO, a smart bassinet. We talk about the sleep mistakes parents make without realizing it, what safety actually looks like when it comes to newborn sleep, and how the SNOO was designed to reduce risk while helping parents get longer stretches of rest. We get into the science, the data, and the concerns parents actually have — including EMFs, sleep crutches, weaning, routines, and what role dads need to play if they want to avoid burnout. This conversation helped me rethink what "normal" newborn sleep should look like. It's not about hacking your baby or chasing perfection. It's about safety, support, and giving parents a fighting chance to rest, think clearly, and show up better for their families. 👇 In this episode, we explore: Why are new parents so exhausted during the newborn stage What sleep mistakes quietly ruin a baby's sleep How does the SNOO improve baby sleep and safety Is sleep training necessary for newborns How can dads actively support better sleep at home Might the SNOO be a worthwhile investment for you to buy or rent If you want to learn more about the SNOO and the research behind the Happiest Baby: https://happiestbaby.sjv.io/zxWxqx  The Happiest Baby on the Block Other Episodes you might like: 12 Sleep Tips Every New Parent Should Know https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL0hcb8qKdI    About Lewis Krell  Lewis Krell is the Head of Partnerships for Happiest Baby (the makers of SNOO). Lewis is the leader of the SNOO Employee Benefit Program, which works with top corporations like JP Morgan, Google, and the NFL to bring the gift of better sleep, mental wellness, and physical health to their new parent employees.  Lewis is a 2x SNOO Dad, a reformed finance bro, a marginally entertaining writer, and has now been leading sales and partnerships efforts for cutting-edge technology companies for over a decade.  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-krell/   IG -  @krelllewis https://www.instagram.com/krelllewis/?hl=en 

The workload of the holidays hits moms everywhere. Whether consciously or unconsciously, they take on the lion's share of the planning, the meals, the gifts, the travel, the traditions, the emotional labor — all while I stayed focused on logistics. And then rather than share in the fun and excitement the holidays are supposed to be about, they can end up stressed out, resentful, and just wanting it to be over.  This is what happened with us, and my wife helped me learn how I could change it. I discovered that as a man, I just wasn't taught how to see the invisible work happening, and then was confused and angry about her stress and resentment "ruining" the holidays. I was always helping. I believed I was doing my part. But she was carrying everything behind the scenes, even doing things none of us even really wanted her to do. She wasn't getting a break, and all we really wanted was to spend fun, restful time with her.  In this episode, I walk through the step-by-step holiday playbook that changed everything for our family. We get into how to plan the season together, why simplifying meals matters, how the Fair Play system of household management can end duplication and confusion, and why clear agreements help your partner feel supported instead of overwhelmed. I also share what finally shifted my mindset as a dad — from "I'll jump in where needed" to actually owning parts of the holiday, so my wife could breathe. It's not about getting it perfect. It's about presence, partnership, and the small decisions that make the holidays calmer, happier, and more meaningful for everyone. 👇 In this episode, we explore: • How can dads help moms enjoy the holidays by reducing the mental load? • What is the step-by-step process for planning a stress-free season together? • How does the Fair Play system actually work during the holidays? • What helps moms feel supported, appreciated, and able to enjoy the season? • How can dads prevent resentment, overwhelm, and last-minute chaos? The Fair Play Deck: A Couple's Conversation Deck:  https://amzn.to/44iV3Zv  The Fair Play Book: https://amzn.to/4ltfKsm  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/  Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

The school system really messed me up. I would not fit into the standardized box they try to jam kids into, and was deeply wounded by them trying to hammer me into it. This left me passionate about changing the way we treat kids. I tried to create my own school for Della, but it was VERY HARD. So I was so lucky to find the Whole Life Learning Center, founded by Micheal Carberry for his two boys, now ages 8 and 10. In this episode, Micheal explains how kids learn best when their nervous system feels calm and supported, yet schools rarely center around emotional safety. He expands on what education can look like when connection, curiosity, and developmental readiness come first.  Michael's holistic model replaces grades with seasonal narrative reviews that actually matter. He gives us a clearer framework on what to look for in a school and how to support learning at home. When feedback focuses on social-emotional growth instead of comparison, kids feel safe enough to explore and confident enough to thrive. 👇 In this episode, we explore: • How do you know if your child's school supports emotional safety? • What happens when kids learn without grades or competition? • How can parents build intrinsic motivation instead of pressure? • What does developmentally aligned reading readiness actually look like? • How does restorative discipline help kids learn accountability? Listen to Part I: 30. How to Choose the Right School with Michael Carberry: https://open.spotify.com/episode/75Q4d4eYH4Soy6SqRYAUWI?si=NTzUFGAEQsOQIonGUXXbmA  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe Michael Carberry is the Founder of the Whole Life Learning Center in Austin, Texas. As an educational visionary and innovator, he has developed a holistic pedagogy focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, personal growth and empowerment. When he's not at the Whole Life Learning Center, Michael can be found spending quality time with his family, playing music, taking care of the animals, working out, or turning the compost.  Learn more about Whole Life Learning Center: https://www.wholelifelearningcenter.com/  Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholelifelearning/   

Parents often have so many questions when it comes to choosing a school, and it's easy to get confused about what is important and what isn't. These days, kids are usually measured by report cards and behavior standard benchmarks that rarely reflect who they are or how they're actually growing. But underneath all of that is the real question we should be asking as parents: What is school actually for? And, How will we know if it's fulfilling that purpose? To speak to this, I bought on Michael Carberry, the visionary founder the Whole Life Learning Center in Austin, which the school my daughter Della attends. I did a HUGE amount of research to find this school and believe whole heartedly in everything they're doing.  We dig into how children truly learn — not through worksheets or test prep, but through everyday life. We explore what school is really teaching beneath the surface: how to feel (or repress feelings), how to relate, how to trust themselves (or not), how to struggle, and how to stay curious (or give up and comply).  Michael breaks down why traditional schooling often prioritizes compliance over self-awareness, and how that shapes who kids believe they are. As dads, this is something we can't afford to ignore, because the adults around our children model everything from emotional regulation to resilience. If you're trying to understand what actually matters in a school environment, or how everyday experiences shape your child's sense of self, this episode brings clarity and offers a whole new lens on what education can be. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How to think about the purpose of school How identity forms through everyday play, challenge, and emotional moments What school may really be teaching our children beneath the surface Why emotional intelligence drives lifelong learning even more than academics What to look for when choosing a school environment How dads can support curiosity, confidence, and self-trust at home   Get 15% off Lovebird cereal with code DADICATED15: https://lovebirdfoods.com/?ref=sujibyed Lovebird cares about cleaning up cereal at school, too - they offer a price match guarantee - meaning, your school can swap from junk cereal to clean, organic cereal for the same price - Google "lovebird k-12 cereal swap" or check out lovebirdfoods.com for more information.  Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe   Michael Carberry is the Founder of the Whole Life Learning Center in Austin, Texas. As an educational visionary and innovator, he has developed a holistic pedagogy focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, personal growth and empowerment. When he's not at the Whole Life Learning Center, Michael can be found spending quality time with his family, playing music, taking care of the animals, working out, or turning the compost.  Learn more about Whole Life Learning Center: https://www.wholelifelearningcenter.com/  Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholelifelearning/   Get 15% off Lovebird cereal with code DADICATED15: https://lovebirdfoods.com/?ref=sujibyed

This is a subject my wife and I became accidental experts on when we went looking for foods for our baby and didn't like what we found. We (meaning my wife) did enormous research on infant nutrition, which became the foundation for our baby food company Serenity Kids.  Starting solids is an exciting time that dads can help with a ton! Doing the research, purchasing ingredients, mashing up soft foods, or making purees are all ways dads can literally put food on the table! In addition to being essential nutrients for our child's rapid growth and development, first foods can play a critical role in shaping our child's future health and eating habits. In this episode, I break down exactly how to approach those first steps with confidence by understanding readiness cues, infant nutritional needs, and how to choose the best ingredients.  I explain the importance of waiting till 6 months, and how to choose foods that support real growth, such as protein-rich animal products, iron-dense liver, bone broth, healthy fats, and vegetables. We talk about what to skip in the first year and why avoiding sugary purées, processed snacks, and early grains protects your baby's palate and development. I also share how the flavor window can set your child up for a lifetime of loving real food. I hope that you walk away feeling capable, informed, and ready to take an active role in feeding from day one. 👇 In this episode, we explore  How dads can confidently lead the feeding journey What signs truly show a baby is ready for solids  Risks of starting solids too early   What first foods build strong growth and brain development  Why animal products are so important   Which foods to avoid in the first year and why  How the flavor window shapes long term eating habits 👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe   This episode was sponsored by our favorite cereal Love Bird! Get 15% off Lovebird cereal with code DADICATED15: https://lovebirdfoods.com/?ref=sujibyed   

After battling years of infertility & having a miracle baby, Skylar Nelson set forth to overhaul the pre and post natal supplement industry.  Skylar is a registered dietitian and co-founder of I Am Nurtured, a prenatal and postnatal supplement brand born from personal struggle. Together, we unpack the hidden side of male infertility, the emotional toll it takes on couples, and how nutrition and supplements can help both parents recover, rebalance, and rebuild their health after childbirth. We discuss what is wrong with most prenatal supplements, such as unabsorbable forms of vitamins, incorrect dosages, and heavy metal contamination, as well as the role diet plays.  We also dig into his mission to create the first-ever dad-specific postnatal supplement, the science behind omega-3s and B vitamins, and the daily habits that keep him grounded as a new father and business owner. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How can men emotionally survive years of infertility and IVF? What supplements actually support fertility and postpartum recovery for dads? Why do most prenatal vitamins miss the mark on safety and dosage? How can couples manage exhaustion, sleep, and nutrition after a baby? What does redefining "family health" really mean for modern parents? Fuel every stage of parenthood, from planning to postpartum. Get 20% off your first order on these revolutionary supplements with code DADICATEDJOE https://www.iamnurtured.com/?sca_ref=9431877.8tuz9zKBiWVDa  About I Am Nurtured Founded by two registered dietitians and parents, I Am Nurtured was created to support your well-being through every stage of parenthood — from planning for baby to pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Their formulas blend science and empathy, offering clean, transparent supplements that help parents feel stronger, more energized, and truly cared for. Because your health should never be compromised — and neither should your trust. About Skylar Nelson Skylar Nelson is a registered dietitian, father, and co-founder of I Am Nurtured. After a six-year battle with infertility and IVF, Skylar turned his personal journey into a mission to redefine family health. He's passionate about helping parents rebuild energy, balance hormones, and feel their best through functional nutrition and targeted supplements — starting with the first-ever prenatal made for dads. This episode is sponsored by Tiny Health. Your baby's gut health begins at birth. The first 1,000 days of life shape everything  Get $20 off your first gut health test with code DADICATED → https://www.tinyhealth.com/   

When my wife was pregnant and postpartum she was a snacking monster, and then my toddler became the endless blackhole of snacks. Keeping up with the sheer volume is hard enough, but then we are also health conscious and both my wife and daughter are super tasters, so finding healthy snacks that actually tasted good felt impossible. Most packaged snacks are either loaded with sugar or taste like cardboard.  IQBar saved us! They make amazing bars, coffee, and electrolytes that taste great, are packed with nutrition, and improve brain performance. We eat so many of their products, I just had to have on the show Matt Stinson, Director of R&D at IQBAR—who is also a brand-new dad himself— to talk about what happens when science meets fatherhood in the kitchen. Matt's background in food innovation gives him a rare lens on how nourishment shapes energy, focus, and emotional presence for parents. We get real about brain-boosting ingredients like Lion's Mane and magnesium, pregnancy and postpartum support through food, and how intentional eating helps dads show up calmer and more connected at home. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How do you choose good snacks for pregnancy and postpartum recovery? What nutrients actually help parents stay focused and energized? How can dads support their partners through nourishment after birth? What's the link between brain health, hydration, and parenting presence? How do families build healthier snack habits without sacrificing taste?  Our Morning Sickness Secret Weapon! Get 15% Off IQ Bars: https://www.eatiqbar.com/DADICATED15  Being dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

I used to think gut health was something you worried about after a bad meal or too many antibiotics. Turns out, gut health starts at birth and can affect them their entire life! Their gut microbes in the first 1,000 days of life can lay the foundation for everything—immunity, digestion, even emotional regulation—and they're influenced by choices we make as parents from day one. In this episode, I sit down with my friend Cheryl Sew Hoy, founder and CEO of Tiny Health, to unpack how the gut microbiome influences not just our babies but our entire family. We dive into what happens to a baby's gut at birth, how breastfeeding and first foods set the foundation for lifelong immunity, and why dads' microbes matter more than most of us realize. Cheryl also shares her personal C-section story, the science behind vaginal seeding, and how she built the first gut health test designed specifically for infants, parents, and longevity. This conversation blew my mind and shifted how I think about my role as a dad—not just as a protector or provider, but as a carrier of microbes that literally shape my child's future. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How does gut health affect immunity, mood, and resilience for kids and parents? What happens to infants born by C-section, and how can families restore balance? Can dads really influence their child's microbiome and immune system? How do breastfeeding, first foods, and probiotics shape a healthy gut? How can families build lifelong health through regular microbiome testing? How exactly does the Tiny Health system work, and why is it so effective?    Get $20 off your first gut health test with code DADICATED → https://www.tinyhealth.com/  About Cheryl Sew Hoy Cheryl Sew Hoy is a mom of three, serial entrepreneur, and the founder & CEO of Tiny Health. She holds multiple Engineering degrees from Cornell University. Cheryl founded Tiny Health in 2020 after her first child struggled with eczema, sleep troubles, and food sensitivities. Her experience led her to research the gut microbiome and develop tests focusing on a baby's first 1,000 days, a crucial period in microbiome development.  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylyeoh/ About Tiny Health  Tiny Health is the first gut health test for moms and babies 0-3 years. They help families detect potential gut imbalances and course-correct early on. They also offer microbiome tests for older children and adults, and vaginal microbiome tests for women over 18. Tiny Health's mission is to improve the health outcomes of future generations and prevent risk of chronic conditions like eczema, allergies, and metabolic health issues that are affecting almost 1 in 2 children in the US. Website: https://www.tinyhealth.com/  Instagram: @tiny.health http://tiny.health/   Being dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

Being a girl dad is the greatest joy—and the greatest responsibility—of my life. From the moment Della realized she was her own little person, she's been a daddy's girl. She'll tell you herself: Mommy's the best at boo boos and boundaries, and Daddy brings the fun, the wrestling, and the big questions about life. I knew that moms and dads sometimes parented differently, but I underestimated how specific my role as a dad would be. Stepping fully into my role as her dad, not just a "parent", frees both me and my wife to play to our strengths. And I discovered how I could raise a powerful daughter by being a powerful man. That means showing her that men can be strong and vulnerability, masculinity can be secure enough for painted toenails, love is rooted in respect, and her body belongs only to her.  👇 In this episode, we explore: What are the 4 lessons every girl dad should teach his daughter? How can dads model the kind of partner their daughters deserve? Why do beauty standards harm girls so early—and how do we challenge them? How do you teach kids about body autonomy from day one? What does it really mean to be a powerful man while raising a powerful woman? 👇 Related episodes to watch next: Pregnant Father Energy | A Step-by-Step Guide to Showing Up During Pregnancy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oxTJbCWw-k&list=PLV-0dTh77R_nI1i3WZ7kYeagM51WeC2-h&index=14  👉 Get 15% off your first Serenity Kids order with code: DADICATED15 https://myserenitykids.com/ Being Dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe  

Divorce can tear families apart, or it can be the start of something new. For Josh Cearbaugh, father of five in a blended family, it was both. In this episode, I sit down with Josh Cearbaugh, a father of five in a blended family with kids ages 7 through 16. Josh has walked through addiction, divorce, and the painful work of rebuilding trust. What I love about his story is how real it is. He doesn't sugarcoat the devastation kids feel when a marriage ends, or how long it takes to earn trust as a stepdad. He shares why patience, humility, and emotional honesty matter more than "my house, my rules." We talk about the messy realities of co-parenting, the small battles like different household rules that can unravel families, and how he and his ex protected their kids by refusing to put them in the middle. Josh also opens up about modeling healthy masculinity, teaching his boys that vulnerability is strength, and showing his daughters they never have to settle for less than they deserve. 👇 In this episode, we explore: How divorce impacts kids and what helps them feel safe Why blended families require patience and flexibility The long road to trust as a stepdad Healthy masculinity and what it looks like at home How dads can model emotional intelligence for both sons and daughters About Josh Cearbaugh Josh Cearbaugh is a life coach and advocate for men's personal development based in San Marcos, TX. He's the founder of Cearbaugh Consulting, helping men break internal barriers to reach their full potential. Josh also hosts the Multifaceted Masculinity Podcast, where he dives into topics like healthy masculinity, emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and personal growth. He's a husband and father of five (2 boys & 3 girls — ages 7, 10, 10, 13, and 16). His family life fuels his work in helping men show up more fully for themselves and their families.  🌐 Website: joshcearbaugh.com 🎙 Podcast: Multifaceted Masculinity 📸 Instagram: @joshcearbaugh Being dadicated isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up. It's about committing to the kind of dad—and man—you want to be, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. Joe Carr is a dad to Della, husband to Serenity, co-founder of Serenity Kids baby food, and the voice behind Dadicated Joe. Follow Joe Carr on social media  Instagram: @dadicatedjoe  TikTok: @dadicatedjoe  YouTube @dadicatedjoe