Developing Dads Podcast

Going through our personal goals for 2026

General chat about the Xmas celebrations, everything we've been up to and how we are looking forward to 2026

In Episode 122 of the Developing Dads podcast, hosts Gordon and Neil reflect on the highs and lows of 2025. They discuss personal milestones, family dynamics, and the challenges of balancing work and life. From memorable trips to Paris to navigating health scares and financial planning, this episode offers a candid look at the year that was. Tune in for insights, laughter, and a glimpse into the lives of two dads navigating the complexities of modern family life.

In this episode of the Developing Dad's Podcast, Neil and Gordon engage in a candid conversation about their recent experiences, family life, and the challenges of parenting. They discuss the costs associated with holiday activities, the pressures of modern living, and the joys of family gatherings. The conversation also delves into the complexities of home ownership, financial planning, and the importance of maintaining relationships amidst the chaos of family life. With humour and honesty, they reflect on the ups and downs of being a parent and the decisions that come with it.

We discuss how hard it can be as a dad to make friends and how to fix that.

The hosts, Neil and Gordon, engage in a candid discussion about the realities of fatherhood, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. They explore the challenges of balancing time between work and family, the emotional and physical demands of parenting, and the impact on personal relationships. The conversation touches on the lack of support for fathers, the importance of maintaining friendships, and the humorous yet trying moments of raising children. Throughout, they emphasize the need for intentional time management and the importance of self-care amidst the chaos of parenting.

**The Journey Back to Podcasting** After a year-long hiatus, Gordon and Neil reunite to kick off a new chapter in their podcasting journey. Gordon humorously highlights how much has changed since they last recorded, including his son's birth, marking a significant event in their lives. The two dads reflect on their initial momentum in podcasting and how life’s responsibilities can shift priorities. **Life's Increased Busyness** Neil shares the challenges of managing life with three children, noting how their bedtimes have shifted later as they engage in more activities. His twin boys and daughter are involved in various extracurriculars, leading to a packed schedule. Neil notes, "I feel like there's less free time now as the kids are getting older." This sentiment resonates with many parents who struggle to balance their time effectively. **The Importance of Quality Time** Despite the busyness, Neil emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with his family. He mentions a family rule to keep weekends free from classes or commitments, allowing for genuine family interactions. This approach highlights the need for intentional family time amidst a hectic lifestyle. **Identifying Productive Activities** Gordon raises a critical question about productivity in their busy lives, asking how they can ensure that their activities are genuinely fulfilling. Neil admits to the temptation of saying yes to everything but reflects on the importance of prioritizing happiness. He mentions how having dual incomes has allowed their family to explore new activities, underscoring the balance between financial freedom and time commitment. **Strategies for Maintaining Balance** Both hosts discuss their strategies for managing their commitments. Gordon stresses the importance of constraints, suggesting that committing to specific times for activities, like podcasting, can help maintain focus. Neil shares his experience of adjusting the podcast format to fit their busy lives, showing flexibility and adaptability. **Reflection on Personal Growth** As they wrap up their updates, Gordon reflects on his business successes and the importance of viewing progress over the long term rather than month-to-month fluctuations. He shares insights on productizing his business, paralleling the need to streamline their family activities to create more meaningful experiences. Conclusion: The conversation between Gordon and Neil serves as a reminder of the challenges modern dads face in balancing family, work, and personal fulfillment. By sharing their experiences, they highlight the importance of intentionality in parenting and the need to prioritize what brings joy and satisfaction in life. Key takeaways include the value of quality family time, the significance of reflection on personal happiness, and the importance of adapting to life's changes while maintaining commitments.

In this Christmas special episode of the Developing Dads podcast, Neil and Gordon reconnect after a hiatus, discussing their personal lives, family updates, and the challenges of communication. They reflect on the past year, including the joys of parenting, the addition of a puppy, and the experience of running a half marathon. The conversation also touches on health and fitness goals, the impact of injuries, and the absurdity of extreme running challenges. In this engaging conversation, Neil and Gordon explore various themes surrounding personal growth, relationships, and social dynamics. They discuss the rise of viral walking challenges on social media, the importance of meaningful relationships, and the value of quality time with family. The conversation also touches on the significance of friendships and community connections, the balance between responsibilities and personal pursuits, and the successes in their respective businesses. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of positivity and finding joy in life's experiences.

Hobbies provide a sense of fulfillment and joy outside of family life.Having hobbies allows individuals to bring new experiences and stories to share with their family.Starting a new hobby can be challenging, but the satisfaction of improvement and mastery is rewarding.Many middle-aged men may have lost their hobbies or stopped pursuing new ones, possibly due to a fear of starting again or a lack of time and energy. Embrace the process of learning and enjoy being a beginner in new hobbies.Don't be afraid to start something new and be willing to look stupid or make mistakes.Hobbies can provide a sense of achievement and happiness, but it's important to consider the motivation behind them.Parents play a crucial role in providing entertainment and engagement for their children.Hobbies can foster personal growth and connection with others.00:00Introduction and Catching Up03:23Nesting and Redecorating05:43Neil's Trip to Copenhagen09:25Trail Biking as a New Hobby13:37Challenges of Hobbies with Young Kids18:01The Suck of Starting a New Hobby19:47The Occasion and Social Aspects of Hobbies21:33Hobbies as Something of Your Own29:19Trying Out New Hobbies33:59Competition and Achievement in Hobbies39:24The Role of Parents in Providing Entertainment41:14Hobbies as a Path to Personal Growth and Connection

00:00Introduction and Catching Up03:10Dealing with Injuries05:06Back-to-School Shopping07:23Preparing Older Siblings for a New Baby10:39The Disappointment of Bad Haircuts13:35The Joy of Watching Children Grow20:08Involving Older Siblings in Parenting22:39Managing the Needs of Multiple Children26:28The Impact of Work-Life Balance33:44Regret and the Value of Family Time

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up03:22 Commitment to Fitness and Well-being06:17 Family Holidays and Charity Walks09:02 The Importance of Quality Time18:24 Challenges and Accomplishments in Physical Activities23:04 Consistency and Commitment in Personal and Professional Life29:06 Chasing Running Goals31:29 Fitness Routines and Parenthood34:47 Birthday Party Planning38:06 Overcoming the Fear of Failure41:42 AI-Generated Bots 

Slow productivity involves creating space and focus in our work to achieve better outcomes.Our perception of productivity has shifted from physical output to digital communication.Tools and strategies like blocking out time, reducing meetings, and prioritizing tasks can help improve productivity.Self-awareness is crucial in managing our time and avoiding unnecessary work.Technology can both help and hinder our productivity, and it's important to find a balance. Self-awareness is important in considering the impact of our actions on others.The rise of AI raises questions about the future and the potential loss of self-awareness and basic skills.Obsessing over quality and taking a slower approach can lead to better results.There is a shift towards curated and artisanal products, moving away from fast fashion and mass production.Certain activities like going to clubs and music festivals are declining in popularity.There is a need for a more thoughtful and intentional approach to content creation.Staying active and participating in races or physical challenges can be a motivating factor.Patience and a long-term perspective are important in achieving success and creating meaningful work.

Taking time for date nights and special outings with loved ones is important for maintaining relationships.Setting fitness goals and consistently working towards them can lead to improved health and well-being.It's normal to have doubts and question goals, but it's important to push through and stay committed.Focusing on personal growth and self-care can have a positive impact on overall happiness and fulfillment. Incorporating stretching into your routine, even while watching TV, can improve flexibility and overall well-being.When it comes to finances, it's important to prioritize and make choices based on what is most important to you and your family.Setting goals and regularly reviewing your progress can help you stay on track and make necessary adjustments.Building a team and delegating tasks can help reduce stress and increase productivity in business.Balancing work and personal life is essential for overall happiness and well-being.Reconnecting and Highest Download Day02:15Reviewing Personal Highlights09:32Reviewing Goals for the Year21:24Improving Flexibility and Reducing Injury Risk23:38Prioritizing Family Holidays Over Big Celebrations29:25Building a Team and Delegating Tasks in Business39:58Balancing Work and Personal Life for Happiness and Well-being

00:00Introduction and Catching Up01:06Surprise Announcement02:49Business Challenges and New Client04:03Motivation to Grow the Business05:36Recent Trip to Lisbon06:09Upcoming Haircut06:59Neil's Recent Weeks07:06Lewis and Isla's School Progress07:39Neil's London Quarterly and Steve Bartlett Live12:57Takeaways from Steve Bartlett's Talk20:05Discussion on Skill Stacking25:02AI Podcasts and Analog Engagement27:34Slowing down and creating connection28:30The importance of human experience29:07The impact of AI-generated content30:33The potential of AI to improve efficiency31:05The future of human connection31:16The challenges of implementing AI in a traditional business32:12Practical uses of AI in daily life34:10The excitement of expecting a second child36:31Preparing for the arrival of the second child40:11The gender reveal and future plans44:20The possibility of a family trip46:10Government support for maternity leave47:03Closing remarks and future plans for the podcast

In this episode, Gordon and Neil catch up on their recent activities. Neil shares his experience celebrating his 10th anniversary and attending a Danish wedding, discussing the unique traditions involved. Gordon talks about his ongoing illness and reflects on the work-life balance and the choices parents face. They both discuss the challenges of parenting as their children grow older and gain independence, including concerns about academic readiness and preparing for secondary school. They also reflect on the evolving roles of parents as their children become more self-sufficient. The conversation explores the shifting roles and independence that come with parenthood, as well as the future of work and the motivation to return to work. It delves into the challenges of maintaining skills and career progression, and the fear and confidence issues that can arise. The impact of AI and technology on various industries is discussed, along with the need for businesses to adapt and innovate. The conversation also touches on the pillars of business success and the importance of tech literacy in the modern world.

In this episode, Neil and Gordon catch up after a long break from podcasting. They discuss recent activities, including dealing with business challenges and investing in quality jeans. They also share highlights such as a date night and a comedy show. The conversation turns to reflections on 10 years of marriage and the challenges and growth they have experienced. They discuss future plans, including travel and navigating the teenage years. They end by setting goals for the next 10 years of their relationship. The conversation explores the significance of weddings and vow renewals, the financial considerations that come with them, and the rarity of gathering loved ones. It also delves into taking responsibility for loneliness, Neil's new job and imposter syndrome, putting oneself out there, the logistics and cost of weddings, and concludes with closing remarks.

In this episode, Gordon and Neil catch up on their recent activities and discuss the challenges and decisions involved in youth sports. They explore the concept of success and how it is often defined by societal metrics. The conversation delves into the commitment and time investment required for team sports and the potential benefits for children. They also discuss the importance of variety and allowing children to explore different activities before focusing on one or a few. Overall, the episode highlights the considerations and trade-offs involved in parenting and supporting children's interests. The conversation explores the themes of socialising and making friends, bribing children into activities, pushing children to overcome fears, the role of pushing in personal growth, and navigating parenthood and self-doubt.

In this episode, Neil and Gordon discuss their personal updates and delve into the topic of work-life balance. They explore the challenges of prioritising career and family and the importance of setting boundaries. They also discuss the addictive nature of success and the need to find stillness and balance in life. The conversation concludes with plans to attend a football match together. In this conversation, Gordon and Neil discuss various topics including planning a football game, Neil's first football game, birthday discussion, work-life balance, and career changes. Takeaways: - Balancing work and family life requires setting clear boundaries and effective communication. - Success often comes with consequences and it's important to consider the trade-offs. - Finding stillness and balance in life is crucial for overall happiness and well-being. - Prioritising family and career is a personal decision that requires open and honest conversations with loved ones. Planning events with friends can be exciting and enjoyable. - Trying new experiences, like attending a football game, can be a fun way to expand your horizons. - Discussing and planning birthdays with friends can lead to thoughtful and meaningful celebrations. - Finding a balance between work and personal life is important for overall well-being. - Considering and making career changes can bring new opportunities and personal growth.

In this episode of the Developing Dads podcast, Gordon and Neil catch up on their recent experiences and discuss the importance of role modelling as fathers. They share stories about their weekends, including Neil's half marathon and his children's achievements in football. Gordon talks about his business restructuring and the benefits of participating in a mastermind group. They also discuss the mental challenges of running and the importance of setting goals. The conversation touches on the impact of role modelling on children's behaviour, including exercise habits and financial literacy. Overall, the episode emphasises the importance of small actions and open communication in shaping children's values and behaviours. The conversation covers various aspects of parenting, including money and financial conversations, open communication and conflict resolution, teaching manners and politeness, being a role model for children, the impact of parental behaviour on children, and scheduling challenges and commitment. Takeaways - Money is often a central topic in conversations between parents, as they discuss saving, budgeting, and making financial decisions for the family. - Open communication and conflict resolution are important in parenting, as they teach children how to express their feelings and resolve conflicts healthily. - Teaching manners and politeness to children is essential, as it helps them develop social skills and respect for others. - Parents serve as role models for their children, and their behaviour and actions greatly influence how children behave and interact with others. - Scheduling challenges and commitment can make it difficult for parents to find time for important conversations and activities, but it's important to prioritize and make time for family.

Managing household responsibilities and dividing tasks can help create a balanced and efficient home life.Setting goals and celebrating achievements in personal fitness journeys can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.Planning and meal prepping can make daily life easier and more organized.Having the freedom to travel and attend important events is a benefit of self-employment.Open communication and flexibility are key in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Finding fulfillment in work is important, but financial stability and the ability to meet basic needs are also crucial.Reducing expenses and saving money can provide a safety net during challenging times.Personal development and continuous learning are key to success in various areas of life.Setting goals and taking action are essential for personal growth and achievement.Training for an ultra marathon requires dedication, mental and physical preparation, and a willingness to push oneself beyond comfort zones.