Fatherhood Field Notes

When Thomas Pfanner's eighth-grade son walked out of his life for six months, he realized something had to change - and it wasn't his son. In this powerful conversation, Thomas breaks down his FORGE framework (Faith, Ownership, Respect, Groundbreaking Adventure, and Expectation) from his new book "Dads Who Lead," revealing why teen rebellion happens and how fathers can shift from being the "police officer dad" to becoming a trusted guide. We dive deep into the critical mistake most dads make (focusing on changing the kid instead of changing themselves), the concept of your "dad brand," why listening is more powerful than lecturing, and how to create groundbreaking adventures that build unshakeable bonds. Thomas shares practical strategies for handling the daily friction of homework, screens, and expectations, while maintaining the bigger vision for who our kids are becoming. Whether your kids are still young or you're in the thick of teenage rebellion, this episode offers a roadmap for showing up as the father your family needs - starting with mastering yourself first.Guest Links:Dads who Lead By Tom PfannerWebsite---------This episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Ned opens up about the chaos of everyday fatherhood—from dead rats in the trash to staying up late with his twelve-year-old daughter on her last night of being twelve. He challenges the pressure dads feel to do everything perfectly, reminding listeners that presence trumps perfection every single time. Ned shares how he's learned to say yes to the moments that matter most, even when it means the yard looks rough and the garage is a mess. This is a rallying cry for dads to stop keeping score, to invest deeply in the season they're in, and to lead their families with love—not guilt. If you've ever felt like you're not doing enough, this episode will remind you that you have what it takes.Links and Resources:Primal Path by John Tyson - https://www.primalpath.comCraft of Fatherhood Website - www.craftoffatherhood.com

Zack Ponder shares his raw journey from struggling entrepreneur with a DUI to becoming a present father who homeschools four kids while his wife battles cancer. A former special education teacher who worked with profound autism students, Zack discovered God through the daily challenges of non-speaking, violent students and translated those insights into his books "Special Days" and the upcoming "Happy Days" devotional. Now splitting time between his construction business in North Idaho and Southern California where his wife receives treatment, Zack opens up about the transformation from doing the right things to actually being present, learning to ask "what" instead of "why" when facing hardship, and discovering that his podcast interviewing special needs parents became unexpected training for finally seeing and hearing his own wife. He discusses the critical shift that happened six months ago when he truly embraced fatherhood in the hospital, realizing that if he didn't keep it together and lead, his family would fall apart. Zack vulnerably shares about living with in-laws for ten months, the reality of needing God moment-by-moment through daily challenges, and why he believes comfort is the enemy of growth for fathers.Guest LinksThe Unspecial Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unspecial-podcast/id1829866470Instagram: @unspecialllc or @zackponderWebsite: unspecialllc.comZack's book: Special Dayz: Finding God in Special Education---------This episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: a...

In this episode, Ned challenges the destructive cultural narrative that young men need to "get it out of their system" in their twenties, sharing insights from a recent father-son gathering and introducing Adam Lane Smith's transformative framework for masculine leadership based on four areas of safety that men must provide: resource safety, protection, emotional safety, and bonding safety. This episode is essential listening for any father who wants to shape his sons into men of character and teach his daughters what to look for in a partner.(00:00:00) - Father-Son Night(00:02:00) - Challenging "Get It Out of Your System" Mentality(00:03:00) - Working It INTO Your System vs. OUT of Your System(00:05:00) - The Abundance Mindset vs. Hoarding(00:07:00) - Four Areas of Safety Men Must Provide(00:08:00) - Resource Safety and Protection(00:08:00) - Emotional Safety and Bonding Safety(00:09:00) - Teaching These Principles to Family(00:10:00) - Earning the Right to Speak Into Your Children's Lives----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

Ned sits down with Brad Plett, a father of four and full-time missionary with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) in Kona, Hawaii. Brad opens up about his journey through a dark season of anxiety, shame, and guilt in his early years of fatherhood, and how discovering his identity as a son of God transformed not only his life but his entire family's trajectory.Learn more about YWAM here: https://ywamkona.org/courses/family-dts/- 00:00:00 - Welcome to Brad Plett- 00:03:00 - 25 Years of Marriage: Keys to Longevity- 00:10:00 - Identity Before Function- 00:14:00 - Walking Through a Dark Season- 00:25:00 - The Power of Humility and Community- 00:27:00 - Marriage: Fighting Through to Deep Connection- 00:30:00 - Women Carrying the Torch: A Call for Men to Pray- 00:33:00 - Life with Four Kids: Ages 4 to 17- 00:38:00 - The Role of the Father: Imparting Identity- 00:41:00 - Why Compliant Kids Won't Change the World- 00:50:00 - Legacy: Raising Kids Who Know Their Identity

In this powerful solo episode of The Craft of Fatherhood Podcast, host Ned Schaut closes out his four-part marriage retreat series with a heartfelt message that blends raw honesty, practical wisdom, and encouragement for fathers. Sharing lessons from Greg and Julie of Married for a Purpose, Ned unpacks why we must stop defining relationships by differences, how to discipline our minds to focus on promises instead of problems, and the life-changing power of saying, “I didn’t handle that right.” Fathers will walk away with simple but profound tools to strengthen their marriages, model humility for their children, and lead their families with love, integrity, and purpose.00:00:00 - Welcome00:01:43 - The Foundation: Love Yourself, Love Your Spouse, Teach Your Kids00:03:00 - We Become What We Think About00:03:39 - Stop Thinking About Problems, Start Thinking About Promises00:05:25 - Shift #1: Stop Defining by Our Differences00:07:00 - Shift #3: Stop Building a Case Against Your Spouse00:07:30 - Shift #4: Discipline Your Mind (Book Recommendations)00:08:57 - The Sentence That Changes Everything: "I Didn't Handle That Right"00:09:24 - How to Apologize to Your Wife and Kids00:10:57 - Be the Man You Wish Others Would Be00:11:40 - Closing: You Matter, Fatherhood Matters

In this powerful episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, we sit down with Ryan Miller—a man whose joyful demeanor belies a journey through significant trials and transformation. Ryan opens up about his 24-year marriage, raising two daughters, and how embracing suffering has shaped him into the father and husband he is today. He shares vulnerable stories about his own mistakes, including a near-infidelity experience, surviving the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting, and how these moments became catalysts for growth rather than destruction. Ryan discusses the importance of physical and spiritual health, intentional presence with our children, and how fathers can balance ambition with family priorities. He offers practical wisdom on passing faith to our children and extending fatherly influence beyond biological connections. This conversation will challenge you, inspire you, and equip you to embrace both strength and vulnerability in your fatherhood journey.Chapters:00:00:00 - Introduction and first impressions00:01:06 - Finding joy through suffering and Ryan's transformative experiences00:05:30 - Discussing suffering with children and embracing life's challenges00:09:09 - Ryan's background and focus on health00:11:19 - Life in California and creating family memories00:13:00 - Building relationships with daughters and potential sons-in-law00:22:38 - Ryan's central message to men about purpose and responsibility00:25:01 - Men of Greatness Brotherhood community and resources00:26:43 - Understanding discipline as alignment rather than control00:29:18 - Discussing God's purpose versus individual choices00:35:52 - Balancing career aspirations with family priorities00:40:17 - Rebelling against the idea that vulnerability is weakness00:45:45 - The father's role as provider and protector00:48:10 - Passing faith to children through modeling and conversation00:56:53 - Envisioning the future as a grandfatherLinks and ResourcesRyan's Community: Skool.com/men-of-greatnessRyan on YouTube: YouTube.com/RyanJamesMillerRyan's Website: RyanJamesMiller.comWounds: How Hurt, Heartache, and Tragedy Become the Keys to Unlocking Greatness:

In this episode, Ned shares powerful insights from a recent marriage retreat that every dad needs to hear. He explores the importance of creating rhythms of rest in a 24/7 culture, the life-changing power of speaking blessings over your kids, and the vital role of truly listening to your wife and children. With raw honesty and practical takeaways, Ned challenges fathers to stop striving, start resting, and build a family culture of peace, presence, and love.Chapters:- 00:00 - Introduction to the Marriage Retreat series- 03:24 - The importance of rest in a 24/7 culture- 08:12 - Shabbat and Sabbath: Creating family rhythms- 12:45 - Speaking blessings over your children- 17:30 - The power of truly listening to your wife and kids- 22:18 - Keeping the boys away: Protecting your daughters- 27:53 - Building a family culture of peace and presence- 34:09 - Practical takeaways for dads- 38:42 - Closing thoughts and next steps

Larry Hagner, author of "The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood," founder of the Dad Edge Podcast, and a passionate advocate for helping men discover their identity and opportunity in fatherhood. With over 1,400 podcast episodes and a decade of coaching fathers, Larry shares profound insights on breaking free from "the drift" - the state where many fathers find themselves going through the motions without true fulfillment.Chapters:00:00:00 - Introduction to Larry Hagner00:01:58 - Larry's background and experience as a fatherhood coach00:04:00 - The wisdom of turning 50 and advice for fathers in their 40s00:05:00 - The importance of learning fatherhood skills like any other discipline00:08:00 - Making intentional time investments in marriage relationships00:12:35 - The connection between being a good husband and a good father00:15:00 - The three needs of wives and kids: feeling seen, heard, and safe00:19:00 - The state of modern marriages and the three camps of couples who stay together00:24:00 - Setting a marriage example for our children to follow00:27:00 - Overview of "The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood"00:29:00 - Understanding "the drift" and why men settle for less00:34:00 - Raising sons and daughters with complementary values00:41:00 - Final wisdom: You already have what it takes to be an amazing fatherLinks and Resources:Larry's new book: The Pursuit of Legendary FatherhoodDad Edge Podcast: https://thedadedge.com/podcast/Larry's website: https://thedadedge.com/ (includes free resources with book purchase)Dad Edge Alliance (for career dads): https://thedadedge.com/alliance/Dad Edge Business Owner Brotherhood: https://thedadedge.com/bob/

In this heartfelt solo episode, host Ned Schaut continues his four-part series on lessons from a recent marriage retreat. Speaking directly to fellow fathers, Ned shares raw stories and practical takeaways on how to stop defending yourself, start asking for forgiveness, and bring your best energy home to your family. From learning the three questions that heal conflict, to navigating moments of being misunderstood with his teenage son, Ned unpacks what it means to lead through serving. With a mix of vulnerability, humor (including an unforgettable skinny-dipping story), and fatherly wisdom, this episode equips dads to fight for connection, love, and unity in their marriages and families.Three questions for healing conflict:"By the tone of your voice, sounds like I hurt you. Is that true?""Please tell me how I made you feel.""I'm so sorry. Will you forgive me?"Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome and Introduction00:01:00 - The Power of Fighting for Connection in a 20-Year Marriage00:02:00 - How People Leave Your Presence: Being Interested, Interesting, and a Blessing00:04:00 - Decreasing Conflict: Three Questions That Heal Hurt Feelings00:06:00 - The Power of Asking for Forgiveness Without Defending Yourself00:08:00 - Feeling Misunderstood: A Father-Son Conversation00:10:00 - The Different Hats of Fatherhood: Parent, Friend, and Mentor00:11:00 - Creating Unforgettable Memories: The Skinny Dipping Story00:12:00 - A Man's Identity: Created to Fight for Love and Connection00:13:00 - Final Encouragement: Your Kids Need to See You Fight for Their MomLinks and Resources:Craig Hill's booksJohn Tyson's "Primal Path" program

In this powerful conversation, Ned chats with Tim Campbell, an 82-year-old father with decades of hard-earned wisdom to share. As a husband of 50 years, Peace Corps veteran, and author of "Holding Up the Sky," Tim opens up about the challenges and triumphs of raising three children—including two with serious health challenges. This isn't just theory; it's battlefield-tested fatherhood advice from a man who's lived it. Tim introduces concepts like the "phantom captain" and reframes discipline as building trust rather than punishment. His stories will resonate with dads in the trenches of parenting, offering practical insights on embracing selflessness, developing resilience, and committing to the long game of fatherhood. Both vulnerable and encouraging, this episode reminds fathers that your daily investments—even when unseen or unappreciated—are creating a legacy that will shape generations long after you're gone.Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction - The Journey of Fatherhood00:01:47 Tim at 82: Wisdom That Transcends Age00:03:03 Passing Down Fatherhood Lessons Between Generations00:04:45 Marriage as the Foundation: 50 Years of Partnership00:06:15 Supporting Your Spouse Through Family Crises00:08:19 How Challenges Can Strengthen Your Marriage00:12:41 Raising Children with Different Needs and Challenges00:27:05 Developing the Heart of a Father: Leading with Love00:39:36 How Our Fathers Shape Our Parenting Approach00:44:55 Building Your Legacy as a DadLinks and Resources:Holding Up the Sky (Book)Tim Campbell’s Personal SiteTim Campbell on LinkedInFamily Culture Guide Rebel and Create: A Compass to Mastering the Craft of Fatherhood

In Craft of Fatherhood, Marriage Retreat Part 1 of 4 + Complimenting My Son, Ned Schaut shares the first installment of a four-part series inspired by a recent marriage retreat. He asks dads to wrestle with a critical question: If the enemy could pick you off, where would it be? With a focus on guardrails, accountability, and the hidden blind spots in family life, Ned opens up about a powerful moment with his teenage son. By choosing affirmation—“You’re a hard worker”—over correction, Ned witnessed his son respond with an unprompted “I love you, Dad.” This episode lays the foundation for a series on building stronger marriages, affirming our kids, and leading with integrity in fatherhood.Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome to The Craft of Fatherhood Podcast 00:00:24 - New four-part marriage series announced 00:01:36 - First lesson: Identify your weak spots 00:03:10 - The need for male accountability partners 00:03:55 - Setting up "guardrails" for protection 00:04:46 - Story: Praising a son's hard work 00:05:40 - The impact of a father's positive words 00:06:49 - A marriage affirmation for fathers Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

In this heartfelt episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, host Ned Schaut sits down with Jake Stemo, Founder of Presence Worship, to explore what it truly means to embrace fatherhood. From raising four kids—including a 15-year-old entrepreneur launching her own thrift shop—to navigating loss, adoption challenges, and faith-driven parenting, Jake shares how presence, hard work, and an “all in” mindset shape his role as a dad. Together, Ned and Jake tackle cultural expectations and the pressures of the modern American dream, challenging fathers to rediscover what success truly means for their families. They discuss multi-generational living, marriage that requires dying to self, and the beauty of raising resilient kids who say yes to risk and creativity. This episode is about rejecting passivity, leading with integrity, and resurrecting a vision of the American dream that is rooted in faith, family, and legacy.Jake & Micah Stemo are the founders of Presence Worship, a ministry with a vision to equip worship leaders both spiritually and musically for the Kingdom of God. Over the past 10 years, they have equipped and discipled hundreds of worship leaders through Presence Worship’s Residency Program. Their ministry is based in Newton, Kansas, where they host a year-long equipping school that sends singers, musicians, and worship leaders to the nations. Jake regularly leads worship in rural churches as well as on ministry trips around the world. He carries a deep passion for the Presence of God and for raising up a generation of leaders rooted in intimacy with Him. Jake and Micah met at age 16, married at 19, and have now been married for 17 years. Together, they are raising four amazing children while continuing to pursue God’s call to equip and release worship leaders globally.Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome to Fatherhood Field Notes00:01:23 - Jake's "Dad Moment": Launching his daughter's shop00:03:44 - The story behind their large age gap00:05:55 - Jake's Vocation: Running a worship nonprofit00:08:26 - Fostering his daughter's entrepreneurial dream00:11:35 - Defining the role of a father00:12:48 - When Jake embraced fatherhood00:15:28 - A father's perspective on young marriage00:17:44 - The "adventurously expected" mindset from Romans 8:1500:21:49 - Guiding a daughter's ambitions and dreams00:24:05 - The tension between God's plan and taking action00:29:19 - Navigating conversations about dating and early marriage00:32:04 - Redefining "hard" in marriage as dying to self00:35:37 - Lessons learned from his own father00:39:57 - Rebelling against the "American dream" status quo00:44:02 - Creating a new example for families on mission00:47:08 - Passing down faith through legacy songs00:52:40 - A final blessing for fathers and their unseen sacrificesGuest Link:Jake Stemo LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/jake-stemo-b8944a28Jake Stemo X (Twitter) – x.com/jakestemoNewSpring Church – newspring.org Presence Worship (Jake and wife’s nonprofit equipping young worship leaders) –

In this solo episode, host Ned Schaut takes listeners inside a real-life story of frustration with his son and how it reshaped his approach to discipline. Drawing on wisdom from seasoned fathers and his own reflections, Ned unpacks the difference between reacting in anger and responding with intention. He challenges dads to ask not, “What punishment does my kid deserve?” but rather, “What does my child need?” From counting actual actions instead of repeated asks, to owning your discipline choices without hiding behind God or your spouse, this episode provides raw, relatable insights every father can apply. Stick around until the end for a powerful affirmation to anchor your identity as the CEO of your family.Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome to the Craft of Fatherhood Podcast.00:00:21 - A new discipline approach from a 72-year-old guest.00:01:14 - Pause, don't react, and ask, "What does this kid need?".00:03:00 - A warning to own your decisions and not blame God or your spouse.00:04:11 - A personal story about reacting poorly to a son's comment on fairness.00:05:12 - A child's perception of working "all the time" vs. the reality.00:06:44 - Kids count the number of "asks," not the completed actions.00:07:45 - "I am the CEO... of this familyLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

In this candid episode, host Ned Schaut sits down with author and speaker Eric Rogell to confront the trap many fathers fall into—trying to be the “nice guy” who’s always liked instead of the man who leads with courage and conviction. Eric shares why advice often misses the mark, and why children need fathers who live out wisdom through the Sacred Seven Core Values: courage, honesty, integrity, commitment, duty, honor, and love. From fatherhood and step-parenting to manhood at “Level 60,” Eric unpacks how dropping the need for approval allows dads to guide their kids with strength, presence, and authenticity. This conversation challenges men to stop chasing validation, embrace their role as mentors, and build a legacy rooted in love and honor.Chapters:00:00:00 – Welcome to Fatherhood Field Notes Podcast00:01:19 – Meet Eric00:03:25 – Late 50s accomplishments: writing a book, producing a documentary00:04:24 – Turning point through meditation and taking command of life00:06:16 – No plans to retire from purposeful work00:07:28 – Untapped wisdom in older, retired men00:08:29 – Difference between advice (head) and wisdom (heart)00:09:47 – Using “wisdom, not advice” by sharing stories and mistakes00:14:25 – Value of letting kids make mistakes: “prepare the child for the road”00:16:35 – Creating healthy challenges, like running an excavator00:18:44 – The Sacred Seven Core Values: Courage, Honesty, Integrity, Commitment, Duty, Honor, Love00:22:26 – The “King and Kingdom” principle: care for yourself to care for family00:25:42 – Navy SEAL lesson on why most commitments fail after five days00:28:10 – Advice for men in the stepfather role00:28:34 –Don’t try to be liked; earn respect00:31:25 – Three Lights of Leadership: Friend, Guide, Guardian00:38:14 – What will your kids think of you at 60?00:38:58 – Complex relationship with father: once seen as villain, later as hero00:42:16 – Discovering father’s generosity through stories after his passing00:43:37 – Importance of a father’s attention, not just time00:46:28 – It’s okay to be the “villain” when acting as guardianGuest Link:Lions Raised as Lambs WebsiteEric’s WebsiteEric on InstagramLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a...

In this Craft of Fatherhood episode, host Ned Schaut challenges fathers to reflect deeply on a pivotal question: What are you modeling for your kids? Drawing from candid stories and personal struggles, Ned explores how the way we speak about others, show up in marriage, approach work, and set the tone at home creates a lasting picture for our children. He invites listeners to evaluate whether their actions align with the values they hope to pass on and ends with a powerful affirmation about identity and intentional fatherhood. This episode is a call to lead by example—because what we model matters more than what we say.Chapters:00:00:00 - Introduction: Welcome to the Craft of Fatherhood Podcast 00:00:20 - Central Question: What are you modeling for your kids? 00:00:47 - Personal Reflection: Modeling marriage for growing daughters 00:01:21 - Anecdote: How a parental divorce influenced a daughter's view on marriage 00:02:22 - Self-Reflection Point 1: The words you model in your home 00:02:50 - Self-Reflection Point 2: The example you set in your marriage 00:03:12 - Self-Reflection Point 3: How you model work and approachability 00:03:51 - Self-Reflection Point 4: The values you model in your home environment 00:04:11 - A challenge: How would your kids describe what you value? 00:04:50 - Affirmation Prompt: Who do you say that you are? 00:05:10 - A Father's Affirmation: I am here to listen, provide, protect, and care Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

In this heartfelt conversation, host Ned Schaut sits down with Gary Stache— a husband, father of five, grandfather of seven, and Vice Chairman with CBRE Capital Markets, Investment Properties — to explore what it really means to love unconditionally as a dad. Gary shares raw stories of raising a blended family, guiding kids through rebellion, and embracing both tough love and tender moments. With wisdom from 40 years in business and 30 years of parenting, Gary reveals why he never plans to retire, how faith shaped his role as a father, and why being present matters more than perfection. Most importantly, he reflects on raising his children with values and ensuring those values are passed down as the true legacy. His insights on marriage, mentorship, and modeling love will encourage every dad to embrace the messy adventure of fatherhood.Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome to the Fatherhood Field Notes Podcast00:01:34 - Meet Gary00:02:10 - Family background and children00:02:46 - Career at CBRE and choosing not to retire00:04:47 - The father’s role: loving unconditionally00:04:58 - Story: a cherished memory with his young daughter in a special dress00:05:53 - Becoming a stepfather and raising a blended family00:07:10 - Story: disciplining a stepson by removing his bedroom door00:09:35 - Tip for fathers: praying before disciplining children00:11:16 - Leading with love: beginning every hard talk with “I love you”00:11:53 - Overcoming the past: growing up without hearing “I love you”00:12:22 - Story: a teenage son showing affection00:14:17 - A blended family’s honor: stepdaughter naming her child after him00:15:06 - Building unity: inviting his wife’s ex-husband to family gatherings00:19:32 - Balancing discipline with fun and engagement00:20:05 - A united decision: asking the kids for permission to propose00:20:40 - Lessons from his father: valuing the outdoors and family first00:22:17 - A moment of healing: asking his father to say “I love you”00:23:40 - Advice for single men: letting God define your future wife00:27:21 - Loving adult children: allowing them to learn their own lessons00:29:21 - Rebelling against distraction: turning off the phone and avoiding social media00:32:43 - Continuing family valuesGuest Link:Gary Stache on LinkedInGary Stache – CBRE ProfileLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes...

In this episode of Fatherhood Field Notes: The Craft of Fatherhood, host Ned Schaut gets real about the tension between being a “fun dad” and a responsible parent. Reflecting on moments with his teens and college-aged kids, Ned shares how easy it is to say yes to dirt bikes, hangouts, and late-night drives—but how crucial it is to also enforce accountability, chores, and responsibility. Through candid stories about family dinners, devotions, and even shutting down screen time, he explores how fatherhood shifts with each season—from raising young kids to guiding adult children—and why dads must lead their homes with love, calm firmness, and consistency. At the heart of the conversation is learning when to hold the line and when to step back—when to enforce discipline and when to show mercy. Ned opens up about moments where he intentionally stayed quiet, choosing relationship over reaction, and how that practice can change the way kids respond. With practical tips, raw honesty, and affirmations like “I am the CEO of this house” and “I will not surrender my responsibility to lead this home,” this short but powerful episode challenges fathers to ask: Do I need to say yes more, no more—or show mercy more often? Chapters: 00:00:00 – Welcome to Fatherhood Field Notes00:01:32 – “Good Dad, Shitty Parent”00:03:52 – Balancing fun dad vs. structured parent00:06:27 – Tip 1: Present a united front; don’t say “because mom wants it”00:07:14 – Tip 2: Know when to stay silent00:08:00 – Tip 3: Enforce consequences (screen time off for missed devotions)00:08:51 – Tip 4: Balance saying yes and no00:09:54 – Parenting beyond 18—shift into advisor role00:12:15 – Affirmation 1: “I am the CEO of this house”00:13:49 – Affirmation 2: “I will not surrender my responsibility to lead”Links and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate

In this heartfelt episode of Fatherhood Field Notes, host Ned Schaut sits down with Daniel Lehmann — pastor, father of four, and leader at Living Stones Church — to unpack what it really means to raise kids with stability, authenticity, and truth. From defining the role of the father as one who “trains kids in the way of the Lord” to navigating teenage years with firmness and love, Daniel shares candid stories from 25 years of marriage and parenting. Together, Ned and Daniel discuss when to extend mercy, when to stand firm, and why your home should never be a place of performance. Daniel also opens up about a traumatic brain injury and how embracing weakness has reshaped his view of fatherhood, faith, and family. This episode will leave you encouraged, challenged, and equipped with real tools for leading your home with love, integrity, and courage.Chapters:00:00:00 - Welcome to the Fatherhood Field Notes Podcast00:01:34 - Meet Daniel Lehmann00:02:40 - Daniel's Family Snapshot00:03:33 - Parenting Grown Children00:05:46 - Defining the Father's Role00:06:50 - How to Pass on Faith00:10:01 - Authenticity Over Performance00:11:45 - Three Pillars of Training Kids in the Lord00:18:20 - The Cell Phone Struggle00:20:30 - Learning from His Own Father00:22:25 - Connecting with Each Child Uniquely00:24:48 - Pivoting from Career to Family00:28:10 - Grace, Mercy, and Fatherhood00:29:45 - A Story of Misplaced Mercy00:34:00 - The Principle of Mercy vs. Enabling00:38:35 - A Life-Changing Health Scare00:40:55 - Embracing the Power of Weakness00:43:50 - Motivation Through Adversity00:46:40 - The Secret to 25 Years of Marriage00:48:40 - A Blessing for FathersGuest Link:Daniel Lehmann on InstagramLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: 

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, entrepreneur and father Mike McCarthy returns to Fatherhood Field Notes to explore the deeper mission of raising strong, capable young adults. Drawing from his lived experience as a second-generation entrepreneur and co-founder of GoBundance, Mike shares why passing down more than just financial wealth matters. He dives into the importance of instilling core values, cultivating strong moral character, and transferring all forms of capital—intellectual, relational, spiritual, and cultural—across generations. You’ll hear why he believes in giving kids “flint and kindling, not the fire,” and how intentional family rhythms, estate planning, and meaningful connection prepare children to earn their legacy rather than inherit it by default. With raw insight into parenting teens, nurturing family culture, and building trust through connection over correction, this episode is a must-listen for any father committed to long-term impact and generational success.Guest Link:WebsiteLinkedInGoBundanceLinks and Resources:Transform Your Body with Ned & RUK Fitness: RUK FitnessThis episode is sponsored by The Adventure of FatherhoodOrder The Adventure of Fatherhood children's book hereCheck out the TEDx----------Want to learn more about The Adventure of Fatherhood?https://www.adventureoffatherhood.com/https://www.rebelandcreate.com/Each week Ned sits down with a dad and asks him to open up his field notes and share with other men who find themselves on the Adventure of Fatherhood. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!Follow us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherhoodfieldnotesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FatherhoodfieldnotesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebelandcreate