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