In episode #30, we visit with Michael, a fellow dad sharing his journey in fatherhood. Michael talks about being a new dad with a daughter and a son, along with his wife of almost 10 years. The conversation touches on the joys and challenges of parenting, highlighting the continuous learning experience that comes with raising kids. Tune in for some heartfelt insights and relatable experiences from two dads navigating the world of fatherhood.

Join us for this episode of "Bear Crawl with Dads" as we navigate the rewarding path of fatherhood, learning and growing along the way.

00:00:48 - Guest Introduction: Michael

Ross introduces his guest, Michael, who shares a bit about his background, family, and his transition from oil and gas to co-founding a software company.

00:02:47 - Michael's Work Explained

Michael explains the nature of his work in ERP software for wholesale distributors and how it helps businesses operate more efficiently.

00:04:19 - Michael's Role in His Company

Discussion about Michael's role as COO in his startup, overseeing operations, development, and customer support.

00:05:24 - Balancing Fatherhood and Entrepreneurship

Ross and Michael discuss the challenges of balancing new fatherhood with starting and running a new business.

00:06:56 - Michael's Childhood and Influence of His Father

Michael shares memories of his father, their relationship, and how it shaped his approach to life and fatherhood.

00:11:54 - Parenting Styles and Communication

Ross and Michael delve into the importance of communication in parenting and how Michael's father used dialogue as a form of teaching and discipline.

00:13:35 - Connecting Through Activities

Discussion on how physical activities like playing catch were a medium for bonding and communication between Michael and his father.

00:17:16 - Reflecting on Parental Influence

Michael reflects on how his parents encouraged his natural talents and how that influenced his approach to parenting.

00:22:09 - Transitioning to Discuss Michael as a Dad

Shift in conversation to focus on Michael's experiences and challenges as a dad.

00:25:24 - Challenges of Fatherhood

Michael discusses the challenges he faces in balancing work commitments with being a present and engaged father.

00:28:55 - Importance of Community and Communication in Parenting

Michael emphasizes the importance of community support and open communication with his wife to maintain alignment in parenting.

00:32:04 - Strategies for Being a Present Parent

Michael shares his strategies for ensuring he remains an active and present parent despite a busy professional life.

00:36:19 - Aligning Family and Career Goals

Discussion on how Michael aligns his career goals with his priorities as a husband and father, emphasizing the importance of his faith in guiding his decisions.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Follow Michael McCormack on LinkedIn

Follow 10X ERP on LinkedIn

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker

Raising a Strong Daughter in a Toxic Culture by Meg Meeker

Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas

Faithful Fathering Initiative by Rick Wertz

What Makes Love Last? By John Gottman/Nan Silver

Eight Dates by John Gottman, Julie Schwartz Gottman, Doug Abrams, Rachel Abrams

WHERE WE CAN CONNECT: 

Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Instagram

Follow Bear Crawl with Dads on Twitter

Connect with Bear Crawl with Dads on Facebook

Follow Ross Purdy on LinkedIn

Bear Crawl with Dad’s website

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