A Dad's Path

In this episode of A Dad's Path Podcast, host Will Braunstein sits down with Jon Rigsby, the author of 'Drive: Scraping By in Uber's America One Ride at a Time.' Jon's memoir is a unique narrative of life post-divorce, his dual role as a crime intelligence analyst by day and an Uber driver by night, and his experiences raising an autistic son. Jon shares his struggles and triumphs as he navigates financial and emotional challenges, often finding solace and purpose in the unexpected connections made with passengers. Key Takeaways: Personal Transformation: Jon opens up about the emotional journey of recovering his self-worth after a difficult divorce, emphasizing the importance of self-care and resilience. His story resonates with any dad facing similar challenges. Parenting Insights: Jon's experiences provide practical solutions to the challenges of balancing gig work and parenting. His story is a reminder that being emotionally present for our children is as important as providing for them financially, empowering dads to strive for a healthier work/life balance. Support Systems: The conversation underscores the value of unseen support networks and the significance of reaching out for help, reinforcing that no one is truly alone in their struggles. This is a powerful reminder for all parents about the importance of community and support. Gig Economy Realities: Jon's firsthand account of the gig economy, including the ups and downs of rideshare driving, provides a relevant perspective for any parent juggling multiple roles. His insights into the broader implications for workers in this space are particularly enlightening. Join us for an inspiring discussion that not only illuminates the resilience required to rebuild one's life but also provides actionable insights for those facing similar challenges. Jon's story is a testament to the powerful stories that emerge from unexpected places. Whether you're a dad, a divorced dad, or simply someone looking for a tale of perseverance, this episode offers valuable lessons and heartfelt moments that you can apply to your own life. Don't miss out on this captivating episode where you'll hear Jon's story and be reminded of the human connections that bind us all. It's a journey of resilience, unexpected twists, and heartwarming moments that you won't want to miss.

Join us on as host Will Braunstein sits down with Rachel Macy Stafford, bestselling author and founder of HandsFreeMama.com. In this heartfelt episode, Rachel shares insights from her latest book, Soul Shift: The Weary Human's Guide to Getting Unstuck and Reclaiming Your Path to Joy. Learn how small, intentional changes can help you become a more present and compassionate parent, and hear Rachel's practical advice on setting boundaries with technology, managing self-critical thoughts, and fostering open communication with your children. This episode is packed with wisdom for parents seeking to deepen their connection with their families and themselves. Whether you're navigating the challenges of parenting or looking to reclaim joy in your daily life, Rachel's insights will inspire and guide you. Key Takeaways: Understanding the importance of being emotionally present for your family. Practical steps to create hands-free moments and set healthy boundaries with technology. Techniques for cultivating self-compassion and positive self-talk. How to foster open, honest communication with your children about their feelings and experiences. The significance of modeling healthy behavior and self-care for your kids. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will encourage you to embrace presence, compassion, and joy in your parenting journey. Don't miss this episode of "A Dad's Path Podcast" with the incredible Rachel Macy Stafford!

In this episode of "A Dad's Path," we are joined by Yael Schonbrun, a clinical psychologist, assistant professor at Brown University, and author of "Work Parent Thrive: 12 Science-Backed Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection." Yael's expertise in balancing work, parenting, and marriage using evidence-based science provides a roadmap for parents striving to navigate these roles more effectively. Key Takeaways: Integrating Work and Family Life: Yael introduces the concept of work-family enrichment, illustrating how professional and parenting roles can mutually enhance each other, reducing guilt and increasing fulfillment. The Power of Psychological Flexibility: Discover how acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can be applied to parenting, helping individuals adapt to changing circumstances with resilience. Strategies for Subtraction: Yael explains the importance of subtracting non-essential tasks to focus on what truly matters, promoting a less stressful and more meaningful family life. Navigating Parental Guilt and Overwhelm: Insights into managing common feelings of guilt and overwhelm that accompany the parenting journey, with practical advice for shifting perspectives. Harnessing Everyday Moments for Deep Connection: Learn about the small, everyday actions that can strengthen family bonds, even amid busy schedules. Visit YaelSchonbrun.com to learn more about her work and to subscribe to her insightful newsletter. Her book, "Work Parent Thrive," is available wherever books are sold, offering further guidance on thriving in the intersection of career and family life.

In this episode of "A Dad's Path Podcast," we talk with Chris Balme, author of "Finding the Magic in Middle School." Chris shares expert advice to help parents understand what to expect and how to prepare for their child's journey through the middle school years. Listeners will learn: How the adolescent brain changes and how to navigate the behavioral shifts that come with it. Tips for guiding children through the evolving social dynamics of middle school. Strategies to maintain academic motivation while encouraging independence. Guidance on managing technology and navigating the digital world safely. Whether you're approaching the middle school years or already navigating them, this episode is packed with actionable insights to transform this time into a period of growth and discovery for parents and kids. Tune in to gain strategies that will help your child thrive during these transformative years!

Join us as host Will Braunstein sits down with Dr. Jeff Karp, a Harvard Medical School professor, MIT biomedical engineer, and author of the inspiring new book "LIT: Life Ignition Tools: Use Nature's Playbook to Energize Your Brain, Spark Ideas, and Ignite Action."  Dr. Karp explores how parents can harness the power of nature to boost productivity for themselves and their children. Dr. Karp shares practical tools that tap into the natural world to rejuvenate our mental landscapes and foster focus and creativity.  Whether it's overcoming distractions or aligning daily tasks with our deepest values, this episode provides actionable insights for parents eager to cultivate a focused, energized, and purpose-driven family life.  Tune in to discover how you can light up your life and guide your children in creating their own sparks of productivity and fulfillment. You can learn more about Dr. Karp's work at https://www.karplab.net

In this episode of "A Dad's Path," we are joined by Shaan Patel, a Shark Tank Alum, CEO of PrepExpert.com, and author of "Prep Expert Digital SAT Playbook: Winning Strategies to Achieve Your Dream Score." Shaan's transformation from average to perfect SAT scores is just the beginning of his remarkable story. His journey through entrepreneurship, featured on Shark Tank and his medical career offers a blueprint for parents aiming to guide their children through the complexities of modern education. Key Takeaways: Embracing Educational Challenges: Shaan shares how overcoming significant educational obstacles and parental involvement were pivotal in his journey and how parents can support their children’s academic growth. The Influence of Parental Role Models Understanding the impact of parental example on children's work ethic and attitudes toward success is crucial for parents in nurturing the next generation. Developing Self-Motivation: Insights into fostering self-motivation in young learners, emphasizing the importance of setting personal goals that ignite internal drive and ambition. Balancing Professional and Personal Life: Shaan discusses balancing demanding professional endeavors and a fulfilling personal life, providing valuable advice for busy parents. Entrepreneurial Lessons from Shark Tank: Reflections on his entrepreneurial journey, including key lessons from his experiences on Shark Tank and the value of strategic partnerships. Visit PrepExpert.com for more insights into Shaan’s educational strategies and to explore the resources available there. You can also check out his new book, Prep Expert Digital SAT Playbook: Winning Strategies to Achieve Your Dream Score. Join us as Shaan Patel shares essential parenting insights, particularly valuable for those with younger children, on building resilience, strategic learning, and the transformative power of a supportive family environment.

In this episode, we speak with Celia Landman, author of "When the Whole World Tips: Navigating Parenting Through Crisis with Mindfulness and Balance." Celia is a seasoned mindfulness educator with a deep background in supporting others through meditation, visualizations, and training. Celia shares strategies for finding balance in the tumultuous journey of parenting. Her teachings are further enriched by her experiences within the Plum Village community of engaged Buddhism, founded by the revered Thich Nhat Hanh. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Mindful Equanimity: Learn the profound concept of loving and allowing, which is crucial for parents to navigate the inherent struggle of wanting to shield their children from pain while recognizing the growth that comes from facing life's challenges. • Feeling Your Feelings: Discover how equanimity is not about being unaffected by emotions but about fully embracing all feelings and maintaining an open heart through life's ups and downs. • Empathy Before Education: Gain insights into the power of empathy in parenting, emphasizing the importance of understanding and validating children's emotions before moving to problem-solving strategies. • Navigating Children's Anxiety: Explore the modern epidemic of anxiety among children and teens, and learn how a mindful approach to parenting can offer stability and reassurance in an uncertain world. • Nonviolent Communication (NVC): Understand the principles of NVC and how it fosters connection, understanding, and mutual respect within the family, moving away from blame and toward a culture of empathy. What You Will Learn: • Strategies for Self-Compassion: Celia shares simple yet powerful practices for parents to cultivate self-compassion and self-care. She recognizes that the foundation of effective parenting lies in being grounded and present for oneself. • Empathy Techniques: Learn practical techniques for offering empathy to your children, helping them navigate their emotions, and building a stronger, more connected relationship. • Managing Your Own Anxiety: Discover methods to address and manage your anxiety, ensuring that you can offer your best self to your parenting role. • Customized Meditation and Visualization: Access Celia's wealth of experience in creating tailored meditation and visualization practices to reconnect with your inner peace and strength. You can find out more about Celia at https://celialandman.com or order her book here.

In this episode, renowned psychotherapist and author Nancy Dreyfus shares profound insights on helping children develop a strong sense of self. Nancy explains the critical importance of "entering your child's reality" and validating their feelings and experiences, even difficult ones. Nancy urges parents, especially fathers, to create spaces where kids feel safe to be vulnerable, set boundaries, and prioritize their internal worlds—not parents' embarrassment, expectations, or desire to "recontextualize" a child's emotions. Key Takeaways: The importance of empowering children to express their feelings and boundaries confidently. Techniques for parents to enhance empathy and validate their child's emotions, promoting a secure sense of self. Insights into the delicate balance of guiding children through societal expectations and gender roles. Practical strategies for developing open, honest, and heart-centered communication between parents and children. Why Listen: From the courage of a child expressing discomfort to the delicate art of empathy and validation, Nancy guides listeners through the importance of acknowledging and respecting a child's feelings, fostering an environment where emotional vulnerability is not just accepted but encouraged. The discussion pivots around practical strategies for parents to connect deeply with their children, emphasizing the transformative role of empathy in building self-esteem and self-worth. Nancy is the author of "Talk to Me Like I'm Someone You Love." You can learn more about Nancy at NancyDreyfus.com.

Dive into an enlightening conversation with Kirsten Jones, renowned peak performance and sports parenting coach, as she shares her expertise on raising empowered athletes. Key Takeaways: Emphasizing fun, friends, and fundamentals in youth sports. The role of sports in teaching valuable life skills beyond physical abilities. Strategies for parents to balance competition with enjoyment. How sports can serve as a tool for personal growth and development. Why Listen? Discover how to nurture your child's athletic journey with a focus on personal growth, lifelong activity, and the joy of sports. Whether your kids want to start playing a sport, are in competitive leagues, or play for fun, this episode offers practical advice for fostering a healthy, balanced approach to sports parenting. Kirsten is the author of ⁠Raising Empowered Athletes⁠ and the co-host of the ⁠Raising Athletes Podcast⁠.

Dive into a fascinating discussion with Jessica Lahey, author of "The Gift of Failure," as we explore the critical importance of allowing our children to encounter and learn from their failures. We discuss the essential role of challenges in developing resilience, independence, and a growth mindset in our kids. Key Takeaways: Embracing failure as a pivotal learning tool. The impact of overparenting on children’s motivation and learning. Strategies to foster intrinsic motivation and a love for learning. The significance of setting clear expectations and logical consequences. Practical tips for encouraging autonomy and competence in everyday parenting. Why Listen? Uncover actionable ideas and strategies to guide your children through their failures to success. Learn how to step back and let your kids navigate challenges, fostering resilience and self-efficacy that will serve them throughout their lives. This episode is a must-listen for parents seeking to empower their children to reach their full potential.

Aurisha Smolarski is the author of "Cooperative Co-Parenting for Secure Kids." We explore the world of co-parenting with insights that bridge the gap between married and divorced dads. This episode delves into creating a supportive environment for children, regardless of family structure. Key Takeaways: Strategies for effective communication between co-parents. Tips for maintaining a positive relationship with your children and co-parent. The importance of setting consistent rules and boundaries across households. How married dads can support co-parenting dynamics within their own partnerships. Building a network of support to navigate the challenges of co-parenting. Why Listen? Gain practical advice and emotional support to enhance your co-parenting journey. Whether you're navigating co-parenting after divorce or seeking harmony in a blended family, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to help you succeed.

Today, we speak with Dr. Devorah Heitner, the author of "Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World." We discuss the complexities of parenting in the digital age, offering practical advice for navigating the challenges of raising children in a world dominated by social media and digital interactions. Key Topics: The impact of social media on children's development and family dynamics. Strategies for managing screen time and understanding different types of digital engagement. Guidelines for addressing exposure to inappropriate content, including pornography. The importance of open communication and setting boundaries in digital use. Tools and tips for helping children build a healthy online identity. Why Listen? Like it or not, your kids will be online. Learn how to create a balanced digital environment at home, foster open conversations about digital experiences, and guide your children in building a positive online presence. This episode is a valuable resource for any parent striving to navigate the digital world with their children. 🚀

Join host Will Braunstein as he explores the universal struggle with addiction (of all kinds) with Dr. Robb Kelly, a recovered alcoholic and addiction specialist.  Dr. Kelly shares his journey from addiction to success in helping others. Hear an inspiring story of redemption and learn practical ideas on dealing with addiction, both as an individual and as a parent. Plus, don't miss Dr. Kelly's simple but life-changing 3-part morning routine, a tool that could revolutionize your daily life. You can learn more about Robb and "Rewiring brains for success" at https://robbkelly.com.  A must-listen for anyone seeking transformative strategies to combat addiction and improve their role as a parent. 🚀

Becoming a dad can profoundly transform a man's identity. In this episode of "A Dad's Path," host Will Braunstein explores this transformative journey with psychotherapist Stephen Rowley, Ph.D. Their conversation delves into themes of identity, childhood trauma, and the complex roles fathers play in personal and family growth. Key Topics: Identity Search Childhood Trauma and Psychological Impacts Fatherhood's Influence on Personal Growth Life Challenges and Resilience Parenting Wisdom for Modern Dads Discover how fatherhood reshapes personal identity. This episode offers a blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and relatable stories that will resonate with dads at all stages of their journey. 🌟

Host Will Braunstein chats with Reverend Dr. Stewart Perrilliat, a figure of resilience and inspiration, from Oakland's streets to a leader in the Marine Corps and now a guiding light in the 'Man to Man Urban Youth Advocate' program. An author and an ordained Reverend at Allen Temple Baptist Church, Stewart performs prison ministry, serving the men who have been incarcerated at San Quentin State Prison since 1995. ✨ Key Topics: The Power of a Simply Being There: Exploring the impact of fatherlessness and the importance of physical presence. 👨‍👦 Learning from Adversity: Dr. Stuart's personal journey and its influence on his views on fatherhood. 🛠️ Advice for Dads: Real-world tips on being an active, engaged, and consistent father. 📚 👍 Why Listen? Gain insights into overcoming the challenges of fatherhood. Learn how to be a more effective and present dad. Be inspired by Dr. Stuart's transformative journey and lessons. 💡

🚀 In this episode of "A Dad's Path," we sit down with Wayne Boatwright, a father with an extraordinary story of resilience, an Ivy League-educated attorney, and a former inmate at San Quentin. Wayne shares his journey of navigating fatherhood under challenging circumstances, offering a raw and inspiring perspective on the power of redemption and the importance of staying connected to your children, no matter the situation. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The profound impact of incarceration on fatherhood and family dynamics. Strategies for maintaining a strong bond with children, even from behind bars. Lessons learned from adversity and how they can be applied to become a better dad. Wayne's personal journey of transformation and what it truly means to be a present and engaged father. 🔎 Topics Covered: 1️⃣ Incarceration and Fatherhood: Insights into how being in prison affected Wayne’s relationship with his kids and the lessons he learned. 2️⃣ Maintaining Connections: Practical advice for dads on how to stay connected with their children, even in the toughest of times. 3️⃣ Learning from Adversity: How facing and overcoming challenges can lead to personal growth and a stronger bond with your children. 4️⃣ The Power of Presence: Emphasizing the importance of being an active and present father and its positive impact on your children’s lives. 👊 Enjoy this episode!

Understanding your child's brain can be the key to unlocking their full potential. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rebecca Jackson, an expert in child development and author of "Back on Track: A Practical Guide to Help Kids of All Ages Thrive." 🧠 Key Takeaways: The importance of sensory experiences in shaping emotional circuitry. The role of stress and anxiety in both parents and kids and how to manage it. The impact of the pandemic on developmental milestones and how to mitigate its effects. Practical, actionable strategies for optimizing your child's skills and abilities. 🔍 Topics Covered: 1️⃣ Sensory Perception: How variety in sensory experiences can contribute to emotional maturity. 2️⃣ Stress & Anxiety: The amplifier of all challenges and how to navigate them. 3️⃣ Pandemic Impact: The long-term effects on developmental milestones and how to adapt. 4️⃣ Actionable Advice: Real-world strategies for parents to implement immediately. 📌 Resources: Follow Dr. Rebecca Jackson on Instagram @drrebeccajackson "Back on Track: A Practical Guide to Help Kids of All Ages Thrive" by Dr. Rebecca Jackson. Available wherever books are sold. Brain Balance for Child Assessments. Enjoy this episode and Dad On!

Today, we speak with Anna Yudina, an expert on play and toys: it’s literally her job at the Toy Association! Anna shares actionable tips about screen dependence, dives deep into STEAM toys, discusses the difference between structured and unstructured play, and More! Redefine your understanding of play and discover how us dads can make the most of these precious moments. You can also find activities and ideas from the podcast at The Genius of Play. Dad On!

Get a grandparent's perspective! Today we chat with Greg Payne, the voice behind the "Cool Grandpa Podcast." Discover the nuances of long-distance grandparenting, the magic of family traditions, and the art of blending old and new customs. This episode delves deep into the importance of open communication between parents and grandparents, ensuring boundaries are respected and understanding how to voice concerns if grandparents aren't as engaged as hoped. Whether you're a dad looking for ways to connect your kids with their grandparents or seeking guidance on maintaining family harmony, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the journey from being a dad to embracing the role of a grandpa.

Join us on this episode of A Dad's Path Podcast, where we speak with Sara Peterson, author of the enlightening book, "Momfluenced: Inside the Maddening, Picture-Perfect World of Mommy Influencer Culture." Sara gives advice on parenting in the age of social media, offering ideas on building supportive communities. From sharing stories of mothers pushing boundaries to discussing the roles of stay-at-home dads, we're taking a fresh look at 'ideal' parenthood. Peterson encourages us to redefine parenting roles beyond traditional stereotypes and equips us with tools for open communication within domestic partnerships. Learn how we can model a more balanced and inclusive approach to parenting, ensuring our kids grow up understanding that parenthood isn't about fitting into a specific 'mom' or 'dad' mold but rather about nurturing and guiding them as parents. Dad On!