The Dad Project: Recent Episodes
The Dad Project
At The Dad Project, we find experienced dads who have had success in raising kids. We ask them to give short talks, sharing what has worked for them and what hasn't. Our goal is to help men everywhere become the dads they were meant to be. And our hope is to change the world for the better, one dad at a time. Please visit us at dadproject.net to make a one-time or recurring donation to help support our operations.
"Hardship comes to us all. The resilient kids we raise are those equipped to endure, serve, and find meaning anyway."
Are you raising kids who fold under pressure... or ones who rise to meet it?
In this episode, Josh makes the case that resilience isn't just a nice-to-have trait, it's one of the most critical things we can develop in our children in an age that increasingly pushes them toward comfort, safety, and self-concern. Through the remarkable true story of Dr. Takashi Nagai, a Japanese physician who endured war, loss, illness, and the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, and still chose to serve, rebuild, and inspire, Josh paints a vivid portrait of what real resilience looks like and what it can mean for our kids.
If the culture is quietly producing softer, less resilient kids, the answer starts at home, with us.
Chapters:
- (00:00) – Welcome to The Dad Project
- (00:47) – Beginning With the End in Mind
- (01:37) – The Evidence: Western Kids Are Getting Softer
- (02:23) – What Resilience Really Means
- (02:48) – A Portrait of Resilience: Dr. Takashi Nagai
- (07:09) – What Nagai's Story Teaches Us
- (07:41) – 5 Practical Ways to Build Resilience in Your Kids
- (09:54) – Being Intentional: Putting It Into Practice
- (11:06) – The Legacy We Leave
Links & Resources
- The Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/
- Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
- The Bells of Nagasaki by Takashi Nagai: https://a.co/d/00dkNgV9
Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
"Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life in the world." – John Milton
Are you raising kids who feel entitled to everything… or grateful for anything?
In this episode, Josh makes the case that the most powerful antidote to the entitlement epidemic gripping younger generations is something every dad can cultivate right now — an attitude of gratitude. Drawing on history, psychology, and practical wisdom, Josh unpacks why gratitude matters more than ever, and gives dads concrete ways to live it out and model it for their kids.
If the culture is producing more narcissism, entitlement, and dissatisfaction than ever before, the answer starts at home — with us.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
- Why modern material abundance makes gratitude harder to instill
- What history (Rome) and modern psychology tell us about ingratitude
- How entitlement erodes happiness, relationships, and culture
- 3 practical ways to build gratitude into your daily routine
- Why saying please and thank you is more powerful than it sounds
- How to make gratitude a family habit — not just a dinner table exercise
- Why the most important things to be grateful for aren't things at all
Chapters:
- (00:00) – Welcome to The Dad Project
- (00:29) – Episode Overview: Gratitude vs. Narcissism
- (00:48) – The Modern Challenge: Raising Grateful Kids
- (02:19) – The Entitlement Epidemic: What the Data Shows
- (03:29) – A "Sit Rep" on Kids Growing Up in the West Today
- (05:18) – Defining Gratitude and Why It Matters
- (06:06) – What History Tells Us About Ingratitude
- (08:17) – How to Live Gratitude: 3 Practical Ways
- (12:10) – Modeling Gratitude for Your Kids
- (13:21) – Support The Dad Project
Links & Resources
- The Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/
- Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
“Every strong marriage is built on a thousand small acts of forgiveness.”
What happens when trust is broken in a marriage… and can it actually be rebuilt?
In Part 2 of this conversation, Josh continues his discussion with Doug Hinderer, licensed marriage and family therapist and host of Marriage Unhindered, diving into the role trust plays in a strong marriage and what it takes to restore it when it’s been damaged.
They unpack the behaviors that quietly destroy trust, why emotional safety is essential, and how small daily interactions shape the health of your relationship over time. This episode is both practical and deeply encouraging for dads who want to lead their families well.
If you want a strong marriage, it’s not about perfection… it’s about humility, forgiveness, and intentional growth.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:* The 4 behaviors that destroy trust in a marriage * Why emotional safety is the foundation of a strong relationship * The importance of saying “I’m sorry” and “I forgive you” * Why your spouse’s flaws can actually make you better * How shifting your perspective can transform your marriage * Why humility and the desire to grow matter more than perfection * How to handle criticism without becoming defensive * A simple communication framework that reduces conflict * Why curiosity is one of the most powerful tools in marriage
Chapters (Part 2):
- (00:00) – Introduction to Part 2: Why Trust Matters
- (01:07) – The “4 Horsemen” That Destroy Trust
- (02:14) – Emotional Safety and Vulnerability in Marriage
- (03:33) – “I’m Sorry” and “I Forgive You”
- (04:27) – Why You Should Expect Imperfection
- (06:12) – How Your Spouse’s Flaws Can Make You Better
- (08:09) – The Power of Perspective in Marriage
- (11:10) – Marriage as Foundation vs. Capstone
- (12:19) – The Most Important Trait to Look for in a Spouse
- (19:34) – Why Men Struggle with Criticism (Respect & Failure)
- (21:21) – A Simple Framework for Better Communication
- (23:00) – The Power of Curiosity in Marriage
Links & Resources* The Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/ * Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN * Doug Hinderer – Happy Marriage for Life: https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/ * Marriage Unhindered (Relevant Radio): https://relevantradio.com/listen/our-shows/marriage-unhindered/ * Rekindled Hearts: The Spiritual Journey to Marital Healing by Doug Hinderer: https://a.co/d/09qeC7nT
Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
What makes a strong marriage… and why do so many slowly fall apart?
In this episode of The Dad Project, Josh sits down with Doug Hinderer, licensed marriage and family therapist and host of Marriage Unhindered, to break down the foundation of a healthy, lasting marriage.
They discuss the three core pillars every marriage needs, why conflict is unavoidable (and not necessarily a bad thing), and how small daily habits can either strengthen or quietly erode your relationship over time.
If you want to be a great dad, it starts with becoming a better husband. This conversation lays the groundwork.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-
The 3 essential pillars of a strong and lasting marriage
-
Why most conflicts in marriage are not actually solvable
-
How marriages slowly drift apart without intentional effort
-
Why investing in your relationship daily matters more than big moments
-
The role of forgiveness in long-term relationships
-
Why your relationship with your wife is the greatest example your kids will see
Chapters (Part 1):
- (00:00) – Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters
- (01:17) – The 3 Pillars of a Strong Marriage
- (03:14) – Why Most Conflict Can’t Be “Fixed”
- (05:33) – The 4 Types of Love Every Marriage Needs
- (06:41) – Why Being a Great Husband Comes First
- (08:50) – What Starts to Derail a Marriage
- (11:03) – Kids, Career, and Losing Connection Over Time
- (14:26) – The 1% Daily Investment That Changes Everything
- (15:25) – Why Most Couples Do Date Night Wrong
- (24:43) – A Hard Lesson on Priorities in Marriage
Links & Resources
- The Dad Project: https://www.thedadprojectpodcast.org/
- Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
- Doug Hinderer - Happy Marriage for Life: https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/
- Marriage Unhindered (Relevant Radio): https://relevantradio.com/listen/our-shows/marriage-unhindered/
- Rekindled Hearts: The Spiritual Journey to Marital Healing by Doug Hinderer: https://a.co/d/09qeC7nT
"Strong marriages don’t happen by accident. They are built through small, consistent, intentional actions over time.
If you want to lead your family well, it starts with how you love your wife."
Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
In this episode, we delve into the essential role of consistency in parenting and how it shapes the character, self-regulation, and future success of our children. Drawing inspiration from Julie Moss’s incredible Ironman perseverance, we explore what it means to be always “on” as a parent and why holding the line—especially when we’re tired or overwhelmed—pays off in the long run. Together, let's grow in virtue and learn the value of consistency and discover how small, daily efforts can transform our families and prepare our children for life's race.
Support The Dad Project:
https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty to examine the powerful impact of social media and screen time on youth mental health, particularly focusing on rising rates of depression and anxiety. We learn practical, time-tested strategies that dads can use to help their kids navigate the digital world while fostering resilience, connection, and safety. Through candid discussion and expert advice, we uncover concrete ways to set healthy boundaries and support our children in an age saturated by technology. Join us as we discover the crucial steps every dad can take to protect and nurture their families in the modern digital landscape.
Support The Dad Project:
- https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
Mental Health Resources:
If you or someone you know needs help, please consider these resources:
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness):
- www.NAMI.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
- Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)
- Or dial the full number: 1-800-273-8255
Timestamps
- (00:00) - Josh introduces The Dad Project and encourages listener support.
- (03:08) - Dr. Kheriaty identifies depression and anxiety as top youth mental health issues.
- (05:30) - Social media use directly linked to increased depression and anxiety.
- (07:45) - Practical tips for dads to minimize kids’ screen time and exposure.
- (08:30) - Advocating for cell phone free schools and strict social media limits.
- (10:46) - Dangers of comparison and self-image on social media platforms.
- (14:27) - Risks of social media versus real-life social learning.
- (16:42) - Ideas for tech-free family routines and setting positive examples.
- (24:09) - Advice on monitoring kids’ devices and rethinking privacy expectations.
Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kheriaty to confront the sobering mental health crisis affecting youth in America today. We examine the alarming rise in suicide rates, the impact of social media and electronic devices, and the role of loneliness and social isolation in shaping children's well-being. By untangling the factors contributing to this crisis and distinguishing ordinary struggles from clinical concerns, we offer practical guidance and crucial awareness for parents striving to protect and nurture their kids. Uncover not only the realities facing modern families but ways to support mental health and connection at home.
Support The Dad Project:
- https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
Watch on YouTube:
- https://youtu.be/gPpz3hnK-1o
Mental Health Resources:
If you or someone you know needs help, please consider these resources:
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness):
- www.NAMI.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
- Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)
- Or dial the full number: 1-800-273-8255
Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
In this episode, we tackle the challenge of becoming the fathers our children need, even when we haven't had a strong example ourselves. We explore practical strategies for building virtue, forming new family legacies, and intentionally shaping our children's character. By emphasizing self-assessment, strategic planning, and the power of example, we uncover the tools to break cycles and create a lasting impact. Listen in as we reveal the habits and approaches that can help every dad become a source of strength, integrity, and love for their family.
Support The Dad Project:
https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=LBZR5GKFRMBDN
Podcast Production Services by EveryWord Media
Ashton Ellis pays tribute to our cofounder, Jim Tierney.
You can visit Jim's blog at: https://fortitudine-withfortitude.blogspot.com/
To support the Dad Project, visit: http://www.dadproject.net/
Podcast Production Services by https://EveryWord.Media
In this Episode, Jim Tierney interviews Ginny Boles, oldest daughter of Martin Boles, a frequent contributor to The Dad Project podcast.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
This episode is the first in a two-part series on raising daughters. Colin Brady gives practical advice regarding how dads can be successful in raising daughters.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses the meaning of true love and how understanding what true love means can help us be better husbands and dads.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney shares the advice he has given friends who are considering divorce and have asked for his help. Disclaimer: Jim Tierney is not a licensed professional, and this episode is not intended to be a substitute for marriage counseling. Some individuals' marital situations might require immediate separation for the safety of one or more of the parties.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses a dad's role in making a family relocation successful.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, homeschooling dad Joe Foster gives advice on how dads can support moms who have been thrust into distance learning or who have chosen to begin homeschooling.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, leadership coach Kumar Kibble brings us back to the fundamentals of being a good dad.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses idols that dads should on guard against worshiping and practical ways that we can grow in the virtue of detachment.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode of The Dad Project, Adam Mering discusses the need for dads to work on the virtue of sincerity both at home and at work. Adam works in the temporary staffing industry. He and his wife have six children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses how dads can turn the adversity of being under stay at home orders into good for their families. Jim is co-founder of The Dad Project. He and his wife have 10 children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode of The Dad Project, Rich Meyer discusses why it is critically important that dads model patience in the home. Rich is a Chicago native who currently works as the headmaster of a high school in Orange County, California. He and his wife have eight children.
In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses the need for dads to model good friendships as both husbands and fathers. Jim is co-founder of The Dad Project. He and his wife have 10 children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
This episode of The Dad Project is a live recording of the second in a two-part series we're calling Adulting 101. In Part 2, Ashton Ellis covers the topic of "Financial Adulthood" and addresses the challenges a head of household must consider when raising a family in an expensive urban center. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
This episode of The Dad Project is a live recording of the first in a two-part series we're calling Adulting 101. In Part 1, Kirby Fike shares a personal testimonial about the process of realizing that he needed to become an adult, and how he decided what he needed to focus on. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience and is followed up with audience Q&A.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses the true meaning of patriotism and gives suggestions for how dads can help foster it in children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney introduces the virtue of magnanimity and discusses why it is vitally important for dads to exhibit.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses how we can become better dads by loving others better, starting with our wives.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this Episode, Jim Tierney gives some practical tips for forming the conscience of children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis recaps his visit to Western Academy in Houston, TX and shares how the experience illuminated three virtues and ideas that are important for successful dads.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Tom Spence discusses some practical tips dads can use to help their children learn to appreciate great literature.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Rich Meyer gives dads of teenagers practical suggestions for managing technology in the home.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses ways that dads can help their children understand the true meaning of loyalty.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses freedom and how dads can help their children learn to use their freedom well.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses sobriety and why it is critically important for dads to practice.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Farrell Sheehan discusses the need for dads to be intentional in the stewardship of the family's finances.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney shares his thoughts on how dads can effectively give children affirmation.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Trent Thomas discusses the importance of forming children in the virtue of fortitude.
This episode of The Dad Project is the second in a two-part series on dads' role in the sexual education of children. In Episode 2, Martin Boles proposes a framework for discussing sexuality with children at different stages of their development.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
This episode of The Dad Project is the first in a two-part series on dads' role in the sexual education of children. In Episode 1, Dr. Patrick Fagan encourages dads to take the lead, particularly in the sexual education of boys.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode of The Dad Project, Nathan Stanley discusses ways dads can be encouraging to our children.
This episode of The Dad Project is the second in a two-part series on the virtue of order. In part 2, Rich Meyer discusses some practical tips for instilling order in our children.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
This episode of The Dad Project is the first in a two-part series on the virtue of order. In part 1, Kirby Fike discusses why order should matter to us as dads.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Martin Boles discusses the virtue of respect, why our children need it, and how to foster it.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses methods we can use to form our children in the virtue of prudence.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Steve Markel talks about what it takes for a dad to be a leader within his family.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Matt Larkin discusses the need for every family to have a sense of humor.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney discusses the need to have a concrete plan to form our children in virtue.
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Kirby Fike discusses the need for dads to start living virtues in order to begin raising virtuous kids.
Please support The Dad Project here: www.dadproject.net
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Ashton Ellis talks about becoming a great dad by being a great husband first.
Please support The Dad Project here: www.dadproject.net
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com
In this episode, Jim Tierney talks about building a family culture that supports the raising of children into virtuous adults.
Please support The Dad Project here: www.dadproject.net
Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com