BREAKFAST WITH THE BROLAWS: Recent Episodes
BREAKFAST WITH THE BROLAWS
Four contractors looking to spread some love, laughter, and maybe even a bit of knowledge. We're here to talk all things construction, family, and business. Welcome!
Your kid’s first sleepover can feel like a tiny leap toward independence and a massive punch of parental anxiety. We’re talking through how we made the call, why we once said “no sleepovers” as a rule, and what finally changed when the invite came from a family we genuinely know and trust. The big takeaway is simple but hard: boundaries matter more than bravado, and the best safety plan starts with an honest conversation with your kid about confidence, discomfort, and calling home anytime.
From there, we zoom out to the wider reality of raising kids who move through unfamiliar rooms and unfamiliar adults. A youth group game played in the dark turns into a real talk about supervision, consent, and body autonomy for kids, plus how we handle faith conversations without pushing shame or fear-based morality. We’re trying to raise kids who understand choice, can say “no” early, and don’t feel trapped by rules they don’t understand.
We also get into the daily stuff that quietly crushes parents: developmental milestones, comparison, and the way parent guilt often lands hardest on the partner who’s home the most. Add in kids who have absolutely no fear, plus a school slang moment so awkward it sounds scripted, and you’ve got a full tour of what “different stages of parenting” really means.
If you got something out of this one, subscribe, share it with a parent friend, and leave a review so more tired moms and dads can find us. What’s your hard rule for sleepovers or new activities?
Graham crackers on ham should not be a plot point in your weekend, but here we are. We sit down as four dads trying to catch up, and within minutes Mark’s “Smoker Sunday” turns into a full-blown March break legend: AI cooking instructions from Gemini, potatoes that basically dissolve, a glaze that tastes wrong, and the horrifying moment you realize the “brown sugar” you trusted is not sugar at all. It’s funny because it’s real, and it’s real because every parent has tried to pull off something nice and watched it unravel in front of the entire family.
From there, the conversation opens up into the stuff that sits under the jokes. We talk about childhood memories, why some of us remember everything and some of us remember almost nothing, and how embarrassment and scarcity can follow you into adulthood. The tone shifts when we get into what it’s like to navigate a strained relationship with a dad who’s seriously ill, how closure can feel honest in one moment and confusing the next, and why therapy is less about “fixing” you and more about understanding what triggers you and why.
We also hit the practical dad life that listeners search for: kids who can cut you down with one sentence, the guilt of working on a home or cottage project while they just want you to play, and a genuinely useful newborn parenting tip about taking shifts at night so your partner can get real rest. We even end with a surprisingly relatable detour into vasectomy stories and how dads bond over the weirdest topics.
If you enjoy unfiltered fatherhood stories, parenting humor, and honest talk about mental health, subscribe, share this with a fellow dad, and leave a review. What’s your most unforgettable parenting fail or your hardest dad conversation?
A bathroom laugh turned into a masterclass on resilience. We start with the messy, human moments—sick nights, forgotten bags, and a hotel check-in with no wallet—and trace how those hiccups reveal what our kids really need from us: presence over perfection, support without smothering, and the right kind of hype at the right time.
From there, we get real about the tightrope parents walk. When your kid’s crush fizzles or a coach leaves them on the bench, do you correct, console, or cheer like their best friend? We unpack how to read the room, why sometimes you validate the sting before you teach the lesson, and how to avoid turning every moment into a lecture. The heart of it all: kids grow most when they feel seen, not managed.
Sports become our testing ground. Wrestling and jujitsu bring emotion to the surface fast—wins, losses, and the raw struggle to escape a hold. We break down how schools structure safe early exposure, what mismatches look like, and how parents can coach from the sidelines without rescuing. The takeaway isn’t medals; it’s tolerance for discomfort and the belief that effort changes outcomes. We also share practical scripts for letting kids talk to coaches and teachers, handle sibling conflicts, and own their choices—while knowing we’re right there if they need backup.
We close by reframing hard seasons as training, not failure. Life cycles through tough, neutral, and good; the goal isn’t to dodge the hard parts but to learn you can survive them. Show up for their debate, their match, their play—whether you fully get it or not—and you teach them their voice matters. Tap play, subscribe, and share this with a parent who’s learning to step back without stepping away. What’s one challenge you’re letting your kid own this week?
What if the most powerful parenting tool is just five words: “I’m so glad you told me”? We put that idea to the test as four dads trade first-drunk stories, secrecy, and guilt for a more honest approach to risk and responsibility. The conversation begins where real life happens—smokers, kitchen wins and fails, Friday night rituals—and then heads straight into the messy middle: teens will test limits, so do we clamp down or coach up?
We talk about why prohibition often backfires and how education—clear info, safe plans, and a standing “call me” policy—keeps kids safer than silence. The script “I’m so glad you told me” becomes our anchor through every stage: broken mugs, tough friendships, serious concerns like eating disorders, and those late-night calls from college. We unpack how it shifts us from judges to guides, reduces shame, and keeps the relationship strong when it matters most. No one plays expert here; when we don’t know, we model curiosity, ask what our kids think, and use prompts like “What would you tell a friend?” to match depth to readiness.
Then we share a big life moment: after a rollercoaster of appraisals, lenders, and last-minute doubt, the cottage dream finally lands. That first winter weekend brings ice-skating, tree-dodging toboggans, and a surprising kind of healing—the kind you feel when kids rediscover boredom as a superpower and the woods become their playground. It’s equal parts practical and personal: set safe edges, honor small bids for attention, and keep the door open for the big stuff with those five words. If you’re navigating teen curiosity, craving better scripts, or just need a reminder that trust grows in small moments, you’ll feel at home here.
If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—it helps more parents find conversations that matter.
A single grilled cheese can tell you a lot about family life. Between butter-versus-mayo debates, broiled-versus-pan loyalties, and the panic of realizing you’re out of bread mid-sizzle, we found the comedy and stress that live in every kitchen. We also followed a high-stakes trip to the butcher that ended in wide eyes at the register and a crash course in cooking a pricey beef tenderloin on a tight timeline. Spoiler: a bourbon-tent save turned chaos into a win—and taught us more about prep, timing, and recovery than any recipe ever could.
Beyond food, we opened up about the stuff that hits deeper. A listener’s NICU journey sparked thoughtful support and real advice from parents who’ve been there. At home, a raw wood table and white chairs met paint, crumbs, and ketchup rituals, forcing a hard look at form versus function when kids rule the room. Health concerns popped up too: a broken finger discovered late, a kid nervous about tonsil surgery, and how to steady emotions when everyone’s tired and the snow days won’t quit. We talked about breaking all-or-nothing thinking with “75 light,” claiming the identity of reader, and designing routines that fit actual lives.
Sports and shared projects pulled it together. Coaching youth hockey turned out more rewarding than expected, and kids stepping into the kitchen—pancakes, pot pie, and more—gave families both skills and pride. It’s a messy, honest snapshot of modern dad life: small milestones that feel huge, expensive lessons that stick, and a community that makes the load lighter. If you’ve ever burned lunch but saved dinner, argued about buns, or stared down a bill you weren’t ready for, you’ll feel seen.
Enjoyed the ride? Follow and subscribe for more real-talk parenting, share this episode with a friend who needs a laugh and a nudge, and leave a quick review—your notes help us keep the conversation going.
Expecting a baby doesn’t hand you a script; it asks you to improvise with heart. We went back to our most-downloaded topic and pushed further into what new dads actually face: the dizzying pivot from being self-focused to being genuinely needed, the way plans crumble in the delivery room, and the small, steady moves that matter more than grand gestures.
We talk candidly about fear—watching your partner labor, trusting a midwife or nurse when you feel helpless, and staying grounded when NICU stays, stalled latches, or conflicting advice pile on. You’ll hear real tactics that lower the temperature: stocking bedside snacks and water, bringing your own pillow and blanket to the hospital, ordering dinner on the nights no one can think, and asking the magic question, How can I support you right now? We also dig into boundaries and expectations—who’s in the room, which visitors help or harm, and how to handle family dynamics without making your partner manage your side.
If you feel shut out or second-guessed, we’ve been there. The move is quiet competence: change the diaper, reset the room, prep the next feed, and stop keeping score. Bonding doesn’t always land on day one, so create rituals that invite it—witching-hour walks, skin-to-skin, narrating your day, and finding your unique dad sleep routine for each child. Your scenario is yours; filter advice, keep what fits, and choose the path that protects your partner’s wellbeing and your family’s bond, whether that’s nursing, pumping, or formula.
Come for the humor, stay for the hard-earned calm. If you’re a new or soon-to-be dad looking for grounded guidance, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a steady voice, and leave a review with the best tip you wish you’d heard sooner.
A kitchen confession about moldy Tupperware turns into a surprisingly tender map of modern fatherhood. We open with the small stuff—waffle settings, pizza box etiquette, hot dog head tilts, and why no one should make eye contact mid-bite—and find the values hidden inside the jokes: boundaries, bandwidth, and the daily tradeoffs that keep a home moving. Then we head outside, from a back-friendly sock trick to a smoky, brined turkey win that earns a new household badge of honor, fueled by neighbor wisdom and internet recipes.
The heart of the story lives on the court. One of us prepped a son for bench minutes with honesty and care, absorbed the sting of the first game, and watched him light up in the next—first basket, better positioning, and an open mind for coaching. Later that night came a second breakthrough: stepping into a voice chat to call out friend-group chirps that had crossed into bullying. Risky? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. The hug and the trust that followed say everything about when to let kids figure it out and when to show up, loud and clear.
We don’t skip the hard parts. Triggers around lying, tone that lands too sharp, and the worry of a strong-willed peer rubbing off on your kid—they’re all here. So are the wins that knit a family together: sibling seat negotiations, Halloween costume chaos, and a home team run that becomes a core memory. It’s messy, funny, and real, the way parenting actually feels at 8 p.m. on a Tuesday. If this sounds like your house, pull up a chair. Subscribe, share this with a dad who needs a laugh and a lift, and leave a review to help more parents find the show.
The hardest part of parenting isn’t the calendar or the carpools—it’s knowing when to cheer louder and when to get out of the way. We sit down, shorts weather and all, to unpack the thin line between healthy encouragement and the kind of blind confidence that leaves a kid declaring they’re “the best at hockey” after crying through evaluations. From the glass at a rink to the bleachers at gymnastics, we explore what it actually looks like to let kids struggle, self-correct, and choose their own path.
Our conversation ranges from back-to-school overload and the hidden cost of over-scheduling to the surprisingly tender lessons inside a messy morning meltdown—including a drywall repair and a real apology. We talk honestly about coaching your own kid versus stepping back so they can hear another voice, the difference between praise that builds grit and praise that inflates ego, and how to set consequences that teach priorities without shaming effort. You’ll hear why “shepherds, not engineers” has become our north star, plus practical ways to handle siblings who disrupt cherished rituals, like a peaceful fishing trip that goes gloriously sideways.
Whether your child is trading team hockey for solo gymnastics, begging for new basketball shoes without logging reps, or insisting they’re “fine” for tests they didn’t study for, you’ll get tools to navigate motivation, resilience, and repair. Expect candid stories, hard-won strategies, and a reminder that your voice doesn’t have to be the loudest to lead. If you’re trying to raise grounded, confident kids who can handle feedback and find their drive, press play and join the conversation. If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review—what’s one place you’re ready to step back so your kid can step up?
What does it mean to truly support your child in developing resilience? In this heartfelt episode, we navigate the complex terrain of youth sports, parenting challenges, and teaching our children to bounce back from disappointment.
Dave shares his experience taking his 11-year-old daughter shopping for her first hockey equipment, revealing both excitement and anxiety about how she'll handle the inevitable frustration of not being immediately good at something new. The conversation explores the substantial investment parents make in youth sports – not just financially, but emotionally – as we wonder if our children will connect with the activities we introduce them to.
A breakthrough moment comes when Joey reveals his son, who typically avoids activities he's not immediately good at, unexpectedly signed up for cross-country running at school. This sparks a deeper discussion about how we can foster resilience in our children while acknowledging we're still working on it ourselves.
The most powerful revelation emerges when we realize the qualities we desperately want our children to develop – discipline, resilience, confidence – are often the very same qualities we struggle with in our own lives. "If you want your kids to have these qualities," Joey observes, "what's stopping you from developing them in yourself?" This question hits home, challenging us to consider that perhaps the most effective parenting happens not through our words but through our example.
We also celebrate listener milestones, from welcoming newborns to supporting premature babies through extended hospital stays, offering encouragement and perspective to parents on different parts of the journey.
What lessons are your children learning from watching you, not from listening to you? Join us for this honest exploration of parenthood, resilience, and the power of leading by example.
Remember the butterflies of your first day back to school? That mixture of excitement and anxiety doesn't just fade away when you become a parent—it transforms into something different yet familiar as you watch your children navigate their own school journeys.
In this deeply reflective episode, we journey through the emotional landscape of parenting during back-to-school season. We share our children's reactions to new teachers, classroom assignments, and the social dynamics that make school simultaneously thrilling and challenging. One dad's daughter went from dreading her teacher assignment to excitement when discovering her friends would join her class, while another's son is navigating the newfound responsibility of being an "SK" helping younger kindergarteners.
The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as we reminisce about our own school experiences—from favorite teachers who made lasting impressions to challenging classroom relationships that shaped us in unexpected ways. We laugh about the communication teacher who gifted a darkroom enlarger years after graduation and the improv class that sparked creativity. These memories highlight how profoundly educational experiences shape our development and emphasize why we care so deeply about our children's school experiences.
We don't shy away from the practical challenges either. The morning chaos of preparing lunches, organizing backpacks, and managing breakfast for multiple children leaves us longing for summer's more relaxed pace. We share strategies we've implemented—preparing outfits the night before, switching to water-only school beverages, and creating structured routines that work for our families.
Perhaps the most profound moments come when we explore how our children have challenged our perspectives on life's biggest questions. From an eight-year-old's existential inquiries to a young boy's surprising statements about faith, our kids push us to articulate and examine our beliefs in ways we never anticipated. These conversations reveal parenting's deeper dimension—the continuous growth and reflection it demands from us as adults.
Have you struggled with being your partner's cheerleader? Our vulnerable discussion about giving and receiving affirmation might resonate deeply. We connect these difficulties to childhood experiences and self-worth, emphasizing how intentional encouragement transforms both romantic partnerships and parent-child relationships.
Join us for this heartfelt conversation that captures the essence of modern fatherhood—a journey of growth, reflection, and connection through life's everyday moments and profound questions.
Ever wonder how other parents manage to juggle it all without dropping the ball? You're not alone. This candid conversation peels back the curtain on the messy reality of sharing household duties while raising kids.
We kick things off exploring family game nights—from the joy of "Hurry Up Chicken Butt" to the frustration of kids making up their own rules. ("No, you can't just take the shortcut without landing on the golden spot!") These moments of connection become vital anchors in family life, though we all agree: learn the game before teaching your kids, or prepare for chaos.
The conversation shifts to one of parenting's biggest challenges: introducing a new baby to existing children. We share personal stories of how our older kids met their siblings, with one crucial piece of advice standing out—always give attention to the older child first when bringing home a baby, as they're the ones who'll remember that moment.
Most revealing is our deep dive into household responsibilities. We examine how mental load affects relationships, why reminders become contentious ("If I have to remind you, I'm still carrying the mental load"), and how work schedules inevitably dictate who handles which tasks. There's a raw honesty when we discuss therapy insights about the impossibility of giving 100% in all areas of life simultaneously.
Whether you're drowning in laundry, forgetting garbage day, or trying to decode your partner's needs, this episode offers both comfort and practical wisdom for navigating the beautiful mess of family life.
Ever been outmaneuvered by an 8-year-old? When one dad tried to surprise his daughter with a new bike for her birthday, he never expected her calculated response: "I already have a bike, and bikes are very expensive. Maybe I could just get a phone." What followed was a masterclass in child negotiation that left him with bags of Stitch merchandise and a daughter who still managed to get her coveted Build-A-Bear from grandma the next day.
The dads dive deep into the financial fears that accompany parenthood—a conversation rarely had openly but universally experienced. From starting businesses while raising newborns to unexpected job losses coinciding with pregnancy announcements, they share raw stories about making ends meet when it feels impossible. Their collective wisdom? You'll never feel financially "ready" for kids, but you'll find ways to make it work. Whether it's developing simple saving habits, having honest conversations with your partner about money values, or adjusting expectations about what your family truly needs versus wants.
Between negotiating with car salesmen (who the guys describe as "mostly douches, sorry not sorry") and navigating the complex world of family budgeting, the conversation turns to what truly matters. One father shares a powerful moment when his son wished they were rich, only to quickly change his mind after learning more money would mean seeing his parents less. Meanwhile, another dad finds unexpected joy in introducing his children to classic comedies like Dumb and Dumber and Ace Ventura, creating moments of connection that transcend any financial concerns. Because at the end of the day, your presence matters more than presents. Subscribe now to join these honest conversations about the messy, beautiful reality of modern fatherhood.
Ever feel like you're just going through the motions as a dad? Mark's story might change your perspective. During what started as a tense family cottage weekend, he found unexpected solace fishing with his three-year-old son—a moment that transformed not just their relationship but his entire approach to fatherhood.
"I'm not playing a game with an imaginary friend, I'm not trying to teach him how to think. We're actually learning how to do things together," Mark shares, describing the first time he felt a genuine, mutual connection with his son over something they both enjoyed. From reluctantly using a "bitch glove" to confidently handling fish bare-handed, his evolution as a fisherman parallels his growth as a father.
The conversation expands beyond fishing to explore the universal struggles dads face: the passenger-seat dynamics with spouses (complete with the dreaded gasping and arm-grabbing), balancing screen time during summer months, and the crushing anxiety that comes from trying to juggle work responsibilities while creating meaningful family moments. The guys get refreshingly vulnerable about their mental health journeys, discussing how community support and mindset shifts help them navigate these challenges.
What emerges is a powerful reflection on presence. As one host puts it, "All of our struggles or whatever's causing us anxiety is really just a fight to get back to living in the moment." Through fishing trips, backyard basketball games, and impromptu ice cream runs, these dads are discovering that the perfect father-son bond isn't something you force—it's something you find when you're both just figuring things out together.
Follow us on Instagram @realdadpodcast to join our community of fathers learning to embrace both the failures and triumphs of dadhood. Because like the Wright brothers who brought repair materials to every flight attempt, parenting means knowing you'll fail daily but believing the journey is absolutely worth it.
Ever feel like your identity has been completely swallowed by parenthood? You're not alone.
Mark kicks off this episode with the wild tale of his whirlwind trip to California—a dream content creation opportunity that came with equal parts excitement and anxiety. Between the language barriers, tight deadlines, and nagging suspicion that he might be getting scammed, Mark barely had time to process that he was living out his professional dream. But the real struggle wasn't the work itself; it was the guilt of leaving his family behind and the realization that these experiences would be more meaningful with his wife by his side.
This adventure opens up a candid conversation about maintaining your personal identity while being a parent. We dive into the refreshing perspective that while we love our children deeply, it's perfectly normal to find aspects of parenting challenging. As one therapist puts it, "Parenthood has a right to all of my time, money, love and devotion—but not all of my identity." This sentiment hit home for all of us who've felt the pressure to make parenting our entire existence.
The most powerful moments come when discussing those rare parenting wins that make the struggles worthwhile. Dave shares how his 13-year-old son has transformed from competitive to compassionate during their runs together, while Mark witnesses his nephew showing remarkable empathy by comforting a devastated quarterback after a crushing loss. Brian adds insight from his niece about how her parents built her confidence by encouraging her to handle difficult situations herself rather than intervening.
These stories remind us why we do this work—those fleeting moments when we glimpse the adults our children are becoming, shaped by the values we've been quietly modeling all along. Join us for an honest, heartfelt conversation about finding joy in the parenting journey while holding onto who you are beyond being "just" a mom or dad.
Ever noticed how your kids can be completely different people when they're around someone new? In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of childhood social development and the magic that happens when we gently push our kids beyond their familiar boundaries.
We share candid stories about those surprising moments when our children exceeded our expectations socially. From a daughter making new playground friends completely independently to a normally reserved son transforming into a confident soccer player when grandparents were watching, these experiences highlight the incredible adaptability of children when given the right opportunities to shine.
The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as we reflect on our own adult social anxieties. We realize that the awkwardness we feel trying to insert ourselves into new groups or strike up conversations with strangers is exactly what our children navigate regularly. This awareness sparks an important discussion about empathy and modeling—how can we expect our kids to be socially courageous if we ourselves avoid uncomfortable social situations?
We tackle the particular challenge facing children who attend the same school from kindergarten through eighth grade, potentially stuck with the same peer group for nearly a decade. When difficult personalities or negative dynamics emerge, having outside friendships becomes crucial for a child's social development and self-esteem. Through personal experiences and honest reflection, we explore strategies for helping kids build diverse friendship circles that extend beyond their school environment.
Whether you're raising a social butterfly or a more reserved child, this episode offers practical insights for nurturing social confidence while respecting your child's unique personality. Join our conversation about finding that sweet spot between protection and independence, and discover how stepping back occasionally might be exactly what your child needs to step forward socially.
Ever wondered what happens when dads get together and speak their unfiltered truth about parenthood? This episode captures the raw, hilarious reality of fatherhood that rarely makes it into parenting books.
The conversation kicks off with candid Father's Day reflections, where Mark shares a touching moment of coming home to find his children had created a surprise celebration with homemade signs and streamers. Another dad reads his son's brutally honest school questionnaire: "My dad's favorite color is, I don't know" and the priceless "My dad makes the best... he only cooks sometimes." These moments of unintentional comedy from children become treasured memories, despite the occasional roasting of dad's abilities.
Dive into the fascinating world of "dad math" as one father explains driving an hour to save $70 on a deck box at Costco. The hosts share survival strategies for weekend warehouse shopping with kids, including the mortifying moment when a child starts chanting "dead fish!" at the seafood counter. You'll laugh as they debate the merits of different Costco locations and admit to driving astronomical distances just to avoid crowds.
The podcast takes an unexpectedly insightful turn when discussing strategies for handling children's meltdowns. Who knew that singing during tantrums engages both emotional and rational parts of a child's brain? Or that deliberately naming colors incorrectly will distract even the most upset toddler? These field-tested techniques come from the trenches of parenthood, not theoretical parenting manuals.
Marriage communication gets a hilarious examination when the dads share the memes they exchange with their wives—ranging from flirtatious jokes to pointed "hard pill to swallow" parenting reminders. Their honest assessment of unrealistic parenting advice (like dimming all house lights 90 minutes before bedtime) will have you nodding in agreement.
Join this authentic conversation about the beautiful mess of fatherhood. Whether you're a parent looking for solidarity or someone curious about the unvarnished truth of raising kids, this episode delivers laughs, insights, and the comforting reminder that perfect parenting doesn't exist—but real, loving fatherhood absolutely does.
A wedding day becomes the ultimate test of fatherly strength when Mark's three-year-old son, serving as best man, demands to be held throughout the entire ceremony. "I'm holding him in the cradle position for what felt like eternity," Mark recounts, "sweating in my suit while trying to focus on my vows and looking like I'm enjoying every second." It's a perfect metaphor for parenthood - finding beauty in challenging moments while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Whispering Springs glamping resort, the podcast hosts share an intimate, laugh-filled retelling of Mark and Robin's long-awaited wedding after nine years of engagement. Their seven-year-old daughter stepped in as maid of honor while their son brought charm, chaos, and a handful of sticks to the ceremony. The universe seemed to align perfectly, delivering beautiful weather despite ominous forecasts just days before.
The celebration was made more meaningful by thoughtful tributes to absent loved ones. Pictures honoring Mark's grandmother and Robin's father were placed on ceremony benches, while Robin carried her father's ashes wrapped around her bouquet. "I'm so grateful that we're able to give her the wedding of her dreams," Mark reflects, even if his own experience felt at times like "a rat on fire."
Perhaps the most valuable takeaway comes in Mark's advice for future couples: "You really need to carve out five or ten minutes of just you and your wife time... after you've signed the papers, when guests are at cocktail hour. No photographers, no wedding party, just the two of you." In a day filled with obligations and performances, these stolen moments become the true heart of celebration.
Whether you're planning a wedding, navigating parenthood, or simply trying to balance life's chaos with its beauty, this episode reminds us that imperfection often creates our most treasured stories. As Mark puts it, "Everything in our story has played out perfectly the way it's supposed to."
Ever had that moment when you suddenly realize your child has become their own person? That's exactly what we explore in this episode, sharing the hilarious and heartwarming ways our kids surprise us with their emerging personalities and unexpected passions.
Mark takes us through a weekend of revelations - from his three-year-old son becoming inexplicably obsessed with bull riding after a chance encounter at a restaurant ("Not now mom, I'm watching bull riding!") to his daughter secretly mastering ballet and stunning everyone as the lead in her recital. These moments of discovery aren't just entertaining; they're windows into who our children are becoming when we're not looking.
We dive deep into the world of kids and sports, questioning our motivations as dads for enrolling them in activities and debating the fine line between healthy encouragement and toxic pressure. Why do sports mean so much to us? Is it about reliving our glory days, teaching valuable life skills, or simply providing opportunities for our kids to find what lights them up?
The conversation takes an unexpectedly touching turn when we reflect on our own childhood experiences with sports and our fathers' involvement (or lack thereof). We discover how these memories shape our approach to parenting today, particularly in how we show up for our kids' activities and handle the crucial moments after games or performances.
Whether you're cheering from the sidelines, helping with homework, or sitting through countless bull riding videos on YouTube, this episode reminds us that parenting isn't about shaping our kids into who we want them to be—it's about creating space for them to reveal who they truly are, and the privilege we have in witnessing those magical moments of self-discovery.
When life floods your basement, parenthood doesn't stop. One dad's weekend disaster opens a candid conversation about managing crises while still showing up for our kids, complete with insurance nightmares and children who see a flooded basement as the world's most exciting indoor water park.
The swimming lessons saga continues with a breakthrough moment – a child finally excited to participate – only to be nearly derailed by the unpredictable emotions of siblings. This rollercoaster perfectly illustrates how even the smallest parenting wins can quickly transform into complex emotional negotiations that leave us questioning our approach.
Vulnerability emerges as the episode's powerful undercurrent. From one father's experience with siblings therapy revealing unexpected barriers between even the closest family members, to wrestling with daughters' growing independence around clothing choices, the conversation delves into territories where perfect answers don't exist. The dads share their struggles with projecting their own insecurities onto their children while trying to break generational patterns.
Perhaps most valuable is the honest examination of male friendship and emotional support. These fathers exemplify the rare but vital practice of men allowing themselves to be vulnerable with each other, challenging the notion that men must navigate parenthood's complexities alone or solely rely on their partners for emotional processing.
For parents trying their best while feeling overwhelmed, this episode offers the gentle reminder that intentionally working on yourself may be the most powerful gift you can give your children. As one dad suggests, simply listening to parenting conversations like these is evidence you're already succeeding at the thing that matters most – actively choosing to parent, not just have kids.
Ever wondered how other parents handle the mess, stress, and incredible moments that come with raising kids? Buckle up for an unfiltered journey through modern fatherhood that's as entertaining as it is insightful.
This episode dives deep into the parenting trenches – from incredible hacks for managing sick kids (strategic towel placement is a game-changer) to an honest conversation about creating meaningful family memories at Great Wolf Lodge. One dad shares how simply leaving phones in the hotel room transformed their water park experience into something truly special, allowing genuine connection that wouldn't have happened otherwise.
We explore the fascinating "Four-Second Method" for calming children during emotional outbursts – a technique backed by child psychologists that's shockingly simple yet remarkably effective. Several dads share their real-world experiments with this approach, revealing surprising successes that challenge traditional parenting responses.
The conversation takes a thought-provoking turn as we examine how technology and short-form media are reshaping children's attention spans. A teacher on our panel shares firsthand observations about declining student engagement and increasing apathy toward activities that don't provide immediate gratification. We wrestle with difficult questions about screen time, emotional regulation, and finding balance in a digital world.
Between heartfelt discussions, you'll find plenty of laughs – including one dad's brilliant laser tag strategy that earned his son victory (and bragging rights) without the child ever knowing the truth. It's the perfect blend of practical advice, vulnerable sharing, and the kind of humor that can only come from parents in the trenches together.
Whether you're a parent seeking solidarity or simply curious about the realities of raising kids today, this episode offers a refreshingly honest window into modern fatherhood. Subscribe now and join our growing community of real dads navigating life's greatest adventure.
Beating your kids at sports might just be one of the most satisfying feelings in parenting. From swatting away basketball shots to dominating at board games, our hosts share those sweet moments of victory that won't last forever—so enjoy them while you can!
This episode takes a deep dive into the daily struggles parents face, particularly when children resist activities we know are good for them. Dave recounts his epic battle getting his seven-year-old daughter back to swimming lessons after a break, sharing both the frustrations and the creative solutions (including fish tank bribery!) that finally got her back in the water. It's a perfect example of how modern parents navigate the balance between gentle encouragement and firm boundaries.
We explore the fascinating world of modern parenting challenges, from managing screen time for a gaming-obsessed 12-year-old to responding when your child declares "you're a bad parent" because you won't let them attend a birthday after-party. The hosts discuss those triggering moments when our children push our buttons, reflecting on how our own childhood experiences shape our parenting approaches today. As one dad notes, "I am the parent that I wanted my parents to be," highlighting the generational healing many of us attempt through our parenting.
The conversation turns to sports and family traditions, with dads sharing their hopes for connecting with their children through athletics. Whether it's watching playoff hockey together, teaching kids to play baseball, or celebrating when your three-year-old finally makes a basket on the trampoline hoop, these moments of connection matter deeply. Even when your child decides to cheer for your team's bitter rivals just to be contrary (as one host's son does), there's joy in sharing these experiences together.
Listen now for authentic, unfiltered conversations about fatherhood that will make you laugh, reflect, and feel less alone in your parenting journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to join our community of real dads navigating the challenges and joys of raising the next generation!
When should we tell our kids to "toughen up" and when should we let them fully express their emotions? Four dads navigate this challenging parenting terrain with honesty, humor, and surprising personal revelations.
The conversation begins with reflections on how differently children respond to physical play, with one dad admitting he wrestles more with his son than his daughter because she tends to get emotional more quickly. This leads to a thoughtful exploration of modern masculinity – how do we raise emotionally balanced boys who can still embrace traditional strengths? The group ponders whether "toughening up" is ever appropriate, concluding there's a healthy middle ground between dismissing emotions and teaching resilience.
In a moment that perfectly captures the podcast's authentic nature, Brian casually mentions being his high school prom king, leaving the other dads completely floored by this nonchalant revelation of royalty in their midst. The discussion weaves through scrambled egg techniques (apparently a serious matter) before settling into reflections on how children play outside today compared to previous generations.
The conversation takes a more serious turn when exploring political polarization and how it affects families. The dads share their struggles with maintaining relationships across political divides, questioning why voting preferences have become such defining personal characteristics. They conclude with thoughtful perspectives on teaching their children to form independent opinions rather than inheriting political biases, emphasizing that respect and human rights should transcend party lines.
Join us for this raw, unfiltered conversation about the challenges of raising emotionally balanced children in today's complex world. Whether you're wrestling with when to console your kids or navigating family political discussions, you'll find both wisdom and comfort in knowing you're not alone.
When joey's seven-year-old daughter Murphy asked him "What is life?" at bedtime, it sparked a profound journey into how we navigate our children's biggest questions. This thought-provoking episode delves into the challenges of explaining concepts like death, existence, and meaning to young minds still forming their understanding of the world.
Following a family therapy session, joey shares a fascinating approach to helping children with "labyrinth minds" - those who bounce between big questions seeking answers that may not exist. The therapist's brilliant strategy involves "board meetings" where parents and children write down questions, brainstorm possible answers, and use a "thermometer" to find responses that feel right, even when they're not 100% certain. This acceptance that life's biggest questions rarely have definitive answers becomes a valuable lesson for both children and parents.
The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as the hosts reflect on breaking generational cycles in parenting. Growing up in homes where emotions were often suppressed, these dads are consciously creating space for emotional expression and vulnerability with their own children. Joey's newfound comfort in saying "I love you" to his ailing father demonstrates how these shifts in parenting approach can heal across generations.
Of course, no episode would be complete without the hosts' trademark humor. A heated debate about toast preferences (is level four too crunchy?), the drama of the "matching plate era," and the race against time when milk hits cereal all provide comic relief while reinforcing the podcast's authentic approach to fatherhood.
Whether you're wrestling with how to explain mortality to a curious child or just trying to survive breakfast with kids who suddenly care deeply about plate colors, this episode offers both wisdom and solidarity. Because sometimes the most meaningful parenting happens not in having all the answers, but in being willing to explore life's biggest questions together.
What questions are your children asking that leave you searching for the right words? We'd love to hear your experiences in the comments or on social media.
That moment when your tween doesn't want you hovering nearby during basketball with friends anymore - it's a parenting milestone that catches many dads off guard. The guys dive deep into how children's growing independence challenges us emotionally even as we recognize its importance to their development.
From potty training adventures (complete with questionable aim) to first-time babysitting gigs, the dads share candid stories about their kids' journeys toward autonomy. Mark celebrates his 12-year-old son successfully completing a babysitting course and taking responsibility for his siblings, while Dave laments his toddler's determination to pee standing up despite his anatomical challenges.
The conversation turns thoughtful as they explore how today's grandparent relationships differ from their childhoods. Where once grandparents were central figures in daily life, today's connections often feel more scheduled and formalized. They wonder how they'll approach grandparenting themselves someday and hope they'll maintain close bonds with their adult children.
One particularly resonant topic emerges around intentional independence-building: how sending a 7-year-old into a restaurant alone with cash or having kids order their own food creates confidence-building opportunities. The dads acknowledge their own anxieties often hold children back from these formative experiences that develop crucial life skills.
As your kids grow, how do you balance protection with freedom? At what age did you start letting them spread their wings? Join the conversation and share your own parenting journey.
What happens when we stop immediately saying "no" to our kids and instead take a moment to understand the reasoning behind their choices? This episode dives deep into a parenting approach that might revolutionize how your children develop decision-making confidence.
The dads share a revealing story about a snowy day boot selection that sparked an important realization: constantly meeting children with "no" teaches them their decision-making abilities are flawed. This pattern often follows them into adulthood, creating hesitant adults afraid to make wrong choices. By simply asking "Why did you pick those boots?" or "What made you choose that?" we acknowledge our children as thinking beings with legitimate perspectives.
Throughout the conversation, we contrast modern parenting styles with the "blissful ignorance" our parents enjoyed—a time when kids roamed neighborhoods unsupervised and many worries remained unspoken. Today's parents carry information overload and heightened awareness that leads to constant anxiety, something our children sometimes actively resist. One fascinating observation reveals how children intentionally slow down when parents rush, their way of saying "your anxiety isn't my problem."
The episode balances philosophical insights with practical advice on developing patience, repairing communication after heated moments, and understanding the unique parent-child dynamics that develop in every household. We explore how the different strengths between parenting partners can create complementary approaches to childcare routines like bedtime or tooth-brushing.
Whether you're struggling with a defiant toddler or trying to build more respect-based communication with older children, this conversation offers both validation and actionable strategies to shift your approach. Subscribe now and join our growing community of parents navigating the beautiful chaos of raising humans who feel confident in their decisions.
The age-old debate of nature versus nurture takes center stage as we explore Dr. Russell Barkley's fascinating perspective that children arrive in this world with over 400 psychological traits waiting to emerge—traits completely independent of parental influence. This revelation challenges the modern parenting culture that places enormous guilt on parents who believe they must engineer perfect outcomes.
"Your child is not a blank slate on which you get to write," Barkley reminds us. "You are a shepherd. You don't design the sheep." This powerful metaphor resonated deeply with all of us, prompting reflection on how we sometimes push our values onto our children rather than recognizing and nurturing their inherent qualities. We share personal stories of discovering our children's unexpected strengths—like Cooper's natural spatial reasoning abilities that surprised his parents who had worried about his academic development.
The conversation takes a lively turn as we dive into the art of wrestling with our kids. From bedtime roughhousing rituals to bathroom door challenges ("You want to go?" my daughter asks while I'm on the toilet), we explore how physical play creates unique bonds between fathers and children. We laugh about the different "powers" our kids imagine during these wrestling matches and how our partners often approach physical play differently than we do.
Perhaps most touching is our discussion about acknowledgment—that moment when a parent walks through the door after work. Some children rush to greet dad with excitement, while others barely look up from their activities. We consider how our own behaviors might influence these reactions and share a touching story about a family where everyone chants the father's name upon his arrival home.
Whether you're wrestling with your toddler, discovering your child's unique talents, or simply hoping for a warmer welcome when you return from work, this episode offers both practical wisdom and emotional reassurance for the parenting journey. Remember—sometimes the most powerful thing we can do as parents is not to shape our children, but to witness, support, and celebrate who they naturally are.
Parenting doesn’t just change your life—it changes who you are. This week, we break down the biggest ways fatherhood shifts relationships, from communication struggles to learning how to actually support your partner (instead of just thinking you’re helping). We also tackle the challenges of balancing marriage, work, and kids, plus the unexpected ways our wives and children have shaped us. And if you’re planning a wedding while raising kids… good luck, Mark’s got some cautionary tales.
Very Special Guest Mike Holmes Jr. joins the party via shaky satellite uplink and it's Holmes on the Homies of the Dad Den! Birth Stories! Relationship Advice! Being parented by a famous dad! All right here, right now, on The Real Dad Podcast!
We're just regular Dads without super powers; four guys who get colds when it's cold out and don't know the exact words for what the surface around a pool is called, so sometimes it drives us a little nuts when the kids JUST WON'T LISTEN!
The dads wrestle with growing up and growing old: Joey's therapist helps him process grief, Dave's son gets his babysitting certification and Mark struggles with basic vocabulary.
The Dads check in with some podcast heavy-hitters (via Dave's data plan) to discuss growing out of lay-downs, tracking cellphones, and how our boomer parents (tried to) show their love. But does any of it even matter if your Numerology is wrong and your kid is meant to be your sworn enemy?
Brolaw Brother-in-law Ian joins the Dads (minus Mark) to talk kids with unique brains, how growing up has changed, and how to run your family like an all star sales team!
As Winston Churchill once said: "Never give in—never, never, never, never..."
But did he ever have to drag his four year old, kicking and screaming to get a hair cut?
What are you saving up your fatherly experience points for? Are you going to be a Car Dad and learn how make that HEMI purr? How about a BBQ Dad so you can master the fine art of smoking a sausage? Or perhaps, you just want to be able to do a Rubix Cube real good...
Grief comes in many forms, sometimes in anticipation, and almost always when you're not expecting it... So how do wrestle with humanity of our own old Dads while trying to keep the show going for our kids?
Cryptocurrency expert Professor X joins the Dads for a beginner's guide to Bitcoin, the Blockchain, and Kung Fu fighting a thousand Agent Smiths in a torrential downpour, all while looking damn fine in your black trench coat and sunglasses.
How quickly do we want our kids to grow up and what's going to cause it? Booze? Swears? (The fun ones, not the the bad ones)...or maybe even the glittering promise of Youtube stardom? (Don't Forget to Like & Subscribe!)
A Haiku to describe this week's episode:
Screens instead Sports?
Pwning N00bs for Scholarships?
Brent Walker is back!
Dave digs deep and shares a harrowing near death experience while competing in a half marathon and the Editors dig deep and admit they posted the last two episodes out of order. Welcome back Mark! (again). Welp!
Whether it's following in the family trade, high tension gender reveal parties, or life or death martial arts showdowns, are we expecting too much from our kiddos?
Whether it's an overfull plate of celebrity home show appearances (Mark), or an earth-shattering meltdown at a post-apocalyptic Swiss Chalet (Dave), the stresses on your parenting mental health are a complicated caboodle.
So how do you divvy up the Parenting Mental Load? You know you can't do it alone, and for many of you there's someone sitting just sitting two pillows down the couch, but just how much are you willing to share?
Those darn kids with their stocked snack drawers, fancy dance classes, and name brand cereal!
They've got it all, why can't they step up the the plate and JUST DO IT (TM) ?
Well wait, maybe it's not just platitudes, maybe it's our own bad attitudes? Perhaps we've gotta look in the mirror, go easy on our Dad Bods, and show a little of our own Dad Gratitude!?
Mark and his Chaotic Good energy are off this week, so the remaining Dad's have an intimate chat about A+ Coaching, Making Friends as Adults, and The Big Man Upstairs.
Are you feeling like you're pushing a mountain up a mountain? Having a hard time "choosing happiness"? Struggling to go from nervous to nervous-cited? Well, don't let the title fool you, it's time to try out the magic C-Word...COMMUNICATION, with the Real Dads!
"Professor" Brent Walker is back to talk Dress Codes, Compliment Sandwiches, and starting Forest Fires with your buddies!
Mama Mia! It's a big, sloppy Spaghetti Dinner on this episode of The RDP: An amuse-bouche of wedding shenanigans, a salad course of Mid-Thirties Athletic Recovery, Forkfuls of Road Trip advice, and finally Weird Erections for dessert!
Being a Dad can be tough, whether you're high stakes camping with Grandma, dealing with a "Dexter phase", or your kid swipes bike-riding bragging rights from under your nose. But it's all going to be okay. Probably!
Mark's back from his sabbatical, so the dads can finally talk about what's on ALL our minds: Brian's Vasectomy! Plus: The Olympics, Breakfast Cereal, and the tricky definition of the word "gaping".
Special guest dad Ian Campbell sits in for Mark for a wide ranging chat of fears, thrills, phones, and... fungus?
The Dads do their best Siskel & Ebert Impressions and review Eminem's new album "The Death of Slim Shady" and Pixar's latest offering "Inside Out 2", then discuss what effect Shady's loathsome lyricism might have on a kid, and what effect Inside Out 2 had on Mark. SPOILER: He Cried!
Vasectomies, Organized Sports, and tips for becoming a Confident Conversationalist! All things that take BALLS, this week on The Real Dad Podcast!
The Dads are (finally) joined by Jordan Hayes to ponder the age old questions: How much info is too much info? How much info is not enough? And how do we have tough conversations when we're still chewing on the topics ourselves?
The Dads discuss safety on the job site & safety on the home front, all the while graced by the wit and wisdom of Jeff Gill, Operations Manager for The Kawartha Home Hardware Group of Stores, our new sponsors!
SEX! Just in time for Father's Day, it's The Sex Episode! Sex before marriage! Sex after kids! Sex in the morning and in the afternoon! Then the guys teach Mark how to cook dinner.
Stuck in a Sand Trap when it comes to your family's mental health? The Real Dads tee up some Real Talk with Peter Bloemendal, Director of Clinical Services with the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Why did you want to become a dad? Was it to build a loving and open family? Improve on your own Dad’s Dadding? Or perhaps you wanted to start your own country of tiny minions on a tropical island...
All I want for Mother’s Day is to not have to make a decision.
So what do you feel like eating?
Nope, not that, or that, or that. I don’t know, just not your long list of options.
😏
Welcome to our 100th episode. There’s nothing special planned for this episode, which is pretty fitting because we don’t do much planning ahead. Maybe that’s because we don’t have the bandwidth for it currently, or maybe it’s intentional because we always find we have the best conversations when we simply hop into the booth and start talking about what’s going on in our lives. Raw and authentic.
Thanks for being here. Whatever your reason is, we hope you feel like this is an investment in yourself and your relationships as much as we do. At the very least, Mark’s gonna make you laugh.
Love you
I don’t think we need to comment on the first 15 minutes do we?
How to you handle the struggle? Do you try to enjoy the process even when it’s really hard? Is loving the process a real thing?
Mark’s back! And we couldn’t be more happy. The longing for this man was out of control. Mark has changed though. Join us to hear about how he’s transforming into full MAN, and what makes each of us really feel like a Dad.
If you’re someone who goes to work everyday, then each day you are saying goodbye to your kids. Do you make an effort to make sure that goes a certain way? If it doesn’t go well, how does that affect you or how do you think it affects your kids?
It is our great honour to welcome Dave’s brother Luke into the studio. The very first Patreon. The man who felt bad for us and bought us comfy chairs for the booth. The man with a big heart and a ton of knowledge. Welcome to the show Lukey!
We tried our best to get together this week, but life is real busy right now so we decided to mix it up. We won't know what each of us talked about until this episode airs. Here's hoping it doesn't suck!
Final stop in Vegas! That’s right, we’re still here! Well, the podcast is anyway, and last but absolutely not least we had Kevin Choquette from @ravinbuilders stop by for a chat. We were so pleasantly surprised with the conversations we had in the middle of a busy home show and our time with Kevin was no exception. The connection was instant and we had an incredibly vulnerable conversation that was (unfortunately) mostly not recorded. We will have him back on the pod soon for redemption. Thanks again Kevin.
Sometimes things are relatively smooth and easy and you feel really connected to your kids. Other times we go through stretches where we just find them annoying. They’re changing, you miss the old version of them you got along with so well, and there’s certain things about the new version we’re just not jiving with. Probably the same way they feel about us!
We really appreciated our visit with Shawn. He stopped by our booth to chat a little bit about what family life looks like for him. Shawn is determined to give construction businesses the tools to become successful in the trade. We will definitely be chatting with him again to learn more on the business side, but we also hear he has a pretty good vasectomy story for us. Stay tuned
Back at it in Vegas with Jason Russell, aka Dr.Decks! Taking a break from talking business and diving a little bit into his journey and his experience as a father.
Nick Schiffer and Tyler Grace from the Modern Crafstman Podcast join us in the Regal Ideas booth! Always interesting hearing different perspectives from people in fairly similar life stages, and careers. These dudes are gems and we’re so grateful to them for taking the time to sit down with us. Enjoy!
This is a first for this podcast crew! The Real Dad Podcast took flight and landed in Vegas for the International Builders Show. We teamed up with THE Regal Ideas at their booth to record some live episodes with some incredible guests during the show. Stay tuned!
Listen, if you want your kids to believe in fun, imagination strengthening things, you lie to your kids dang it! Santa, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, the ridiculous Elf on the Shelf; you name it. But definitely be ready to explain yourself when they want to know why you did it.
Another friend of the show joins us in studio to talk about dad life and more. Oh and hey! He helped us design our logo for the merch we had made and I'm sure we'll get around to distributing some day.... hopefully.
Sometimes we’re just mentally and physically exhausted and we just know we don’t have it in us. A bad dad moment turns into bad dad mode and we fully check out. Hopefully it doesn’t happen often, but it does happen, and you’re still not a bad dad.
We’ve had some of our buddies on the podcast to join our conversations, but we thought it would be fun to have someone we only know through the show to join us as well. If you would like to go through the rigorous interview process for your chance to join us, slide into our DMs
What is “Gentle Parenting” anyway? And what is your emotional response to the term? We discuss what it means to us.
Special Note: We are not Gentle Parenting experts, nor do we believe the words “parenting” and “expert” should ever be used together.
This is one of our first quick-fire episodes. It might not be that quick, but it’s definitely fire. Happy New Year!
That's a wrap folks! Just on the year, not on us. We are still very much here, and coming at you, but just like a lot of firsts pregnancies, this baby's late. So here it is! Our year in Review.
As parents of young children, dealing with volatile emotions is basically an every day occurance,. Every now and then though, and hopefully less than our children, it’s OUR emotions that come bursting at the seams. Sometimes it’s anger, sometimes it’s overwhelming joy, and sometimes… sometimes it’s just a good ol’ uncontrollable cry.
Prioritize getting away. Whether it’s just you and your partner, with the kids, or even with the whole family, parents included. Just do it. At the very least you’ll have some great stories to tell.
You know when you get caught in a routine as a parent and it’s not necessarily working for you? Meet Mark
Just two episodes ago we talked about finding our "happy", but when life feels really hard, whether that's in our personal lives or beyond, finding happy isn't even on our radar. We can get caught up in all of the difficulties and it can feel like the only way to find bliss IS in ignorance or denial of our reality.
One place I KNOW you can find your "happy" is on vacation. And always remember, "You can't get pregnant at sea"
You know when you’re driving in silence, but it’s not really silent because your mind is loud in thought?
Dave Kenney everyone!
We are live on location for a very special episode with a very special guest. Mr. Brent Walker, is all set to take on a Regal Ideas Railing install and prove to you all
just how easy it is. As easy as 1…2…3
Continuing our conversation from “Sober October” we discuss how to recognize when something is becoming a crutch, and possibly problematic.
Fear reveals itself in many ways. Things like anxiety, stress, doubt, and worry can all stem from our fear. Sometimes those things lead to us finding comfort or an escape in things like alcohol or food, and it can become unhealthy if not held in check or a willingness to work back through the root of the problem. Dave opens up about how his fear has impacted his life recently.
We’re all just figuring out this parenting thing on the fly, aren’t we? Especially with our firstborn. As they get older and move into new life stages, there’s not always a game-plan for situations that may arise. Have so we navigate that?
From a galaxy far far away, the voice of Q107.,, Fearless Fred, graces us with his presence for.a wonderful chat about all things fatherhood. Welcome to the show! And if you’re a big Star Wars fan, check out his fan fiction podcast called MUD79.
In the second instalment of this series we had the pleasure of chatting with Joey’s brother (Josh) and sister-in-law (Lora) about their parenthood journey and specifically Lora’s lived experience with postpartum depression. We are incredibly grateful for their vulnerability in this episode.
If you’re a parent, you know the feeling. Kids are away for the night, or a couple hours, you look at your partner and say, “Hey, wanna get dinner?” and then you just… get dinner! Without a second thought? As much as we love our kids, there’s a certain type of freedom you enjoy when you get to do the every day type of stuff with a little less responsibility.
Is this it? Are we in crisis? Is this what we were told would happen? Where do we go from here?
Also, Brent Walker, when you’re on the top there’s always gonna be someone coming for your title. Once again, you’re on notice.
If you’re even thinking about having a kid, get a name on a waitlist now!
Finding a daycare provider that checks all the boxes for your families needs is a challenge. Do you go with a home daycare or a centre? Full-time or part-time? Is daycare even an option for your family? There’s a lot of factors at play when it comes to making these decisions.
Join us as we discuss our experiences, and then let’s figure out where we’re going. for ice-cream after!
-Parenting gets real interesting when your kids start to find their voice and call your bluff.
-How do you try to Dad Up or step up for partner after being away from the family for a recharge?
-How do you handle a bad kid drop off at summer camp or school, etc.?
Are you able to shut off the outside world and just play? Play with your kids? We've been told forever that kids grow up too fast, but it's so hard to understand until you're in it. Before long we're not the centre of their world anymore, so enjoy it while it lasts, and don't forget to be a kid again.
Does going to therapy make life harder? Sometimes it feels like it's easier to just keep all that mess locked away somewhere, but in the end we know it's worth it. What are we hoping to gain from therapy? If you haven't been, do you feel like you could benefit from it?
We're trying to coin the term "Dad up!" Being a "Dad" is so much more than the title or the name, it's a verb. It requires so much of you in order to do it well. Sometimes the busyness of it all catches up with us. How do you handle that? And how do how do we better support eachother?
Whoever is in charge of meal planning in your house deserves a vacation. It is so time consuming, challenging, and a lot of the time a pretty thankless part of parenting. How does it work in your house? If you're not the meal planner, maybe do them a favour and do the prep and cooking yourself tonight. If you're a terrible cook, do them a favour and just order in. Take something off their plate, and put some food on it.
We welcome our dear friend Brent Walker back into the booth. Given that Brent is a father and also a teacher, we feel he has a unique perspective on what kids are dealing with today outside of their homes. We always look forward to our conversations with Brent! Join us as we bombard him with a bunch of random questions.
Hear all about Joey and Dave's adventure to Cityline with the kids! And we want to know, what does Father's Day look like in your household? Does dad get "me time" or just want to be close to the family? Catch it all before Joey has to leave!
Why do we have such a hard time being kind to ourselves? Is it easier for you to think of things you don't like about yourself over things you do?
This is our challenge to you, even if it's just for a moment.
Say something nice to you.
Put all our your criticisms aside and be kind to yourself. It's not lame. It's not cheesy. It's important, and we hope it becomes the norm.
The moment you've all been waiting for! Did Mark strike GOLD? And are we now all going into early retirement? Speaking of retirement, we'll need to take care of ourselves to be able to enjoy it, which includes actually going to the doctor every once in a while. So why is it so hard to drag ourselves down there when something isn't right? Is it just us? ChatGPT to the rescue!
Mark is pretty sure he’s stumbled upon our big break, and back at home his daughter is pretty sure it’s his fault she stumbled down the stairs. There’s also the part where we talk about how something you’ve always thought may be a strength of yours, may actually be a weakness in some ways.
Even if you’re completely uninterested, there is no denying there is a certain power in sport. It’s not always good, but when it is, it has an incredibly unique way of bringing people together. Maybe it’s because we’ve all experienced this at one point in our lives or another that we wonder if our kids will have the same chance. What if they don’t like sports? How do we toe the line between encouraging them to try new things, and being okay with them not being interested, especially when you feel it’s something that could be really good for them?
There‘s a whole lot we don’t know a whole lot about, but what we’re in for as parents in a world so heavily influenced by AI seems to have us way in over our heads. With the speed at which the tech is advancing today, it feels impossible to keep up with if you’re not working or heavily invested in that space. Join us as we talk about how this might affect us, our kids, and how we parent through it all.
We can learn a lot about parenting by understanding general human relationship. This means, you don’t need to be a parent to teach us something we may need to learn about how to interact with our kiddos.
Tiffany Pratt is the type of person that changes lives for the better by just being Tiffany. She is infectiously kind hearted and fun. She is someone we respect and admire for her understanding of self and her relationships with others. Join us!
Buckle up cause this episode is all over the place. One things for sure, you’re not going to want to miss hearing about Mark’s trip to Family Services, which is very different than Life Labs.
In a world where it seems like the default tone or reaction has become negative, let's be proactive in spreading kindness. Let's support one another, and rush to encourage and compliment. And definitely don't be creepy
Joey and Dave were able to get away on a big family vacay. Would you put your money on it going as smooth as it could have? or it being such a gong-show that they're asking themselves if they are really meant to be parents after all? Place your bets
They may know bus better than we know ourselves, our editors Aidan and Aaron from Two Blue Shirts Productions join us to chat all things, podcast. From why we started, to making choices about whether or not to have kids, join us in a fun chitty chat with two amazing humans.
Sometimes we don't know how we would feel about a circumstance until it actually happens. If our emotional response to that circumstance catches us off guard, chances are we need to chat about it so we can figure out why and possibly put some boundaries in place. From a parental perspective, sometimes we don't know which situations or scenarios we do and don't feel comfortable putting our kids in, until they're in it.
Sometimes we can get stuck trying to be everything for our kids. Trying to protect them from everything, and limit their exposure to the many forms of negativity they will inevitably face. However, the longer you're a parent the more you are reminded that our kids are influenced by many things and people, and there's only so much we can do to guide them through it. We are just one voice, one influence in their lives.
We all wish it wasn’t the case, but bullying is a part of life. In one way or another, we have had a relationship with it. As our kids grow up and work their way through school we will inevitably be faced with similar situations. We know working through that will be a challenge, but we’re pretty sure the answer is a swift kick in the shins… right?
Something the four of us will never fully understand is pregnancy and giving birth. Nor will we understand everything the postpartum journey entails. Something we can speak to, is what it's like to be the partner and a new parent. Raising children is an incredibly rewarding journey. It's also an incredibly challenging one that will forever teach us. From the feeling of being "Dad" for the first time, to continuously figuring out what the best version of that title looks like for you. Whether you're someone who's about to experience that surreal feeling of leaving the hospital for the first time with your newborn, or listening from a different perspective, we hope you find this conversation beneficial.
What happens to kids every day between 5-8pm? No really, that time hits and next thing you know you're ploppin' down on the couch at 9 o'clock, stretched to the limit, and not quite sure what just happened. This episode is all about sleep. Routines with your kids, your partner(s), and an unexpectedly spicy turn into how you communicate with your partner in the bedroom.
One man, one hair clip, and one man's journey through a life-changing procedure. Was Mark's vasectomy experience as great a story as we all imagined it would be? Tune in to find out.
Is It possible to keep your kids out of trouble? Do you even want them to stay all the way out of trouble? And how do you keep the lines of communication open when they try something you may not recommend?
Sometimes all we need is that “heart feeling” to push us in the right direction. Where to direct our time and energy, and even our finances. Do you wait for the opportunity? Or do you create it?
Tis the season! What are your Christmas traditions? Is it something you celebrate?
In the second half Joey let’s us into his very new therapy journey and what he’s learning right off the hop.
First off this episode starts with a BIG congratulations to Mark and the successful release of his new Children's Book "Princess Peonie". Super proud of this dude. Somewhere along the line we get into the topic of failure. This topic comes up every frequently but this time in regards to what our personal relationship is with the word.
With Movember upon us, we take some time to talk about how we're doing, struggles we may be having, and the things we can do to help get us through difficult seasons in our lives.
October is a big month in the Kenney household. Dave shares his and his wife's tips on how to get through the busy birthday season in one piece... mostly.
Back to find out how Joey made out? If you haven’t been scared away by this point, you’ll really enjoy Part 2.
Let's make this perfectly clear, there's a whole lot of conversation about male genitalia in this episode. The four of us, plus our #1 listener Brent Walker, have reached a point in our lives where the vasectomy conversation has become about as common as talking about the latest devastating Toronto (enter team here) loss. Some have had the procedure already and felt it was extremely important to share their experience so others looking into the procedure will have a better understanding of what they're in for.
Have you had the pleasure of travelling with young children? All we'll say is, think long and hard about how badly you want to go on this trip, and set your expectations real low. One more thing, visit us on instagram, @brolawsrus and tell us who your favourite TV dad is.
How do you and your partner team up as parents? Do your kids change their behaviour depending on which parent is home? Are you the Dad that throws schedule and routine out the window when you're solo parenting, or do you try to step into the role of the Primary caregiver? Can we all just agree that raising kids is hard?
That was quite the summer. Mark has finally
returned to us and has some wisdom to share about his experience.
We didn't enjoy it, but we recorded this episode without our guy Mark. Naturally, this brought up some discussion about the fear of missing out (FOMO) As an adult, is this still a thing for you? Let us know if it's something you struggle with and how you deal with it.
We all get it. We've all been there. How do you handle the cold? And if you have a partner, how has their support for this very difficult time changed if you now have children?
We like to talk a lot about the importance of self talk/personal affirmation. We encourage people to tell themselves that they are "enough", but what do this actually mean? What does being enough mean to you?
We thought it was time to call in an expert to talk about what healthy eating actually looks like. We discuss some common misconceptions about what is healthy, what isn't healthy, and how to figure out what is best for you.
2022 is off to a pretty crazy start for the BroLaws. We collectively avoided Covid for over 2 years, but we were finally hit. Joey takes us through their experience.
It's the truth you want to know, but is it worth the loss of trust from one child to another? How to handle the tattletale, and handle tough/awkward questions from our kids.
Is it possible to find middle ground anymore? We seem to be moving from one polarized issue to the next these days. How do we talk about it?
A fun new tradition has started. Every year we gather for our BroLaws Christmas party with whoever is part of the crew at the time and record an episode during the festivities. The first one was a bit of a gong show. Tune in to see how it all went this year.
NFT's are very new to us, and so is Cryptocurrency. What are they? And does any of it really matter? Or is it only a matter of time before the world is uninhabitable? We'd recommend staying away from Youtube if you don't want to know the answer.
It's a new year! What could be more cliche than starting off the year with a new health plan? Nothing! And who loves a good cliche? We do! Come find out why we're calling it our "health challenge" and how we plan to go about it without becoming yet another cliche.
Let's celebrate our successes, discuss our hardships and have a good laugh as we discuss what we've been through as a company this year and what's to come.
The four of us grew up in a time where sharing how you're feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically wasn't really encouraged to say the least. Here we discuss a little bit about how we were brought up, what we're struggling with, and how we would like to change the conversation going forward
Just having a little fun this episode talking about our love for Golf and pretty much every sport. At some point we steer the conversation to parenting and what we look forward to with our own kids getting into sports.
As the years go by, so much about our lives is changing. Whether it's our bodies, our beliefs, or our relationships, all of these things can change drastically over time through struggle, or simply learning more about the world and ourselves. Learn about how these changes are impacting our lives in this episode.
As our good friend Brent Walker would say, “you gotta take care of the temple”. So, we did it. We put a gym in the shop and the training begins. BrOlympics here we come.
It was the day before Canada Day, and information about Residential Schools in Canada had resurfaced in the weeks prior, so we got together to discuss it all. We are no experts on the subject, but to us, it's important to be honest about what we don't know, talk about what we're learning, and talk about what we think our personal responsibilities are.
In an effort to keep things 100, the guys break down some of the many ways they fall short as parents.
Dave finally gets the boys together to do a Whiskey tasting. Will Dave convince anyone to join the Whiskey train, or will it be all for naught?
If you want to hear how four grown men transition seamlessly between conversations about wiping your butt, tenant/landlord adventures, gender, and being okay with changing your beliefs or perspectives, then grab your popcorn, put on your walking shoes, or get to work and enjoy.
We discuss the right and the wrong ways to prank your family on Aprils Fools day, and how each of us feels about the tools we work with.
We discuss some of our pet peeves in everyday life, and have a conversation about “International Women’s Day” and women in the trades
Michael McDougall joins us for a second time to talking about real estate, brand marketing, personal motivation, and..... grilled cheese with raisins?!
The subject of bullying is something we've all dealt with one way or another over the years. Some have regrets, some have bad memories, and now we try to navigate it all as adults, and with our children.
Like anywhere, expertise in the trades comes from trying new things and figuring out what works best and when to use certain products or methods. The reality is, it can't always be the best of everything. Sacrifices need to be made in order to meet a budget, but what takes the back seat?
Our relationship with our clients is very important to us. We find we end up becoming good friends with most of our clients through the journey of a renovation. Is this how you would run your business?
Diving into a recent opportunity we had to give back to a family of a front line worker, and where we can go with those types of opportunities. We also get into why it’s important to educate ourselves in and celebrate black history month, and how we find a balance between work life, and being a good dad.
Joey and Dave made a pitch to a TV Network! Did they take the bate? Join us to find out, and see how the boys plan to move forward.
Join the boys for a Christmas chat. 75% of the time they talk about Christmas 100% of the time.
Join us as we tap into Bryan's wealth of knowledge in the trades, how he got started in television, and how his family adjusted to Covid isolation in the Bahamas.
The family ties are even stronger in this episode as a 3rd brother-in-law joins the fold. Joey and Dave take a trip down memory lane with Paul and the boys. If you're not at least a little inspired after this episode, it doesn't exist.
There's no hiding the BroLaws love and adoration for THE Tiffany Pratt. An incredible artist/designer/creative and equally incredible human being.
This is a talk about truth, unity, and direction. We want to listen, learn, and take action where it's our place. This is not a one time conversation, but somewhat of a beginning in our journey as a team to create healthy conversation with respect to social injustices.
Chris plugs:
Instagram, Twitter: @thatchrischase
Instagram-@thehouseofcommonshow
Youtube- house of common show
Songs in this episode:
Propaganda-Dope
Propaganda-Cynical
Talib Kweli- Get By
Common-The Believer
Common-The Dreamer
The BroLaws family adds yet another little one to the roster amidst one of the strangest periods of time in our lives. Once we get talking about babies, it's hard to stop, except there's this thing called Covid-19, which we couldn't not talk about...
Creating a positive environment at home and in the workplace is equally as important, but fear can creep in a negatively impact both. Join us in discussing some of our personal experiences. Oh, and somehow we get into finances, because what conversation doesn't end up touching on that?
When your client is also a real estate agent and his team helps you get into the investment property market, the list of things to talk about isn't short. Join us as we hear what Michael McDougall has to say about the real estate industry and what it was like working with the BroLaws.
Are the trades established as a legitimate career? Would you encourage your kids to venture into the trades as much as you would post secondary? Or are trades still maybe even subconsciously considered a "less than" career?
Community is a big part of our lives. We talk about how our desire for community and our competitive nature have impacted our careers.
Do you have a phone addiction? So do we. In this episode we discuss the difficulties of finding quality time with our family in this technology based world, as well as a deep dive into Joey and Dave's journey through the TV world. Let's talk!
We're just four carpenters looking to spread some love. In this episode we touch on how we met and where we are headed.