Brand New Father Podcast

In this episode I share my own struggle with trying to be a good dad and a husband… sometime to a fault and trying to make it perfect. In the end I’ll also leave you with my 3 takeaways how to combat that super dad syndrome. Tune in! Resources: * New Dad FB group: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook * “Keep your sanity as a new dad” video course: BrandNewFather.com/sanity

Shawn Stevenson is the host of The Model Health Show podcast, which is #1 Health podcast on iTunes and also a a bestselling author of “Sleep Smarter” I can’t think of a better person to talk to about new parents and sleep strategies and habits! Here's some of the topics we're getting into: Importance of self-care as a parent How sleep or sleeplessness affects our hormone balance and overall health The myth of everyone needing 7-8 hours of sleep a night (spoiler: it’s not all about the quantity, but also the quality of sleep) What are sleep cycles and the 4 stages of sleep Why having a drink before hitting the hay may be counter-productive Risks of chronic sleep deprivation “Paying back” the sleep debt vs lifestyle strategies to avoid the sleep debt in the first place Using melatonin supplements Napping Resources: - Shawn's The Model Health Show podcast:  - Shawn's "Sleep Smarter" book - Video course "Keep your sanity as a new dad" - New Dad FB group

Happy Fathers Day! I'm not much of a holiday guy - I don't care about Christmas nor my birthdays, but made an exception this Fathers Day to ponder about the lessons learnt this past 6 weeks of being a dad of 2. Biggest takeaway - take time! For yourself, for your baby and for your partner! Tune in!

Today’s guest Mike McCarthy is a family man and a dad of 2, an avid student of both leadership and personal development. He’s also a serial entrepreneur and co-founder and CEO of the GoBundance Adventure Masterminding Group, co-author of the Miracle Morning for Parents and Families, co-creator of GratefulParent.com, and the Regional Owner for the Keller Williams. Although he’s successful in his professional ventures, one of his top priorities is spending time and traveling with his wife, their son and daughter. He also enjoys kayaking, climbing mountains and hiking.. I wanted to bring him on to share his insights on: why and how not to forget about living your own life despite of being a dad how to bring out the best in yourself to be the best dad and the partner the importance of rituals, specifically morning rituals since the way we approach our mornings sets the tone for the rest of our day. and much more! Tune in! *** Resources: - Adventure mastermind group: GoBundance.com - GratefulParent.com - “Keep your sanity as a new dad” video course (50% off): BrandNewFather.com/sanity - Private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

As promised in previous episode, in this episode I’ll share our story from the end of our second pregnancy and impressions from first few weeks of being dad of 2. We thought we had a solid plan for transitioning from having one toddler to becoming a family of four. However, unexpectedly threw a curve ball, as it often times does. Tune in to listen to our birth story and the challenges and lessons learnt from first 2-3 weeks with our baby boy. Resources: * New Dad FB group: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook * “Keep your sanity as a new dad” video course: BrandNewFather.com/sanity * Shownotes for this episode: BrandNewFather.com/Baby-2

Parijat Deshpande is the leading high-risk pregnancy expert who educates and guides women (and couples) on how to manage their stress, anxiety and overall wellness so they can have healthier pregnancies, decrease their risk of preterm birth and give their baby a healthy start to life. I wanted to bring her on mainly because most new dads and moms alike could use some tips and tactics how to reduce stress during pregnancy and early parenthood. Tune in! Here’s what we’ll get into in today’s show: Parijat’s personal story with high-risk pregnancy What is considered a high-risk pregnancy (it’s broader spectrum than you may think) How can dad support his partner throughout pregnancy What kind of support soon-to-be or new mom needs Stress and the effect it has on expecting mom’s health Actionable things dads can do to relieve new mom’s stress Resources: Parijat’s website: ParijatDeshpande.com“Keep your sanity as a new dad” video course: BrandNewFather.com/sanityPrivate FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Jackie Bledsoe is a husband, a dad of 3, an author of “7 Rings of Marriage”, a speaker and regularly holds workshops for couples who want to have more connection and intimacy in their relationship. So, today’s show is all about relationships and about dating your partner – the new mom. Tune in! — NB! Join the private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Andrew Tiu is an expecting dad (at the time of this recording; became a dad 6 days after), a videographer and vlogger. In 2016 Andrew and his wife left their jobs and started a business. Not too soon after that they learned they were expecting their first baby. As you can imagine, they’ve experienced lots of ups and downs. And that’s why I wanted to bring Andrew on the show to share his expectations, dreams, pressures and fears about his looming fatherhood experience. We’re also planning to do a follow-up show in few months to see how the expectations matched the reality. In this episode, Andrew and I are getting into: His expectations for becoming a father His vlog and recording his fatherhood experience Parental leave The pressures and fears of looming parenthood Dealing with stress Work-life balance Choosing your baby gear and baby related gadgets Embracing the unknown So tune in!   — NB! Join the private FB group for new dads!

Dr. Daniel Singley is a dad of two boys, a husband and clinical psychiatrist specializing in men’s perinatal mental health. So, he knows what he’s talking about. In today’s show we once again talk about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, but this time focus on men and dads. The stats say that 1 out of 10 dads experience paternal post partum depression, but then again dads are not best in reaching out for help. So, this number may be even higher. Whether you are struggling as a dad or not, don’t skip this show – it has tons of golden nuggets for all dads to help them take care of their own needs so they can show up for their new family. Here are some of the topics we’ll get into in today’s show: Why becoming dads is more stressful today vs decades ago. Contributing risk factors of paternal PPD Symptoms and signs of male “masked depression” (also how paternal PPD symptoms are different from maternal one) Importance of self-care for new dads Minimizing the risk of experiencing post partum depression Importance of having “deep relationships” – romantic and social One single habit for new parents that can save their relationship What to do if you think you may experience paternal PPD So tune in! Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/102 -- Be sure to join our closed FB group for new dads at: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

In this episode I get to chat with Dr. Shoshana Bennett – a pioneer in the field of maternal post-partum depression (PPD) and other perinatal mood disorders in the US. We’ll be talking about the PPD, prevention and the importance of having a well thought-out wellness plan in place to minimize the risk of PPD. We’ll also cover what’s dads’ role in overcoming the disease. Tune in! -- Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/101 Join the private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

In this episode I get to chat with Ryan Michler of the Order of Man podcast. Ryan is an Iraqi Combat veteran, a husband and a father of 4 young kids (ages 8, 6, 3 and 9 months old). He also runs a podcast and online business which helps men become better men. We’ll be talking about what it means to be a man and a father and taking ownership and responsibility of your new role and your family. Tune in! -- Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/100 Join the private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

In this episode I get to chat with Josiah Novak – a dad to their 2 young boys (ages 2 years and 7 months), a fitness and health expert and the founder of www.TheTrueTransformation.com We’ll be talking about the challenges new dads face when becoming parents and why and how to still take care of our health in times when our resources are limited. -- Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/099 Join the private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Matt is a dad of four with fifth one on the way. He’s the founder of SBG (Straight Blast Gym) – one of the best MMA-style gyms in the world with 50+ locations around the world. He has trained many world-class fighters and coaches. When he first became a dad he was still in his early twenties and chasing his career goals. He wasn’t as available for his family as he wished he had been. Now, almost two decades later he’s made a conscious decision to give his best to be fully present when he’s with his two younger ones. Matt has a unique insights from his own fatherhood experience and his research. He’s been working on a book about violence and has found fatherlessness to be one of the main cause of violence in USA. So, we’ll get into many interesting topics like: Matt’s 2 tips for new dads. The connection between crime rates and youngsters not having a male role model in their lives. Work-life balance and spending quality time with kids. Importance of creating boundaries in your life. Tune in! -- NB! Join the private FB group for new dads! -- P.S. If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it with a fellow soon-to-be or a new dad. That’s the best compliment you can give me and the show!

In this episode I get to chat with Paul Gilbride. Paul is a Certified Professional Coach and helps parents with being their best in todays’ society where we’re constantly fed the urgency to “have it all”. We we’ll be talking about what’s wrong with this attitude and what’s the difference between “work-life balance” and “work-life integration”, how not to get lost in your daily hustle and much more… -- Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/097 Join the private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Today’s guest is Jason MacKenzie. He's a dad of 2 and an author of The Book of Open - How Cultivating Vulnerability Makes You a Stronger, Wiser and More Courageous Father. Among other topics, in today’s episode, we’ll get into how being authentic and vulnerable can help us all have better relationships and elevate our lives in general. If you happen to miss anything during the show, head on to bnfpodcast.com/096 for the shownotes. -- Join the private FB group for new dads!

Anthony is a dad of 3. He's a former Oregon Ducks football player and a former NFL player, he started and ran a 6-figure gym and now is international speaker and a coach. As if all these things wouldn't be outstanding on their own, what makes his story even more inspirational is his background and "origin story". Anthony was given to foster care when he was 3. He bounced around between different families for more than a decade and often times was abused before he was finally adopted at the age of 14. Tune in to hear the rest of the story and the lessons learned! In addition to that, in today’s show, we’ll get into: Importance of our actions match our words when we're balancing work and personal life. Importance to set boundaries in your life to enjoy family life. Why relationships aren't about 50/50 balance, but more of a 100% commitment from both parties. Importance of communication and the ability to receive feedback when it comes to close relationships. In order to experience fulfillment in any area of your life we need to get intentional (vs coasting on auto-pilot). Anthony and his story are truly inspirational no matter your own situation. So tune in! -- NB! Join the private FB group for new dads!

Now that the elections in US are over, there’s so much fear, hate and panic that’s constantly sold on us. There’s just so much complaining and too little action. We, men and dads, still need get back to work – to provide for our families and to become better selves and show up as men, partners, dads and leaders of our families and of our communities. Instead, of complaining, we need to take action and in this episode I’ll share 3 simple steps we all can take to regain control in this crazy situation or environment. Tune in! -- If you haven’t yet, join our private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Today I share 3 tips on how not to burn out as a new dad. This is a segment of my webinar with Larry Hagner of the Good Dad Project where we talked about taking care of yourself and investing in yourself as a new dad. Investing time, effort, energy and sometimes money so we could show up as better men, better dads and partners. Tune in! -- Join our private Facebook Group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Let’s talk about the triggers that cause us to lose our patience or our temper and three ideas that have worked for me to combat that. I’ve said it before, and it is still true, at least in my case – parenting is an ultimate test of emotional resilience. Crying babies, little conflicts between spouses, diaper blowouts at most inconvenient times, sleep issues, etc. - it’s not always easy to remain cool, calm and collected. Then again, I’ve learned that when we lose our tempers, in reality it’s rarely about the given moment. Often times it’s just the last straw that broke the camel’s back. The real culprits are more likely our overall stress-levels, or the feelings that you don’t get enough credit or the chronic sleeplessness that cause us to operate at sub-optimal levels… It’s completely normal to feel out of control at times – hey, welcome to parenthood. But it’s not OK to act out of anger or frustration. That undermines our relationships and the connection we have with our closest ones. Just try to be as conscious as you can about the triggers that often times get you, take care of your own physical and mental well-being, so you wouldn’t burn out and take care of your close relationships. And you should be able to keep your cool most of the time. Tune in! -- If you haven’t yet, join our private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook

Kevin is a dad to two young girls, so he’s in the trenches of parenthood every single day. He’s also a founder of RevolutionaryParent.com and he has over 15 years of teaching experience with all ages from the days he was martial arts instructor in Atlanta metro area. Tune in! In today’s show, we’ll get into: Healthy parent-child relationship Forming the relationship with the baby: starts with your attitude and mindset towards the baby talk to your baby have respect for the baby (with bunch of real-life examples) Forming you parenting style and having a set of principles Kevin’s Authentic Parenting 5 pillars Tips for dealing with impatience Connect with Kevin: Website: (revolutionaryparent.com/) FB group: (facebook.com/groups/rebootyourkids/) -- NB! Join the private FB group for new dads! -- Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/091 -- P.S. If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it with a fellow soon-to-be or a new dad. That’s the best compliment you can give me and the show!

In today’s show I talk about something that a lot of dads new and more seasoned wrestle with… and that’s time… or not having enough of it. I’ve been a dad for 21 months by now, I’ve blogged about fatherhood for almost 2 years and I’ve been a podcaster (if that’s a word) about 10 months by now; I’ve also been quite active in several FB groups for new dads and just recently hosted couple of webinars for new dads as well. And there are couple of topics that keep coming up over and over again with new dads and one of them is time and the lack of time once you become a parent. And that’s what we’ll get into in today’s episode. Also, stick around until the end to get 2 tips how to deal with this issue. -- If you haven’t yet, join our private FB group for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/Facebook -- other resources mentioned: episode 089 with Jorgen Matsi

Jorgen is a dad of 2 little girls (ages 3 and 1 year old). He’s also a psychologist and former lecturer in sports psychology. He runs a local MMA gym and has fought on amateur and on pro level. If this isn’t enough – on top of all of this, he’s a stay-at-home dad to their 2 girls. In today’s show we’ll talk about Jorgen’s own personal experience and get some professional advice as well. Some of the topics we’ll get into: The joys and struggles of staying home and being the primary care-giver (including what the working parent may not see) How becoming a parent takes away a lot of your “me time” and “couples time” Being open with your partner when it comes to our emotions and expectation Taking time for your partner on regular basis. E.g. 15 minutes every night Being aware of your own state and the state of your various resources (physical, emotional, mental) Becoming a parenting team and the sense that you’re in this together Having a mutual agreement and a way to deal with conflict and challenging situations Identifying the key habits in your lifestyle that bring you great returns This is truly value packed episode, so tune right in! *** Shownotes at: bnfpodcast.com/089 *** Learn more about upcoming webinar for new dads: bnfpodcast.com/webinar

Scott is a dad to Brian is a dad to 3 kids and he’s also a founder of CreateAFamilyVision.com. He’s been married to his wife, Ashley, for 18 years – so he has some experience ;) In today’s show, we’ll get into: The one thing he wishes he’d done less of when he was younger dad. The one thing he wished he’d more of. How we, parents, magnify our kids’ habits. The family vision story: What it is? Why it’s worth to create it – aka what’s in it for you? Best time start working on your family vision and the second best time ;) How to create one? Best questions to start with. This is truly value packed episode, so tune right in! Resources mentioned: The Business on Purpose Podcast Connect with Scott Website (CreateAFamilyVision.com) -- Learn more about upcoming webinar for new dads: BrandNewFather.com/webinar -- Shownotes at bnfpodcast.com/088

Brian is a dad to 2 girls and he is no stranger to this world of babies and parenting. Among many roles, he’s a doula, lactation expert and birth mentor. Professionally, Brian has worked with 19’000+ expectant families, and currently teaches the popular Dad’s childbirth class “Rocking Dads”, he’s a co-host of Rocking Dads Revolution Podcast and a big advocate of dads being involved from early on! Today’s episode is packed with lot of energy (mostly from Brian’s part :)), and a lot of actionable advice for expecting dads and new dads alike. Some of the topics we’ll get into: Brian’s story – how he became a birth assistant. Tips for labor Dads’ roles in the “fourth trimester”, including top notch advice for first few weeks! Importance of forming the family’s “corporate culture” already before the baby comes along. Importance of dads getting involved early on. Importance of reaching out for help (if in need). How new generation of dads is stepping up much more than the dads of previous generations. Common fears dads have about birth and early fatherhood. The transformation he sees in dads after going through his class. To sum it up – if you’re still expecting or you have a small bundle of joy who recently joined your family – this episode is a must-listen! P.S. In the end you’ll hear Brian making a bold promise ;) Tune in!   To connect with Brian check out the shownotes at: BrandNewFather.com/087   *** Don't forget to check out the New Dad Course, that's coming up and join the waiting list: www.bnfcourse.com

Gabriel Sanders is a dad of 2 young girls, he’s also a recordist for film and television, a yoga instructor, a personal trainer, an artist, a writer and a photographer and on top of all of this he’s the founder of New Dads Place on Facebook and the author of 101 New Dad Tips. Today, we got into: Their daughters’ birth stories Why he created the private Facebook group for new dads and what it’s about Most common concerns he sees new dads having How the expectations for dads have changed over time Importance of being an informed dad and a partner Connect with Gabriel: New Dads Place Facebook group New Dads Place Facebook page Gabriel’s book 101 New Dad Tips -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/086 Info about New Dad online program and the webinars/workshops: bnfcourse.com

In this week’s episode I’m sharing two of my biggest challenges as a man, partner and dad. Checkout the shownotes at: brandnewfather.com/085 Learn more about the online program for new dads at: bnfcourse.com

Anthony Hayes is a dad to a little 2½ year old daughter. Anthony shares his fatherhood story and his battle with clinical depression that he’s been fighting for the past decade. His story is inspiring because often times it’s hard to put things in your life perspective. We tend to take a lot of things granted that we shouldn’t. And Anthony brings a lot of mindfulness to the show. Among all the other topics, in today’s episode we’ll get into: Writing and journaling as a therapeutic experience. It’s a too. To sort out your own emotions (especially when having a rough time). Importance of taking time for your family and making memories vs just being there. Creating a “daddy-time” routines to bond with your baby. Importance of connecting with other dads and creating this supporting community around you. His fight with clinical depression and his tips on how to keep excessive stress at bay. Connect with Anthony Website (memyselfandiradio.com) -- New Dads’ Course: www.BrandNewFather.com/course (live from Sunday, Aug 14th) -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/084

Maria is a mom, a Certified Registered Nurse on a busy Labor & Delivery floor as well as a Free-Standing Birth Center, and a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE) and a President of Lamaze International. Lamaze education and practices are based on the best, most current medical evidence available. Their goal is to provide expectant parents with the support and information needed to have the best pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting. In today’s chat with Maria, we’re getting into: Lamaze’s 6 core principles for preparing for childbirth. Dads’ roles in early childhood. Importance of self-care for both parents. Why a lot of dads feel insecure around their newborns and how moms can help them. How to manage the changing dynamics in close relationship with new mom. Tips on how to deal with conflicts (they will come up, trust me). Taking care of new mom. Tune in to today’s episode! Connect with Maria and Lamaze International: Website (Lamaze.org) Professional website (lamazeinternational.org) -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/083

Ron is a father of three amazing kids and husband to an amazing woman, Kristy. When they adopted their little girl they soon discovered that she has special needs. It took him time to own his new reality, but eventually he did. He believes that some of life's greatest accomplishments can only be achieved from pushing through obstacles and barriers. It's life's challenging moments that shape our character and define who we are; a lesson he learned from adopting their little girl. Ron emphasizes the importance of planning and states that without a plan, we spend our lives drifting from one comfort to the next, avoiding the very obstacles that can grow us into our full potential. In addition to that we talked about: How his life changed when he first became a dad. Their family’s adoption story. Lessons he learned from his experience and from his little girl. How to deal with challenges and challenging times in parenthood. Changes in his priorities from money/career to relationships in his life. Ron’s story is very inspirational to all dads – new and more seasoned fathers alike! So, tune in! Connect with Ron: Email (rlgeerjr@gmail.com) -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/082

Jim is a dad to 4 kids ranging from almost 3 years old to 10 years old. He was a Division I All-American wrestler in college, won 3 ACC Championships for the University of Virginia and was an Olympic hopeful and trained at the Olympic Training Centre. So, he’s learned a lot of life lessons on wrestling mat. He believes that failure is not a bad thing at all. In fact he teaches his own kids about failure (check his TEDx talk below). Jim’s also the host of the Wrestling with Success podcast where he relates the powerful lessons of failure and setback and empowers his audience to overcome their own struggles and achieve success despite inevitable failures. In today’s episode we’ll get into: Jim’s own fatherhood journey Reverse engineering his athletic success and using the same principles to elevate his whole life (incl. fatherhood experience) Importance of having a peer group of other dads (mastermind group) in order to become a better parent oneself. Importance of “productive pause” – taking time off for oneself to reflect. Jim’s goals for this summer to improve his relationship with his wife. My impromptu promise for my own relationship. So, today’s show is packed with actionable advice and insights! Tune in! Connect with Jim: Website (JimHarshawJr.com) Twitter (@jimharshaw) Facebook (/JimHarshawJr) Instagram (@JimHarshawJr) Jim’s TEDx talk: Why I teach my kids to fail   To access Jim’s free gift/offer, head on to: Jimharshawjr.com/dads -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/081

Tom Schwab is a proud father of 4 ranging from 16 to 28 years old. He’s also a fairly new grand-dad. He brings on an awesome mix of his own experience mixed with insights that he sees now in his son-in-law. Among many other topics, here’s some of my favorite ones that we get into in today’s show: The mistake he made as a new dad and how the same thing plays out with his son-in-law Importance of setting boundaries with extended family and grandparents. His biggest fear before becoming a new dad – not being enough. And how to overcome it. Importance of having a sense of humor and surrounding yourself with other awesome/involved dads. Challenges of being away (deployed) for long stretches of time and how to overcome these. Setting priorities – there are certain things you can ONLY do in certain stages of life. Being a new dad and involved is one of them. Tune in and enjoy the show! Connect with Tom: LinkedIn (/in/thomasmschwab) Facebook (/ThomasSchwab) -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/080 JOIN BRAND NEW FATHER SUPPORT GROUP on Facebook

Dr. Phil Carson has been married for 30 years and has 5 happy and healthy children. Dr. Phil is a pharmacist and president of Carson Natural Health. He thinks outside the box of traditional medicine and committed to leading people to finding the root cause of their health problems and not just treating the symptoms. He’s also passionate about encouraging and teaching people how to live more balanced, healthier and vibrant lives. Among many other topics, he talks a lot about stress and its effects on our body and soul, so today we’ll focus mostly on that: signs of excessive stress as new parents, potential lifestyle changes to deal with that stress better, one hidden contributor to post-partum depression that usually isn’t talked about much. Whether you struggle with new parenthood and stress quite a bit or not, today’s episode also provides tips on how to keep that stress at bay. Tune in! Connect with Dr. Phil Carson: Website (carsonnatural.com/) To access Dr. Phil’s gift (coming soon), head on to: www.carsonnatural.com/BrandNewDad -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/079

Dave is dad to 3 kids ranging from 2 to 16 year old. He’s an active duty military guy for US Navy. And he missed out on a lot of the early years with the first child and he realized that military life is quite tough to fit in with the family. One thing lead to another and September 1st 2016 is a day he retires from service and becomes full-time online entrepreneur and a dad. In addition to his personal journey we’ll go deep into: Redefining what success means to you and how they did this as a family. Getting on the same page with your partner. Importance of rules and boundaries to protect family time from work and vice versa. (At the same time not being overly rigid with these rules.) His “key” to staying connected with your partner when becoming parents. Tune in! Connect with Dave: Website (Kindlepreneur.com) JOIN BRAND NEW FATHER SUPPORT GROUP on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bnfsupport/ Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/078

Aaron is a a dad to 2 grown daughters and a grand-dad to 5 grandkids. He’s a true family man and also a successful business man. He’s been in mastermind group with Dave Ramsey, Dan Miller and other successful Nashvillians for almost 2 decades. Because of his own success, Aaron encourages everyone to gather an accountability group around them to excel in business and in life. He also runs personal accountability groups and mentors other men to lead significant and successful lives. In addition to the importance of accountability groups, we’re talking about: His story of finding financial success but still becoming depressed. Reviewing one’s priorities and not taking family for granted. Having success and significance – being successful, but not at the expense of one’s family life. Setting boundaries in one’s life to be more in present and connected with the family. Tune in to today’s episode! Connect with Aaron: Website (ViewFromTheTop.com) Twitter (@VFTCoach) To access Aaron’s gift, head on to: www.ViewFromTheTop.com/NewFather -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/077

Eric Davis is a dad of 4, ranging from 9 to 23 years old. Eric’s a former Navy SEAL sniper instructor and an author of “Raising Men - What we learned in SEAL training and taught to our sons” He has taken the proven performance principles leveraged by elite units and repurposed them for entrepreneurs, business leaders and parents since 2008. He’s a founder of ericdavis215.com – an online resource focused on delivering the situational awareness, transparency and knowledge people require to live a good life and lead others to do the same. In addition to lessons from Navy SEAL program, we’re talking about: How no one’s born a dad. Importance of personal development, being in training and becoming a better self so we could lead other do the same. How most of us know exactly what to do, but get stuck on the “how to”. Instead of chasing a life balance, why we should just identify what matters most, assess and prioritize and put these in our daily schedules. Common flaws in today’s idea of masculinity. What I love most about today’s episode is that Eric takes his job as a parent as seriously as he took his job as a Navy SEAL. It’s something we should all do – be more conscious in our decisions and actions as men and as dads. Tune in! Shownotes for this episode: BrandNewFather.com/076   Connect with Eric: Website (EricDavis215.com) Facebook (/ericcharlesdavis215/) Twitter (@EricDavis215)

Matt is a dad to 2 boys and he’s been a stay-home-dad for about 10 years. He’s also a co-founder of City Dads Group, a dynamic and diverse community of nearly 6,000 fathers in 23 cities across the United States. Matt works with reporters, brands, and entertainment outlets to encourage more accurate and positive portrayals of fathers and fatherhood in media and advertising. He also hosts the Modern Dads Podcast, a bi-weekly show featuring authors, journalists, and top parenting experts. In today’s episode we’re talking about: His journey to becoming and being a dad he wants to be. How becoming a dad was a bigger life change for him than getting married. What’s it like to be a stay-home-dad. Tips on how to stay connected with your partner during the first year of parenting. City Dads Groups and the importance of having a peer group of other dads. Changing roles of today’s dads. New Dad Boot Camps that help and encourage dads to get involved early on. Tune in! -- Check out CityDadsGroup.com to see if there’s a group near you. And listen to the Modern Dads Podcast. Shownotes: www.BrandNewFather.com/075

In this episode I share couple of takeaways from the book: “Tears and Tantrums – What to Do When Babies and Children Cry” (by Alehta Jauch Solter. It makes a case for crying and throwing tantrums is completely normal part of childhood and us as parents should accept it and learn how to deal with it properly. Apparently, crying serves as a vitally important stress-release mechanism and by letting infants release tension we’re actually helping them. Tune in for the benefits of following that concept and some actionable tips on what to do when you’re dealing with a crying baby.   Show-notes page (for all the links and cliff notes) at: BrandNewFather.com/074. Rate and review the show on iTunes

Charlie is a dad to a 2½ year old little girl and they’re expecting another special delivery in the end of this summer. Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman is a professional mixed martial arts fighter in UFC, a speaker, a mentor and an author. In 2011, he was ranked as high as #7 in the world, and in 2015, he published his autobiography, Driven: My Unlikely Journey from Classroom to Cage. In today’s episode we’re talking about: What it’s like to be a dad to a little girl when having this “tough guy” image. Strategies he’s used to balance pro fighter career and the role of a husband and a dad. Ideas to remain close with the partner in the turbulent times. Accepting the reality when it gets overwhelming. Tune in! -- Connect with Charlie: For more information on his programs and to subscribe to his blog, check out www.charlie-brenneman.com. Check it out! It’s awesome :) P.S. If you enjoyed today’s show, please share it with a fellow soon-to-be or a new dad. That’s the best compliment you can give me and the show! Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/073

Although I believe that our relationship is as fulfilling as it has ever been… I’d be lying if said that it’s perfect or heavenly bliss all the time. In fact we still struggle with our communication at times, we still miss each other’s points and at times it seems that we’re listening but we don’t hear the other person. And when that happens, we end up hurt, we take it personally and we try our best to put it behind us, but every now and then it takes a lot of effort. Tune in to get my thoughts on our common conflicts sources and couple of tips I’ve learned from them. Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/072 Rate and review the show on iTunes

Mike Granek is a dad to 3 kids – 8 and 5 year olds and to a 1 year old baby. He’s also a successful entrepreneur and an award winning event producer with two decades of experience in the special events and entertainment industries as well as in business. After owning his own businesses, working a stressful corporate job and being laid off, Mike decided to shift focus to spend more time with his family and learn to be the best dad he can be. Among other topics in today’s episode Mike and I are talking about: Dealing with serious sleeplessness and navigating everyday life when sleep deprived. Accepting the reality when things don’t go as planned, and communicating with partner and using teamwork during tough times. The importance of social support for (new) parents. Putting your life in perspective as parents. You can hear Mike’s positive attitude throughout the whole interview when he talks about the unexpected challenges they have faced as parents. This is a true lesson of importance of having a sense of humor when faced with adversity! Tune in! Connect with Mike at www.TopDaddies.com Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/071 Rate and review the show at bnfpodcast.com

The Emotional Bank Account concept was first introduced by Stephen Covey in the book “7 Habits of highly effective people”. Basically it’s a metaphor used to describe the amount of trust that’s built up in a relationship. It’s the feeling of safety that you have with another human being. It means that we maintain a personal “emotional” bank account with anyone with whom we have a relationship with - our coworkers, friends or family. And just as with any bank account, we can make deposits and withdrawals with our actions and intentions. The currency just happens to be trust, fondness and confidence in the other person. Tune in to listen how this concept applies to new parents and why it’s especially crucial in this transition to parenthood! Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/070 Rate and review the show on iTunes

Larry Hagner is a dad to 4 young boys – 10, 8, and 3 years old & a 3 months old baby. In today’s episode we’re talking about: Larry’s own childhood and how this influenced his own fatherhood experience. Also, how having toxic father figure in your life can be as devastating as having no dad at all. Common belief or expectation of dads that we should automatically know how to be a good dad and how this unrealistic expectation can lead to desperation. Larry’s biggest challenges as a dad (patience, work-life balance and setting boundaries) and how he’s dealt with them. How our inner dialogue/self-talk affects our life (including our parenting). Tune in! -- Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/069 -- Connect with Larry: Website:  www.gooddadproject.com Twitter (@GoodDadProjct) Facebook (/TheGoodDadProject/) Instagram (@good_dad_project) Resources: Larry’s New Book: "The Dad’s Edge" Check out a free chapter from: THE DAD’S EDGE on UNLIMITED PATIENCE  

Being a dad, and an involved one, is a wonderful opportunity – I love to be available and be part of our little one’s giggles and even tears. But it’s not always easy to find where you fit in. When it comes to parenting, most things don’t come naturally to men. We have to work for it and it’s not always easy. Trying to figure out your own parenting style is challenging enough let alone becoming an effective parenting team with your partner. Tune it to hear my experience and tips! Rate and review the show on iTunes

Brendan is a dad to 2 young boys – 3 years and 3 months old. He’s also a full-time teacher and runs couple of side businesses. He’s most passionate about his family and teaching other dads to build side businesses to get a bit more leverage in their life, whether that means just more money for their family or eventual freedom from their job to spend more time with their kids. In today’s episode we’re talking about: finding time and also learning about using the time that we already have wisely, the importance of communication in (co-)parenting, investing time to learn about being a dad. Treating it as the most important role in your life like it should be. His biggest fear as a dad And many other topics… Tune in! Connect with Brendan: Snapchat (Brendan Hufford) Twitter (@BrendanHufford) Facebook group (/groups/HustleHeart/) Website (HustleHeart.co) Shownotes at BrandNewFather.com/067

Dad’s bucket list is a list of things I want to experience with my family and with my baby-girl before she leaves home. So it’s not really a bucket list in its truest form, but let’s not make things overly complicated :) Six thousand and six hundred and thirty one days – that’s how many days I have before our daughter’s supposed to graduate high school. That may seem like an eternity and may not instill any sense of urgency. Then again, in a month it’s already down to 6500s and in a year and a half already 5999. It’s scary to see the hundreds and thousands change… and that’s what makes me appreciate the time I have with her, because it is limited and who knows how long until my time here is up. Bucket list or not, I want to encourage you too to be more actively involved in your kids’ lives. Tune in to listen to what’s on my “Dad’s bucket list”! Rate and review the podcast here: bnfpodcast.com iPhone app “Countdown Star” iPhone app “Countdown!!”

James Tew is an Australian dad to 4 young girls ranging from almost 8 months to 9 years old. He served over 7 years in the Australian Navy while also being a husband and a new dad. Recently he secured a scholarship to go to University. So, in addition to studying, he’s now also a stay-at-home dad. In today’s episode, we’re talking a lot about his emotions and fears prior to him having his first girl. We’ll also talk about how he has managed being away from his family for months at a time when he’s been deployed and how he has transitioned from being in the Navy and deployed a lot to being basically stay-at-home dad. Connect with James: Twitter (@james_tew) Facebook (/thesocialentrepreneurblog/) Email: hello@jamestew.me

Loving, supportive families don’t just happen. They take a lot of intentionality and one way to approach that is to come up with your family mission statement. It’s a written statement of what you want your family life to be and the values by which you’ll live your family life. It lays out your family’s purpose, priorities, values, goals and standards. Then again, having something written on paper doesn’t automatically guarantee more fulfilling family life either… Tune it to the episode to hear about our process and the current draft of our family’s mission statement! Rate and review the podcast here: bnfpodcast.com Franklin Covey Mission Statement Builder

Aaron is a father of three boys ranging from 7 months to 8 years old, and creator of www.daddyfiles.com, a website devoted to involved fatherhood since 2008. His work has appeared in TIME, Huffington Post, Parents magazine, and American Baby and he has been featured on HuffPost Live, BBC NewsHour, CBC Radio, the Washington Post, and the Michael Smerconish Radio Program. I wanted to bring him on because he’s passionate about things he’s involved in – whether it’s his family and fatherhood or Boston sports teams and training for semi-marathons. Connect with Aaron: www.DaddyFiles.com Twitter (@daddyfiles) Facebook (/daddyfiles) Instagram (@daddyfiles)

We’re talking about work-life balance – more specifically about dad guilt! Yes, we dads, finally made it! We finally have equality – moms have been feeling guilty for decades for leaving to work too soon and putting the kids to day-care or not being “good enough parents” and now we have made it as well. We, dads, have the dad guilt! It is a common struggle that is rarely talked about. Dads feel guilty today because it’s hard to decide on priorities. Tune in to hear my experience and my 7 ways to get rid of the stress and guilt and loosen a bit up. Rate and review the podcast here: bnfpodcast.com

Welcome Joshua Harris, a fellow new dad from England. He's a dad to a 2 month old baby girl and he’s very much into being an involved dad. He's also very open about sharing his struggles and joys on his YouTube channel. You have to check it out - the link is below! Tune in to learn about his biggest fears and joys so far! Joshua’s links: Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/thefoodhe Twitter: https://twitter.com/thedadhe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDadhe/ NB: Check out his “Modern version of the dad dance”

Unexpected things are bound to come up if you’re a new dad. So, it’s not really an IF, it’s most definitely a WHEN – we cannot control our spouses or our babies, diapers blow out and babies cry. Tune in for my tips on how to deal with unexpected events like this. Rate and review the podcast here: bnfpodcast.com