Father On Purpose Podcast

Faithful. Gentle. Loving. Godly. Patient. These are the kinds of words we hope our kids would use to describe us. But if they were being totally honest, what's the one word they'd actually write down? Would it be something we're proud of—or something that hits a little too close to home, like angry, stressed, or even absent? In this episode, Kent and Lawson walk through a simple but eye-opening exercise that reveals how our day-to-day choices as dads shape how our kids experience us.   The good news? Whatever word they might choose today, it's doesn't have to be the final word. With time, intentionality, and God's help, we can grow into the kind of fathers who reflect the heart of Christ in our homes. There's no guilt trip here—just a real opportunity to reflect, reset, and grow. So whether you walk away from this conversation feeling encouraged or convicted, lean in. You are not a father on accident. So go be a father on purpose.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/   Join the Fatherhood Guard as a monthly donor: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/   Buy Kent's latest book: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Read the new State Of Biblical Fatherhood report here: http://manhoodjourney.org/sobf Find tools to share the report here: https://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools   Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   About our hosts: Kent Evans is the Executive Director and co-founder of Manhood Journey, a ministry that helps dads become disciple-makers. After a twenty-year career as a business leader, he embarked on biblical Fatherhood ministry projects. He's appeared on television, radio, web outlets and podcasts. He's spoken at parenting and men's events. He's authored four books. The first, Wise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around You, was written to help men learn how to find mentors and wise counsel. The latest, Don't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to Quit, aims to help dads stay present in their roles as fathers and husbands even when they feel like giving up. Kent's life has been radically affected by godly mentors and his lovely wife, April. They have been married thirty years and have five sons and one daughter-in-law. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky. Lawson Brown is husband to his high school sweetheart, a father of two young adult daughters, has been a business leader since 1995, and is a former Marine. He served as a small group leader for teenage boys for many years, helped start the Christian media ministry City on a Hill Productions, then later Sanctuary – a new church in Kennesaw, GA – where he served as its leader for Men's Ministry. Lawson's journey of faith has always been centered in a grounding from his wife, Audrey, and supported throughout by many men who he's found as brothers along the way. His family is nearing an empty nest phase and has recently relocated to the Florida Gulf Coast beaches area.

Happy Father's Day! To celebrate with you, we decided to compile a "best of" podcast episode from this past year. This will give you something to do on this special day, since you definitely don't have anything better to do...right? It's like an annual recap. Take a trip down memory lane with us to some of our favorite highlights from our past year of podcasting. Thank you for being along for the ride. As always, remember: you are not a father on accident. So go be a father on purpose! Links below to the episodes in order of clips used, go back and give them a listen!   Ep 155: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/fathers-day-2024/ Ep 164: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/the-forge-movie-with-alex-and-stephen-kendrick/ Ep 165: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/ep-165-walking-through-adversity-with-darren-walter/ Ep 167: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/what-jeff-zaugg-learned-about-awesome-dads/ Ep 168: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/jim-ramos-helps-men-get-dialed-in/ Ep 170: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/orv-kimbrough-and-the-keys-to-freedom/ Ep 173: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/dont-bench-yourself/ Ep 192: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/josh-kubler-on-gospel-centered-parenting/ Ep 197: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/cameron-arnett-on-playing-the-part-of-jesus/ Ep 207: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/becoming-a-curious-father-with-mark-batterson/ Ep 193: https://manhoodjourney.org/podcast/mac-powell-on-being-a-present-parent/   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/   Join the Fatherhood Guard as a monthly donor: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/   Buy Kent's latest book: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Read the new State Of Biblical Fatherhood report here: http://manhoodjourney.org/sobf Find tools to share the report here: https://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools   Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   About our hosts: Kent Evans is the Executive Director and co-founder of Manhood Journey, a ministry that helps dads become disciple-makers. After a twenty-year career as a business leader, he embarked on biblical Fatherhood ministry projects. He's appeared on television, radio, web outlets and podcasts. He's spoken at parenting and men's events. He's authored four books. The first, Wise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around You, was written to help men learn how to find mentors and wise counsel. The latest, Don't Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to Quit, aims to help dads stay present in their roles as fathers and husbands even when they feel like giving up. Kent's life has been radically affected by godly mentors and his lovely wife, April. They have been married thirty years and have five sons and one daughter-in-law. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky.   Lawson Brown is husband to his high school sweetheart, a father of two young adult daughters, has been a business leader since 1995, and is a former Marine. He served as a small group leader for teenage boys for many years, helped start the Christian media ministry City on a Hill Productions, then later Sanctuary – a new church in Kennesaw, GA – where he served as its leader for Men's Ministry. Lawson's journey of faith has always been centered in a grounding from his wife, Audrey, and supported throughout by many men who he's found as brothers along the way. His family is nearing an empty nest phase and has recently relocated to the Florida Gulf Coast beaches area.  

In today's episode, we have the privilege of sharing our conversation with pastor and author Mark Batterson. Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the author of 24 books including the New York Times bestselling The Circle Maker as well as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, and, most recently, A Million Little Miracles. As Mark likes to say, "There's only 2 ways to live your life - as if nothing is a miracle, or as if everything is."   His advice to dads is pretty straightforward: love your family as God has loved you. While this is simple, that doesn't mean it's easy. We get into some practical ways to love our kids as our Father has loved us. "How are your kids going to learn to say sorry if they don't hear it from you?" "We have to help our kids cultivate holy, non-anxious curiosity." "You can't force feed your kids Scripture...but you can live it." "We create the world our kids live in through our words." These are just some of the nuggets of wisdom from today's episode with Mark. We hope this conversation is encouraging, enlightening, and inspires you to go forth as a dad with refreshed love and kindness towards your kids.   Check out Mark's latest book: https://www.markbatterson.com/books/a-million-little-miracles/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon      Read the new State Of Biblical Fatherhood report here: http://manhoodjourney.org/sobf Find tools to share the report here: https://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools     Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org Become a monthly donor and a member of the Fatherhood Guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/fatherhood-guard/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   About our hosts: Kent is an author, speaker, and the co-founder and executive director of Manhood Journey. Kent and his wife April live in Louisville, KY, and they have five sons. Lawson is a business executive and a military veteran. He and his wife Audrey live on the gulf coast of Florida, and have two daughters.

Today's episode is a little different than normal. We need your help. As many of us know, the world is suffering from a fatherlessness crisis. Homes without dads abound, and with that reality comes many consequences. We want to stop that. However, the first step towards winning a battle is always realizing that you're in one. That's why we're releasing the State Of Biblical Fatherhood report. With over 6,000 survey responses, this report will help shed some light on what it looks like when homes are left without Christian dads to lead them. This isn't just doom and gloom though. We want to light a fire under you. Your family needs you, now more than ever. Go read the report and share it with your friends, your family, and your pastor. Just click the links below.   We also want to extend the opportunity for you to join the Fatherhood Guard. The Fatherhood Guard is our group of monthly supporters who make it possible for us to do things like creating this report and all the other work we do. Your support is making a difference in homes and families worldwide. For any monthly donation, you get to be one of our core supporters, and maybe even get a cool hat...but of course we know you wouldn't do it just for that...would you? But truly, the greatest gift you get is the chance to pay it forward. As of 2025, we have reached over 2 million dads with some piece of content. Help us reach the next 2 million. You have the ability to get this show in the hands (the ears?) of more and more dads by supporting our work. Consider joining the Fatherhood Guard today by going to https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/.   We always say it, but we never want to forget it: you are not a father on accident, so go be a father on purpose.   Read the SOBF report here: http://manhoodjourney.org/sobf Find tools to share the report here: https://manhoodjourney.org/sobf-tools   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon      Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org Become a monthly donor and a member of the Fatherhood Guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   About our hosts: Kent is an author, speaker, and the co-founder and executive director of Manhood Journey. Kent and his wife April live in Louisville, KY, and they have five sons. Lawson is a business executive and a military veteran. He and his wife Audrey live on the gulf coast of Florida, and have two daughters.  

Ever tried to warn your kids about something and had them roll their eyes so hard it echoed? As dads, we've been down some rough roads—and part of our job is helping our kids avoid the same potholes. But how we offer that wisdom can make all the difference. Come on too strong and we sound like a lecture. Stay too quiet and we miss a chance to guide them. If you want to be heard and influential with your kids, this one's for you. In today's episode, Kent and Lawson dive into how to offer wise counsel that connects, using Solomon's masterclass in Proverbs 7 as a guide. They tackle questions like: How do we talk about modern dangers—porn, fame, vanity, etc.—without sounding like we're yelling from a mountaintop? How do we guide with humility, not certainty? How do we root our advice in relationship, share it through story, and still make the consequences clear? At the end of the day, our kids don't need a fortune-teller. They need a father who's humble, present, and willing to step in, without being a know-it-all. Let's dive in.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon      Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org Become a monthly donor and a member of the Fatherhood Guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/   -------------------------------------------------------------------------   About our hosts: Kent is an author, speaker, and the co-founder and executive director of Manhood Journey. Kent and his wife April live in Louisville, KY, and they have five sons. Lawson is a business executive and a military veteran. He and his wife Audrey live on the gulf coast of Florida, and have two daughters.

Ever heard the phrase, "you are what you eat?" What if we told you this: you are what you think. Not quite as catchy, but perhaps even more true. The reality is, for better or worse, we become what we behold. Our thought patterns are among the most important aspects of how we view ourselves, the world around us, our relationship to God, and everything else we go through or interact with on a daily basis. Thankfully, Scripture has a lot to say about where we should "set our minds" (Colossians 3, Romans 8, and Philippians 4, to name a few examples).   Just like the dial on an FM radio, we can choose where to tune our minds, and like it or not, whatever you “tune into” most consistently becomes the soundtrack of your life, and ultimately, the shape of your character. Let's dive into what God's Word says about our thoughts, and explore some of the obvious (and sometimes not-so-obvious) ways we can honor God with where we fix our minds.   Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 Grab some fresh beans! https://rangecoffee.com/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon      Have a topic you want us to touch on? Well, get in touch! Send us an email at: info@manhoodjourney.org Become a monthly donor and a member of the Fatherhood Guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/  

Struggling to connect and communicate well with your kids? You're not the only one. In this episode, Kent and Lawson explore why meaningful communication isn't just about saying the right words. It's about aligning your heart, ears, and mouth. Drawing from Luke 6:45, they unpack how what's stored in your heart inevitably spills out in your speech—for better or worse. Today's episode will help you learn how to shift from correction to connection with your kids. If you want your words to build trust instead of barriers, this one's for you.   Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

This week, we're helping dads everywhere not blow it on Mother's Day. Whether you're honoring your amazing wife and mother of your children, or your own mom (and don't forget your mother-in-law!), we've got tactical moves and biblical wisdom to help you show up like a pro. From handwritten notes to surprise chores and kid-powered tributes, this episode will give you some tools to make sure the moms in your life feel truly seen. We'll also look at how Jesus honored His mother—even while saving the world. Because let's be honest...“I forgot” is not a spiritual gift. Happy Mother's Day to all you mom heroes out there!   Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Ever feel like fatherhood is just an endless loop of laundry, lunch-packing, and late-night Lego injuries? You're not alone—and you are making a difference. In this episode, we talk about the quiet strength it takes to do the “mundane” work of being a dad, and why that work might be more meaningful than it seems. From holding down a job that might not spark fireworks to praying for your family when you're running on fumes, we highlight five things godly dads don't get tired of doing. As Colossians 3:23 reminds us, the most ordinary things become sacred when done for the Lord...even remembering to grab your quarter from the Aldi cart for the hundredth time. So if you're worn out, hang in there. You're building something eternal, one routine at a time.   Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

In this special 200th episode (woo-hoo!), we wanted to talk about one of the most crucial topics when it comes to being a godly dad. If you ever feel like you're not good enough, you don't have it all figured out, or you're just confused on where to go next as a dad, we've got news for you: you're right. If it were completely up to us, we'd never be the fathers God has called us to be. The beauty of being a Christian is that we don't have to do it on out own. We are simply the vessels that God uses. Today, let's remind ourselves that we are not the source of wisdom, strength, or life, but we're the pipes that carry the flow of God's grace to our children.   Become a member of the fatherhood guard: https://manhoodjourney.org/donate/ Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Being a godly dad is tough. No one who's been down that road would argue with you there. However, it's easy to fall into the "good old days" trap of thinking this is just a recent development. Instead of trying to figure out who's had it the hardest over the course of history, let's make sure we understand why it's so hard: because Satan doesn't like godly dads discipling their kids. If you're a dad, we've got news for you. You're in a fight, and your enemy is the Enemy. However, God will equip you to take on these challenges as you trust in him. Today, let's confront the enemy's attacks on us and our families through the power of God's Word.   Free Survival Gear reading plan: https://manhoodjourney.org/survival-gear Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Wisdom is one of the most talked about and heavily emphasized topics in Scripture. But what is it? While there are many aspects to a good definition of wisdom, we believe one of simplest and most concise ways to think about it is this: wisdom equals alignment with God's will. As you search for wisdom, the only place to start is with a firm foundation on God's Word. In today's episode, we look at the ways Scripture personifies Wisdom, what it means to build your life on the Rock, and how all of this applies to being a godly dad.   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Today, we have a very special guest. Cameron Arnett is an accomplished actor, author, speaker, director, and producer. Most importantly, he is a Christ follower. Our conversation with Cameron goes deep. We talk about how to be a godly dad when you never had one of your own, what it's like being a Christian in what can be a very dark industry, how God rescued Cameron from the evil he was a part of in Haiti, what it means to put Christ over career, and much more. Cameron's biggest piece of advice: we are all actors, the Bible is our script, and the part we're playing is that of Christ. How well do you play your part? Let's talk about that in today's episode.   Learn more about Cameron and his work: https://www.cameronarnett.com/about   Learn more about The Forge: https://kendrickbrothers.com/the-forge-movie/   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Do you ever feel like you're your own worst enemy? Like the biggest fights you have are happening inside your own heart? In today's episode, we wrap up our Lessons In Lyrics series,  and we attack those very struggles, using the song "The War Inside" by Switchfoot as our template. We know as Christians that "our battle is not against flesh and blood" (Ephesians 6:12), but sometimes, our own flesh can be our biggest hurdle to following Christ closely (Romans 7:15). We hope this song encourages you and challenges you, as it did for us, and helps you become even more of a Father On Purpose. "The War Inside" on Spotify: here "The War Inside" on Apple Music: here   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Do you ever feel like you're your own worst enemy? Like the biggest fights you have are happening inside your own heart? In today's episode, we wrap up our Lessons In Lyrics series, and we attack those very struggles, using the song "The War Inside" by Switchfoot as our template. We know as Christians that "our battle is not against flesh and blood" (Ephesians 6:12), but sometimes, our own flesh can be our biggest hurdle to following Christ closely (Romans 7:15). We hope this song encourages you and challenges you, as it did for us, and helps you become even more of a Father On Purpose.   "The War Inside" on Spotify: here "The War Inside" on Apple Music: here   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Welcome back to our "Lessons In Lyrics" series. Today, we take a look at a song by one of Kent's all-time favorite bands, NEEDTOBREATHE. "The Heat," title track from the band's Sophomore effort, is a powerful song about finding peace in the chaos, being present, forgiving yourself, and much more. We hope you get as much out of it as we did, and that you'll continue to let great music be an asset to you as a husband, father, and Christ follower.   "The Heat" on Spotify: here "The Heat" on Apple Music: here   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Welcome back to our "Lessons In Lyrics" series. Today, we take a look at a song by one of Kent's all-time favorite bands, NEEDTOBREATHE. "The Heat," title track from the band's Sophomore effort, is a powerful song about finding peace in the chaos, being present, forgiving yourself, and much more. We hope you get as much out of it as we did, and that you'll continue to let great music be an asset to you as a husband, father, and Christ follower.   "The Heat" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7JjVN8JcRJXRhcOnHh5v5a?si=27a0a68fbb1e41c0 "The Heat" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-heat/262075351?i=262075649   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

For the next few weeks, we're going to be exploring some fatherhood and discipleship principles found within the lyrics of some of our favorite songs. We're calling this series "Lessons In Lyrics." In today's episode, we kick that off with a song by Mac Powell, called "River Of Life." This song crams so many worthwhile topics into it, we couldn't wait to unpack some of them. While we do have a few more ideas up our sleeve, let us know if you have any songs you'd like us to tackle! Send us your song ideas here: info@manhoodjourney.org.   "River Of Life" on Spotify: here "River Of Life" on Apple Music: here   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

For the next few weeks, we're going to be exploring some fatherhood and discipleship principles found within the lyrics of some of our favorite songs. We're calling this series "Lessons In Lyrics." In today's episode, we kick that off with a song by Mac Powell, called "River Of Life." This song crams so many worthwhile topics into it, we couldn't wait to unpack some of them. While we do have a few more ideas up our sleeve, let us know if you have any songs you'd like us to tackle! Send us your song ideas here: info@manhoodjourney.org.   "River Of Life" on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/0B1GuT4svftHFzZ8wXcBau?si=4db591d56dc64e4f "River Of Life" on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/river-of-life/1578012319?i=1578012320   Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

God Of Wonders, Soul On Fire, I Need A Miracle...do any of those phrases sound familiar to you? If they don't, let us give you a hint: they're all song titles. Third Day is one of those bands in the Christian world that defined the sound of a generation, and in today's episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Third Day co-founder and lead singer, Mac Powell. He's also a husband and a father to five kids, and when we asked him for his biggest piece of parenting advice, he said, "Realize that you were made for this." We walk through topics like how to be present with your kids when life and business get in the way, what it's like to love your teenage kids even (especially?) when they think you're lame, and many more mines of wisdom Mac has to share. Just like Mac said, as parents, we're never gonna completely figure it out, but we can't let that stop us from trying to figure it out.   Go see Mac on tour! Visit macpowell.com for tickets and more info.   Check out Mac's daughter's band, Scout And The Saints: Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/scout-and-the-saints/1578418987 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Xila5oS5dlhSgQh3vXpKl?si=OtNItVT7S-mUKXsCmXPn_g

Please welcome to the show special guest, Josh Kubler. Josh is a husband and father, and serves as the Director of Church Engagement at Manhood Journey. In today's episode, we get into things like what it means to view parenting as evangelism, how adoption portrays the love of God, ways to create an environment for growth, and much more fatherhood gold that Josh drops on us.   -Connect with Josh: josh.kubler@manhoodjourney.org -Josh's home church: https://redeemerolivebranch.com/leadership -Learn more about Josh's role and let us help equip the dads at your church: manhoodjourney.org/churches   -Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  -Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

This week, we have a special episode for you...and we really mean it this time! Wait until the end of today's show for a treat you won't forget. Before we get there though, we're diving in to some guidelines on how to teach our kids important life skills. Ever had those moments where you feel like you just can't get through to your kids, or you want to save them from making the same mistakes you did? Let's talk about those. We hope today's episode helps you teach your kids in an even more Christlike way and gives you some tools to set them up for spiritual and relational success.   Listen to "Stay Off The Highway" by Cargo Shorts Collective anywhere you listen to music. https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cargoshortscollective/stay-off-the-highway  "Stay Off The Highway" on Spotify  "Stay Off The Highway" on YouTube    Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

We interrupt your normal programming to bring you this special interview with guest Kevin Downes, co-founder of Kingdom Story Company. In this timely and insightful conversation, Kevin gives us the inside scoop on the upcoming movie, “The Unbreakable Boy." It's releasing in theaters February 21, 2025, and is jam-packed with countless family and fatherhood lessons. We hope you'll consider rolling out to the theater and supporting this excellent film! Learn more about the film here: https://theunbreakableboy.movie/ 

Metaphors are one of the most common ways Jesus chose to teach his followers. Likewise, metaphors can be one of the most effective ways to instill truths into our kids. In today's episode, we're going to look at some of the metaphors Jesus used, as well as some examples of metaphors we have used with our children over the years.   Send us your own metaphor ideas! Email them here: info@manhoodjourney.org Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Since we're all imperfect creatures, our relationships with one another are bound to be imperfect as well. Sometimes, we're just going to drop the ball. We're going to hurt the ones we love. In today's episode, we'll examine how to go about healing the connections we've damaged in our lives—and how to avoid creating that kind of relational chaos in the future. Buy Kent's latest book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

English poet John Donne once wrote, "no man is an island." His point? None of us go through this life alone. No matter where we turn in life, we bump into other people. As husbands and fathers, our most important relationships involve the people under our own roof. Those are the connections we need to strengthen as we continue to move into this year. In today's episode, we'll explore ways we can rely on God's strength to be the relational leaders we are called to be. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

As members of the human race, we have a problem. We will never be perfect, no matter how hard we try. Yet, so many men derail themselves as husbands and fathers by trying to keep up the facade of perfection. Like the old saying goes, it can be too easy for us to let perfect become the enemy of progress. In today's episode, we'll examine the benefits of ditching our drive for perfection in favor of a commitment to intentionality. It can be a tough transition, but it can make an eternal difference. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Hear ye, hear ye! Special announcement incoming! We want to let you, our devoted podcast listener, be the first to hear about a brand new opportunity from the team at Manhood Journey and Father On Purpose. Introducing: Fatherhood Cohorts. These are online, fatherhood small group experiences designed to help you accelerate your growth as a father. Listen to the short announcement above or click here to learn more. Craig Bowler's Episode on Spotify: FOP Episode 152

Like looking into a mirror, God's Word shows us what we are as husbands and fathers...and it's always an accurate reflection. Thankfully, it also gives us a glimpse of what we can become with God's help. In this episode, we'll continue the deep dive into Psalm 112 and learn more about how this Scripture passage can transform you into a spouse and dad who blesses his family and fits perfectly into God's plans and purposes. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

The new year is a traditional time to think about forward motion. Nobody wants to stand still. We all want to make progress toward becoming the husband, dad, and man God created each of us to be. In this episode and next week's, we'll take a look at some solid goals for the next 12 months based on the wisdom of Psalm 112. The psalmist's principles and practical applications have the power to transform you and your family for a lifetime. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

A new year is upon us, and this often gives us a chance to feel like we have a fresh start. Scripture tells us that even Jesus grew intellectually, physically, spiritually and socially. If He had room to grow in those areas, we certainly have room to grow as fathers, husbands, friends, and Christ followers. In this episode, we'll be talking about healthy ways to turn the page in the new year and considering some helpful actions that will help us become more godly dads in the coming months.   Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

While the wrapped presents on birthdays and around the tree at Christmas are nice, the consistent presence you provide your family the entire year is a gift of infinite value. What's more, by actively engaging with your family each day, you are are modeling the incredible love and purposes of our engaging God. In this episode, we'll examine the gift of presence and how you can become the hands and feet of Jesus as a father and husband by plugging into your relationships this year—and every year. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Christmas is a great time for giving and receiving gifts. But there are plenty of gifts you can give and receive all year long. For example, this episode digs into what it looks like to give the gift of listening. We'll look at what the Bible has to say about listening and why that matters for our lives each day. If your goal is to become a better listener in the weeks and months ahead, we've got some tips for how you can make the most of this gift that keeps on giving. Merry Christmas! Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

The Bible tells us that God works out every situation for the good of those who love Him and follow Him. If that's true, then nothing we experience is a waste or without purpose. Everything has the potential to draw us closer to God and make us more like Jesus. This episode wraps up our "Don't Bench Yourself" series with one of the most important manhood lessons of all: Learning how God uses our inevitable mistakes and failures to transform us into men who fulfill His plans for His glory. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Memories. They can be a blessing or a curse. When they lead you toward gratitude and appreciation, there's nothing better. But if they keep you focused on guilt, pain, and "what could have been," you need to find a way to put them in your rearview mirror . . . and fast. Letting your past dominate and define you as a man is a dangerous and unhealthy way to live. It lands you on the bench when you should be making major contributions in the lives of your family and friends. As we round third base in our "Don't Bench Yourself" series, in this week's episode, you'll learn how to take control of your past by keeping it in proper perspective, and make sure your mistakes aren't keeping you on the bench. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Teams that thrive are built around teammates who work well together. But that's not possible if players refuse to take ownership of their failures or, even worse, blame others for their mistakes. The same principle is true as a man. You can't prosper and grow if you turn a blind eye to your shortcomings or point the finger at your wife, kids, and friends. Instead of deflecting the blame, you've got to seek forgiveness and repair the damage. If you want to get off the bench–and become the best teammate possible–it's crucial to make it right. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15 (Hint: last week to get free shipping in the US with code "CHEER")

Any athlete worth his salt knows that once you get off the bench, you never want to go back. Your goal is to stay in the game. Our God-given purpose as men of faith is to stay off the sidelines and to serve our wives, kids, co-workers, and friends with integrity and intentionality. But we can't do that if we refuse to be honest about our mistakes. We have to be able to call it out. As we start the second half of our Don't Bench Yourself series, we're going to look at four ways we can choose to stay off the bench. This week, the first one we'll focus on is the ability to "Call It Out." We're all going to miss the mark at times, but as we'll learn in this episode, the key to staying in the game is coming clean about our miscues and taking responsibility for making them right. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

"Hurry up!" How many times have you said this as a dad, maybe to your kids, your wife, or even to God? Patience is something that every single one of us struggles with as a father. It's so easy to give up when we don't see the results we're wanting, when we want them. "I'm still angry." "My kids still feel lonely." On and on the list can go. The bench can look really comforting when we're feeling like no matter what we do, we're not getting anywhere. However, we can't always rely on key performance indicators to determine our spiritual growth. Sometimes, all we can do is trust God's plan and keep pushing forward. In today's episode, we look at some encouragement from God's Word to keep running the race and completing the good work he has for you. Don't let impatience keep you on the bench. Let's get back in the game today. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

We've all heard that words can never harm us. We also know that nothing could be further from the truth. While sticks and stones can do a lot of damage, nothing is more devastating to the nurturing of manhood than a steady barrage of painful criticism. In a world built on a foundation of negativity, it's vital for guys to learn how to embrace the constructive criticism that makes us better—and to reject the harmful judgments that tend to keep us on the bench.   Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

This week, we tackle one of the biggest hurdles dads face: shame. Mistakes can bring us down, and it's easy to succumb to shame in these moments. However, these are some of the best opportunities for us to grow as dads. We miss out on these opportunities when we let shame keep us on the bench. Shame is one of Satan's trickiest and most clever tools that he has to use against us, but in today's episode, we cover what shame really is, where it comes from, and some of the ways to fight it. Christ's sacrificial love provides us with the strength we need to get off the bench and put shame back in it's place. The battle against shame in our families starts with us dads, so let's get back in the game today.   Check out the Robert Lewis Sermons podcast! Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/robert-lewis-sermons/id1566647559 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rTy59TVREzsyH663pAtnF?si=04f93de701714f07   Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

As guys, we often pride ourselves in being fearless. We never want to appear weak or unsure of ourselves. But the truth is, we all wrestle with fear to some degree. It's a universal affliction that's impossible to escape, especially on our own. That's where God comes in. Through his Word, he commands us to “fear not” and reminds us that we can face the things we dread in a godly, biblical way. Then, once we get a handle on those fears, we can teach our kids how to overcome their anxieties. But, as we'll learn in this episode based on Kent's book "Don't Bench Yourself," it all starts with us. Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Have you ever felt the pull to check out and warm the bench while you let the rest your family step up and take care of business? Do you struggle with the insecurities of feeling like you're not good enough, letting fear and shame hold you back from being the husband and father God has called you to be? Well good news, we're going to tackle all those issues and more in the coming weeks. Join us as we embark on a new series we're calling "Don't Bench Yourself." For the next nine weeks, we'll address the struggles of letting criticism and impatience steal your joy and effectiveness as a dad, how to make things right with your kids, and much more. We want you to get off the bench, as a dad, a husband, and a Christ follower. Get back in the game today!   Check out the Robert Lewis Sermons podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/robert-lewis-sermons/id1566647559 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rTy59TVREzsyH663pAtnF?si=04f93de701714f07   Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

As husbands and fathers, we all want to leave an enduring legacy for our families. One of the greatest gifts we can provide is wisdom in dealing with money. Our personal finances have the power to build us up or tear us down, so it's impossible to overstate the value of embracing biblical stewardship. Author and speaker Matt Bell spends his days helping people understand God's words and God's ways in relation to money. His practical approach to managing what God places in our hands might be just the nudge you need to address your own financial issues and to start building a legacy for the ones you love. Learn more about Matt and his ministry at https://mattaboutmoney.com.  Check out Matt's latest book, Trusted: Preparing Your Kids for a Lifetime of God-Honoring Money Management here: Buy "Trusted" on Amazon Free downloadable discussion guide for Trusted. Free Discussion Guide Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

The challenges and struggles of being a godly husband are real. That's why it's important to seek help and encouragement every step of the way. Since its publication in 2011, The Meaning of Marriage by the late pastor and author Tim Keller has provided insight and guidance for men seeking to make their marriage all God wants it to be. Today, we discuss three key quotes from The Meaning of Marriage and some related Scripture verses that point us in the right direction as husbands and fathers. Unity, sacrifice, and love are three defining features of a godly marriage, and Keller's book gives us a good idea of what it looks like to become a husband that embodies those attributes. Whether you've read it before and need a refresher, or you're hearing about it for the first time, The Meaning of Marriage and Keller's key principles found within can make a difference in your life and your marriage. Buy The Meaning of Marriage here: Meaning of Marriage on Amazon  Buy Kent's new book Don't Bench Yourself here: Don't Bench Yourself on Amazon  Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15

Life's challenges can push us to confront our fears and reassess our beliefs. We've all faced moments when fear feels insurmountable, leading us to question our paths and choices. We often find the keys to our liberation in these struggles. Orv Kimbrough shares his journey of overcoming fear and the transformative power of faith in Christ. He discusses how shifting our perspective can guide us toward forgiveness and optimism, revealing that our fears don't have to define us. Discover how to face the obstacles that hold you back and turn them into stepping stones for growth. This episode will empower you to embrace your story and become the father and man you aspire to be. You can learn more about Orv and his book, Twice Over a Man, at www.orvinkimbrough.com.  

Sometimes, the Bible doesn't just comfort us—it challenges us to rethink our attitudes, actions, and beliefs. We've all encountered challenging Bible verses that are hard to accept, passages that seem too difficult to follow or that make us uncomfortable. These verses often stir up resistance, leading us to wrestle with God's commands. In this episode, we dive deep into what happens when we come face-to-face with these challenging Bible verses. We'll explore the common reactions we have when God's Word feels tough. It's precisely through engaging with these difficult passages that God molds us into stronger, more faithful fathers. Learn how to stop avoiding tough scriptures and start letting them guide your life, transforming you into the dad God has called you to be. This episode will challenge and encourage you to embrace even the hardest parts of God's Word, knowing they are meant to build you up, not tear you down. Dad, remember, quitting is not an option. Get Kent's book, Don't Bench Yourself, and stay in the fatherhood game. Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15.

Our culture seems to have plenty of males running around, but it suffers from a lack of genuine men—guys who will lead with courage and stand in the gap when things get tough. Podcaster and author Jim Ramos has recognized that problem and addressed it in his new book, Dialed In. As a man longing to experience your full God-given potential, Jim's lessons from Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus could be just what you need to up your manhood game and dial into His plan for your life. Pick up Jim's new book, "Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God" here! Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15.

On the outside, it looked like Jeff Zaugg had it all together as a family minister and a dad. But a deeper dive convinced him that he needed to do more—for himself and for other dads who were struggling to make meaningful connections with their kids. As the founder of DadAwesome, Jeff now gets to see God at work among fathers and gets to share his story of encouragement with others. You can learn more about Jeff and his ministry at https://www.dadawesome.org.  Want to live a life filled with more peace and less anger? Check out the Anger Free Dad course! Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15.  

While culture typically paints abortion as a women's health issue, the influence of strong men also can play a role in turning the tide in our nation toward life. Through the Human Coalition, Jeff Bradford is challenging men to step forward and be counted—and protect a generation of unborn children along the way. You can learn more about Jeff and the Human Coalition at https://www.humancoalition.org. Find Jeff's book, "Beauty From Ashes" here. Support the show, check out Range Leather and get 15% off when you use code MJ15 at checkout.   

The truth is, none of us gets through this life without some scars. Whether our struggles are physical, emotional, or spiritual, we will experience adversity, and we will have to choose how to respond to these dark moments of life. Pastor Darren Walter understands the reality of adversity. He's been there and done that. Most important, he has come through on the other side. And his insights will encourage you to stand strong during your own storms of life. Get Bring Your Hammer: 28 Tools Dads Can Grab From the Book of Nehemiah Support the show and upgrade your fatherhood swag. Shop Range Leather and get 15% OFF with code MJ15.  

For many years, the names of Alex and Stephen Kendrick have been synonymous with powerful faith-based movies that challenge men to live out their faith as husbands and fathers. Their newest offering, The Forge, places the focus squarely on our roles as mentors. With generations of young men seeking direction and affirmation, the need for godly men to stand in the gap has never been more important. This introduction to The Forge can put you on the path to becoming the mentor some young man in your life needs most.   ref: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szH5_y-0aqg