This podcast is designed to be educational, informative, and entertaining. We feature special guest interviews, parenting techniques and entertaining commentary on being a Dad today. The host is a Dad of three kids, (two boys and a girl), and is a passionate father and husband. This podcast is for every Dad...seriously.
Summer vacation is officially here across the USA. Are you going crazy yet? Have any plans on how to make this summer a great experience for you and your kids, and further their development into responsible, mature human beings? Take a listen!
Have fidget spinners taken over you life? Are you worried your kid is going to choke to death? Have you read the latest urgent report on Facebook regarding the danger of those evil things? Let's talk about that today...
For every action, there is an equal an opposite reaction. Sometimes that reaction is a consequence we would prefer to avoid. When our children are forced to face the consequences of their poor choices, they will quickly learn to modify their behavior to avoid those consequences. Parents who threaten consequences, but do not follow through, or parents who feel guilty and so do not allow their children to experience any uncomfortable consequences are not doing their children any favors. Call it tough love, but letting our kids face the reality of consequences will ultimately produce mature, charactered children. Not only that, it will restore a modicum of peace to our homes. Isn't that what we all want anyway?
It seems all we hear about today is the subject of toleration. Does toleration mean acceptance? Does it mean endorsement? Does it mean empowerment? We'll talk about that. And while we are on the subject, we will talk about the mistake of living in a virtual world where the only voices we allow in are the ones who affirm us, but never correct or challenge us. Don't miss it!
Teaching our kids to be financially responsible is a difficult task, but one that dads should take seriously. Maybe you made some mistakes when you were younger. Maybe you are dealing with those mistakes still today. If so, then you are uniquely qualified to help your kids avoid the same mistakes. In this episode I talk about the way my wife and I are going about raising responsible money managers. Maybe you can find something that will help you.
It is 2017, and the credit card bills should start rolling in any day now! If you are like so many people over the Christmas and New Years holidays, you spent more money than you could afford. Now it is time to pay the piper. 2017 Doesn't have to go the same way for you. In this episode I talk to you about my own journey of financial responsibility. I discuss the difference between spenders and savers and why you may lean toward one or the other. I also share a free resource with you that may help you get a handle on your spending. Next week, we will discuss teaching financial responsibility to our kids. For this week, its all about the adults! Happy New Year!
Do you ever feel like you are trapped buying gifts that don't mean anything, for people who won't appreciate them, and won't remember them? Do you dread the credit card bills that will come in January? Even when buying gifts for our kids, the idea of a merry "little" Christmas is altogether a thing of the past. It doesn't have to be! In this week's episode, just in time for Christmas, I share with you some thoughts, as well as some ideas, on how you can bring meaning back into your gift giving this year; or next year! Merry Christmas!
As much as I wish we could, I don't think it is possible to eliminate all the bullies from this world. This is especially true since the definition of bullying is getting larger all the time! I have very little control over the actions of other people. I can't follow my kids around for their entire lives to protect them from every adversity. What I can do, is to instill certain values and behaviors in them while they are at home to help them deal with the bad behavior of other people. In this second part of our two part series on bullying, we focus less on the bullies, and more on what we as parent can do to protect, and prepare our children to live in a world where people behave badly. I hope it helps.
Bullying is a problem. It has existed for a long time, and it is not going to go away. As parents we are tasked with helping our kids deal with this problem in their lives. The internet has made the situation worse. Children with unsupervised access to the internet and social media are experiencing bullying in their very own homes! What can parents do? Children are now committing suicide, we are told, as a direct result of cyberbullying. What is the solution? There are no easy answers, but we are going to start talking about it right here on this episode.
Ever had one of those days? One of those days when you really don't like your kids? Every feel like you are the only one who feels that way? YOU'RE NOT! In today's episode we talk about dealing with difficult kids. We've all got them. I'll talk about my own struggles, and try to give you some encouragement along the way.
In this special Thanksgiving Day episode, we talk turkey. Actually we talk about all things food related. We also discuss some of the traditions our family enjoys each Thanksgiving. Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Do you have a preference? I'll give you mine. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
Have you ever wanted to raise your child to block traffic, destroy other people's property, and need therapy when things don't go their way? Probably not. In this week's episode, we take a somewhat tongue in cheek approach to raising our kids to be better than that. We look at things that parents can do, even unintentionally, that promote bad behavior in our children as they grow.
Can today's politically correct mindset influence how we parent our children? Are their things we can say or do, in the hopes of following popular teaching, that can actually handicap our children later in life? How can I make sure that I am not falling for the politically correct pressures on me as a parent? All this an more in this weeks episode. Don't miss it!
What kind of relationships do you want your kids to have? You might be surprised to find out that their relationships will look very much like the ones we model for them in every day life. Does that scare you? Want to know how to model better relationships for your own kids? In this week's episode we talk about that. Don't miss it!
Sometimes it can be easy to feel guilty for not being able to provide the things for our children that they see other children receiving. But what if you could give them everything they want? Would it be right? Is it possible that giving them less, could actually be giving them more? We'll talk about that in today's episode.
Are there any real men left? The answer is yes. There are. The problem is that they have been pushed out of society. It seems that one of the only places we allow real men is in the movies we watch. Maybe that is because movies are safe. The men in those movies and television shows can't really hurt us. We can sit on our couches and imagine ourselves in their shoes. Just as long as we don't actually try to emulate them in real life. Well, I still believe there is a place for real men in society. But how can we become one? What do they look like? How do they act? I don't have all the answers, but in this episode we talk about three distinctive elements of the masculine personality. Also, don't miss the "My Memories" segment. This week's segment is called "A Boy and His Dog" part 1
With the Presidential election in full countdown mode, the art of deception is on display. Why does it seem that the truth doesn't even matter anymore? It really seems like both candidates are trying to lie their way into office. While I can't do anything about that in reality, I can focus on being a truthful individual in my own life. I can provide an example of honesty and integrity for my wife and children, and those in my sphere of influence. What about you? Why bother telling the truth when it doesn't pay? Let's talk about that... Visit our website
After a year away, the How to Be a Dad Today podcast is back with brand new episodes! Dealing With Change deals with the changes that Mark and his family have been going through since his last episode in 2015. Also some changes coming to the website and podcast. You won't want to miss the new "My Memories" segment.
This week's episode is very special in that I am recording and releasing the episode from Poland, where we are completing an international adoption! Adoption is a wonderful adventure, but it has its challenges. Among the greatest, when it comes to international adoption is the challenge of communication. Learning to speak their language with things other than words is a rewarding but difficult experience. I will share some of my thoughts on the process in this episode. Visit our website!
In this short Father's Day episode, I wanted to take just a little while and relate to the listeners, some of the most important lessons I learned from my dad. I hope you enjoy hearing a little bit about the man who was and is instrumental in my life. My hope is that on this Father's Day you will have similar memories from your Dad. If that is not the case, then I hope you will commit to being the kind of dad your kids will one day celebrate. www.howtobeadadtoday.com
In this episode we continue the discussion of mentors. We will look at the benefit to those who are mentored, as well as to those doing the mentoring. Also in this episode, we will take a look at a recent Huffington Post article regarding supposed communication mistakes parents make with their kids. For more information go to our website at www.howtobeadadtoday.com
There is a great need for mentors in today's world. No matter what country your live in, mentoring is an essential part of growing and becoming the person you want to be. As a Dad, my number one responsibility is to be a mentor in the lives of my children. But what is a mentor? Who should be a mentor? Do I still need a mentor in my own life? Where can I find a mentor if I want one? All these questions and more as we spend the next few episodes tackling this important subject. For more on this subject and to find additional articles and resources for Dads, go to howtobeadadtoday.com and subscribe to our blog to be notified of new content just for dads! *This podcast is sponsored by Audible. For a free 30 day trial and a free audio book, go to audibletrial.com/howtobeadadtoday
With summer break just around the corner, we need to get a game plan, and get one quickly! Episode 50 is here to offer you some tips, and ideas for how to maintain your sanity when the inmates let loose! Also, "Free Range Parenting:" have you heard of it? In this episode Mark gives you an overview of the book written by Lorene Skenazy, and offers his own perspective on the growing movement. For more info, you can read his articles at: howtobeadadtoday.com/freerange
Do you speak more than one language? What about the language of love? Did you know that there may be more than one love language, and that there is a good chance your kids all speak a different one? In this episode I review "The 5 Love Languages of Children" by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Ross Campbell. In the book, the popular "5 Love Languages" idea is applied to children. I will give you my thoughts on the topic as well as our personal experience with our children. I know you want to tell your kids you love them. Don't you want to tell them in the language they understand? Find the post for this podcast episode at howtobeadadtoday.com/49
Sometimes its nice just to sit down with another dad and talk about the ups and downs of parenting, and being a dad in general. In this episode I sit down in studio with my friend, Andy Sharpeta, and talk about his experience when it comes to being a dad. Andy has the unique experience of being on the road nearly every week of the year with his kids, due to the fact that they are missionaries. Imagine spending 24 hours a day, seven days a week with your kids. Road trips are fun, but not every week! I will ask Andy how he keeps the peace, and how he helps his wife maintain her sanity. Enjoy!
Should I push my beliefs on my children? Do I have any right to try an influence what they do, or what they believe? Should I just let them make up their own mind about the subjects that are the most important to them? These questions and more in today's episode on influence.
Have you ever been left home alone with the kids while your wife goes out for the evening, or even away for several days? Have you experienced the joys of preparing breakfast lunch and dinner for all those hungery mouths? How about laundry, homework, and bedtime routines? In this episode we discuss how to not only survive, but thrive when left home alone! I share tips and advice on things like dinner prep, following schedules, and surviving manipulating children. Every dad needs to hear this episode! Also, listen to my advice on daddy/daughter dates. With Valentines Day just around the corner, you won't want to miss your chance to shine in your daughters eyes.
Respect doesn't mean what it used to. We are living in a culture where respect for the individual is almost gone, and where respecting your elders is something reserved for the Leave it to Beaver re-runs. Well...it doesn't have to be! In this episode we are going to talk about the need for respect, and some things we can do to increase our own attitude of respect for others, as well as instilling such an attitude in our kids. Also...find out my secret for getting pizza deliverd in under 30 minutes every time!!! It's called respect. www.howtobeadadtoday.com www.facebook.com/howtobeadadtoday
Every New Year people all over the world make resolutions. Most will not see them through. Still, this year, I want to encourage dads everywhere to get rid of that flab and be the best dad they can be. I am not just talking about physical fat. I am also talking about the flabby dad muscles some of us have developed. Are you up for the challenge of making 2015 the "Year of the Dad"? Listen now and find out how! www.howtobeadadtoday.com
Do Dads really matter? Can families and children survive without them? Could it be that those in society that seek to minimize the importance of dads are actually correct? NOPE! They are wrong. In this episode I give you three areas in which dads matter to their kids. Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Fatherless Generation Website (Statistics on the impact of fatherless homes) Wild at Heart - by John Eldredge ( Amazon Page
Dealing with death may be the hardest thing we are called to do in this life. As husbands and dads, we are called upon to offer strength to those in our care who are grieving. Often this leaves us wondering who will be strong for us. This episode deals with this difficult subject and offers some advice for how to help your kids face the death of a loved one and also how to deal with your own feelings. We will also talk about the pain of miscarriage and how this subject affected the host, and affects countless dads every day. It is the silent death, and it is time someone brought attention to it. This episode is not an easy one to listen to, and may evoke feelings of grief concerning your own loss. While it is no my intention to cause greater grief, it is my intention to offer help and a word of comfort. I know grief from death personally, and speak as one who has walked the road himself. I hope it will be a help to you. The free resource mentioned in this episode is available here.
Nurture: It's not for sissies. If you are wondering how in the world something like nurture could possibly be for men to take seriously, then you HAVE to listen to this episode. I think you might be suprised. If you are not nurturing your kids...you aren't being a manly dad!
EPISODE 40!!!! As we pass the milestone of our 40th episode I am also celebrating my 34th birthday! To celebrate, I am releasing an episode unlike any other episode I have produced here on the podcast. I hope you enjoy it! In today's episode I interview three special guests. There names are: Brian Bruce Joe I think you are really going to enjoy hearing about these guy's parenting philosophies. Let me know what you thought of the episode by going to www.facebook.com/howtobeadadtoday or by visiting our website at www.howtobeadadtoday.com
I am a dad. That means I am also a man. Manhood and masculinity is something that is vanishing in our world today. In this episode I get a little passionate about the need for masculinity in men and boys.
Have you ever been talking to your kids and felt like your weren't getting through? Have you ever seen that blank look that says..."I am looking at you, but I ain't hearin you..."? Well, if you ever wanted to communicate more effectively with your kids, this episode is for you. If you have any other ideas, I would love to have you communicate by going to facebook.com/howtobeadadtoday and join the conversation, or start a new one!
When you were growing up, did your family have a regular dinner time? Today is seems that family dinner has become a lost art. Families no longer sit down together and eat, talk and spend time together. In this episode I offer some ideas for strengthening or establishing your own family dinner routine. Hopefully it encourages you, and I know that you will never regret the investment. Trust me.
Have you ever gotten to that stage in your kid's lives when they really push back against your leadership? Do you remember the day you realized that they really believed they knew better than you? If you haven't gotten there yet...YOU WILL! In this episode I share a little bit about the ways I have dealt with this situation in my own family, and hopefull, give some advice and encouragement that will help you deal with it in your own.
Okay, bedtime can be pretty stressful. Establishing a bedtime routine is easier said than done. With bathtime, homework, and busy schedules, is having a set bedtime routine even a possibility? YES! You can bring sanity back into your life. You can get your kids in bed without starting WWIII. In this episode I give you some tips on how.
Our kids have recently been going through a transition in which they have begun becoming aware of the times when my wife and I are not getting along. If this hasn't happened to you yet, it will. How do you deal with personal conflicts between you and your spouse? What do you do when the kids ask about it? Do you lie? Do you pretend it doesn't happen? Could there possibly be a valuable lesson opportunity that you are missing? These questions, and a few answeres in this episode of the How to Be a Dad Today Podcast. To comment on this episode, please go to www.howtobeadadtoday.com or to our facebook page at facebook.com/howtobeadadtoday.
Recently a reviewer left a kind rating and a review which included an honest disagreement with something said in a previous episode. I appreciated their honestly and class, and wanted to address their statements, and share with you the importance of growing as a dad. If we are growing, we should be learning. If we are learning, we will admit that there were things we believed or did early on in our parenting, that we have discovered were mistakes. Have you ever had an experience like that? Think I am crazy? Take a listen and then join the discussion on facebook.com/howtobeadadtoday Also, check out howtobeadadtoday.com for more articles and encouragement on being a dad in today's difficult environment.
Don't you sometimes wish you could have more time with your kids? Being a dad is one of the most important things we can ever do. So not having a lot of time to invest in the lives of our kids is a challenge. How can we be the best dads we can be when we only have a few hours a week to invest? For the busy dad...and that's most of us, this is the burning question. I can't promise all the answers, or that you will even agree with the answers I propose, but I do want to get the discussion going. I think you will be challenged by this episode, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Have you ever heard of a deadbeat dad? Have you ever wondered if you might be one? If you think that a deadbeat dad is simply someone who doesn't pay his child support, then you might be suprised. Being a dad is no easy task, and it is far easier to neglect your duty than to fulfill it. This episode will challenge you to avoid the stigma of being a deadbeat. Do you have the courage to listen?
I want my daughter to be feminine, but not a feminist. There is a difference. As a Dad I believe that I am the most important man in my daughter's life and the one who is entrusted to guide her to become the woman she was meant to be. Raising a feminine daughter may not be popular in this culture, but it is the task I have been called to. Don't know the difference between femininity and being a feminist? Listen to find out more.
This is a much shorter episode than I have put out as yet, but I think it is a good one. Do you ever wish being a dad came with a warning label? Well, after a particlarly trying few days at my house, I recorded this episode to help remind me why I do what I do. If you are a dad that is at the end of his rope, you may find encouragement here as well!
Many families face the unique challenge or raising a special needs child. These precious children are a blessing, but some days they can really stretch you as a parent and an individual. In today's episode I talk to Craig Stewart. He and his wife Paige, recently adopted a little girl from Bulgaria. Craig talks about their decision and the challenges they have faced since bringing little Maya home. As you will hear, Maya had Downs Syndrome. Trust me...this is one episode you can't afford to miss!
Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner here in the US. If you are looking for some way to get them most of out of your holidays this year, then this episode might offer you just the boost you need!
Do you believe in monitoring your children's activity on the internet? How do you feel about accountability? There is no doubt that the internet is a powerful tool...for good and evil. Knowing what your children are involved in is not only good parenting, but may save them a tremendous amount of heartach later in life. In this episode I interview Luke from Covenant Eyes monitoring software. Listen to what he has to say, and you be the judge...and the parent.
Yep, the description says it all. In this episode I talk about the parenting lessons I have learned from my recent efforts to ride a unicycle. You just have to listen...
Wow! What a touchy subject we are tackling this week! After 23 episodes I am going to wade into the topic of discipline...although not in the way you might expect. I want to offer some thoughts on the mentality behind discipline and what it means to discipline. Is discipline simply punishment? What is the purpose for discipline anyway? What if my spouse views discipline differently than I do? The answer to these questions and more in this week's episode! Are you ready?
Have you ever heard of the prefrontal cortex? Did you know you child may be walking around with one that is not yet fully developed? BBC News Magazine says UK psychologists now saying adulthood may not start until as late as 25. Who knew? How can we prepare our kids for an adult world if we are not even sure when they physically, emotionally and prefrontal corextually become an adult? The answer to these questions and some great advice given to me by my Dad in this episode of the How to Be a Dad Today Podcast
I don't know about you, but sometimes setting aside time for my kids can be a challenge. Quality time is at a premium, and that time is running out every day that passes. In this episode I share some ways to develope the habit of daily spending quality time with your kids. I introduce you to an app that I have been using to develope good habits and issue you a seven day dad challenge. Are you up for it? Listen and find out!
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