Those Are Daddy's Toys

Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2 is out, and within the film you'll find penis jokes, an alien whorehouse, and lots of murder. You'll also find hilarity amongst likable characters, an awesome soundtrack, a modern message about family, and an adorable Baby Groot. So this begs the question, is this film appropriate for children? The roundtable of guys also discuss whether or not we're prude, if violence in super-hero films is given a pass, and the great PG-13 films of the 1980's. In the end, we hope you'll find this episode to be a nuanced discussion about Disney, marketing, responsibility, and the ever evolving argument of something being "too much for the kids!"

In which Kurt & cultspark.com writer Bob Taylor break down the good, the bad, and the interesting regarding Disney's Moana. Did it live up to the Disney standard? Were the characters memorable? Were the lessons learned valuable? And more importantly, how was The Rock? The guys also discuss their childhoods and what it was like to roam the world untethered by overprotective parents, and whether they could let their kids do the same. Creeks, playgrounds, commodore 64 games, and the woods! Finally, they touch on next week's polarizing topic, was Guardians of the Galaxy volume 2 appropriate for kids?  

Kurt's Mother-In-Law is a big Harry Potter fan. He sets out to find out why and where this passion came from. They also discuss Fantastic Beasts, Harry Potter & the Cursed Child, and why she hasn't been to Harry Potter's Wizarding World at Universal. This plus dealing with her husband... who doesn't like this stuff. At all. Seriously. The man didn't see Star Wars in the theater. Really. 

Kurt and his co-host Devin The Dad discuss whether or not they should move. It's a question they both ponder nearly every day, with no real answer. Schooling, financial stability, extended family, and more details are discussed. The guys also talk about Devin's recent babysitter mishap, and just how often they fear for the world.

Totally Rad Dad Mark had dreamed of taking his own kids to Walt Disney World for years. Unfortunately, a series of health setbacks from his own Father kept delaying the trip. Finally, this past spring, three generations of his family made the trek to Orlando. In part two of the conversation, Mark and Kurt talk about Epcot, Hollywood Studios, the future of Imagineering, and what happens on an actual Disney Cruise. Moreover, Mark explains the emotions he felt upon making this particular dream happen...

Ever since he was a little dude taking RV trips to Orlando, regular contributor and all-around geek dad Mark Slack has dreamed of taking his own kids to Walt Disney World. Sadly, a series of health setbacks to his Father got in the way. Until now. This spring, he made it happen. In part 1 of this 2 part chat, Mark describes the reasons for the holdup, why he did this now, and why exploring is such an important facet to being a Dad. He also explains Magic Hours, Magic Bands, Frozen the Ride, Epcot escalators, and Disney Dining!

Who is the best Father figure in mainstream comics? What super-hero would make the worst parent? The most embarrassing? What villain would be the coolest parent? And faced with the same dire scenario as Jor-El, what would you do with your child? All this and more as Kurt gets geeky with two Dads representing both DC and Marvel in a battle of the nerds!

Making the decision to have your baby delivered at home comes with a whole host of other logistical questions. What room, what method, what items you need, and how long a hose for the tub? Wait- what? Kurt talks to a married couple about the differences between a hospital stay and a home stay, and why these two different settings sometimes don't play nice with one another. There's also a a giant pool, a monitor lizard, and doggie pads involved... you'll have to listen to understand...

In which Kurt sits down with a fellow father to discuss the pros and cons of raising two little ones in the city. Not just any city, New York City. Terrance grew up in NYC before it was Disneyfied, and now as a Father, he has conflicting feelings about the New York of old compared to the safer version that exists now. He gets real with Kurt about the challenges city life presents, from space to rent to that dude on the corner... They also talk about the wonderful cultural influences and unique exploring advantages a city provides him as a parent. He ponders life living somewhere else, but realizes that only in the city can he get anything he wants at three in the morning. For suburban dads to city dads, you'll find through this conversation that we're all in this together.  

Our first JUICEBOX MOVIE REVIEW edition of Those Are Daddy's Toys in which Kurt and a fellow father review The Lego Batman Movie. Did the kids like it? Did Mom & Dad like it? Was it funny to both children and adults? Was there a strong message? Diverse role models? A fun but interesting plot? Swearing and violence? Was the rating justified? How were the voice actors and ultimately, was it a memorable experience for the whole family? All this is discussed, plus the guys go deeper on the film in a way only nerdy Egghead fans can do. SPOILER FREE to begin, then a SPOILER WARNING thereafter. And finally, HOW MANY JUICEBOXES DOES THIS FILM GET?

Does reaching for the phone to snap a quick photo ruin the moment? How much is too much when it comes to posting on social media? And what are we going to do with all these inevitable hard drives filled with digital pictures?  Kurt sits down with a Father who makes his living as a photographer. They discuss the joys and perils of taking pictures of kids and what you can do to get better photos.  They also chat frankly about the never-ending fears that come with being a Father. Whether it be puddles of bacteria-infused water, barreling down the highway in a death machine, or the very real experience of seeing your kid have a seizure due to a fever... both guys know their anxiety is only going to get worse.  

In which Kurt brings back Disney expert Bart Scott to talk about a variety of topics. Most notably, the guys talk about pursuing the life of a creative, and how that passion sometimes gets in the way of being a parent. Are you more or less determined to "make it" as a creative now that you have kids?  Also, how do you support your child's dreams while also being open and honest with them regarding their aspirations?  Finally, it wouldn't be a Bart Scott show without some Disney talk. Bart advises Kurt on which attraction would be best suited for his little one to ride for the first time, the terror big-headed characters like Goofy can cause, and the uncomfortable position of forcing your child on a ride.

In which Kurt and Mrs. Geek reflect on the first 25 episodes of Those Are Daddy's Toys and update the audience on the most popular subjects and how things have changed in conjunction with them.

Introducing your child to solid foods can be daunting and dicey. When should I start my child on solid foods? How many? What types? And dear God, what do I do about allergies? Luckily for Kurt and the listeners, author and food editor of Parents Magazine, Jenna Helwig is here to quell your concerns. She and Kurt have a sensible, informative conversation about getting your child's eating habits off to a good start in life. Also, Kurt asks her about ice cream. He had to. And he likes her answer. And remember to pick up Jenna's book- "Real Baby Food, Easy, All-Natural Recipes For Your Baby & Toddler" At bookstores nationwide or your favorite online retailer. 

The Original Trilogy. The Prequels. The Force Awakens and Rogue One. You have kids and now must answer the toughest parenting question of all- what order do you show them the Star Wars films in? Do you start in chronological order? Can you skip whole chapters? Can you go 20 minutes at a time? What if you choose poorly, can you course correct? Kurt and two fellow fathers break it down and try to come up with some answers, all while knowing the debate will rage on.

The magic of Santa Claus. How long do you keep the ruse going? What tactics do you use to fool your little ones? When did they find out the truth? That plus music, movies, and Christmas traditions! Kurt sits down with two veteran Fathers to discuss how bad memories turn into good ones, the balance of the Christmas giving spirit with the meaning of Christmas, and what traditions from year's past they've adopted. The guys also talk favorite gifts and favorite memories from the past, and why Moms and Dads everywhere deserve a lovely holiday season...

Star Wars, Video Games, Legos and Monster High. Comic books, Hatchimals, and a board game with a pie. Navigating the toy aisles this time of year can be treacherous for even the most seasoned parents, luckily Dave the dad is here to help sort out the winners from the losers this holiday season.  In addition to breaking down the hottest sellers, Dave and Kurt discuss Christmas budgets, Christmas toys Dad will also appreciate, and Christmas toys of the past. It's all here in our 2016 Those Are Daddy's Toy's holiday toy talk! 

Mindfulness. What is it, and more importantly, can practicing it really help me as a parent? Kurt brings in an expert to discuss the basics, and how being present actually helped her deal with high level of anxiety. In short, wouldn't we all like to be Professor X? Maybe the method of mindfulness can help you achieve that...

As parents, what are you thankful for? A special Thanksgiving episode featuring a roundtable of four fathers as they discuss things they love about their partners, products they find invaluable, and the one thing their kid does that fills them with love. Oh yeah, they also talk booze, beards, and Bon Iver. Need to feel one with your fellow Dads? This is the place to be.

Your kid will likely pick up your personality traits. But which ones would you rather they not inherit? Kurt and another Father sit down to discuss anger, kindness, and the competitive spirit. Hear one man's tale of coaching his kid in soccer, while another man laments his "nose-hose outburst." This plus the guys discuss whether giving every child a trophy is a good thing, and whether we secretly like it when someone says the kid is a chip off the old block.

Family Vacation Ideas. The RV Life. Camping. Boutique Hotels. Swimming Pools. Disneyland & House Boats. Along with all of these topics, a fellow father joins Kurt to discuss how to deal with an unhappy kid on vacation, the crying plane baby, and how unsuspecting vacation spots can actually be just as rewarding as the more traditionally thought of destinations. Plus, what is your dream vacation?

How do you find the balance between Fatherhood and the life of a famous TV Horror Host? Larry Underwood, aka Dr. Gangrene, explains the challenges he faced raising three boys while beaming out his unique brand of spooky art to terrifying television sets everywhere. Larry also discusses halloween candy, what scary movies are appropriate for kids, and sharing his love of the horror genre with his three sons. Happy Halloween everyone!

When should you take your kids to Disneyland for the first time? And if you live close to Anaheim or Orlando, should you take them every year or try to savor it for special times? Kurt welcomes Ears of Steel Author Bart Scott to discuss a variety of Disney parenting subjects, including: stroller options, hotel recommendations, best time to go, what age to go, and why two grown men love Disney as much as they do. The guys also discuss the magic that is Disney, getting emotional at your kid's Disney enjoyment, and what to do when your kid wants coasters more than mouse ears.

If you could have have one super-power in your parenting repertoire, what would it be? Kurt welcomes a Father of two to break down the positives & negatives of super speed, flight, telepathy, cloning, and stretching. The guys also debate which mainstream Marvel or DC hero they'd most like to be, and the ones they might be most like. This, plus reselling your collectibles and trying to find the life balance as a parent and provider. 

Babies can be beautiful and lovely. They can also be gross. Kurt and a fellow Dad discuss dealing with poop and every other bodily function babies give us on a regular basis. It's a the new normal people, get used to it. 

The day your baby arrives can be terrifying. Appointment. Inducement. Epidural. Delivery. Circumcision. Jurassic Park. Chocolate Cake. Coffin sleepers. Jeff Goldblum. Latching. And weird balloons. Kurt and Mrs. Geek sit down to go over all of this plus the anxiety they faced on the day their baby arrived.

The day is here. You're on the way to the hospital. What to expect, what will surprise you, and more importantly.... will you pass out? Oh, and Mom is obviously there too, so there's that. Kurt and a fellow guy named Kurt will discuss inducing labor, umbilical cords, and the casual conversations doctors have while delivering your baby. This plus syrup fights and what we Dads call... "the magic touch."

Everyone wants to see your new baby. This can be annoying, exhausting, and ultimately helpful.  So now that you aren't sleeping, you're terrified about screwing up, and your emotions are high... BRING ON THE RELENTLESS VISITORS! Kurt and a fellow father discuss the myriad of highs and lows you go through when it comes to managing visitors. Somehow this is set up by the wildlife in Kurt's neighborhood, and ends with a trip to the new nursery. Just remember, when it gets challenging, your Mom loves you. And you love her.   

You're having a baby. You need a nursery. And you have no idea how to tackle it. We got you covered, well, sort of. Kurt welcomes a fellow Father and Star Wars fanatic to talk about thrusting your own interests onto your kid, color schemes, and how to cope with tearing down your own action figure decorated office. Seriously, removing those 1977 vintage Kenner Series 1 Star Wars guys can be traumatic, but we're here to help see you through it. This plus building forts, revealing the truth about Santa Claus, and letting your kids play in the woods. 

The horror of entering a big baby store for the first time... The aisles. The choices. The prices. The overwhelming anxiety. Kurt & fellow Father of three Devin discuss what is and isn't needed when registering for your baby. The guys also break down the importance of a good nose hose, why you may end up getting more than one baby carrier, and managing time for adult beverages. Kurt also reminisces about a traumatic robe his Dad wore, and the significance your child will likely put on everyday objects. Oh yeah, and a rad Intellivision reference! 

Are Daddy Diaper Parties socially acceptable?  Kurt and a fellow Father-To-Be sit down to discuss lady showers, man showers, and why throwing one of these events at a restaurant is unacceptable. They also talk about who and how to invite fellow friends, the appropriate behavior of men at women's baby showers, and whether to not Kurt can change "diapers and beer" to "diapers and comics." Finally, the guys discuss the fluid nature of friendship and if new parents can continue deep friendships with their single friends. Oh, and there's a Grand Moff Tarkin Star Wars analogy.   

What should be the first song your baby hears? Kurt brings in a lifelong musician to discuss the merits of genre, artist, and selection. Nothing is off the table as the Star Wars theme, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, and even "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" are given proper consideration. In the end though, it might come down to John Carpenter's "Halloween" theme. 

In which Kurt sits down with a fellow father of two to discuss those first pregnancy doctor visits. Ultrasounds, potential dangers, and the appropriate demeanor Dads should take when entering the hospitable are all discussed. More importantly, Kurt's doctor hasn't seen a single Star Wars movie... can we really trust this guy?

In which Kurt sits down to talk with a woman who fell in love with a geek, married a geek, and went on to have geek kids. All this while traditionally being clueless about anything involving capes or spaceships. She discusses the advantages and disadvantages of such a relationship, and laments the time she actually purchased a $400 porcelain bat cowl for her husband. Bonus- she's Kurt's sister-in-law. As an added supplementary interview, Kurt sits down with his 10 year old niece to discuss whether or not Dad is too obsessive about super-heroes.

Should a good geek dad sell their comic books for college fund investing? Kurt brings in financial advisor Bob Crawford to educate him on the different funds available and what each does. Kurt ponders his choice, and realizes he must make a decision regarding Green Lantern #7.

Which classic comic book character should your new baby see first? Kurt brings in a fellow dork dad to genuinely break down the positives and negatives of Superman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman, and more. The guys examine the critical nature of this choice, and how this moment could set the tone for your future child's life.

A veteran Dad joins Kurt to discuss the positives and negatives of hosting a gender reveal party for your baby. Are these a new fad? Do people actually care? Should we embrace them more? And more importantly, how can you put a geeky spin on it?

Nameberry.com co-founder and best-selling author Pamela Redmond Satran joins Kurt to discuss whether or not naming your child after a classic geek character is a wise move. Also discussed- the general anxiety parents face when naming their newborn, how Pamela became an expert on baby names, and seriously, if Han or Leia is an acceptable name for your baby.

Parents and Geek alike, REJOICE! This is where it begins, a weekly podcast devoted to one clueless Dad and his never-ending quest to be the super-hero in his kid's eyes. First though, he needs to take his own action figures and comic books off the shelves of his office. Or does he?