Baseball, faith, and fatherhood all share one thing—perspective. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers sits down with Kansas City Royals scout and longtime coach Darwin Pennye to talk about how sports can shape character, build connection, and reveal a father’s heart. For dads raising kids in athletics, this conversation reminds us that winning isn’t the goal—relationship is. This episode is a must listen for any dad with kids in sports.

Every child longs to know they are enough. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers explores how a father’s vision and voice shape a child’s identity, either building insecurity through conditional love or cultivating unshakable worth through unconditional love. Through real-life stories, biblical insight, and practical wisdom, discover how to see your kids as lovable, capable, and uniquely designed by God. Learn how your words and presence can echo the Father’s voice: “I choose you.”

Every dad has authority—but how you use it determines whether your kids follow from fear or trust. In this Father Friend episode, Dr. Mike Ayers unpacks the difference between positional leadership and personal leadership, showing how true influence comes through character, connection, and Christ-like servant leadership. Discover why authority isn’t about control, but about discipleship, credibility, and love. Learn how to lead your children’s hearts, not just their behavior.

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Dr. Mike Ayers reminds dads that courage isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged in risk, failure, and persistence. In this Father Friend episode, he unpacks why modern parenting often sidelines courage and what dads can do to restore it in their kids. From stopping the rescue reflex to modeling bravery, instilling vision, teaching kids to manage fear, and encouraging them to stand out rather than blend in, this episode equips fathers with practical tools to raise strong sons and daughters inspiring them to live boldly in today’s world as difference-makers.

What happens when a bestselling thriller author opens up about being a dad? In this special episode of the Father Friend podcast, Dr. Mike Ayers sits down with New York Times bestselling author Marc Cameron—known for his work on seven Tom Clancy novels and his own Arliss Cutter series. Together, they dive into the world of writing, discipline, and creativity while exploring the deeper role of fatherhood. Marc shares personal stories, insights, and lessons learned as both a writer and a father. It’s a candid, encouraging conversation you won’t want to miss. [marccameronbooks.com]

Trust is the foundation of a healthy father-teen relationship—but what does it really mean to trust your teen, and how do you rebuild it when it’s been lost? In this episode, Dr. Mike Ayers unpacks two powerful concepts: The Trust Cycle and The Trust Account. Learn how everyday decisions either deposit or withdraw from your teen’s trust account, and why rebuilding trust requires time, consistency, and intentional leadership. If you’re a dad navigating the ups and downs of teenage independence, this conversation will give you practical steps to lead with wisdom, patience, and grace.

When children are struggling, they're almost always telling us—but rarely with words. In this episode, Dr. Mike Ayers explores five critical warning signs that your child may be facing emotional difficulties. From isolation patterns to sleep disruptions, learn how to recognize the signals your child is sending and understand what they really mean. Featuring practical guidance on when and how to seek help. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or work with young people, this episode provides essential tools for identifying struggling children before their challenges become crises. Don't miss these important insights.

Every dad leaves a mark, but when it comes to faith, the impact runs deeper than we often realize. In this episode of the Father Friend podcast, Dr. Mike Ayers unpacks how children form their first picture of God—not from church or Bible stories, but from the way they experience their dad. From everyday moments in the aisle of a hardware store to the legacy of daily prayer, you’ll learn how authentic faith is more caught than taught. Discover practical ways to model, guide, and pass on a faith that sticks for a lifetime.