From Toxic Relationships to Fatherhood:The Complex Journey of Dads And The Emotional Toll on Families

In this episode of the "Might Delete Later Podcast," Derrick flies solo with his high school buddy D-Shean (no Shana this week!) for a candid, sometimes hilarious, sometimes heavy conversation. They swap pandemic survival stories, debate superhero movie logic, and share family updates—D-Shean’s now a Grandpa! The mood shifts as Derrick sounds the alarm about rising authoritarianism and “Project 2025,” warning listeners about threats to democracy. The episode wraps with a raw, real talk on fatherhood, toxic relationships, a break baby, and the emotional landmines of modern parenting. It’s equal parts political wake-up call and cautionary tale—served with a side of laughs.

Welcome and Guest Introduction (00:00:20)
Derrick introduces the podcast, explains Shana's absence, and welcomes D-Shean as a special guest.

Catching Up & COVID Experiences (00:01:24)
Derrick and D-Shean discuss how they and their families coped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Family Updates & Grandparenting (00:06:15)
D-Shean shares updates about his children, becoming a grandfather, and how grandparenting differs from parenting.

Entertainment Talk: Movies & TV (00:02:59)
They discuss catching up on TV shows, rumors about a "Last Dragon" remake, and critique recent Superman movies.

Transition to Political Concerns (00:07:57)
Derrick shifts the conversation to the current state of the country and his concerns about political polarization.

Authoritarianism & Project 2025 (00:08:57)
Discussion about the rise of authoritarian tendencies, Project 2025, and the replacement of officials with loyalists.

Warning About Democracy’s Future (00:16:19)
Derrick warns about the potential end of democracy, referencing control over government institutions and the Supreme Court.

Generational Reflections on Politics (00:18:08)
Three generations discuss never having seen such political turmoil, emphasizing the seriousness of the current moment.

Encouragement to Research & Stay Informed (00:19:08)
Derrick urges listeners to do their own research on Project 2025 and not just take his word for it.

Main Topic Introduction: Sons Without Fathers & Men’s Mental Health (00:19:53)
Derrick introduces the main topic: the impact of growing up without fathers and men’s mental health.

D-Shean’s Experience Growing Up Fatherless (00:22:24)
D-Shean shares personal experiences and challenges faced growing up without a father.

D-Shean’s Discovery of an 18-Year-Old Daughter (00:24:51)
D-Shean reveals he discovered he had an 18-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.

Family Reactions & Strain (00:25:41)
D-Shean discusses telling his wife and family about his daughter and the resulting emotional and financial strain.

Challenges of Co-Parenting & Child Support (00:34:35)
D-Shean explains difficulties with child support, legal issues, and the mother’s interference in his relationship with his daughter.

Attempts to Build a Relationship with His Daughter (00:37:08)
D-Shean describes his efforts to connect with his daughter and the obstacles he faces.

Reflection & Closing, Plans for Part Two (00:43:32)
Derrick and D-Shean reflect on the conversation, hint at a future episode with more perspectives, and close the show.

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