In episode 45, we finally reunite in person and dive into a lively conversation about the weird, wonderful world of modern fatherhood. From late-night guitar solo practice and punk rock nostalgia to R2-D2 builds and DIY parenting fixes, we reflect on how our own childhoods, hobbies, and daily chaos shape the dads we are today. Along the way, we each draft our dream “Mount Rushmore of Dad Superpowers” — including calm under pressure, expert negotiation, and the ever-critical ability to summon snacks on demand. It's a mix of real talk, laughs, and reminders that parenting is part patience, part planning, and part magic trick.

Key Points:

• Catching up in person and bonding over guitar solos & pop-punk playlists

• Parenting wins and struggles: sleep habits, routines, and child independence

• How scouting and structured youth programs shaped our values

• The “Dad Superpowers” we wish for (and sometimes have!)

  • Calm in chaos

  • Master negotiator

  • Inspirational motivator

  • Pro-level scheduler

  • Snack summoner

  • DIY fix-it wizard

• The importance of showing up, being present, and staying curious as dads

👉 Come swap stories, powers, and parenting wins in our Discord community: https://discord.gg/2zwPEqpCyG

In this episode, we kick things off with our Hygge Question of the Week: “Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?”—which leads us down a few unexpected and hilarious memory lanes. Then we put our homeowner hats on for a Would You Rather.

From there, we dive into the heart of the episode: how becoming dads has reshaped the way we see our own parents. We reflect on the generational differences in parenting styles, how much more we appreciate what our parents went through, and the way those realizations are shaping how we raise our own kids. Along the way, we swap stories about daycare transitions, robot builds, yard work fails, and sweet moments with our kids that keep us grounded (and sometimes covered in mud or glitter).

🔗 Join the conversation in our Discord: https://discord.gg/2zwPEqpCyG

Key Points

• We answer the Hygge Question: Who’s the most interesting person you’ve ever met? and play Would You Rather

• Reflecting on how fatherhood has changed our view of our own parents

• Pete shares yard work struggles and a homemade phone case story from Lacey

• Derek talks about daycare transitions and building a battle droid with Jack

• Discussion on grief after losing a pet and how kids process it differently

• Challenges and wins with home maintenance and DIY repairs

• The evolving identity of being “grown-ups” and comparing parenting generations

• Creative projects with our kids—from robots to stuffed animals

In episode 43, we dive deep into personal challenges that have recently touched our lives. We share the emotional burden of Pete's family's health issues, including the heartbreak of losing our beloved dog, Penny, to lymphoma, and grappling with the complexities of aging loved ones undergoing serious health procedures. Amid these trials, we discuss the resilience shown by our kids and the small joys that light up our days. The conversation also explores our growth through these experiences, underscoring the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook despite life's inevitable hardships. We also tackle our Hygge question of the day: "Is being sensitive a strength or a weakness?"

Key Points:

• Dealing with Loss and Health Crises: We open up about the recent loss of Penny, the emotional impact of her lymphoma diagnosis, and the challenges faced with Pete’s mother’s surgery and grandmother’s dementia.

• Children’s Resilience and Independence: We highlight moments like Lacey's newfound independence in breakfast-making, showcasing the small victories that bring us joy.

• Navigating Personal and Professional Goals: The conversation turns to the feelings of underwhelm despite achieving significant milestones, reflecting on the continual balancing act between personal aspirations and parenting duties.

• Exploring Personal Growth and Adulthood Challenges: We discuss the broader challenges of adulthood, emphasizing the importance of evolving and maintaining a positive perspective.

• Engaging in Meaningful Conversations: Throughout the episode, we stress the value of open dialogue about difficult topics, offering insights and shared experiences to help others navigate similar paths.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us on our Discord server!

In Episode 42, we're tackling the tail-end of winter's challenges, from the stubborn snow to unexpected flooding and the inevitable mud. We're sharing how we handle these dreary days and keeping you updated on our family adventures, like Jack's standout dentist visit and Lacey's newfound independence in the kitchen. Derek also opens up about a recent hiccup with a flat tire on Beth's new car that had us scrambling. We're also brainstorming some innovative family-friendly business ideas, imagining a co-working space that's as fun for kids as it is productive for parents.

Key Points:

• We discuss the ongoing challenges of late winter weather, including managing the mess and keeping our kids and pets safe and clean.
• Highs and lows of the week feature Jack's successful dentist appointment and Lacey's kitchen adventures, against the backdrop of everyday parenting hurdles like dental hygiene and car troubles.
• We explore potential business ideas that cater to parents, like a co-working cafe with a play area, pondering the sustainability of a membership model to enhance the experience.

• We wrap up with thoughts on future plans, considering the importance of family-friendly outings and the potential for new ventures that support both parents and children in our community.

Join us as we navigate the complexities of modern fatherhood, and don't forget to connect with us on our Discord server for more dad-centric discussions: https://discord.gg/2zwPEqpCyG.

In episode 41, we dive into the nuances of parenting as we discuss the highs and lows of our weeks, and we play "Would You Rather" with a very intriguing question about the internet. We explore the shifting landscape of parenting in 2025, focusing on trends like the decline in sharenting and the rise of more balanced parenting techniques amidst the pressures of social media. Join us as we navigate the complexities of modern fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of mental health and personal goals over traditional resolutions.

Key Points:

• Seasonal Struggles and Personal Reflections: We share the personal highs and lows of our week, highlighting how the winter season impacts our family dynamics and personal goals.
• 2025 Parenting Trends: Discussing the latest parenting trends, we emphasize a shift towards more balanced approaches and the significant reduction in sharenting for the sake of our children’s privacy.
• Impact of Social Media: We delve into how social media shapes our parenting styles, adding stress but also fostering a community where advice and experiences are readily shared.
• Mental Health and Personal Goals: Stressing the importance of mental health, we talk about setting realistic personal goals like reading more and decluttering, rather than sticking to rigid resolutions.
• Technology's Dual Edge: Engaging in a nostalgic yet insightful "Would You Rather" question, we debate the merits of the simplistic yet limited late '90s internet versus today's advanced but overwhelming tech landscape without streaming services.
• The Joy of Learning: Highlighting the benefits of personalized learning through platforms like Simply Piano, which cater to our children’s unique learning needs and schedules.
• Simplifying Parenting: Throughout our conversation, we express a collective desire for simpler parenting experiences that focus more on joy and less on stress.

For more insights and to join the discussion, check out our Discord community:Join us on Discord!

In episode 40 of the Super Secret Dad Club, we start by diving into our favorite culinary creations, answering the Hygge question, "What is the most impressive recipe you know how to cook?" We share some fun things we've been whipping up in the kitchen. Then, we transition to our interview with Andy Olsen, where we kick off with our highs and lows, giving an authentic glimpse into our daily lives as well as Andy's. Andy, a creative professional and dedicated dad, discusses how he and his wife, both with non-traditional schedules, balance their careers while supporting their son Everett’s involvement in basketball and theater. He shares insights on the joys and challenges of parenting, maintaining personal hobbies, and building friendships. Pete also shares a clever hack for making new adult friends. Throughout our conversation, we explore the complexities of parenting, the significance of hobbies, and the nuances of adult friendships. Join us for this episode filled with practical advice, personal stories, and a dash of dad humor. Don't forget to connect with us on our Discord at Super Secret Dad Club Discord for more discussions and support.

Key Points:

Personal Insights: We open with our highs and lows, offering listeners a personal connection and insights into our lives. Culinary Adventures: Dive into our kitchen escapades, discussing the most impressive recipes we can whip up and the joy of cooking. Navigating Work and Family: Andy shares how he and his wife balance their creative careers with supporting their son’s involvement in sports and arts. Building Friendships: Explore effective strategies for making and keeping friends as adults, including Pete’s unique friend-making hack. Community Engagement: We discuss the significance of community in parenting and encourage listeners to join our vibrant discussions on the Super Secret Dad Club Discord.

In Episode 39, we sit down with Steve, a dedicated father sharing the compelling story of raising his daughter, Ella, who is navigating life with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Diagnosed at age two and now a vibrant 13-year-old, Ella’s journey has been one of incredible resilience and joy despite the challenges. Steve opens up about the practical aspects of enhancing accessibility in their home and the inspiring victories Ella has achieved, from winning costume contests to advocating for herself. Join us as we delve into a discussion full of insights on parenting a child with a disability, the evolution of their family dynamics, and the celebration of small wins that feel monumental.

Key Points from the Episode:

• Ella's Resilience: Despite her SMA diagnosis and reliance on a wheelchair, Ella shines through her intelligence, humor, and creative spirit.
• Adapting to Challenges: Steve discusses significant modifications to their home and vehicle to improve Ella's mobility and independence.
• Celebrating Achievements: Ella has been recognized for her creativity, winning awards at Comic Con for her costumes, highlighting her vibrant engagement with life.
• Addressing Accessibility and Advocacy: Conversations cover the daily realities of accessibility challenges and the importance of advocating for respect and proper communication.
• Shared Passions and Mental Health: The family's love for music and pizza-making helps strengthen their bond, while Steve emphasizes the importance of mental health and maintaining a positive outlook.
• Community and Support: The importance of community is underscored, with an invitation to join our Discord server to connect with other parents and share experiences and support. Join us here: Discord Link.

Resources Mentioned

"Laughing At My Nightmare" by Shane Burcaw

In Episode 38 of the Super Secret Dad Club, we dive into the festive frenzy of holiday preparations, discussing how we keep up with the dynamic demands of family life during this bustling season. We revisit our cherished "Would You Rather?" and "Hygge Question" segments, sparking lively debates with questions like, "Would you rather have the ability to undo one thing from the past year or sneak a peek at one upcoming event?" and "If you could be the main character in any movie, who would you choose to be?" Join us as we explore these intriguing dilemmas, share our holiday coping strategies, and discuss the importance of staying present amidst the seasonal chaos.

Key Points:

• Holiday Hustle: Reflecting on the complexities of holiday traditions and the added pressure of organizing family events as the kids grow.
• Dining Dynamics: Discussing strategies for meal planning and grocery shopping, ensuring kids partake in a varied diet, and the communal joys of family meals.
• Parental Presence: Emphasizing the importance of being present and engaged during family time, despite the distractions of the season.
• Support System: Highlighting the Super Secret Dad Club's active Discord server as a resource for parents seeking advice and camaraderie in parenting (Join us here!).
• Back to Basics: Revisiting fan-favorite segments with fresh "Would You Rather" and Hygge questions that stir the pot on life's big and quirky queries.