Welcome to another authentic and unfiltered episode of "Rethinking Dads"!

In this episode, we delve into the world of fatherhood with the insightful Steven Sweeney. Join us as we explore Steven's concept of "Delicious parenting" — a flavorful approach to nurturing our children with care and love, rather than control.

As a Dad navigating separation, Steven shares candidly about the challenges and frustrations he's faced, all while striving to be the best version of himself for his kids. Over the course of 3+ years as a solo parent, Steven's journey is one of growth, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

Reflecting on his profound relationship with his late father, Steven offers touching anecdotes that resonate deeply with every Dad. We delve into the delicate balance of allowing kids to be kids without resorting to rigid control, opting instead for a compassionate and understanding approach.

Tune in as we explore pivotal topics, including overcoming resentment (4:00), fostering meaningful connections with our children (20:00), and setting boundaries within an unschooling household (53:00). From navigating communication with kindness to defining our roles as loving guides rather than hovering helicopter parents (30:00), this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for Rethinking Dads everywhere.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome back to "Rethinking Dads," where we delve into authentic conversations with fathers and men navigating the complexities of life.

In this episode, we sit down with Bhagavan Bauer, a devoted father of three teenagers who recently embarked on a new chapter in his personal life with an engagement to his partner.

In this candid and emotion-laden dialogue, Bhagavan shares insights and experiences that resonate deeply with all fathers and men:

NOTE: All time marks are approximate

At the 3-minute mark (3:45), Bhagavan recounts his remarkably amicable separation from the mother of his children, showcasing the power of love and mutual respect even in the face of change.

Around 8 minutes in (8:30), we explore the profound impact of relationship transitions, confronting the metaphorical "death" of a marriage and its ripple effects.

By the 20-minute mark (20:50), the conversation delves into the raw authenticity of embracing emotions, particularly the often-overlooked realm of sadness.

Navigating the turbulent waters of employment, Bhagavan reflects on the emotional toll of being laid off (29:30) and the uncertainty that accompanies professional endeavors (37:00).

From striving for mastery in our work (45:00) to the delicate balance between optimism and denial (51:02), this rich conversation between three rethinking Dads offers invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of modern fatherhood and masculinity.

Thank you for listening as we redefine fatherhood, one vulnerable conversation at a time. Join us as we challenge norms, embrace change, and embark on a journey of self-discovery with Bhagavan Bauer on this episode of Rethinking Dads.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to Season Two of Rethinking Dads!

In this first episode, Michael and Kevin start by reflecting on Season One. We covered a lot of topics in Season One, from Unschooling, to our Partners to receiving the best advice possible from our 17-year olds.

Now, as we move into Season Two of Rethinking Dads, we have two main goals.

Goal One: Bring on a variety of Dads to share their stories

Goal Two: Hold a space for these Dads to process their own shit

While we want to go deeper on what it means to be a Rethinking Dad in season two, we want to create an environment where Dads can share their triumphs and struggles and get a place to process. While we will hold this sacred space for Dads, we will also ask questions and put up a mirror, so you, as a Dad, can look at what you're saying and find your path to being a better Dad. A true Rethinking Dad!

Thanks for sharing with a Dad you know and thanks for listening to Rethinking Dads!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to the final episode of Season One of Rethinking Dad!

First of all, we want to thank you for joining us on this journey through our first season!

Throughout this first season, we have unpacked many topics in our lives as Rethinking Dads. How we chose to raise our children (Partnering instead of controlling) to how we chose to school our kids (unschooling). Now, as we wrap season one, we would like to focus on three big definitions:

Control

Unschooling

S.O.A.P.

We invite you to spend this finale with us as we share stories around these three big topics and we look forward to kicking off season two in just a few weeks!

Thanks everybody!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to Episode 11 of "Rethinking Dad"!

In this episode, Kevin and Michael explore the indispensable role that our partners play in shaping OUR roles as Dads.

Michael thoughtfully portrays Tanya as "the lighthouse," casting her illuminating light to navigate significant family decisions.

Similarly, Kevin articulates a parallel experience, likening Kelly to a trailblazer who ventures over the hill first, charting new directions for their family.

From our family's decisions to unschool to making (sometimes outlandish) choices to curate our kids' experience, our partners lead the way.

We hope you take from this episode what you need and may you constantly reconsider and appreciate the unique contributions of the women in our lives. I

n many ways, it's our partners that help us truly become "Rethinking" Dads.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to Episode #10 of Rethinking Dad! 🎙️

"Curating the shit out of their experience"

With this one phrase, Kevin simplifies unschooling in a nutshell, setting the stage for an eye-opening exploration of this unconventional approach to education.

In this episode, join us as we delve into the world of unschooling, addressing the questions you've been itching to ask:

✅ What exactly is unschooling, and how does it differ from conventional homeschooling?

✅ Walk through our personal journeys as two unschool Dads, navigating the uncharted waters of unconventional learning.

✅ Discover the valuable lessons we've learned along the way – the highs, the lows, and the unexpected triumphs.

✅ Reflect with us on our proudest moments and, equally, the moments we might wish we'd approached differently.

From raising "littles" to experiencing the echo of an empty nest, this conversation aims to be a guiding light for those curious about the unschooling path. While we acknowledge that unschooling isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, we believe it played a crucial role in nurturing independent, well-adjusted, kind, and overall good human beings.

Whether you're a seasoned unschooling advocate or just dipping your toes into the concept, we invite you to join us on this insightful journey.

Thanks for tuning in, and as always, thanks for Rethinking Dad! 🌟

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

Welcome to Episode 9 of Rethinking Dad!

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate dance of work-life balance. In this open and candid conversation, we explore the delicate art of truly balancing our professional endeavors and the life beyond the office walls.

Like all the episodes of season one, we are simply wanting to start the conversation and see where it leads us. As we say...we want to "pull at the thread", and in this conversation the "thread' is work-life balance.

We challenge the simplistic notion of dividing our existence into two distinct realms: work and life. Instead, explore how these spheres seamlessly intertwine, creating a dynamic interplay that defines the modern dad's experience.

In this open dialogue, we discuss the struggle of balancing passion with the demands of work, and the sincere desire to be more present in our families' lives. From navigating career aspirations to fostering meaningful connections at home, this episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of redefining the traditional concept of work-life balance.

We hope you find this heartfelt and insightful conversation meaningful and it helps you uncover for yourself what it means to be a "Rethinking Dad"!

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!

There’s no question that Dads over the last few generations have changed dramatically.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the evolution of fatherhood over the past 70+ years.

In this insightful episode, we explore the profound transformations in the role of Dads across generations. From our WWII granddads to how we are evolving, watching our kids grow up and acknowledging the diverse factors that have contributed to this shift.

From the influence of television and movies to the lasting impact of our friends' Dads during our formative years, we delve into the myriad elements that shape the essence of modern fatherhood. This reflective exploration encourages all of us to examine both the positive and challenging aspects we inherited from our own fathers, unraveling the intricate tapestry of our growth in just a single generation.

Perfection is an elusive goal for any Dad, but the effort to navigate the complexities of parenthood is what defines us.

Join us as we candidly discuss the highs and lows of the fatherhood journey, embracing the imperfections that make each dad unique. Whether you're a seasoned parent or a curious friend, this episode invites you to share in the collective experience of rethinking and celebrating the ever-changing role of Dads.

If you like what you're hearing, thank you in advance for leaving us a 5-star rating and a written review. We ask for this because it helps other Dads discover our podcasts. (the world of podcasts, like many things is driven by ratings and reviews)

In addition, it would mean the world if you shared with another Dad (or Mom) you know so they can join in the conversation and offer even more insight into the world of being a Dad.

Join the conversation on the Rethinking Dad Facebook Group.

Thanks for listening and sharing!!!