d2d Podcast
Daring to Dad holds conversations at the intersections of fatherhood, faith and masculinity. Join us as we engage in candid conversations with fathers from all walks of life, sharing stories, challenges, and insights that inspire and resonate. Whether you’re a new dad navigating parenting, someone curious about the intersection of masculinity and spirituality, or just looking to connect with relatable experiences, ”Daring to Dad” offers a space to learn, reflect, and grow together. Tune in and be part of a community daring to rethink what it means to be a dad.
Episode 1: Dallas Hartwig
In this conversation, Ryan interviews NYT Best-Selling Author and men's coach, Dallas Hartwig, about the importance of conversations around masculinity and men's mental and emotional health. Dallas shares his personal experiences and the societal challenges that men face in today's world. They discuss the concept of masculine initiation and the need for men to go through a transformative process to transition from self-interest to contribution. Dallas also talks about the importance of modeling healthy relationships and emotions for his own son and the work he does in men's coaching.
Episode 2: Brendan Kwiatkowski
Brendan Kwiatkowski, PHD a researcher and educator, specializing in the social emotional development and well-being of boys and men. He discusses his own influences and beliefs about masculinity, including the church, his father, and Lord of the Rings. He shares how his research on masculinity has led to personal healing and a desire to guide and support young men.
Episode 3: Brian Recker
How do we navigate raising kids while experiencing shifts and evolution in our own understanding of the world? Brian Recker shares his upbringing in Christian fundamentalism and how it shaped his idea of masculinity and fatherhood, and how the authoritarian parenting style he experienced defined gender roles within his community. Brian reflects on his struggle to fit into the masculine stereotype and his desire to please his father and the challenges of stepping away from the church and the loss of community and purpose.
Episode 4: Dan Doty
In this conversation, Ryan Walton interviews renowned writer, coach and men's leader, Dan Doty. They discuss the evolving role of men and fathers in today's society and the challenges they face. Dan shares his personal journey and the impact of his work with men and fathers. They explore topics such as vulnerability, masculinity, and the importance of being present. Dan provides insights on how to navigate the changing expectations of modern fatherhood and offers suggestions for managing anger and setting boundaries. Overall, the conversation highlights the potential for growth and healing in embracing a more holistic and authentic approach to fatherhood.
Episode 5: Reid Walton
Ryan is joined this week by his brother, Reid Walton, LMFT. They share their experiences as fathers and the influences that shaped their ideas of fatherhood. They also discuss the qualities of a good father and the challenges and joys of being a parent. They touch on topics such as gender roles, grief, and self-reflection as a parent. The conversation explores the challenges of dealing with grief and loss, particularly when it involves children. The speakers discuss the sadness and difficulty of facing questions without good answers and the importance of finding support and connection in times of pain. They also highlight the beauty and gratitude that can be found in memories and moments shared with loved ones. The conversation then shifts to the topic of Reid's book, 'Finding Our Way Again,' which aims to help couples rediscover their relationship through poems and conversations. The book encourages curiosity, acceptance, and self-reflection as key ingredients for maintaining a fulfilling and meaningful relationship.