<h3>The Fatherhood Challenge is a movement dedicated to encouraging fathers to engage with their children and educate society on the positive impact involved fathers have on their communities and society from generation to generation.</h3>

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/22/15/5af9e33f-f055-426b-9b53-85871ea37e07_fcs21e04_-_adhd__marriage__and_fatherhood-noad.mp3

When we talk about ADHD, most people jump straight to the stereotypes. They picture the kid who can’t sit still, or the adult who’s always losing their keys. But ADHD is so much more layered than that, and honestly, it reaches into places we don’t always expect — like marriage, parenting, and even how we show up as dads.Today, I want to slow things down and really explore those layers with someone who understands them from both the professional side and the personal side. This episode&#39;s guest brings both professional insight and a deeply personal story to this conversation. Judith Richardson‑Mahre is here, and if you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or even discouraged by the challenges ADHD can bring into a marriage or into parenting, you’re going to connect with her right away.Judith has spent years helping families navigate ADHD with compassion and clarity, but what makes her voice so powerful is that she’s lived this journey herself. She understands the strain it can put on communication, the misunderstandings that can build up, and the emotional weight couples carry when they’re trying to love each other well in the middle of all that chaos. And she also understands the heart of a parent who’s trying to raise an ADHD child with patience, strategy, and a whole lot of love. You can learn more about Kaleidoscope Coaching &amp; Counseling and find the resources mentioned in this episode at <a href="https://www.kcccares.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.kcccares.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Is your internet service provider jerking you around by providing unreliable service, poor customer service and STILL expecting you to pay for it? Fire them! You have options.Visit <a href="https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90" rel="nofollow">https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90</a> and look at the amazing options Starlink has. Sign up and get a free month of service while it lasts. By signing up you will also help The Fatherhood Challenge accomplish its mission another year. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

A Conversation on Love, Strategy, and Redemption with Judith Richardson‑Mahre

ADHD, Marriage, and Fatherhood

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/20/21/0cf68d2e-646c-4a3e-9e0e-614b7eb4691a_tfcs21e03_-_spark_the_connection-no_ad.mp3

Today’s conversation is such an important one. We’re sitting down with a renowned pediatrician. She’s spent years helping parents understand what’s really happening beneath the surface when teens pull away, and how dads can respond in ways that open doors instead of closing them.If you’ve ever felt that communication gap widening with your teen, this episode is going to give you hope, clarity, and practical tools you can start using right away.Dr. Elizabeth Henry — known as Dr. Liz — is a pediatrician, consultant, and youth‑connection specialist who has spent her career helping parents understand what’s really going on in the hearts and minds of their teens. She’s the founder of Dr. Liz Consulting, a national speaker, and the author of the powerful book SPARK: A Pediatrician’s Guide to Rebuilding Trust, Restoring Connection, and Igniting Youth Potential. Visit Dr. Liz&#39;s website at <a href="https://www.drlizconsulting.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.drlizconsulting.com/</a> You can also find her social media links there and you can purchase her book here: <a href="https://link.amazon/B09sXgK6f" rel="nofollow">https://link.amazon/B09sXgK6f</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Is your internet service provider jerking you around by providing unreliable service, poor customer service and STILL expecting you to pay for it? Fire them! You have options.Visit <a href="https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90" rel="nofollow">https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90</a> and look at the amazing options Starlink has. Sign up and get a free month of service while it lasts. By signing up you will also help The Fatherhood Challenge accomplish its mission another year. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

How Dads Can Bridge the Teen Communication Gap with Dr. Liz Henry

SPARK the Connection

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/19/0/1b013bd0-343d-4e74-bb74-61eae3079ed6_tfcs21e02_-_from_fear_to_purpose-no_ad.mp3

Have you ever stopped to look at the big choices you’ve made in your life—your career, your relationships, even how you handle stress—and wondered what’s actually driving them?For a lot of men, if we’re being completely honest, the driver in the front seat isn&#39;t purpose or clarity. It&#39;s fear. Fear of failing, fear of not measuring up, or fear of letting people down. And a lot of times, that fear isn&#39;t even entirely ours—it&#39;s generational baggage we&#39;ve been carrying around without even realizing it.Today, we&#39;re diving into how to break that cycle. We’re talking about how to drop the weight of the past, step out of survival mode, and start making decisions rooted in who you actually are and what you&#39;re meant to do. I’ve brought someone to help us navigate this journeyI’m really glad to be joined today by Coach Mike Forrester. Mike works directly with men to help them break free from that generational weight, trade fear for clarity, and step into the purpose they were meant for. Visit Coach Mike&#39;s website mentioned in this episode here: <a href="http://yourlegacyaudit.com" rel="nofollow">yourlegacyaudit.com</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Is your internet service provider jerking you around by providing unreliable service, poor customer service and STILL expecting you to pay for it? Fire them! You have options. Visit <a href="https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90" rel="nofollow">https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90</a> and look at the amazing options Starlink has. Sign up and get a free month of service while it lasts. By signing up you will also help The Fatherhood Challenge accomplish its mission another year. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Breaking Free from Generational Baggage with Coach Mike Forrester

From Fear to Purpose

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/18/3/189c5d2a-1217-4d4e-918e-cc6d6accdeb1_1_-_from_dyslexic_kids_to_confident_dads-no_ad.mp3

Today, we’re exploring what it takes to nurture transformation, how a dyslexic child becomes a confident dyslexic adult, and ultimately a dad who is secure in his identity and clear in his purpose. This is a journey that impacts families for generations, and it starts with understanding the unique strengths dyslexia brings to the table. I’ve had so many families who have inquired about resources for their dyslexic child, so if you’re one of those dads, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Today’s guest has spent years helping dyslexic kids discover the confidence that’s already inside them. His work goes beyond academics — it’s about identity, purpose, and the kind of self‑understanding that carries a child all the way into adulthood. He’s helped families navigate the emotional side of dyslexia, the practical side, and the long‑term impact it has on how boys eventually show up as fathers.He brings a perspective shaped by experience, research, and a deep commitment to seeing dyslexic kids thrive. And he’s here to share how that journey unfolds, step by step, from childhood into confident, secure fatherhood. He was on a previous episode on The Fatherhood Challenge called Connection Before Curriculum. And now I’m so excited to welcome Russell Van Brocklen back. Russell, welcome to The Fatherhood Challenge! It’s rare for guests to come back on a second time so this is special.  To find the website and resources Russell mentioned in this episode, visit: <a href="https://dyslexiaclasses.com/" rel="nofollow">https://dyslexiaclasses.com/</a> You can access the book Russell talked about in the episode here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nTJLKFPBMHeZFT7gdaWVmzI_WQqG7lRY/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nTJLKFPBMHeZFT7gdaWVmzI_WQqG7lRY/view?usp=sharing</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Is your internet service provider jerking you around by providing unreliable service, poor customer service and STILL expecting you to pay for it? Fire them! You have options. Visit <a href="https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90" rel="nofollow">https://starlink.com?referral=RC-DF-14196101-41439-90</a> and look at the amazing options Starlink has. Sign up and get a free month of service while it lasts. By signing up you will also help The Fatherhood Challenge accomplish its mission another year. Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Russell Van Brocklen on Identity That Endures

From Dyslexic Kids to Confident Dads

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/11/20/ac4f242f-8435-400e-b2de-70a662c60a03_tfcs20e13_-_forged_by_fire-no_ad.mp3

There’s a moment in every man’s life when he realizes that the story he’s been living isn’t the story he wants to leave behind. And sometimes, God uses the weight of that realization to shape something bigger than we ever expected. Today, we’re sitting down with someone who knows that journey firsthand.He’s a man I’m proud to call my friend who’s walked through enough fire to understand what it means to rise for the sake of the generations coming after us. His podcast has become a place where men can wrestle honestly with faith, fatherhood, failure, and forgiveness — but before The Valiant Forge ever existed, there was a personal story God was writing in him. A story that pushed him to step into his role as a spiritual leader and legacy builder.So today, we’re going to talk about that story — the testimony behind the forge.Mark Osborne, the host of The Valiant Forge podcast. Mark is a husband, a father, a grandfather and skilled musician. You can find The Valiant Forge Podcast here: <a href="https://www.thevaliantforge.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.thevaliantforge.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

The Testimony That Built The Valiant Forge

Forged by Fire

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/10/23/56b1973a-4fa7-49e0-9d3d-d2413db7b040_tfcs20e12_-_strength_without_fear-no_ad.mp3

Most dads don’t realize how much fear shapes their choices until they’re exhausted, frustrated, or stuck in patterns that don’t feel like them. And it’s easy to confuse dominance with strength, or control with leadership, or silence with toughness. But real strength… the kind that actually holds a family together… doesn’t come from fear. It comes from clarity. It comes from courage. It comes from knowing who you are and what you stand for.And what’s interesting is that true strength isn’t loud. It isn’t forceful. It isn’t about overpowering anyone. It’s steady. It’s intentional. It’s built the same way a structure is built — with a foundation that can actually hold weight.Today’s conversation is about that kind of strength. The kind that helps dads stop reacting out of fear and start living with purpose. The kind that separates real masculinity from dominance. The kind that gives your family something solid to lean on. Today’s guest is Garth Haslem, someone who has spent years studying strength in a way most of us never think about. He’s a structural engineer by trade — a guy who literally evaluates what holds up under pressure, what collapses, and why. And what’s fascinating is how much of that work has shaped the way he understands real masculinity and the kind of strength dads are meant to live with. Garth has spent years helping men understand the difference between force and true power, between dominance and real leadership, between reacting out of fear and living from a place of grounded confidence. His perspective is unique, it’s practical, and it’s something every dad needs to hear. To learn more Manalizing or about Garth Haslem and his work or to get his book Power Over Force visit: <a href="https://poweroverforce.com/" rel="nofollow">https://poweroverforce.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Garth Haslem on Becoming the Dad Your Family Can Trust

Strength Without Fear

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/9/17/90d8531c-3f66-4571-b790-cdcdfeda093a_tfcs20e11_-_when_autism_hits_home-no_ad.mp3

Today’s conversation about autism starts in that raw, honest space where dads are searching for hope, direction, and someone who understands what they’re walking through. Because you’re not alone. You’re not failing. And you don’t have to figure this out in the dark.There is hope in the chaos. And there are fathers who’ve walked this road and found strength, clarity, and a new kind of connection with their child.Today’s guest is Paul Voss, a father of eight whose world shifted three and a half years ago when his youngest child was diagnosed with autism. And like so many dads, he found himself standing in that moment where everything feels overwhelming — where you’re trying to be strong for your family while your mind is spinning with questions, fears, and the pressure to figure out what comes next.Paul didn’t hide from that chaos. He walked straight into it. He learned, he listened, he fought for his child, and he discovered something powerful along the way: hope doesn’t show up all at once. It shows up in small moments, in tiny victories, and in the courage to keep going even when you don’t have all the answers.Out of that journey came his book, Autism Sucks: Finding Hope in the Chaos — a raw, honest, and deeply human look at what those early days feel like for dads. It’s not a clinical manual. It’s not a polished success story. It’s a lifeline. It’s the voice every overwhelmed father needs to hear when he’s trying to make sense of a diagnosis he didn’t see coming. To learn more about Paul&#39;s work or get Autism Sucks as mentioned in the episode, visit: <a href="https://autismsucks.org/" rel="nofollow">https://autismsucks.org/</a> To Listen to the episode with Ken Klein that was featured in this episode, visit: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastery-weight-loss/id1589320881?i=1000778817528" rel="nofollow">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastery-weight-loss/id1589320881?i=1000778817528</a> or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4djGwwPjGvE84mBVNEqRXQ?si=U442F-pYRH-SAhPedOpVXA" rel="nofollow">https://open.spotify.com/episode/4djGwwPjGvE84mBVNEqRXQ?si=U442F-pYRH-SAhPedOpVXA</a> To find Ken Klein&#39;s website, visit: <a href="https://www.masteryweightloss.com/minibootcamp" rel="nofollow">https://www.masteryweightloss.com/minibootcamp</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Paul Voss on Finding Hope When Your World Starts Spinning

When Autism Hits Home

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/8/5/ab66c933-18f8-4de2-8f9c-1fabcaabc7f9_tfcs20e10_-_breaking_the_boyhood_stigma-no_ad.mp3

As dads, we want our sons to grow up confident, informed, and unafraid to take care of themselves. But the world they’re growing up in sends mixed messages — telling them to be tough, telling them not to show uncertainty, telling them their bodies should look a certain way, and telling them that asking for help somehow makes them weak. It’s no wonder so many boys end up feeling confused, ashamed, or disconnected from their own health.Today’s conversation starts right there — in that space where stigma meets silence, where boys are trying to figure out who they are, and where dads are trying to guide them without pushing too hard. Because when we break down those barriers, when we make health a safe topic instead of an awkward one, we give our sons something powerful: permission to care about themselves. But where do we start?This episode&#39;s guest is Armin Brott, someone who has spent decades advocating for boys, fathers, and men in ways most people never think about. He’s one of the leading voices in men’s health and fatherhood education, and he’s been sounding the alarm on something that often gets overlooked: the quiet, growing discomfort boys and young men feel around healthcare, their bodies, and the stigma that keeps them from getting the help they need.Armin has observed this pattern for years — boys avoiding doctors, teens struggling with body image, young men feeling embarrassed or ashamed to ask questions about their own health. And instead of accepting it as “just how boys are,” he decided to do something about it. His work led to the creation of Healthy Men Inc., a mission born out of his own personal story and a deep desire to change the way boys and men experience healthcare. To find the website and resources Armin mentioned in this episode, visit: <a href="https://healthymen.org/" rel="nofollow">https://healthymen.org/</a> and <a href="https://mrdad.com/" rel="nofollow">https://mrdad.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Armin Brott on Helping Young Men Trust Healthcare Again

Breaking the Boyhood Stigma

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/6/17/c16da0bd-7cdf-4cfb-9575-c3837c9055a0_0e09_-_removing_the_barriers_to_intimacy_no_ad.mp3

Today’s conversation starts in that honest space where marriages struggle, where men feel disconnected, and where couples quietly hope for something deeper. Because intimacy isn’t just physical closeness. It’s emotional safety. It’s vulnerability. It’s the courage to show up fully and the trust that your partner will meet you there.And when those barriers come down, everything changes. But how? How? How exactly do we tear those barriers down without tearing ourselves up in the process?Dr. Robert Jaffe, a man who has spent years helping couples understand why intimacy breaks down and how to rebuild it with honesty, compassion, and emotional clarity. He’s worked with husbands who feel disconnected but don’t know how to express it, and wives who want closeness but can’t figure out why it feels out of reach. And through all of that, he’s uncovered something powerful: most couples aren’t struggling because they don’t love each other — they’re struggling because no one ever taught them how to navigate emotional needs in a way that brings them closer instead of pushing them apart.Dr. Jaffe specializes in removing the barriers that make intimacy feel complicated or confusing. He helps men understand their emotional world, helps couples communicate without fear, and shows partners how to rebuild connection from the inside out. His work gives marriages a path back to closeness — not through pressure, but through understanding. To find Dr. Jaffe&#39;s website or take the self assessment mentioned in the episode, visit: <a href="https://www.drrobertjaffe.com/shop/p/the-3-minute-stress-pattern-quiz" rel="nofollow">https://www.drrobertjaffe.com/shop/p/the-3-minute-stress-pattern-quiz</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/" rel="nofollow">https://thefatherhoodchallenge.dashery.com/</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Dr. Robert Jaffe on What Men Need to Feel Connected

Removing the Barriers to Intimacy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/2/5/7e7b2827-18a0-4c11-97ec-46f1199e55f5_tfcs20e08_-_designing_extraordinary_kids_no_ad.mp3

Every parent wants that for their kids. But wanting it and knowing how to cultivate it are two very different things.I’ve talked with so many dads who feel this tension. They see the world changing fast. They feel the pressure to prepare their children for a future that’s bigger, more complex, and more connected than anything they grew up with. And somewhere in that tension, a question keeps rising: How do I raise a child who isn’t just ready for the world, but ready to make it better?That’s where today’s conversation begins — with the idea that extraordinary children aren’t born by accident. They’re shaped with intention. They’re guided by parents who understand that intellectual ambition, global awareness, and humanitarian drive aren’t luxuries… They&#39;re necessities. And when those qualities are nurtured early, they become the foundation for a life that impacts more than just the family — it impacts humanity.Nathaniel Turner has dedicated his life to helping parents raise children who don’t just succeed — they contribute. He’s spent years studying what makes a child extraordinary, and it’s not luck, privilege, or pressure. It’s intention. It’s intellectual ambition, global competence, and a humanitarian drive that starts at home and grows into something much bigger.Nathaniel calls himself a Humanity Propulsion Engineer, and once you hear him talk, you understand why. He’s passionate about equipping parents to design children who are curious, compassionate, and capable of thriving in a world that’s constantly changing. His work challenges us to think beyond grades, beyond achievements, beyond the narrow definitions of success we grew up with — and instead focus on raising humans who can navigate the world with confidence and make it better along the way. To find Nathaniel Turner&#39;s website and resources mentioned in this episode, visit: <a href="https://www.nathanielaturner.com/product-page/the-life-template-starter-kit" rel="nofollow">https://www.nathanielaturner.com/product-page/the-life-template-starter-kit</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</li><li>Donation: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Nathaniel Turner on Raising Globally Competent, Purpose‑Driven Humans

Designing Extraordinary Kids

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/28/4/fc8ea3df-bfe1-4aa4-9384-dcc0e2807133_tfcs20e07_-_the_father_friend_blueprint.mp3

Over the years, I’ve heard so many stories from fathers who were exhausted, overwhelmed, or carrying heartbreak they didn’t know how to name. Men who were deeply committed, but unsure if their commitment was pointed in the right direction. And somewhere in those conversations, a pattern started to emerge — a realization that fatherhood isn’t one fixed role. It shifts. It stretches. It demands new tools as kids grow and life changes.That’s where today’s conversation begins: with a framework built from real families, real struggles, and real hope.Dr. Mike Ayers is a man who has spent twenty‑five years sitting with dads in some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Out of those conversations, he built something remarkable — a research‑backed, stage‑by‑stage model that helps fathers understand what their role actually is, and how that role has to evolve as their kids grow. Not a feelings‑first approach. To find Dr. Ayers website and resources mentioned in this episode, visi: <a href="https://www.fatherfriend.net/start" rel="nofollow">https://www.fatherfriend.net/start</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

How Dr. Mike Ayers Helps Dads Lead with Clarity, Purpose, and Presence

Over the years, I’ve heard so many stories from fathers who were exhausted, overwhelmed, or carrying heartbreak they didn’t know how to name. Men who were deeply committed, but unsure if their commitment was pointed in the right direction. And somewhere in those conversations, a pattern started to emerge — a realization that fatherhood isn’t one fixed role. It shifts. It stretches. It demands new tools as kids grow and life changes.

That’s where today’s conversation begins: with a framework built from real families, real struggles, and real hope.

Dr. Mike Ayers is a man who has spent twenty‑five years sitting with dads in some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Out of those conversations, he built something remarkable — a research‑backed, stage‑by‑stage model that helps fathers understand what their role actually is, and how that role has to evolve as their kids grow. Not a feelings‑first approach. 



Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations

The Father Friend Blueprint

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/25/4/28e14157-4dde-4de1-83b9-0ac692238ef1_tfcs20e06_-_when_purpose_arrives_late.mp3

In this episode, we’re going to explore what it looks like when purpose shows up later than expected, why that’s actually a strength, and how embracing the second half of life can open doors you didn’t even know were there.John Little is my guest today, and if you’ve followed any of his work, you already know he’s a man who’s lived through enough seasons to speak honestly about change, identity, and the courage it takes to become who you’re meant to be—especially in the second half of life. To visit John Little&#39;s website and find the resources mentioned in this episode, visit: <a href="https://mirror.bigjohnlittle.com/" rel="nofollow">https://mirror.bigjohnlittle.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Why Midlife May Be a Man’s Most Important Turning Point

In this episode, we’re going to explore what it looks like when purpose shows up later than expected, why that’s actually a strength, and how embracing the second half of life can open doors you didn’t even know were there.

John Little is my guest today, and if you’ve followed any of his work, you already know he’s a man who’s lived through enough seasons to speak honestly about change, identity, and the courage it takes to become who you’re meant to be—especially in the second half of life.



To visit John Little&#39;s website and find the resources mentioned in this episode, visit: https://mirror.bigjohnlittle.com/







Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:

Merch: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store
Donation: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate


Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations

When Purpose Arrives Late

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/24/2/25f6a41a-37f4-4937-9858-ecbefe1cb633_tfcs20e05_-_the_dad_who_built_peace_of_mind.mp3

Today, we’re stepping into the story of a father who followed that instinct, dug deep into the world of food safety, and built something that helps families stay protected in a very real way.Our guest today is Jordan Robinson, a dad who took that protective instinct we all feel and turned it into something bigger — something that helps families stay safe in ways most of us don’t even think about. His journey into food safety didn’t come from a business plan or a classroom. It came from real life, real fatherhood, and a desire to make sure the people he loves are protected. That path eventually led him to build a company that helps families navigate recalls and hidden risks in the food we bring into our homes. To learn more about Anxin and get the app, visit: <a href="https://pieceofmind.fyi/" rel="nofollow">https://pieceofmind.fyi/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Jordan Robinson on Safety, Recalls, and Raising Kids

Today, we’re stepping into the story of a father who followed that instinct, dug deep into the world of food safety, and built something that helps families stay protected in a very real way.

Our guest today is Jordan Robinson, a dad who took that protective instinct we all feel and turned it into something bigger — something that helps families stay safe in ways most of us don’t even think about. His journey into food safety didn’t come from a business plan or a classroom. It came from real life, real fatherhood, and a desire to make sure the people he loves are protected. That path eventually led him to build a company that helps families navigate recalls and hidden risks in the food we bring into our homes.



To learn more about Anxin and get the app, visit: https://pieceofmind.fyi/





Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:

Merch: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store
Donation: https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate








Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations

The Dad Who Built Peace of Mind

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/23/19/9fe4c1b6-d018-4f13-8d2a-145927d66b04_fcs19e04_-_solving_real_problems_for_real_dads.mp3

Every dad has had that moment where he thinks, there has to be something better than this. What’s rare is when someone takes that moment and turns it into a mission — creating products that solve real problems for real dads. In this episode, we’re stepping into the story of a father who did exactly that, and the path that led him there is anything but ordinary.My guest today is Paul Moore a dad who didn’t just notice the gaps in everyday parenting — he actually stepped in and started solving them. His journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t something he planned, but it grew out of real moments with his own kids, real frustrations, and real needs that weren’t being met. And instead of waiting for someone else to fix it, he went to work. The products he’s created have helped a lot of families, especially dads who want tools that actually make life easier. To visit Paul&#39;s website and see the products mentioned in this episode, visit: <a href="https://smilymia.com/" rel="nofollow">https://smilymia.com/</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

The Inventive Journey of Paul Moore

Solving Real Problems for Real Dads

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/23/2/2072133d-044e-4cca-af70-fdf95576798b_tfcs19e03_-_the_making_of_good_men.mp3

Fatherhood has a way of showing up in places we don’t always expect. Sometimes the lessons come from home, sure—but other times they come from watching how men carry themselves when the pressure is real and the stakes are high. And when you spend years around environments where character gets revealed in an instant, you start to notice patterns. You start to see what helps young men grow, what holds them back, and what actually shapes them into the kind of men we hope our sons become. That’s the world we’re stepping into today, and it’s full of insight that hits way beyond the basketball court.Our guest today is someone who’s spent years in the kind of environments where young men are shaped fast. Not just as athletes, but as people. He’s a South Bronx native who worked his way into Division I coaching and spent more than two decades guiding players through moments that would make most of us stop and think twice. Along the way, he learned from some of the most respected coaches in the game, and those experiences eventually led him to write a book that’s all about fatherhood, mentorship, and the making of good men. You&#39;re going to enjoy my conversation with Tony Chiles. You can find Tony Chile&#39;s book The Baby Powder Theory mentioned in the episode at: Amazon: <a href="https://a.co/d/04qwwOax" rel="nofollow">https://a.co/d/04qwwOax</a> Want to support The Fatherhood Challenge? Here are two easy ways:<ol><li>Merch: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/store</a></li><li>Donation: <a href="https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate" rel="nofollow">https://www.thefatherhoodchallenge.com/donate</a></li></ol> Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Tony Chiles on Fatherhood, Pressure, and Purpose

The Making of Good Men

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/16/4/62ff3cbf-557a-4cbb-830a-afa2028b7736_tfcs19e02_-_parenting_without_a_manual.mp3

Sometimes a story doesn’t start with a big idea or a business plan. It starts with a dad sitting there thinking, “Okay… why is this so hard, and why does it feel like I’m supposed to just magically know what to do?” That moment — that honest, frustrated, real moment — is where today’s conversation begins. Because instead of shrugging and pushing through, My guest decided to build something that actually helps dads make sense of the chaos. Not a gimmick, not another parenting trend — something practical, thoughtful, and rooted in real experience. And the way it came together says a lot about who he is and what he cares about.We’ve got David Yep joining us — a dad who found himself in the thick of parenting, realizing there were moments where he felt lost, unsure, and honestly just wishing there was something out there to help him make sense of it all. Instead of waiting for that “something” to show up, he built it.David is the creator of Godmother, a tool that’s reshaping how dads approach parenting by giving them clarity, confidence, and a way forward when everything feels overwhelming. To learn more about Godmother or take the assessments mentioned in the episode to get started, visit: <a href="https://aingelic.net/" rel="nofollow">https://aingelic.net/</a> Here is a link to the Oliiki app Created by Clare Stead mentioned in this episode: <a href="https://www.oliikiapp.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.oliikiapp.com/</a> To be a guest on The Fatherhood Challenge visit: <a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge</a>﻿ Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

How David Yep Created Godmother to Help Dads Lead with Confidence

Parenting Without a Manual

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/12/22/61a8aa33-49a2-40af-aa44-7fe7c5c926b0_tfcs19e01_-_fear_in_the_congregation.mp3

When we talk about creating a safe environment for kids, most people think about warm smiles, trusted volunteers, and a place where families can breathe easy. But the truth is, safety doesn’t happen by accident. It takes structure. It takes accountability. And yes—it takes screening and background checks that actually mean something.This is one of those conversations that challenges us, but it also strengthens us. Because when we understand the why, we can build churches that are truly safe, truly welcoming, and truly protective of the kids who trust us the most. My guest and I will dive into all of thisIf you’ve listened to The Fatherhood Challenge for a while, you’ll remember a powerful episode we did called The First Line of Defense. It struck a chord because it wasn’t just theory—it was practical, it was urgent, and it challenged churches to rethink how they protect the kids who trust them the most. Well, today, we’re building on that foundation with someone who has been in this fight for a long time and refuses to let the conversation get swept under the rug. She’s someone who understands the real-world impact of child safety policies, not just from a professional standpoint, but from walking alongside families and churches who are trying to do the right thing. She’s been helping leaders understand what true accountability looks like, why background checks matter, and how predators often slip through the cracks when churches rely on “good intentions” instead of real systems.Veronica Thompson, is a certified trauma therapist, a licensed clinical social worker and committed Christian. Additionally she’s a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. To connect with Veronica Thompson and find her resources visit: <a href="https://www.veronicathompson.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.veronicathompson.com/</a> To be a guest on The Fatherhood Challenge visit: <a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge%EF%BB%BF" rel="nofollow">https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge</a><a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge%EF%BB%BF" rel="nofollow">﻿</a> Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Why Some Members Resist Background Checks

Fear in the Congregation

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/10/13/86f55648-7248-461d-a55f-9ff1511e3eb7_tfcs18e13_-_no_man_too_broken.mp3

Today’s conversation is with someone who knows what it feels like to be shattered, to lose his sense of direction, and to wonder if God could ever use someone like him. And yet, his life now is proof of what happens when a man finally lets God do what only God can do—restore, reshape, and repurpose a broken life into something powerful and deeply meaningful.We’re talking about a journey from brokenness to a life that’s been poured out in service, a life that’s helped countless youth and adults discover who Jesus really is. And if you’ve ever wondered whether your own story is too far gone, too complicated, or too damaged for God to redeem, this episode is going to speak straight to your heart.Pastor Jeff Fender once pastored my home church, the Waterloo Seventh‑day Adventist Church, and if you’ve ever met him, you already know he carries a testimony that speaks straight to the heart of what God can do in a man’s life. To connect with Pastor Jeffery Fender for help or prayer, email him at: pastorjefferyfender@gmail.com To be a guest on The Fatherhood Challenge visit: <a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge</a>﻿ Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Pastor Jeff Fender’s Story of Restoration and Calling

No Man Too Broken

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/7/15/1b7c703b-223a-41b7-aa61-e079a61a94bd_tfcs18e12_-_the_presence_that_pain_built.mp3

In this episode we’re diving into the kind of pain that reshapes a man, the kind of redemption that only God can pull off, and the quiet, everyday choices that rebuild trust with your kids one step at a time. This isn’t theory. This is lived experience. And if you’ve ever felt the weight of regret, or the urgency to be more present with your children, this conversation is going to speak straight to you.Tracy Brinkmann is joining us, and he’s someone who has walked through the kind of moments that change a father down to his core.You’re going to hear him talk about the eighteen months that reshaped his entire understanding of presence and gratitude, and what losing his daughter taught him about showing up for the people you love right now, not someday. And he doesn’t stop there. Tracy also opens up about a season of life where his own choices nearly cost him his family—and how God stepped in, turned his heart back toward his kids, and led him through the long, honest work of rebuilding trust.This is real, it’s vulnerable, and it’s full of the kind of hope only God can write into a man’s story. I’m excited for you to hear it. Tracy creates an AI Escape Plan newsletter for parents ready to break free from the 9-to-5 grind. You can find it here: https://ai-escape-plan.beehiiv.com/ To be a guest on The Fatherhood Challenge visit: <a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge</a>﻿ Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

Tracy Brinkmann’s Story of Loss, Redemption, and Returning to His Kids

The Presence That Pain Built

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/31/15/f3923a74-66ca-409e-bbf1-f40912c63ea9_e11_-_when_life_stops_and_you_must_keep_moving.mp3

In this episode, we’re talking about what it really looks like to walk through those seasons—the ones that shake you, stretch you, and force you to grow in ways you never asked for. We’re diving into grief, resilience, and the quiet courage it takes to take one more step when everything in you feels stuck. And we’re exploring how hope can still rise, even from the hardest places.My guest is AJ Coleman. He wrote a powerful book called Keep Those Feet Moving, and it’s exactly what it sounds like—real, honest, practical guidance for getting through the days when life feels heavier than you ever imagined. What I appreciate most is how he talks about resilience. Not the polished, motivational‑poster kind that you see and hear about all over the internet but the everyday kind—the kind that looks like taking one small step when you don’t feel ready, or choosing hope when everything around you feels uncertain. To order AJ&#39;s book mentioned in this episode, Keep Those Feet Moving, visit: <a href="https://keepthosefeetmoving.com/order" rel="nofollow">https://keepthosefeetmoving.com/order</a> To be a guest on The Fatherhood Challenge visit: <a href="https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/thefatherhoodchallenge</a>﻿ Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr<a href="https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge" rel="nofollow">https://zencastr.com/?via=thefatherhoodchallenge</a> Support this podcast at — <a rel='payment' href='https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations'>https://redcircle.com/thefatherhoodchallengepodcast/donations</a>

AJ Coleman’s Story of Loss, Resilience, and Hope

When Life Stops and You Must Keep Moving

Turning the hearts of the fathers to their children.

The Fatherhood Challenge is a movement dedicated to encouraging fathers to engage with their children and educate society on the positive impact involved fathers have on their communities and society.