Episodes
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Welcome to another powerful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we’re joined by Kevin Shird, a three-time published author, activist, and public speaker whose life story is a profound testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of transformation. Kevin’s latest book, A Life for a Life, delves into a gripping and deeply personal narrative that explores trauma, mental health, and the complexities of human behavior.
In A Life for a Life, Kevin recounts his time in federal prison, where he met Damion Neal, a fellow inmate whose life was marked by instability and struggle. While Kevin worked to heal his own trauma and guide Damion toward a better path, their journeys ultimately diverged in unexpected and tragic ways. Years later, Kevin would discover that Damion had been arrested for a heinous crime, leading him on a powerful quest to understand the factors that shaped his former cellmate’s fate.
Through this deeply moving story, Kevin not only confronts his own past but sheds light on the intersection of violence, mental health, and societal failure. Join us as we explore Kevin’s journey, his groundbreaking new book, and his enduring mission to inspire hope and change. Please welcome the remarkable Kevin Shird to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have Ludo Gabriele, a global authority on masculinity and gender equity, join us. As the founder of Humen Leaders and the mind behind the influential pre-#MeToo blog WokeDaddy.com, Ludo has dedicated over a decade to transforming how we understand masculinity and engage men in creating a more equitable world.
Through his work with leading initiatives like Men Advocating Real Change (MARC) and his advisory practice, Ludo has helped organizations worldwide bridge the empathy gap and redefine the relationship between men and diversity, equity, and inclusion. His insights have been featured on platforms such as Forbes, BBC, and Vice, making him a trusted voice on building healthier, more inclusive narratives for boys and men.
Today, we’ll explore Ludo’s journey, his work in promoting healthy masculinity, and the critical role of fathers in shaping the next generation. Please join me in welcoming the insightful and inspiring Ludo Gabriele to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we’re honored to have with us Dwayne E. Meeks, a transformative leader in fatherhood advocacy and community engagement. As the Manager of the Colorado Fatherhood Network and Founder of Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring, Dwayne has spent over 25 years empowering fathers, men, boys, and their families by bridging gaps and inspiring meaningful change.
Dwayne’s work has touched countless lives through his keynotes, workshops, and trainings, equipping organizations and communities with the tools to better engage and support fathers. He is also the co-author of Pieces Never Missing Required in A Child's Life, a powerful exploration of parenting, education, and fatherhood engagement. As a dedicated father of six and a father figure to many, Dwayne brings personal passion and professional expertise to his mission.
Today, we’ll dive into Dwayne’s journey, his innovative work with the Colorado Fatherhood Network, and his vision for a world where fathers are empowered to lead and thrive. Please join me in welcoming the inspiring Dwayne E. Meeks to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to a very special episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have two pioneers in the field of fatherhood research and education joining us—Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm. Together, these esteemed scholars have dedicated their careers to advancing our understanding of fatherhood and empowering fathers to play active, nurturing roles in their children’s lives.
Dr. Fagan, Professor Emeritus at Temple University and co-founder of the Fatherhood Research and Practice Network, has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored multiple books, including the upcoming Fathers and Children Together: A Guide to Developing a Parenting Identity and Supporting your Child. His work has revolutionized how we approach father-child relationships, coparenting, and fatherhood programs, especially in low-income communities.
Dr. Palm, Professor Emeritus of Child and Family Studies at St. Cloud State University, has spent decades shaping the field of parent education and supporting fathers through programs like the Dads Project. He has co-authored landmark books, including Fathers and Early Childhood Programs and Parent Education: Working with Groups and Individuals, bringing invaluable insights to educators and families alike.
Together, they offer a wealth of knowledge and experience on fatherhood, parenting, and the critical role of fathers in early childhood development. Please join me in welcoming the incredible Dr. Jay Fagan and Dr. Glen Palm to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have Elisabeth (SCALE-LA-KINS) Schellekens, the visionary founder of Elle’s Corner, join us. Elisabeth is a passionate Motherhood and Mental Health Counselor dedicated to revolutionizing the way we approach postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and maternal mental health as a whole.
Drawing from her own personal journey with a difficult pregnancy and severe postpartum depression, Elisabeth has created a supportive community and powerful resources that help mothers build resilience and thrive. As an advocate for dismantling the taboos around mental health, she is leading the charge to make mental health care as accessible and routine as a dental checkup, starting as early as high school.
Today, we’ll explore Elisabeth’s journey, her groundbreaking work with Elle’s Corner, and her mission to ensure no mother feels alone in her postpartum experience. Please join me in welcoming the inspiring Elisabeth Schellekens to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we have the honor of speaking with Kwame Johnson, a dynamic leader, passionate advocate, and award-winning author. As the President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, Kwame has transformed the organization into the largest and most impactful youth mentoring agency in Georgia. His journey from overcoming personal challenges as a youth to becoming a nationally recognized leader in mentorship and advocacy is nothing short of remarkable.
Kwame’s personal story, including his groundbreaking decision to take the SATs while incarcerated, fueled his mission to empower young people and create opportunities for others to break through barriers. He is also the author of The Hope Inside: Harnessing the Power of Mentorship in Life and Career, a powerful testament to the importance of mentorship in shaping lives and building communities.
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are excited to have with us a true sports legend and dedicated father, David Tyree. David is best known for his iconic "Helmet Catch" in Super Bowl XLII (42), a moment that forever changed the course of football history and secured a stunning victory for the New York Giants. Beyond the field, David is a purpose-driven leader, husband, and father of seven, who uses his platform to inspire others and champion faith, family, and resilience.
From overcoming personal challenges to achieving greatness in the NFL, David’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and belief. He now channels his experiences into his work as a speaker, mentor, and advocate, helping individuals "catch their moment" and unlock their own potential.
Today, we’re honored to dive into David’s journey as a father, his dedication to family, and the values that drive his work off the field. Please join me in welcoming the incredible David Tyree to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Dion Chavis, a renowned media professional, accomplished author, and passionate fatherhood advocate. As the founder of The Glad Dad, LLC, Dion has dedicated his life to promoting responsible parenting, mentoring today’s youth, and engaging fathers in meaningful ways.
With over 500 trainings and workshops delivered across 10 states, Dion’s voice has become a trusted guide for fathers seeking to deepen their connection with their children and strengthen their role as parents. His impactful work has been featured on platforms like The Huffington Post, fatherhood.gov, and The Good Men Project, and his powerful message continues to inspire fathers, youth, and communities alike.
Today, we are excited to dive into Dion’s journey, hear his insights on fatherhood, and explore the incredible work he’s doing through The Glad Dad, LLC. Please join me in welcoming the extraordinary Dion Chavis to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another insightful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Dr. Alan-Michael S. Graves, a dedicated advocate for fatherhood engagement and a leader in the field of human services. As the Senior Director of Teaching and Capacity Building with the Good Plus Foundation, Dr. Graves is at the forefront of developing programs and advocating for policy changes that support fathers and strengthen families.
With over 20 years of experience in both public and private sectors, Dr. Graves has brought his expertise in program development, family partnerships, and interagency systems of care to his work with organizations across the country. His commitment to addressing disparities within systems and his passion for fatherhood engagement have made him a key figure in driving meaningful change.
As a parent himself, Dr. Graves draws from both his personal and professional experiences to positively impact children, families, and communities. We are thrilled to dive into his journey and hear his insights on the importance of fatherhood.
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Welcome to another enriching episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have Sundjata Aya, a dedicated father, community servant, and social policy/public health researcher, joining us. Sundjata’s passion lies in improving family and health outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged communities, and promoting equity in all areas of his work.
With expertise in family and fatherhood initiatives, Sundjata leads research, technical assistance, and the development of tools that empower programs to make a real difference in the lives of fathers and families. His background in community-based participatory research and public health reflects his deep commitment to reducing disparities and supporting healthier communities.
Outside of his impactful professional life, Sundjata enjoys spending time with his family, working with youth, deejaying, and connecting with nature. We’re thrilled to explore his insights and experiences today.
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a true trailblazer in the field of fatherhood advocacy, Kelly R. Little. Kelly is a dynamic speaker and fatherhood expert who has dedicated his life to empowering fathers and transforming communities through emotional intelligence and holistic healing.
As the founder of Fatherhood University365 and a certified leader in father engagement, Kelly’s innovative approach has bridged the gap between young people and mature male role models, helping fathers across the U.S. and abroad to reconnect with their families. Named the 2023 Fatherhood Trailblazer of the Year and now a 2024 International Fatherhood Legacy Leader Mentor, Kelly’s work continues to inspire positive change, one father at a time.
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Kimberly A. Dent, the Executive Director of the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood (OCF). With over 26 years of experience serving fathers, children, and families in Ohio, Kim has dedicated her career to making a positive impact on the lives of countless families across the state.
Through her leadership at OCF, Kim oversees the funding of fatherhood programs, makes crucial policy recommendations, and works tirelessly to train professionals and engage the community on the vital role that fathers play in their children’s lives. Her extensive background in child support programs and public policy has equipped her with the expertise and passion to drive meaningful change.
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Welcome to another insightful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us Ron, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in guiding and empowering leaders across government, nonprofit, and business sectors. Ron’s passion for building the capacity of others shines through in his work as a coach, consultant, and workshop presenter, where he has made a significant impact on organizations like the Virginia Department of Health, the National Fatherhood Initiative, and many more.
With a strong belief that great leadership begins with great self-leadership, Ron has dedicated his career to helping leaders excel, whether through his role in the VA Governor’s COVID-19 Response Center or as a Statewide Health Promotions Coordinator. His commitment to fostering excellence in leadership is truly inspiring.
Today, we’re excited to dive into Ron’s experiences, his insights on leadership, and how his work connects to fatherhood and family dynamics. Please join me in welcoming the incredible Ron to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to a heartfelt episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast. Today, we are joined by a remarkable father, Jason Tuttle, who has turned his deep personal loss into a powerful way to help others. Jason is a former stay-at-home dad and the father of two children with multiple physical and cognitive disabilities. Tragically, Jason lost his 15-year-old son, Zachary, in January 2022. In the midst of his grief, Jason chose to channel his pain into something meaningful by creating "Letters To Zachary"—a raw and honest exploration of his emotions, shared openly to help others understand the grieving process, especially from a father's perspective.
We are honored to have Jason with us today to share his journey, his memories of Zachary, and how he is finding healing through helping others. Please join me in welcoming the courageous and compassionate Jason Tuttle to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a dedicated and passionate advocate for fatherhood and family services, Lamar Henderson, join us.
Lamar is the Family Services Supervisor for Merced County Human Service Agency’s All Dads Matter Program, where he has spent the past 20 years empowering men on their journey through fatherhood. His unwavering commitment to supporting fathers has made a significant impact in his community and beyond. Through his work, Lamar has helped countless men gain access to vital resources and knowledge, ensuring they have the tools they need to be the best fathers they can be.
In addition to his role at All Dads Matter, Lamar is a seasoned parenting educator, facilitating programs such as Nurturing Parenting, Positive Discipline, and Boot Camp for New Dads. He’s also a certified trainer in trauma-informed approaches, including the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Overcomers program and Helping Men Recover. His expertise has been invaluable in supporting men who have experienced trauma, guiding them toward healing and recovery.
Lamar’s influence extends beyond his local community. As a trainer for UC Davis School for Human Services and Fresno State University’s Central California Training Academy, he has led workshops on working with fathers in child welfare, employee development, and anti-racist practices. His contributions to fatherhood research have been recognized at local, state, and national levels, and his work has been published in respected journals.
Lamar has shared his insights on numerous platforms, including as a featured panelist for the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse and as a keynote speaker at various fatherhood and family conferences. His dedication has earned him well-deserved recognition, including the inaugural “Hands on Hero” award and the President’s Award for Service.
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Welcome to another uplifting episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us a visionary leader and social innovator who has made a profound impact on the lives of Black men and boys—Brandon Frame.
Brandon is the Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan FOUNDATION., an award-winning and internationally recognized non-profit and digital media platform dedicated to celebrating, educating, and inspiring boys and men of color. Through TheBlackManCan, Brandon has worked tirelessly to challenge stereotypes and amplify the authentic stories of Black men, creating a powerful shift in perception and empowering individuals to redefine their narratives.
In addition to his work with TheBlackManCan, Brandon serves as the Deputy Director of Social-Emotional Learning at The Urban Assembly, where he helps integrate crucial life skills into education for young people. He is also the co-founder of the award-winning Twitter chat #hiphoped, and the author of Define Yourself, Redefine the World: A Guided Journal for Boys and Men of Color and the children’s book My First Tie.
Brandon’s dedication to uplifting his community has earned him numerous accolades, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award and the title of Change Maker of the Year. Despite these achievements, what stands out most is his humility and commitment to servant leadership, always striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
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Welcome to another impactful episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a truly remarkable guest, Dr. Robin L. Smith—a #1 bestselling author, sought-after speaker, experienced media personality, and ordained minister who has touched countless lives with her fearless truth-telling and healing wisdom.
Many of you may recognize Dr. Robin from her years as the on-air therapist for The Oprah Winfrey Show, where she captivated audiences around the world with her insightful and compassionate approach to life’s challenges. Today, she continues to make a profound impact through her work with major corporations, non-profit organizations, and high-profile individuals, helping them overcome adversity and achieve personal and professional breakthroughs.
Dr. Robin is the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages, as well as her soulful memoir Hungry: The Truth About Being Full and Inspirational Vitamins: A Guide to Personal Empowerment. Her latest book, The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power, co-written with the talented Courtney B. Vance, was published in November 2023 and has already sparked vital conversations about mental health and empowerment within the Black community.
With a PhD in counseling psychology from Temple University and a master’s degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. But beyond her impressive credentials, it is her genuine compassion, wisdom, and commitment to truth that make her such a powerful and inspiring voice.
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspiring guest, Erin Frisch (she/they), who has been a transformative leader in the field of child support and family services.
Erin has been serving as the Director of the Office of Child Support at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) since 2012. Erin’s dedication to improving the lives of families through equitable and inclusive child support services has made a significant impact across Michigan and beyond. Erin’s leadership extends to the national stage, where they serve as president of the National Child Support Engagement Association and have previously led the National Council of Child Support Directors.
Throughout her illustrious career, Erin has been a champion for integrating public assistance programs to reduce poverty and enhance community well-being. Their efforts in co-leading the MDHHS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council have successfully advocated for the establishment of an office of Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, further demonstrating Erin’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all.
With a background in IT management consulting and a deep passion for public service, Erin brings a unique perspective to child support policy and practice. They have also been a driving force behind pioneering evidence-based programs that support fathers and families, ensuring that child support services meet the evolving needs of today’s society.
Erin’s commitment to her work is matched by her dedication to her family, as a proud parent of two teenagers who keep her on her toes.
Today, we are thrilled to delve into Erin’s insights on fatherhood, child support, and the importance of equity and inclusion in family services. Please join me in welcoming the remarkable Erin Frisch to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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Welcome to another heartfelt episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a truly inspirational guest, Marvin Charles, the co-founder and CEO of Divine Alternatives for Dads Services (DADS). For over 25 years, Marvin has dedicated his life to helping men reclaim their roles as loving, responsible fathers and to building stronger, healthier families.
Marvin's own journey is one of incredible resilience and transformation. Growing up in foster care and facing numerous challenges, including incarceration, Marvin has used his personal experiences to fuel his passion for fatherhood and community service. Alongside his wife Jeanett, he founded DADS, a faith-guided organization based in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, which has positively impacted the lives of countless fathers and their children.
Through programs like the 13-week parenting class, DADS provides crucial support to men coming out of addiction, incarceration, and other difficult circumstances. Marvin’s work has not only helped fathers rebuild their lives but has also created a ripple effect of positive change within their families and communities.
Marvin is also an accomplished author and speaker. His book, "Becoming Dads," chronicles his life and the beginnings of DADS, and he continues to share his story and insights across the country. Together with Jeanett, he hosts the "Color Him Dads" podcast, further extending his reach and impact.
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we have the honor of hosting a truly remarkable guest, John Badalament, Ed.M. John is a proud father of two young adults and a renowned speaker, author, educator, coach, consultant, and documentary filmmaker.
John is the author of the acclaimed book "The Modern Dad’s Dilemma: How To Stay Connected With Your Kids In A Rapidly Changing World" and the director/producer of impactful documentaries such as "All Men Are Sons: Exploring The Legacy of Fatherhood" and "Gender Traps: How Marriage Problems Start In Kindergarten."
For over three decades, John has been a guiding light in the field of fatherhood, speaking and consulting internationally across schools, government agencies, and organizations. As the Director of Programs at The Fatherhood Project at Massachusetts General Hospital for the past 11 years, John has pioneered groundbreaking programs and studies, including the Dads/Moms In Recovery curriculum and the largest study on fathers' prenatal experiences.
John’s work has been featured in prominent media outlets such as ABC News, CBS Sunday Morning, and National Public Radio, and he has been recognized by esteemed organizations for his dedication to ending violence against women and children. His commitment to fostering healthier family dynamics and his contributions to men's health have even earned him invitations to the White House under President Obama’s administration.
Today, we are excited to delve into John’s vast experiences, insights on fatherhood, and his ongoing efforts to support and empower dads everywhere. Please join me in welcoming the inspirational John Badalament to the "I Am Dad" podcast.
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