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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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have with us a distinguished guest, Ron Walker, a pioneer in the field of education with over 45 years of experience. Ron is the Executive Director and a founding member of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC), an organization dedicated to the social, emotional, and academic development of boys and young men of color.

    Under Ron’s visionary leadership, COSEBOC has positively impacted over 600 schools and more than 300,000 students across the nation, changing the narrative around boys and young men of color by highlighting their gifts, talents, and potential. His work has garnered recognition from prestigious institutions such as the U.S. Department of Education, Harvard University, and the American Public Health Association, among many others.

    In addition to his professional achievements, Ron is a devoted father and grandfather who credits his success to his faith, the lessons from his parents, and the support of his family. His unwavering commitment to high-quality education and his passion for uplifting underserved populations make him a true beacon of hope and inspiration.

  • Welcome to another enlightening episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are honored to have a very special guest, David Pizarro, the CEO of Dads Law School. With over 24 years of experience, David has been a guiding light for thousands of fathers navigating the complexities of family court, helping them fight for their rights and maintain meaningful relationships with their children.

    David is not only an expert in father’s rights and children’s rights but also a prolific multimedia content creator. His engaging TikTok videos have garnered over 48,000 followers, while his "Men's Family Law" podcast on iTunes, with over 70 episodes, has been a beacon of support for dads everywhere. On YouTube, his DADs Law School channel is filled with informative videos addressing the concerns of fathers going through the child custody process.

    In addition to his digital presence, David is the author of the "A Man's Guide..." series, covering essential topics like child custody, divorce, and domestic violence. His expertise and dedication have seen him featured on numerous podcasts, in movies, on television, and as an international speaker.

    David's work is fueled by a deep commitment to advocating for children’s rights, father's rights, and the importance of integrating new relationships into family dynamics. His practical advice and heartfelt insights make him an invaluable resource for fathers seeking to navigate their legal and emotional journeys.

  • Welcome to another episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us an extraordinary guest, Tim Gittens. Growing up in Harlem, Tim faced significant hardships, but he defied the odds and used basketball as a vehicle to rise above and achieve greatness.

    Tim has become one of the most influential figures in basketball over the last 20 years. He has had an impressive professional career, playing in the NBA and internationally, including with the Harlem Globetrotters and as a founding member of the renowned And 1 Streetball Team. His talents have taken him around the globe, and he’s left an indelible mark on the world of streetball.

    Beyond his accomplishments on the court, Tim has dedicated his life to giving back. He created the Headache 13 Foundation to improve the lives of inner-city youth through education, social, and cultural enrichment. As a teacher, coach, and mentor, Tim instills values of hard work, dedication, and making good choices in everyone he meets.

    Tim is also a proud husband and father, proving what the fight for success looks like. He’s earned two college degrees, starred in films and television, and become an influential voice in the community.

  • Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast, where we explore the dynamic world of fatherhood, parenting, and family well-being. I’m your host, Kenneth Braswell, and today we have an extraordinary guest who has dedicated her career to supporting families and fostering strong communities.

    Joining us is Sandy Cloer, the Division Director for The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Tribal Child Support, TANF, and Representative Payee Programs. Sandy’s remarkable journey began with a degree in Business from Winsalm College, which paved the way for her 18-year tenure in Child Support with The State of North Carolina. In 2009, she brought her extensive experience and deep understanding of the EBCI community to her role with the EBCI, helping to develop their child support program and subsequently launching their Tribal TANF Program in 2012 and the Representative Payee Program in 2015.

    Sandy’s leadership extends beyond her immediate responsibilities. She oversees a dedicated team of 17 employees, including a process server and court clerk to the Cherokee Tribal Court. Her contributions to the field are widely recognized, serving six years on the Board of Directors for the NC Child Support Council, acting as Secretary for the National Tribal Child Support Directors Association, and currently presiding as President of the National Tribal Child Support Association.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Sandy is also a proud mother of two children, Michelle and James. Her commitment to family and community is truly inspiring, and we are thrilled to have her share her insights and experiences with us today.

  • Welcome to the "I Am Dad" podcast, the haven for exploring the depths and breadths of fatherhood in all its forms. Today's episode is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and wisdom, as we sit down with Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry.

    From the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Tammy and Jay step into our space bringing with them the lived experience of marriage and family therapists, and more intimately, as individuals who have navigated the turbulent waters of divorce and the tranquil harbors of remarriage. Their journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the clarity born of complexity, and the unyielding commitment to fostering healthy family dynamics.

    Join us as we unfold the chapters of their story — from the solitary paths of single parenthood to the united front of a blended family. Through their work with Co-Parenting International and The Center for Modern Family Dynamics, they've illuminated paths for countless families wrestling with the realities of divided homes. With Tammy's coparenting journey and Jay's recovery from loss, they stand as beacons of hope and exemplars of perseverance.

    As we delve into their insights and anecdotes, prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired. This is not just a conversation; it's a shared experience with the power to change the narrative of coparenting and blended family life. So, wherever you are, settle in and let's welcome the voices of Tammy and Jay S. Daughtry to "I Am Dad."

  • Welcome to the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have Marcus Meneese with us. Marcus is the Founder and Executive Director of Stronger Than My Father, Inc., a Christian organization dedicated to inspiring and transforming today’s youth.

    For over 21 years, Marcus has been a passionate youth mentor, committed to helping young people become responsible adults and great parents. In 2016, he launched the Hope Leadership Academy, an afterschool program that supports over 70 students in Antioch, TN, with academic assistance, character development, and spiritual growth.

    In 2022, Marcus introduced the Stronger Sons mentoring program, focusing on personal responsibility, dream building, and physical fitness, all while surrounding young men with positive male role models.

    A Nashville native, Marcus holds degrees in Psychology and Organizational Leadership. He and his wife LaToya are proud parents of two sons. Marcus’s dedication to youth and family shines through in all he does.

    Please join me in welcoming Marcus Meneese to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

  • Welcome to another exciting episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast! Today, we are thrilled to have with us the incredibly talented and versatile Jason LOUDER; an actor, teacher, coach, mentor, and true lover of life. Jason's career is a testament to his dedication and passion for storytelling, both on and off the screen.

    A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Jason has graced the stage in over 30 productions since 2009, collaborating with some of the most esteemed directors and playhouses in the region. His journey as a storyteller extends beyond the stage, having worked on more than 40 independent projects, including full-length features, shorts, and web series.

    Jason’s talent has led him to notable roles on television, including guest appearances on the CW’s "Black Lightning" as Frank “2-BITS” Tanner and on Hulu’s "Wu-Tang: An American Saga" as Jamaican Drug Lord “CRESSY.” Most recently, you can catch Jason on "NCIS L.A." (CBS) and "The Wonder Years" (ABC), and he will be appeared in Season 2 of "BMF" (STARZ) as REMI RANSOM.

    Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Jason has inspired thousands as ‘Babatunde The Griot,’ captivating audiences with his storytelling. His commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in his roles as an acting coach at Nova House and a youth acting instructor with AGI Entertainment.

    Jason's desire to tell compelling stories through a revolutionary lens continues to drive him, and his work is set to touch, move, and inspire. This year alone, you can look forward to seeing him in several films on streaming platforms, including “The Pass” (ALLBLK), “SCHEME QUEENS” (BET+), “Gerald’s Hands” (Tubi), “ABIDING,” “P.I.G.S.,” “Preaching Lies” (Tubi), “Pretty For a Big Girl S2,” “VICE SQUAD,” and “Sinister Minister.”

    Please join me in welcoming the multifaceted and inspiring Jason to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

  • Welcome to a very special Fathers Day episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast. Today, we are honored to host an extraordinary guest, Tracy Martin, a man who has turned profound personal loss into a catalyst for national conversation and change. Tracy is not only a devoted father but also an influential advocate for justice and community healing.

    In February 2012, the world was shaken by the tragic death of Trayvon Martin, Tracy’s son and best friend, in a violent confrontation that highlighted deep-seated issues within our society. From the depths of unimaginable grief, Tracy, alongside Sybrina Fulton, authored "Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin," a poignant narrative that chronicles Trayvon’s life and the movement ignited by his passing.

    Tracy Martin has since dedicated his life to ensuring that no other child suffers as his son did. He travels across the country, engaging with men young and old, urging them to communicate to our youth—their sons, daughters, and the children of our communities—that they are invaluable, regardless of societal depictions. Through his impactful speeches and advocacy, Tracy fosters essential dialogues about race, justice, and the right to safety in our own neighborhoods.

    Today, we delve into these powerful themes with Tracy, exploring how his journey has influenced his views on fatherhood, community leadership, and the ongoing fight for a safer, more just society. We’ll also discuss practical tools and insights for handling confrontations and fostering resolution, aiming to equip our listeners with the knowledge to drive positive change.

    Join us in this compelling conversation, as we learn from Tracy Martin’s resilience and unwavering commitment to transform tragedy into a legacy of empowerment and advocacy.

  • Welcome to another inspiring episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast. Today, we have the privilege of hosting two remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the realms of family mediation, parenting education, and responsible fatherhood.

    First, let me introduce Mark Perlman, MA. With an impressive 35 years of experience working with parents, children, and families, Mark has dedicated his career to strengthening family bonds. He is the esteemed author of "The Nurturing Father’s Program," a transformative 13-week parenting curriculum for men that has been widely adopted by organizations such as Prevent Child Abuse, Head Start, the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative, and various state departments across the nation. In addition, Mark developed the "Marriage & Parenting Program (MA&PA)," which aids couples in successful co-parenting. His extensive leadership roles include serving as the past Executive Director of the Family Counseling Center, The Child Protection Center, and Fathers United Network (FUN) of Sarasota, Florida. Mark's expertise has also been recognized by his appointments to the Florida Commission on Responsible Fatherhood and the Governor’s Child Abuse Prevention and Permanency Council. Above all, Mark is a proud father of two grown sons.

    Joining Mark is his son, Corey Perlman. Corey is a nationally recognized marketing expert, speaker, and consultant who recently celebrated the success of his third book, "Authentically Social!" which quickly became an Amazon bestseller in 2024. Despite his professional achievements, Corey's true passion lies in fatherhood. He has facilitated over ten Nurturing Father’s programs, six of which were conducted within the walls of the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary. Corey co-hosts the Nurturing Father’s podcast with his father and cherishes the moments spent with his beautiful wife and two amazing children.

    Together, Mark and Corey Perlman embody the essence of dedication, compassion, and commitment to nurturing responsible fatherhood and strong family connections. Their combined experiences and insights promise to make this an enlightening and enriching conversation.

    Please join me in welcoming Mark and Corey Perlman to the "I Am Dad" podcast.

  • Today, we’re honored to have Jason B. Allen, a trailblazer in education and advocacy, joining us. As the National Director of Partnerships for the National Parents Union, Jason has been at the forefront of empowering parents to take an active role in shaping the educational landscape. His work doesn’t stop there; through his company, educational entities, LLC, he harnesses the power of digital storytelling to amplify voices that are often unheard.

    Today, we'll explore Jason’s journey, his passionate advocacy for male engagement, and the profound impact of his family's foundation, Lillie’s Foundation, on communities. We’ll also delve into his insights from his book, Suits, Swagg, and Success, discussing strategies for engaging and uplifting Black males.

    Get ready for a conversation full of inspiration, strategies, and real-life stories that celebrate the role of fathers and male figures in nurturing and leading change. Join us as we dive deep with Jason B. Allen.

  • Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the "I Am Dad" podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of fatherhood, parenting, and family well-being. I’m your host, Kenneth Braswell, and today we are honored to have with us Dr. Cassandra Bolar, a distinguished researcher, educator, and clinical expert whose work has significantly impacted the African American community and beyond.

    Dr. Bolar’s research employs an ecological approach to understand how contextual factors influence father involvement, intimate relationships, and familial functioning within the African American community. She currently serves as a Co-Investigator for the National African American Child and Family Research Center and an Assistant Professor at the University of West Georgia.

    With a robust clinical passion for serving couples, Dr. Bolar has created the Marriage Head Start premarital curriculum, designed to foster healthy and strong relationships. Her journey also includes pivotal work at Morehouse School of Medicine’s Satcher Health Leadership Institute, where she directed three large NIMHD research grants. These grants focused on reducing health disparities among children and families through the Smart and Secure Children program, a quality parenting curriculum.

    Dr. Bolar holds a bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development from the University of Georgia, as well as master’s and doctoral degrees in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University. Additionally, she is a Certified Family Life Educator, a credential bestowed by the National Council on Family Relations.

    In today’s episode, we’ll explore Dr. Bolar’s groundbreaking research, her dedication to relationship education, and the public health implications of her work. We are thrilled to have her share her wealth of knowledge and insights with us.

    So, sit back and prepare for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Cassandra Bolar on the "I Am Dad" podcast. Welcome, Dr. Bolar!

  • TODAY we ARE going to explore the intricacies of fatherhood, masculinity, and the societal challenges that shape them. We're honored to have Dr. Nazsa S. Baker with us to delve into her groundbreaking research, "Protect and Provide: Perceptions of Manhood and Masculinities Among Disabled Violently Injured Black Men in a Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program." Dr. Baker, a distinguished scholar at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center and an Assistant Professor at Gwynedd Mercy University, brings a wealth of knowledge from her extensive work on urban health disparities, violence and injury prevention, and, notably, the support needs of Black men navigating the aftermath of firearm violence. Through her lens, we'll explore the transformative journeys of Black men as they redefine manhood amidst the challenges of disability and societal expectations. Join us as we uncover the layers of resilience, identity, and the pressing need for empathetic support in the wake of violence.

  • In this special episode of the "I Am Dad Podcast," we have the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Avis Denise Files, a trailblazer in the field of responsible fatherhood and family strengthening. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of this dedicated Program Director, Facilitator, and Entrepreneur, whose unwavering commitment to empowering fathers and building healthy families has earned her widespread recognition and admiration.

    Through candid conversation and heartfelt anecdotes, Avis shares insights gleaned from her extensive experience working in areas such as domestic violence, homelessness, and drug addiction services. From her early days as a Program Coordinator for OFA grant-funded healthy marriage programs to her current role as Director of Family Supportive Services, Avis's passion for creating positive change shines through in every word.

    Discover the pivotal moments that shaped Avis's career, including her historic recognition as the first woman to receive The Vicky Turetsky Women In Responsible Leadership Award. Hear firsthand how she navigates the complexities of blending professional and personal life alongside her husband, Michael Allen Files, as they work together to empower families through their programs at Pathway Inc.

    Throughout the interview, Avis offers valuable insights into the transformative power of fatherhood, the importance of community support, and the role of faith in guiding her work. From her motto, "Change A Father, Change a Family, Create a Future," to her dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue and action, Avis exemplifies the spirit of compassionate leadership and unwavering determination.

    Join us as we embark on a journey of inspiration, wisdom, and hope with Avis Denise Files, and discover what it truly means to say, "I am Dad."