There's a lot of negative press around these days for the typical family unit and in particular, what it means to be a strong and healthy man within a family, being a good husband and dad.

I'm not going to comment on all the negativity, I'm focusing on what I can do as a man, a husband, and a dad to positively influence my world. That's what this podcast is about.

What's the difference between a father and a dad? As the saying goes, any idiot can become a father, but it takes a man to become a dad. But what are the characteristics that define a dad?

I've learned a few of them, so while I may not be a perfect example of a dad, I'm doing my best to get better at those characteristics every day.

Things like:

Having your crap together as a man, and being a child of God.

Loving their mother FIRST (although AFTER loving God and taking care of yourself).

Being there, and being present, in all phases of life.

Being kind, strong, and loving.

And much, much more. I'm sure I could come up with 50 more principles with just a little thought, but these and seven more were the ones that jumped out at me.

I hope you enjoy this episode, I'd love to hear some feedback on it on my Instagram page, @tonymaas1.