Are you constantly saying "yes" to work, family, or social commitments - even when you know it's draining you? If you're feeling stretched thin and disconnected at home, this conversation will help.

In this episode, Drew and Ed unpack the hidden reasons why dads struggle to say no and the serious toll it takes on your energy, presence, and connection with your kids. From people-pleasing and guilt to cultural pressure and self-worth, this conversation gets to the heart of what's keeping so many fathers overwhelmed and overcommitted.

• Discover the 5 most common reasons dads avoid saying no—even when they want to
• Learn a simple, powerful framework to say no without guilt or conflict
• Understand how setting healthy boundaries actually makes you a more respected and connected father

-----

Want to go deeper and become the calm, confident, connected dad your family needs?

Get instant access to the Confident Dad Bundle here: https://dadcentral.ca/product/confident-dad-bundle/

This downloadable bundle includes practical tools to help you get clear on your goals, establish a vision, and build healthy routines to protect your family time so you can say "no," guilt-free.

-----

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – The cost of saying yes 00:00:10 – Introduction to the episode and hosts 00:01:41 – Overview of main topics: why dads struggle with saying no, costs of saying yes, framework for saying no, reframing guilt 00:02:14 – Why dads struggle to say no 00:03:29 – Emotional challenges of saying no, especially with kids 00:05:09 – Cultural and societal expectations influencing dads 00:05:36 – Costs of overextending and saying yes too often 00:08:29 – Importance of boundaries and avoiding burnout 00:09:27 – Real coaching example: impact of saying yes too often 00:09:41 – Framework for saying no without guilt 00:11:39 – Practicing saying no in low-stakes situations 00:13:51 – Reframing guilt: from letting others down to lifting yourself up 00:16:49 – Episode recap and main takeaways 00:17:48 – Recommended resource: boundaries and values digital course 00:18:38 – Closing remarks and gratitude

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Dating after divorce can feel like walking a tightrope - especially when your kids are still adjusting to the emotional aftershocks of separation.

Whether you're newly separated, healing from divorce, or considering a new relationship, it's critical to understand how your dating decisions affect your children's sense of safety and stability.

In this episode, Drew and Ed dive into the emotional complexity of dating again and share real-life stories, examples, and guidelines to help dads navigate this season with care and confidence.

• Learn how to set boundaries that protect your kids and your new relationship
• Discover when (and how) to introduce your children to a new partner
• Get practical tools to maintain your parenting presence - even as your relationship life evolves
• Understand how to support your child's emotional needs while rebuilding your own

Listen now and get the clarity, confidence, and tools you need to move forward in a healthy way - without compromising your child's emotional well-being.

-----

Struggling with separation or divorce and missing your kids? Get your free copy of Full-Time Dad, Part-Time Kids — a powerful guide for staying connected and confident, even when you're parenting part-time. Download it here: https://dadcentral.ca/guide-for-separated-divorced-dad/

-----

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Importance of focusing on kids' needs during divorce or separation 00:00:41 – Divorce and dating again 00:01:01 – Setting boundaries, when to introduce kids, maintaining stability 00:06:36 – Segment 1: Setting boundaries for yourself and your kids 00:11:19 – Segment 2: Introducing kids to a new partner 00:17:23 – Segment 3: Stability and reassurance for kids 00:21:11 – Episode recap 00:21:57 – Recommended resource: "One Step at a Time" guide for dads in blended/divorced families

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Do you feel like you're constantly pulled in a million directions and worry that you're not spending enough quality time with your kids?

Whether you're under one roof with your children, co-parenting from a distance, or navigating life as a separated or non-custodial dad, this episode is for you.

Time constraints, busy schedules, and complex family situations make meaningful connection feel out of reach. In this episode, Drew and Ed reveal how any dad - no matter his circumstances - can create powerful moments of connection with his kids, even in just 10 minutes a day.

• Discover 5 realistic, high-impact ways to create meaningful time with your kids
• Learn how to build connection, even when you don't have daily access to your children
• Get practical tips and micro-habits that work whether you're at home full-time or parenting from a distance

Press play now to learn how to turn limited time into lasting connection - no matter what your parenting situation looks like.

-----

Want to go deeper and become the calm, confident, connected dad your family needs?

Get instant access to the Confident Dad Bundle here: https://dadcentral.ca/product/confident-dad-bundle/

This downloadable bundle includes practical tools to help you understand your child's needs, connect through play, and build strong family relationships—on your terms.

-----

Timestamps:

00:00:10 – 00:00:53: Introduction & Episode Overview 00:01:03 – 00:02:15: The Challenge of Time 00:02:24 – 00:03:47: Time Scarcity and Boundaries 00:03:47 – 00:06:15: Time Spent vs. Time That Matters 00:06:53 – 00:08:51: Redefining Quality Time 00:09:09 – 00:10:22: Finding What Kids Need 00:10:26 – 00:11:35: Connection Fundamentals 00:12:08 – 00:14:48: Making Quality Time Happen 00:15:02 – 00:15:59: Micro-Moments & Habits 00:17:00 – 00:18:06: Episode Recap & Resources 00:18:08 – 00:19:01: Final Thoughts & Call to Action

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Ever find yourself yelling at your kids and instantly regretting it? You're not alone, and there's a reason it keeps happening.

Many dads know yelling isn't helpful, but feel stuck in the cycle of stress, overwhelm, and emotional outbursts. In this episode, we break down the real reasons behind why dads yell - and more importantly, how to stop.

• Learn the psychological triggers that lead to yelling (and how to catch them early)
• Discover the 3-step "Calm Reset" strategy to interrupt emotional reactions
• Get actionable tools to build a calm, respectful culture at home-even when life gets chaotic

Listen now to gain control of your emotions, build trust with your kids, and break the yelling cycle for good.

-----

👉 Download our free "7 Step Guide to Stop Yelling" here: https://dadcentral.ca/7-step-guide-to-stop-yelling/

This simple, practical tool has helped hundreds of dads shift from reactivity to connection - without feeling like they're losing control.

-----

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Intro 00:01:02 – Why we yell 00:04:07 – Yelling's impact 00:07:59 – Calm reset 00:13:37 – Calm culture 00:17:12 – Takeaways 00:18:54 – Wrap-up

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Are screens stealing your child's attention - and making reading feel like a chore instead of a joy?

In this episode we talk through a dilemma every modern dad faces: how to raise readers in a world where streaming, scrolling, and screens dominate your child's attention. If you've ever felt stuck watching your kids swipe past books for games or shows, this episode delivers solutions you can actually use.

• Discover proven, practical ways to spark your child's love of reading - without banning screens
• Learn the #1 strategy most dads overlook when trying to model good habits
• Hear real-life "dad wins" that will inspire you to create your own family reading moments

Hit play to learn how you can make reading a fun, consistent habit in your home - even if your kids are glued to their devices.

-----

Want to be a great dad but sometimes feel unsure or second-guess yourself? The Confident Dad Bundle gives you practical, age-by-age guidance for every stage — from newborns to teens.

Inside you'll find child development tips, screen-time guidelines, activity ideas, reading roadmaps, and positive discipline strategies. Everything you need to parent with more clarity, calm, and confidence — all in one bundle. Get it now for only $47 (regularly $97).

-----

Timestamps

00:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:01:15 – Today's Topic & Agenda 00:01:19 – Personal Reading Habits 00:03:24 – The Reading vs. Streaming Dilemma 00:06:27 – Strategies That Work 00:08:23 – Practical Suggestions for Dads 00:09:21 – Being Intentional & Consistent 00:11:20 – Making Reading Fun, Especially for Younger Kids 00:12:02 – Dad Wins & Success Stories 00:14:13 – Recap & Closing Advice 00:14:26 – Inspirational Dad Story & Resource Recommendation 00:16:06 – Final Encouragements 00:16:34 – Wrap-up & Sign Off

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Do you ever feel like anger is your default setting—and you don't even know why? You're not alone. Most dads were never taught how to understand, express, or manage emotions in healthy ways.

In this episode Drew and Ed unpack why emotional literacy matters for dads and kids, how bottling emotions leads to explosions, and what simple daily habits can help your family feel more connected and calm.

• Discover how to identify and name your own emotions before they take control.
• Learn the "Stop, Drop, Breathe" method to regulate stress and respond - not react.
• Find out how to help your kids manage big feelings while strengthening empathy and trust.

Press play now to learn how emotionally aware dads build calmer homes, deeper bonds, and stronger family relationships - starting with one conversation today.

Link to buy Dr. Josh and Christi Staub's book referenced in the episode (this is an affiliate link that helps Dad Central earn commissions for it's not-for-profit work): https://www.amazon.ca/What-Am-Feeling-Josh-Straub/dp/1535938188/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2W65ANAXSLWG&keywords=what+am+i+feeling+josh+straub&qid=1706213638&sprefix=what+am+i+feeling+josh+straub%252Caps%252C272&sr=8-1&_encoding=UTF8&tag=dadcentral0f-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=1852ed87a59321e7b366a188193e060d&camp=15121&creative=330641

-----

Want to be a great dad but sometimes feel unsure or second-guess yourself? The Confident Dad Bundle gives you practical, age-by-age guidance for every stage — from newborns to teens.

Inside you'll find child development tips, screen-time guidelines, activity ideas, reading roadmaps, and positive discipline strategies. Everything you need to parent with more clarity, calm, and confidence — all in one bundle. Get it now for only $47 (regularly $97).

-----

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Introduction & Setting the Stage [00:01:20] – Personal Check-ins & Setting the Theme [00:02:21] – What is Emotional Literacy? [00:03:29] – Segment 1: Dads and Their Own Big Feelings [00:08:38] – Segment 2: Helping Kids with Big Feelings [00:12:40] – The Role of Empathy [00:13:39] – Segment 3: Building Everyday Emotional Literacy Habits [00:16:39] – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways [00:18:05] – Episode Recap & Challenge [00:19:06] – Resources & Closing

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Are you unintentionally creating conflict at home by trying to "handle parenting" on your own?

Many dads want to win at life and show up for their families, but without real teamwork with their partner, the stress builds, communication breaks down, and parenting starts to feel like a lonely grind.

This episode breaks down how to build a united front, reduce friction, and model healthy relationships for your kids.

• Learn what real support looks like (emotionally and practically) so your partner feels seen and valued
• Discover how to overcome common parenting roadblocks like mismatched styles and unspoken resentment
• Get practical, actionable strategies - like 10-minute check-ins, that you can start using today to build stronger teamwork at home

Press play now to start creating a more united, confident parenting partnership that strengthens your family from the inside out.

-----

Want to be a great dad but sometimes feel unsure or second-guess yourself? The Confident Dad Bundle gives you practical, age-by-age guidance for every stage — from newborns to teens.

Inside you'll find child development tips, screen-time guidelines, activity ideas, reading roadmaps, and positive discipline strategies. Everything you need to parent with more clarity, calm, and confidence — all in one bundle. Get it now for only $47 (regularly $97).

-----

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Opening Thoughts & Introduction 00:01:00 – Why Teamwork Matters in Parenting 00:04:24 – The Value of Teamwork for Children 00:07:24 – What Does Support Really Look Like? 00:11:12 – Common Roadblocks to Teamwork 00:16:26 – Practical Strategies for Teamwork 00:19:42 – Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways 00:23:46 – Recommended Resource 00:24:26 – Closing Remarks

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Do you ever catch yourself wondering, "Am I actually doing a good job as a dad?" You're not alone—and this episode gets real about how to truly know where you stand.

Between work, family, and endless expectations, most dads struggle to measure their progress and end up chasing perfection instead of growth. This episode breaks down the 3 key ways to assess how you're doing, reconnect with what matters most, and find peace in the process.

• Discover how feedback from your kids and partner can reveal powerful insights about your fatherhood journey.
• Learn why self-awareness and consistent action matter more than grand gestures.
• Find out how to replace perfectionism with steady, 1% growth that your whole family will feel.

Press play now to learn the mindset and tools that help real dads build confidence, connection, and calm—one day at a time. -----

Want to be a great dad but sometimes feel unsure or second-guess yourself? The Confident Dad Bundle gives you practical, age-by-age guidance for every stage — from newborns to teens. Inside you'll find child development tips, screen-time guidelines, activity ideas, reading roadmaps, and positive discipline strategies. Everything you need to parent with more clarity, calm, and confidence — all in one bundle. Get it now for only $47 (regularly $97). -----

Timestamps 00:00:00 – Introduction & Importance of Family Time 00:01:05 – Episode Overview 00:01:44 – Parenting Stress & Back-to-School Challenges 00:04:01 – The Struggle All Dads Face 00:08:35 – Three Ways to Know How You're Doing 00:14:32 – Growth Over Perfection 00:16:52 – Review & Practical Action Steps 00:17:52 – Resources & Wrap-Up

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Are you a dad who feels weighed down by the pressure of providing financially and worried about passing on healthy money habits to your kids?

If you've ever struggled with family budgeting, felt stress about supporting your loved ones, or wondered how to talk to your children about money, this episode is your roadmap to building financial confidence and a stronger family foundation.

You'll discover:

1. Practical strategies for creating a budget that fits your lifestyle,
2. Learn how to align your financial decisions with your family values, and
3. Gain actionable tips for having open, positive conversations about money with your partner and children.

Hit play now to take the first step toward financial peace of mind - and set an empowering financial example your family will be proud of.

-----

Want to be a more confident, connected dad? Join our free Fatherhood Fundamentals course for simple steps to manage time, find balance, and lead your family well.

Sign up free today – your family will thank you. https://dadcentral.ca/

-----

00:00:00 – Introduction: The Connection Between Money and Fatherhood

00:00:55 – The Pressure and Stress of Money as a Dad

00:02:10 – Overview of Topics for the Episode

00:02:27 – Money & Fatherhood: The Deep Connection

00:04:03 – How Our Financial Habits Shape Kids

00:05:11 – The Influence of Upbringing and Examples (Rich Dad, Poor Dad)

00:06:59 – Common Money Struggles for Dads

00:07:33 – Moving to a Positive Mindset: It's Possible to Succeed Financially

00:08:05 – Practical Strategies for Managing Money as a Dad

00:09:57 – Aligning Money Decisions with Family Values

00:11:35 – Teaching Kids and Avoiding Financial Pitfalls

00:12:48 – Modeling Financial Behaviors and Mindset

00:13:37 – Transition to Mindset and Communication About Money

00:16:31 – Final Thoughts and Personal Story

00:18:54 – Closing and Call to Action

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."

Do you ever feel like you're juggling work, kids, your partner, and now—even your aging parents—and wondering how to keep it all together?

Modern fatherhood isn't just about raising kids anymore. Many dads are also managing careers, supporting their partners, and stepping into the unexpected role of caregiver for their parents. If you've ever felt stretched thin, overwhelmed, or guilty for not being "enough" in every area, this episode is for you.

In this conversation, you'll discover:

• The 3 pillars every dad needs to build real integration (not impossible balance): Presence, Provision, and Personal Well-Being.

• Why traditional "work-life balance" sets fathers up to fail—and what mindset shift leads to greater peace and confidence.

• Practical, real-life strategies to prioritize your time, protect your energy, and show up fully for your family without losing yourself.

Tune in now to learn how to ditch the stress of "doing it all" and start thriving as the father, partner, and son your family needs you to be.

-----

Want to be a more confident, connected dad? Join our free Fatherhood Fundamentals course for simple steps to manage time, find balance, and lead your family well.

Sign up free today – your family will thank you. https://dadcentral.ca/

-----

"Dad Central is a podcast that supports fathers in navigating fatherhood, reducing stress, building confidence, managing parenting stress, and improving parenting skills, including discipline, co-parenting, custody issues, calm parenting, and effective communication with children, to foster happy children and strong parent-child relationships."