Episode 182 - Teaching Boys to Be Men - The Role of Protection and Responsibility

The opposite of toxic masculinity is often described as positive masculinity or healthy masculinity. This form of masculinity encourages men to be emotionally expressive, supportive, and inclusive, rather than aggressive, controlling, or emotionally closed off. Positive masculinity is about being secure in oneself, communicating in healthy ways, showing vulnerability, and caring for others. It promotes growth, encouragement, and authentic self-expression, allowing men to define what being a man means to them in a way that is adaptive, prosocial, and socially responsible

While toxic masculinity is associated with dominance, aggression, and emotional insensitivity, positive masculinity emphasizes traits such as honesty, openness, empathy, and the willingness to protect and support others without resorting to harmful behaviors. It also involves striving for personal growth, building healthy relationships, and contributing positively to family and community.

Some sources also refer to this opposite as heroic masculinity or simply humanity, highlighting the idea that men can embrace both traditionally masculine and feminine traits in a balanced and authentic way.

In summary, the opposite of toxic masculinity is a version of masculinity that is emotionally healthy, inclusive, supportive, and rooted in positive values and personal authenticity

For young men, it’s valuable to restore an aspirational vision of masculinity-one that can serve as a positive code of conduct.

Embracing either masculinity or femininity, depending on what feels natural, is perfectly valid. When it comes to masculinity, three key pillars stand out: being a provider, a procreator, and a protector.

Provider:

Men should consider taking economic responsibility for themselves and their households, especially early in their careers. Sometimes this means being the primary earner, and other times it means supporting a partner who excels in that role by contributing in other important ways at home. True masculinity includes supporting your partner and stepping up wherever needed.

Procreator:

The drive to seek romantic connection can be a force for personal growth if channeled positively-helping men become kinder, stronger, and more attentive to themselves and others. Simple acts like taking care of your appearance and initiating contact matter. Despite changing social narratives, many women still appreciate when men take the initiative in a respectful and safe way.

Protector:

A core aspect of masculinity is the instinct to protect-not just physically, but also by standing up for others in social situations. Whether it’s ensuring people feel safe in public or defending those who are being unfairly criticized, men should default to a protective stance. This extends to advocating for anyone who is being marginalized, regardless of personal beliefs.

Ultimately, masculinity can be a positive guidepost. If you strive to give more than you take, contribute to your community, and protect and support those around you, you embody the best of what it means to be a man.

Watch the clip referenced - https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMBTB3KG7/ 

https://profgmedia.com/

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 181 - Calm in the Storm - Teaching Your Kids Resilience Through How You Handle Adult Bully Encounters

Navigating Adult Bullying and Teaching Kids Resilience

Bullying isn’t just something kids face at school-it happens among adults too, often fueled by power imbalances, insecurity, or patterns learned in childhood. Adult bullies use tactics like gaslighting, exclusion, verbal aggression, and undermining others’ credibility. The effects don’t stop at work or in the community; they can spill over into family life, shaping how our children learn to handle conflict.

So, how can you respond in the moment? One approach is to practice detached empathy-acknowledge the bully’s concerns without getting pulled into an emotional tug-of-war. For example, you might say, “I hear your concern, but let’s focus on the facts.” Another helpful tool is the BIFF technique: keep your responses brief, informative, friendly, and firm. You could say, “I’ll review those numbers and send you an email confirmation by 3 PM today.” Setting boundaries is also key. In public, you might respond with, “Let’s continue this conversation when we can both speak respectfully.” In the workplace, it’s important to document interactions and, if needed, say, “I’m documenting this interaction per our harassment policy.”

For long-term protection, keep records of all communications-save emails, texts, and notes with dates and times. Building a support network at work or in your community can make a big difference; having witnesses to interactions can help if things escalate. Advocate for clear anti-bullying policies and request conflict resolution training in your organization to create a safer environment for everyone.

As parents, we have an opportunity to model healthy ways to handle bullying for our kids. Talk through your process out loud, such as, “I felt upset when that happened, so I’m taking deep breaths first.” Show them what assertiveness looks like by using “I” statements, like, “I need to finish my work without interruptions.” After a tough situation, have a conversation with your child about how you handled it and discuss ways they might respond if they face something similar.

There are times when it’s necessary to escalate the situation, especially if there are physical threats, discrimination, or repeated sabotage at work. Don’t hesitate to reach out to community resources like mediation services or helplines such as BullyingCanada. If things continue, it may be time to involve HR, legal counsel, or even law enforcement.

Key Takeaway:

How you respond to adult bullies isn’t just about protecting yourself-it’s a live lesson in dignity, boundaries, and emotional intelligence for your kids. By handling bullies thoughtfully, you’re helping your children grow into adults who can face conflict with courage and grace.

https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@justaskjefferson

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 180 - What The Goldbergs’ Murray Teaches Us About Raising Independent Kids Today

Murray Goldberg, the gruff-yet-lovable patriarch from The Goldbergs, offers a unique lens on fatherhood rooted in the 1980s-a time before parenting books, viral videos, and constant digital connectivity. While his methods might seem outdated or blunt by today’s standards, there are foundational lessons from Murray’s character that remain relevant and valuable as we move into 2025.

1. Instilling Independence and Resilience

Murray’s approach was often to say “no” and let his kids fend for themselves, believing that self-reliance was key to preparing them for the real world1. In an era of helicopter parenting, this lesson is a reminder that giving children space to solve their own problems helps build confidence and resilience-skills that are just as critical now as they were in the ’80s.

2. Showing Love in Unconventional Ways

While not overtly affectionate, Murray’s love for his family was evident in his actions-working hard at his furniture store, providing for the household, and stepping in when it truly mattered. His gruff exterior masked a deep loyalty and commitment, illustrating that love doesn’t always look like hugs and praise; sometimes, it’s about showing up and doing what needs to be done.

3. Embracing Simplicity and Directness

Murray’s personality was simple and straightforward-he said what he meant and didn’t sugarcoat the truth. In today’s world of over-complication and constant spin, there’s value in honest, direct communication. Being clear about expectations and boundaries can foster trust and mutual respect in families and workplaces alike.

4. Finding Humor in Everyday Life

Despite his irritation and grumbling, Murray’s interactions were often laced with humor-sometimes unintentionally so. His “King of the Remote” moments and creative parenting hacks remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. Laughter and lightness can defuse tension and bring families closer together.

5. Letting Others Shine

Murray was content to let Beverly run the household and make many of the big decisions. He knew his strengths and didn’t feel threatened by his wife’s strong personality. This humility and willingness to step back can be a powerful lesson for modern dads-empowering others doesn’t diminish your own role.

6. Trusting Instincts Over Trends

In the 1980s, there were no parenting experts on TV or online guides to follow. Murray parented by instinct, relying on common sense and lived experience. While resources are helpful, trusting your gut and adapting to your family’s unique needs is still essential in an age of information overload.

• Encourage independence in kids by letting them try, fail, and learn.
• Show love through consistent presence and support, even if it’s not always verbal.
• Communicate directly and honestly, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
• Use humor to navigate challenges and strengthen relationships.
• Support your partner’s strengths and share responsibilities.
• Balance expert advice with your own instincts and values.

Murray Goldberg may not have won “Father of the Year,” but his foundational lessons-rooted in resilience, simplicity, and authenticity-offer timeless guidance for dads and families navigating the complexities of 2025.

The Goldbergs | Murray And Pop-Pop's Answering Machine War

https://youtu.be/_ejqdlhiPAs?si=1P_rWa4_5n-sHHSy

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 179 - From Dad Space, With Love - Honoring the Moms in Our Lives

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity for dads to step up, celebrate the incredible women in our lives, and set the tone for how our kids honor their mom. This year, let’s make it extra special-not with expensive gifts, but with meaningful gestures and family fun.

How Dads Can Celebrate Their Partner and Moms in the Family

• Lead by Example: As dads, we set the standard for appreciation. Show your kids how to honor their mom by being the first to say “thank you,” plan a surprise, or simply make her feel seen and valued. Even small gestures-like her favorite coffee in bed or a heartfelt note-go a long way
• Model Appreciation: Teach your children to express gratitude. Encourage them to brainstorm what makes mom special and help them put it into words, crafts, or actions
• Celebrate All Moms: Don’t forget grandmothers, aunts, and other mother figures. A quick call, a homemade card, or a small bouquet can make their day too

Special Ways to Celebrate This Year

• Family Spa Day at Home: Draw mom a luxurious bubble bath, set up candles, and let her enjoy some quiet time while you and the kids handle chores or prepare a meal5.
• Mother’s Day Adventure: Take a family walk, hike, or even plan a backyard picnic or BBQ. Let mom pick the activity-her day, her way
• Memory Book or Playlist: Gather favorite photos from the past year and create a simple memory book, or curate a playlist of songs that remind you of her. Present it during a special family meal
• Handmade Gifts: Help the kids craft something unique, like a painted terra-cotta pot, a paper bouquet, or a handprint dish towel. These keepsakes are heartfelt and cherished for years

Bonus Idea: How Kids Can Spoil Mom

• Surprise Morning Flower Jar: Have the kids prepare a hanging mason jar bouquet the night before and hang it on mom’s bedroom door. When she wakes up, she’s greeted with fresh flowers and a sweet note from her kids-a simple, beautiful start to her special day
• DIY Craft Session: Organize a craft time where kids make bead bracelets, painted wooden bracelets, or a cupcake liner flower card. Present these gifts with a homemade breakfast or brunch

Mother’s Day isn’t about big spending-it’s about big feelings. Dads, your role is to lead the celebration, teach gratitude, and help your kids create memories that mom will treasure. Remember, a little planning and a lot of heart go a long way.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms from Dad Space!

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 178 - The Gentle Strength Men Need as Dads - How Kindness Signals Safety and Trust

Kindness is often underestimated in conversations about masculinity, but it is truly a superpower for dads and men. In a world that sometimes equates strength with stoicism or dominance, kindness is a quiet force that signals safety, trustworthiness, and emotional intelligence. It’s not just about grand gestures-often, it’s the small, everyday actions that reveal the depth of a man’s character.

When I talk to men about what really sets them apart, I call kindness their “secret weapon.” Sure, it’s great to have ambition, a plan, and resources. Intelligence helps, but those are not always within our control. What is always within reach is the choice to be kind.

Women (and people in general) notice how you treat others-especially those who can do nothing for you in return. Do you treat service staff with respect? Are you considerate to your parents? Do you have good manners, and do you show up for people without expecting anything back? These are powerful signals. They tell others-especially women who may be evaluating you as a partner or friend-that you are a safe place. That when life gets tough, or when someone is vulnerable, you will respond with compassion and support, not judgment or withdrawal.

Kindness is a practice, not a personality trait. It’s in the little things:

• Saying “please” and “thank you”
• Remembering someone’s birthday
• Following up with a friend who’s struggling
• Offering help without being asked
• Listening without interrupting
• Apologizing when you’re wrong

These actions don’t just make you a better partner or father-they make you a better human. They create a ripple effect, encouraging others to be kind and making the world a safer, more supportive place.

For dads, kindness is a legacy. Your children watch how you treat their mother, their teachers, strangers, and even yourself. They learn from your example that kindness is strength, not weakness. Being a kind dad means raising kids who feel safe, valued, and empowered to show kindness themselves.

When you lead with kindness, you invite authentic connection. You show the world that you are approachable and trustworthy. In relationships, kindness lays the groundwork for intimacy, resilience, and mutual respect. It’s the quality people remember long after they’ve forgotten what you said or did.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 177 - Overview of Daily Dad - A Powerful Resource for Modern Fathers

Overview of Daily Dad: A Powerful Resource for Modern Fathers

Daily Dad a thoughtfully curated platform designed to inspire, encourage, and equip fathers on their parenting journey. Founded by bestselling author and modern philosopher Ryan Holiday, Daily Dad brings together wisdom from a diverse group of contributors-including Brett McKay (Art of Manliness), Charlamagne Tha God, Casey Neistat, and Dr. Drew Pinsky-to address the realities, challenges, and joys of fatherhood.

• Short, actionable emails delivered every morning, each focusing on a key theme relevant to dads: grit, resilience, curiosity, compassion, character, unconditional love, purpose, stress management, masculinity, creativity, and more.
• These reflections are designed to be quick reads that pack a punch-offering practical advice, perspective, and encouragement to help you show up as your best self for your family.

• Global community: By subscribing, you join a worldwide network of dads who are committed to growth, learning, and supporting one another.
• Shared wisdom: The site features insights and stories from well-known fathers and thought leaders, providing a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

• Articles and interviews: In-depth pieces on parenting challenges, relationships, personal development, and navigating the complexities of modern fatherhood.
• Book recommendations: Curated lists of books that help dads grow in wisdom, patience, and understanding.
• Themed content: Regular focus on important topics like family fun, loss, stillness, truthfulness, initiative, and passion.

• Actionable advice: Each meditation or article includes real-life takeaways you can apply immediately-whether it’s a new approach to discipline, a way to foster curiosity in your kids, or strategies for managing stress.
• Encouragement for all dads: Whether you’re a new dad, a stepdad, or a seasoned parent, there’s something for everyone.

Why Daily Dad Is a Great Resource for Dad Space Podcast Listeners

Shared Mission:

Like Dad Space, Daily Dad believes that every father has value and that intentional, reflective parenting can change lives. Both platforms encourage dads to build confidence, grow in knowledge, and foster positive mindsets.

Bite-Sized Wisdom for Busy Dads:

Daily Dad’s meditations are perfect for dads on the go-short enough to read with your morning coffee, but deep enough to spark real change.

Diverse Voices, Universal Themes:

With contributors from different backgrounds and professions, Daily Dad offers a rich tapestry of perspectives-mirroring Dad Space’s commitment to community and connection.

Practical, Actionable Advice:

Each meditation or article is designed to help you take immediate steps toward becoming the dad you want to be-aligning perfectly with the practical, encouraging approach of Dad Space.

Ongoing Inspiration:

Subscribing to Daily Dad means you’ll never run out of ideas, encouragement, or motivation to keep growing as a father.

If you’re a Dad Space listener looking to deepen your growth, find daily encouragement, and connect with a global brotherhood of fathers, Daily Dad is a resource you don’t want to miss. It’s a simple, powerful way to bring a little more wisdom, perspective, and joy into your life-and into the lives of the people who matter most.

Check it out, and let’s keep building a supportive, inspired community of dads-one day at a time!

https://dailydad.com/

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 176 - More Than Time - The Watch That Reminds You You’re Enough - John Cena

Today on Dad Space we unpack the story behind John Cena’s habit of carrying two watches-one for time, one for perspective-and how dads can use these lessons to find balance, self-worth, and humility in everyday life.

The Two Watches: What They Represent

The Functional Watch:

• Represents the practical side of life: schedules, commitments, the daily grind.
• For dads, it’s the reminder of responsibilities-work, family, and the ticking clock of fatherhood.

The Pocket Watch of Perspective:

• This broken watch doesn’t tell time; it holds two powerful engravings:
• “Comparison is the thief of joy”: A reminder to avoid comparing yourself to others or other dads, and to recognize that you are enough and worthy of love
• “Memento mori”: Latin for “remember you will die,” it’s a call to humility, reminding us that we’re all human, no better than anyone else, and to stay grounded even when we feel successful or important

Cena uses the watch as a “keeper of perspective, not time”-balancing moments of low self-worth with reminders of his value, and moments of ego with reminders of his humanity

Lessons for Dads

• Self-Worth:
• Like Cena, many dads struggle with feeling “not enough.” Use daily reminders-whether it’s a watch, a note, or a mantra-to affirm your worth and importance to your family.
• Humility:
• Success as a dad isn’t about being better than others, but about being present and grateful. “Memento mori” grounds us in reality and gratitude.
• Avoiding Comparison:
• Social media and societal expectations can lead dads to compare themselves to others. Remember: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Focus on your unique journey and the love you bring to your family.
• Perspective Over Perfection:
• The broken watch symbolizes that life isn’t about perfect timing, but about seeing things clearly and appreciating what matters most.

Practical Takeaways

• Create your own “perspective anchor”-an object, phrase, or ritual that reminds you of your worth and keeps your ego in check.
• Share these lessons with your kids: model self-acceptance and humility, and talk openly about the dangers of comparison.
• When feeling overwhelmed or inadequate, pause and reflect: What would your “pocket watch” say to you right now?

What’s your keeper of perspective? Share your story with the Dad Space community.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 175 - Save Dad - How Ferris Bueller's Day Off Reinforces Why Every Father Deserves a Day Off

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is more than a teen comedy-it’s a manifesto for seizing the day, breaking routine, and finding joy in the moment. The film’s iconic line, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it,” is a universal reminder, but it resonates especially for dads who often carry the weight of responsibility and rarely give themselves permission to take a break

Let’s reimagine Ferris’s philosophy and famous moments as a rallying cry for dads to enjoy a guilt-free day off, chase their muse, and rediscover the adventure in everyday life.

Original:

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Dad Remix:

“Fatherhood moves pretty fast. If you don’t hit pause and look around once in a while, you’ll miss the magic in the chaos.”

Original:

“The question isn’t, ‘What are we going to do?’ The question is, ‘What aren’t we going to do?’

Dad Remix:

“The question isn’t, ‘What chores do I have to do?’ The question is, ‘What fun haven’t I had yet?’”

Original:

“Have fun with it, how many days are you going to live like this?”

Dad Remix:

“Have fun with it, Dad. How many chances do you get to be the hero in your own story?”

Original:

“If anybody needs a day off it’s Cameron. He’s got a lotta things to sort out before he graduates.”

Dad Remix:

“If anybody needs a day off, it’s Dad. He’s got a lot to juggle before the next big milestone.”

Original:

“I am not going to sit on my ass as the events that affect me unfold to determine the course of my life. I'm going to take a stand.”

Dad Remix:

“I’m not going to sit on the sidelines while life races by. I’m taking a stand for my own day of adventure.”

• The Parade Scene: As Dads, we need to step into the spotlight, let loose, and “lead the parade” in their own lives-even if it’s just dancing in the living room with their kids
• Art Gallery Stillness: find moments of quiet reflection, appreciating the beauty and depth in the ordinary, just as Ferris and friends did in the museum
• Cameron’s Transformation: a day off can help dads shake off stress, reconnect with themselves, and return home renewed-just like Cameron’s journey from anxiety to empowerment
• Ferris’s Confidence: The importance of approaching fatherhood (and life) with confidence, creativity, and a willingness to bend the rules for the sake of joy

Taking a guilt-free day off isn’t shirking responsibility-it’s embracing the Buellerian philosophy of making life work for you, dreaming bigger, and riding it out with confidence

When dads give themselves permission to step away from routine, they model self-care, joy, and adventure for their families. After all, as Ferris says, “How many days are you going to live like this?”

Give yourself the day off, Dad. The world (and your family) will be better for it.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 174 - Raising Hard Workers in a World of Shortcuts - Why Work Ethic Matters for Our Kids

Tough Love, True Love: Raising Kids with Real Work Ethic

• Maturing means realizing that our dads’ high standards and tough love weren’t about being harsh—they were about preparing us for a world where strong work ethic stands out.
• Share a personal or listener story about a lesson that felt tough at the time but proved valuable later.

• Kids learn by watching us. Consistently demonstrate hard work, persistence, and pride in your responsibilities—at home, at work, and in your community.
• Let your children see your process: tackling chores, pursuing goals, and handling setbacks with determination.

• Give kids age-appropriate tasks and set clear expectations.
• Hold them accountable with calm, consistent consequences, but also celebrate effort and improvement.
• Encourage them to stick with tough tasks and take ownership of both successes and mistakes.

• Remind your kids (and yourself) that tough love today leads to greater confidence, resilience, and satisfaction tomorrow.
• Share stories and research about how a strong work ethic pays off in adulthood—turning early lessons into lifelong gratitude and success.

Call to Action:

Challenge dads to model work ethic in one area this week—work together on a tough job, set a new family standard, or share a story about the value of hard work.

This structure will keep your episode clear, actionable, and inspiring for your dad audience!

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270

Episode 173 - Two, Not Three - Teaching Kids and Ourselves, to Thrive with Simplicity

How Dads and men can avoid overwhelm, make better decisions, and set a powerful example for their children.

Ben Prober, a successful 1950s shoe salesman. His unique approach? He would only ever present two pairs of shoes to a customer at a time. If a customer wanted to try a third pair, he’d politely ask, “Of course, which of these two should I take away?” This ensured the customer never had more than two options to consider. The result: customers felt confident, satisfied, and almost always made a purchase. When faced with three or more choices, they often left empty-handed, paralyzed by indecision

The Paradox of Choice:

Too many options can lead to “choice paralysis”—the inability to make a decision at all. Research and real-world experience show that limiting options helps people feel more confident and satisfied with their decisions

Why Constraints Matter for Dads:

As fathers and role models, men face countless daily decisions that affect not just themselves but their families. Embracing constraints—like limiting choices—reduces overwhelm, fosters clarity, and models healthy decision-making for children

Decision Fatigue and Mental Load:

Constantly weighing too many options drains energy and increases stress. Simplifying choices—whether about dinner, family activities, or career moves—helps dads conserve mental energy for what truly matters

Teaching Kids by Example:

By showing decisiveness and comfort with “enough,” dads teach their kids that it’s okay not to chase every possible option. This builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and encourages gratitude and satisfaction with what they have.

Practical Applications

Limit Options:

When faced with a decision, narrow choices to two strong contenders. If a third option arises, swap it in for one of the existing two—never more than two at a time

Use the “Which One Should I Remove?” Technique:

When your child (or you) wants to add another option, ask which current choice should be removed. This keeps the decision process focused and manageable

Model Decisiveness:

Make decisions confidently and explain your process to your kids. Show them that it’s better to choose and move forward than to get stuck in endless deliberation.

Reflect on Satisfaction:

After making a decision, focus on the positives of your choice rather than dwelling on what you didn’t pick. This helps reinforce contentment and reduces regret

as dads and men, embracing constraints isn’t about limiting life’s possibilities—it’s about freeing ourselves and our families from the stress of endless options. By modeling clarity and decisiveness, we help our children grow into confident, resilient adults who know how to choose well and live fully.

Call to Action:

Try the “two, not three” rule this week—whether it’s picking a family activity, choosing what to eat, or making a purchase. Share experiences and reflections in your community or on social media.

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https://dadspace.ca

music provided by Blue Dot Sessions

Song: The Big Ten https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/258270