In this episode of Dads on Tap, I share my journey from a childhood marked by my family’s financial collapse and personal struggles to discovering the concept of "the gap"—the space between the man we want to be and the reality we live in. Through hardships and a life-changing question from a mentor, I began to uncover the challenges holding me back. How do we bridge that gap and become mature men?

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• My history, how I grew up, and, its influence on my maturity [3:45]
• Why do we need to answer the question, “What’s in the gap?” [9:15]
• Challenges of our ideal self compared to our real self [10:29]
• Why restraining our actions doesn't work towards our dream [12:30]
• The two underlying causes for ‘the gap’ [14:05]

My origin story

I grew up in Michigan, the second of four boys. My dad was an entrepreneur with a successful business, but when I was eight, we moved, and his business failed. Financial struggles followed, leading to marital problems for my parents. Between the ages 8 and 18, we moved 10 times. 

One day, I came home to find my mom had left with my two youngest siblings, leaving my older brother and me with my dad. We struggled to keep food on the table as our family went bankrupt and lost everything. 

For weeks, we lived in a tent at a campground. Eventually, my mom came back, and my parents reconciled—but we weren’t allowed to talk about what happened. We were just expected to move on.

In college, I started a career that connected me with influential leaders and large organizations. I believed my worth came from my titles and accomplishments, not who I was. Then, during a tense work meeting, my boss called me out: “I know this issue is frustrating, but your reaction was so much bigger than the problem. What’s in the gap?” That question changed my life.

What’s in ‘the gap’?

The gap is the space between the man we dream of being and the reality of who we are. We want to be great husbands, dads, and men of integrity, but sometimes our actions don’t align with our ideals. We may desire to be encouraging spouses but end up being neglectful, or we aim to be present fathers but find ourselves angry and reactive.

The behaviors holding us back are symptoms of deeper issues—false beliefs or unspoken vows we’ve made about ourselves. To grow into mature, spiritual men, we must identify and address what’s in our gap. Reflect on moments when your reaction seemed outsized to the situation—those are clues to the underlying challenges keeping you from the life you want.

I offer coaching to help uncover and close the gap so you can live out the dreams you have for your life. Together, we can tackle what’s holding you back.

Identify what causes ‘the gap’

No one sets out to be a poor husband or father, but the gap can lead us there. Over time, we slide into habits that keep us from the life we envision. These behaviors—whether neglect, anger, or compromise—are usually symptoms of deeper issues. 

The root cause is often a false belief or an unspoken vow we’ve made about ourselves, such as “I’ll never fail like my dad” or “I have to earn love through achievement.”

Self-restraint isn’t enough to overcome these patterns; we need to uncover what’s truly keeping us from maturing into the men we want to be. Reflect on recent moments where your reaction felt out of proportion to the situation—those are clues to what’s in your gap.

I offer coaching to help you identify and address these challenges, empowering you to bridge the gap and live out your dreams as a husband, father, and man of integrity. The journey starts with one question: What do I need to know-What’s in my gap?

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

At Dads on Tap, we believe in helping dads become their best selves. A dad’s role in the family is essential—but how can you extend that role into your community? How can serving others make you a better father, friend, and neighbor?

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend, Drue Warner, the lead pastor at Good News Church in Sugar Hill, GA. Drue has spent years mentoring dads through the local All Pro Dad program and serves as the point leader for the Dads on Tap chapter in Suwanee, GA. Together, we explore how embracing community service can transform not only your family but also the world around you.

###########PLAYER GOES HERE###########

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Drue’s relationship with his dad, and how he saw community service [1:40]
• What initiated Drue into dad mentorship programs? [10:40]
• Drue shares his perspective of being a dad through adoption [15:35]
• Moments of serving his community, with his children, that stood out to Drue [21:50]
• Drue’s advice for where to start serving in your community [26:30]
• What is the best, and worst parenting advice Drue has received? [35:40] 
• One thing Drue wishes every dad would do to improve themselves? [37:13]

Watching a Dad Who Serves

Growing up as the child of a pastor, Drue saw firsthand the impact of serving others. His father was deeply committed to helping people in the church and the community, setting an example of grace and love. That influence stayed with Drue. When he faced challenges of his own, he was reminded of the grace his father modeled, helping him connect with the mercy and joy of his faith. This inspired him to dedicate his life to serving others.

Drue’s involvement with All Pro Dad began when his oldest child was in elementary school. Through this program, he discovered a passion for connecting with other fathers and supporting children—not just his own but others in the community. Watching his dad serve gave Drue a blueprint for how to raise his children. He shares a story about running a food drive with his kids from their neighborhood pool parking lot, teaching them the joy of giving and helping those in need.

Meeting the Needs

Drue wasn’t just called to serve his neighbors; he also felt called to adopt. His journey as an adoptive parent offers a unique perspective on serving a child in need. Drue explains that adoption is more than just parenting—it’s stepping into a larger plan, offering hope to a child who needs a loving family.

For Drue, adoption is also a powerful metaphor for the Gospel. Just as God adopts believers into His family, every adoptive parent welcomes a child into theirs, giving them the full love, rights, and privileges of being part of the family. Drue encourages other dads to be open to adoption, reminding them that every journey in parenting is challenging, but every child deserves to be loved and raised with purpose.

How Do You Get Started Serving Your Community?

Do you want to serve your community but feel unsure where to begin? Drue offers simple, actionable advice: start by getting to know your neighbors. Many people in your neighborhood may need help with tasks, meals, or financial struggles. Sometimes, the most impactful service is offering to meet small, everyday needs.

Beyond your immediate neighborhood, explore local organizations like food banks or nonprofits. Stop by, ask for a tour, and find out how you can contribute. Schools are another great place to make a difference—many need mentors and positive role models for their students.

Find ways to serve using your own skills and passions. Love golf? Host a program teaching kids how to swing. Enjoy cooking? Organize a neighborhood breakfast. Good with your hands? Offer repair or yard services to your neighbors or local schools. The key is to think simply, ask where help is needed, and take the first step toward meeting that need.

Drue’s story reminds us that service begins with small actions—whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or just being available. When dads step up and serve, they inspire their families and communities to do the same. Tune in to hear more about Drue’s journey and discover how you can start making a difference today.

Resources & People Mentioned

• All Pro Dad

Connect with Drue Warner

• Drue Warner

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How do you really grow into a successful man? Should each man really be an island? My guest, Curt Trotter, shares the importance of communal support for men and the role of faith in personal growth. Growing a man comes down to something very simple for Curt: you can't do life alone—you have to share your life with other men. 

Being surrounded by supportive peers can significantly enhance men's ability to grow and overcome challenges. Authenticity, humility, and teachability are critical traits that fathers should embody and instill in their children. The willingness to admit personal shortcomings and the desire to learn continuously can help fathers become better role models and support their children effectively.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Curt’s dad taught him how to not be scared to try things [3:54]
• The struggle to connect with dad after mom's death [04:57]
• Ways to encourage your children to find their path [09:23]
• Building adult connections with other men [11:50]
• How community supports all dads' growth journeys [13:06]
• Battling personal childhood narratives affected Curt’s parenting [19:25]
• Characteristics for personal growth in men [22:26]
• Humility and teachability are key to growth [23:50]
• Isolation stunts growth—connection and planning help move you forward [26:41]
• Why Curt is grateful for the wisdom shared at Dads On Tap [33:19]

The Significance of Individual Support in Parenting

Curt's approach to parenting starkly contrasts with his own father's expectations. He believes in the importance of supporting his children’s unique talents and career interests. Unlike his father, who wanted him to join the family business, Curt encourages his children to pursue their individual passions. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing each child's unique gifts, avoiding the imposition of specific career paths or interests. 

Curt is committed to being there for his children in a supportive and non-intrusive manner. This approach fosters a sense of independence and confidence in his children, allowing them to grow into well-rounded adults.

Faith, Community, and Personal Growth

Curt's faith deeply influences his life and work, making him an integral part of the community at Browns Bridge Church. A significant aspect of Curt's community involvement is his participation in our Dads on Tap initiative. Curt discusses the importance of communal support for men's growth, making it clear that men need other men to share experiences and build accountability.

Teachability plays such a huge part in the personal growth journey of men. Curt defines teachability as a combination of the desire to learn and the willingness to change, highlighting it as a fundamental trait for overcoming challenges and achieving significant progress. 

Drawing from his extensive experience working with thousands of men, Curt has noticed that those who exhibit humility—admitting they don't have everything figured out—and teachability are the ones who often grow the most. These characteristics enable individuals to remain open to new ideas and transformative experiences, paving the way for meaningful development and improvement in their lives.

Identity and Personal Development

Having a clear plan and system to achieve your goals is important, whether in personal habits or business. Many people struggle because they lack a structured approach, making it difficult to reach their objectives. Curt’s advice for dads includes teaching their children the value of strategic planning and goal-setting to help them navigate both personal and professional challenges. 

Curt also highlights the need for fathers to transition eventually from day-to-day parenting to becoming mentors and friends to their adult children. This shift helps foster a supportive environment that encourages independence while maintaining a strong, supportive relationship. 

Resources & People Mentioned

• The Intentional Father: A Practical Guide to Raise Sons of Courage and Character by Jon Tyson 
• Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
• Surrender by Bono
• The Other Half of Church: Christian Community, Brain Science, and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation by Jim Wilder and Michel Hendricks 

Connect with Curt Trotter

• Browns Bridge Church 
• Follow Browns Bridge Church on Instagram
• Connect with Curt on LinkedIn
• Follow Curt on Instagram
• Follow Curt on Twitter

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Are you a purposeful and present (P2) dad? Being a dad is the only thing that we do at best responsively, at worst, reactively. So how do we move from reactive to responsive? How do we become more present? What can we do to change the way we show up?

Jeff Hamilton is a husband, father, pastor, high school sports coach, and founder of the ”Dad Academy.” Jeff founded Dad Academy to help men become the fathers they wanted to be. Because men function best when they know what’s expected of them and have a plan to accomplish that. 

So he took his graduate degree in Strategic and Organizational Leadership and created a workbook that helps men write a business plan for being a better dad. Learn all about the principles he teaches in his academy in this episode of Dads on Tap. 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Jeff’s relationship with his dad [4:13] 
• Learning about Jeff’s wife and children [7:55] 
• The background of Dad Academy [10:12] 
• Understanding your mission as a dad [12:51] 
• Preparing your kids for adulthood [14:20]
• Defining your family culture and values [20:54] 
• What Jeff would’ve done differently [28:35] 
• The lightning round [35:57] 

Understanding your mission as a dad

Jeff credits “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” for heavily shaping him (and believes it should be on everyone’s reading list). One of the principles outlined in the book is to “begin with the end in mind.” 

What is the end outcome of being a dad? For Jeff, the answer is “Raising healthy adults to contribute to their community who speak life and bring value to their relationships.” If that’s the end in mind, every step you take along the way must help you accomplish that goal. 

You’re partnering with God’s mission. He entrusted these lives to us. It’s a wonderful privilege and responsibility. Jeff firmly believes that your success in life will be measured by the kind of kids you raise. They are how you will be remembered. 

Preparing your kids for adulthood

A dad’s mission is to pass on his values and skills to his children. As a parent, you’re developing courage in the life of your kids. They have to learn how to make decisions. That starts from the very beginning. Even the little things like teaching a child to cross the street, tie their shoes, or hold their silverware are important. After all, everything a child knows how to do is learned somewhere. 

It isn’t just about learning hard skills like learning to paint, changing the oil in a car, or using a drill. Your kids also need emotional intelligence. They need to learn soft skills, relational skills, etc. 

You have to intentionally share everything you know how to do. And when there are things you don’t know how to do, invite other people into your family’s life to give them those skills that you’re lacking. It truly takes a village to raise a child.

Defining your family culture

What are your norms? What are acceptable behaviors? The norm in Jeff’s family culture is “Everyone contributes.” Your expectations of a five-year-old will be different from a 15-year-old but everyone contributes in some way. 

Culture also has to do with language. What tone is acceptable? How do we navigate conversations and communication? 

Rituals and traditions are also important. These things define and remind you who you are. How does your family celebrate holidays? What special things do you do for birthdays? Memories are associated with those traditions.

Part of your family culture is memory-making. Traditions and rituals are one way to create a resource bank of memories. But Jeff believes that vacations are key. You have to set aside intentional time and create space for memories to be made. The things you’ll remember about your family will be the things you did throughout the years that connect you to your identity. 

It doesn’t need to be extravagant—but it must be meaningful. Do something that shows your family they are a priority.

Learn more of the things you need to think about to be a better dad and raise amazing humans in this episode of Dads on Tap. 

Resources & People Mentioned

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
• Make Your Bed
• Soul Keeping
• Pursuit of Holiness
• Victory over the Darkness
• The Tipping Point
• Outliers

Connect with Jeff Hamilton

• Dad Academy
• Connect on Instagram
• Follow on TikTok 

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How can we help dads be better dads? What does it look like to pursue a healthy relationship as parents? How can we support each other? 

In this special episode of Dads on Tap, I team up with Amanda Carroll to discuss some of the common pitfalls that prevent good co-parenting and derail marriages. Amanda is the host of “Brave Single Moms,” a podcast geared toward helping single moms navigate life. 

Join us as we talk about how the husband's role can contribute to successful parenting and share tips for single moms and dads to find emotionally healthy partners. Listen to learn what makes for an emotionally healthy individual (which leads to an emotionally healthy marriage).

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Common pitfalls in relationships that cause them to fail [2:37]
• How can a husband be a teammate vs an opponent? [4:58]
• How to recognize and avoid abuse in relationships [10:00]
• Keep your relationship strong by spending time together [17:39]
• The importance of dealing with unresolved issues [21:49]
• How can moms ask for more help? How can dads give it? [28:27] 
• How do we keep families together? [30:50]
• Single moms: How to find a healthy man [38:15]
• Single dads: How to find a healthy woman [46:08] 
• Dating apps to use (and apps to avoid) [48:52]
• Learn more about “Dads on Tap” and “Brave Single Moms” [54:23] 

Connect with Amanda Carroll

• Brave Single Moms
• Brave Single Moms on YouTube
• Connect with Amanda on Instagram

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How do we protect our kids in the digital age we live in? What protections exist that parents can leverage to safeguard technology? Kristilee Cavoretto + Alicia Chandler joined us in the last episode to start the conversation about protecting our kids. 

Today, they share how we can protect our kids from the dangers associated with technology. The reality is that we can’t shelter our kids from the realities of this world forever, so we need to arm ourselves with the knowledge we need to equip them. Do not miss it. 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• The real-life dangers of technology [2:29] 
• Where kids are commonly targeted [14:35] 
• The impact of social media on kids [22:30] 
• How to protect your kids [26:26] 
• Conversations dads need to have with kids [36:56] 
• How to have the tough conversations [41:20] 
• What platforms to limit access to [43:33] 

Resources & People Mentioned

• Gabb Phones
• Wait Until 8th
• Bark Technologies
• Qustodio
• Saving Our Sons

Connect with Kristilee and Alicia

• Millstone Collective 
• [email protected]
• Follow on Instagram
• Connect with Kristlee on LinkedIn
• Connect with Alicia on LinkedIn

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How do we protect our kids in a world that feels increasingly unsafe? As dads, what are practical things we can do to help them in sticky situations? Kristilee Cavoretto and Alicia Chandler are the co-founders of Millstone Collective, a training company. One of their specialties is child abuse prevention education. 

In this conversation, we take a deep look at ways we can protect your kids. We’ll dive into everything from when and how to start educating our kids to normalizing anatomical terms, behaviors to watch out for, and how to create a safe space for our kids. This is a can’t-miss episode.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• What Alicia and Kristlee learned from their dads [1:01]
• How to stay connected with your daughters [3:50] 
• Kristilee and Alicia’s background in law enforcement [5:48] 
• When and how to start educating your kids [14:15] 
• Why we need to normalize anatomical terms [20:29] 
• Watch out for a behavioral deviation [25:28] 
• How to help your kids out of sticky situations [32:46] 
• Creating a safe space for your children [35:53] 
• Common things that parents often miss [39:02] 
• What we’ll cover on our next episode [45:20]

Connect with Kristilee Cavoretto and Alicia Chandler

• Millstone Collective 
• [email protected]
• Follow on Instagram
• Connect with Kristlee on LinkedIn
• Connect with Alicia on LinkedIn

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

When you’re working to pay the bills while raising a family, it’s easy to put your health on the back burner—but that’s a huge mistake. According to Dr. Deb Cirone, “You can’t serve out of abundance from a sick body.” But how do you take back your health? What first steps should you take to become a healthier version of yourself? Dr. Cirone shares her wealth of experience in this episode of Dad’s on Tap. 

Dr. Deb Cirone holds a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree from Life University in Atlanta. She founded the AlignLife Chiropractic and Health Center in Suwannee, GA and recently co-founded the longevity clinic, Thryv Medical. 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Learn more about Dr. Deb Cirone’s dad [1:48] 
• The importance of being a united front [3:30] 
• Being life partners and business partners [5:50]
• Why Dr. Cirone is passionate about health [10:16] 
• Are you thriving—or just surviving? [15:37]
• Dr. Cirone’s biggest concerns about health [20:18] 
• Dr. Cirone’s rhythms and practices for a healthy life [23:18] 
• Do the little things that matter long-term [26:46] 
• One conversation every dad should have [28:42] 
• The best and worst advice Dr. Cirone was ever given [34:07]
• What every dad can do (or stop doing) to improve their health [34:30] 
• Dr. Cirone’s favorite meal (and what she’ll never eat) [36:15] 
• How to learn more about living a healthy lifestyle [38:16] 
• Don’t procrastinate—make changes now, not later [41:28]
• The services they offer at their clinics [42:46] 

Resources & People Mentioned

• BrainTap meditation app
• Wim Hof Method
• The Enneagram
• The Road Back to You
• The Ed Mylett Show
• Dr. Pompa
• Dr. Joe Dispenza

Connect with Dr. Deb Cirone

• AlignLife
• Sugar Hill office: 678-482-4400
• Thryv Medical
• Connect with Dr. Cirone on LinkedIn

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Steve Kaloper is the Founder and CEO of the Kingdom Capital Group and the DoingGoodBetter Foundation. He’s also the author of the book “The Journey Into DoingGoodBetter.” And he’s passionate about empowering people to reach financial independence and give back in ways that align with their heart. He shares how he helped empower his kids to be financially independent in this eye-opening episode of Dads on Tap. 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Steve shares his relationship with his dad [2:24] 
• Learn more about Steve’s wife and kids [5:22] 
• Steve’s experience growing up in poverty [7:00]
• Empowering your kids vs enabling them [9:34] 
• Loving equally vs treating equally [12:13] 
• What Steve would have done differently [15:14] 
• Steve’s passion for DoingGoodBetter [18:55] 
• How to talk to your kids about generosity [22:36] 
• Steve’s favorite memory about giving [26:42] 
• The best and worst purchases Steve made [27:41] 

Resources & People Mentioned

• Customize your own Monopoly Game
• The Journey Into DoingGoodBetter

Connect with Steve Kaloper

• DoingGoodBetter
• Reach out to Steve at [email protected]

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

How can you be a more intentional dad? What do you need to be mindful of as you’re raising your kids? In this episode of Dads on Tap, Jayson French shares how his church family compelled him to be a great dad. He also shares some unique strategies he’s used—and is using—to parent his kids. 

Jayson is a true believer in the power of the local church and has dedicated 15 years on staff to the local church over 20 years at Christ In Youth as its current President. He's also a proud husband to Janice and father to their four children: Justin, Levi, Sydney, and Cylis.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Jayson shares more about his relationship with his dad [1:11] 
• Learn more about Jayson’s wife and kids [5:53] 
• How Jayson learned to be a great dad [8:42] 
• Learn more about Christ In Youth [17:10] 
• What frightens Jayson and what inspires him [18:33] 
• What every dad needs to know about raising kids [20:22]
• You have to choose your hard [23:16] 
• Their five rites of passage [25:01] 
• The lightning round [30:15] 
• The best advice Jayson was given [34:26] 
• Don’t complain about what you permit [36:18]

Connect with Jayson French

• Connect on LinkedIn
• Christ in Youth

Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap

• The Dads on Tap website
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap

Subscribe to DADS ON TAP

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK