Dudes And Dads Podcast

In this episode of the Dudes and Dads Podcast, hosts Andy and Joel interview author Matthew J. Wolak about his book, “Loving Your Father Even Though He…“ and his new curriculum “MenAwakeDrawing” from his own personal journey of reconnecting with his father through long walks. The discussion highlights overcoming generational hurt, seeking mutual forgiveness, and discovering true personal identity and joy in Christ.

Audience feedback drives the show. We’d love for you to email us and keep the conversation going! Email [email protected] or call 574-501-4467. We’d love to hear from you!

On this episode of the Dudes and Dads Podcast, Joel and Andy sit down with guest Mariah Miller to talk adventure, self-reliance, and life on the move. Mariah shares the journey of converting her 1998 Ford Econoline van, “Marv,” into a home on wheels and hiking 500 miles across Spain along the Camino de Santiago. Along the way, she reflects on spiritual discipline and stranger kindness before facing the signature pop quiz.

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In this episode of the Dudes and Dads podcast, hosts Joel and Andy are joined by organizational coach Dustin Kaehr. Dustin applies his business culture framework to the family, breaking down five distinct cultural zones: default, dying, dread, dreamy, and “dauntless”. He explains how to actively push a family toward a “dauntless” state by balancing high standards with deep relational support, offering a practical six-step loop to close family culture gaps.

It takes finances to keep this podcast online. We thank the following for their support of this episode
This episode is sponsored by:

Everence Financial https://everence.com

Audience feedback drives the show. We’d love for you to email us and keep the conversation going! Email [email protected] or call 574-501-4467. We’d love to hear from you!

Today, Andy is back from his travels to talk about the importance of unplugging and making family memories. Andy shares stories from his recent family road trip out to Maine and Acadia National Park. Then, Joel brings his son Matthew onto the couch to discuss their upcoming 13-year-old coming-of-age trip to Washington D.C., featuring Smithsonian museums and an MLS game. Plus, Matthew faces our Pop Quiz!

It takes finances to keep this podcast online. We thank the following for their support of this episode
This episode is sponsored by:

Everence Financial https://everence.com

In this episode of the Dudes and Dads podcast, hosts Joel and Andy welcome back entrepreneur Jansen Utech to discuss the delicate balance of being a husband, father, and business owner. Jansen shares his vocational journey, from selling erasers in seventh grade to founding ITER Creative. He honestly explores the struggles of hustle culture, taking risks, and the importance of supportive relationships and community. Tune in for practical advice on navigating family life and entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the Dudes and Dads Podcast, Andy, Mark, and Joel discuss the challenges of raising teenage boys and guiding them toward adulthood. After Mark shares his new hobby of collecting ancient biblical coins, the conversation shifts to navigating the “pre-launch” phase of parenting. The dads explore the different paths their kids are taking, from traditional college to trades and entrepreneurship. They emphasize the importance of an “open door” policy for communication and candidly share the bittersweet emotional reality of realizing their growing sons no longer need them to provide and protect.

In this episode of the Dudes and Dads Podcast, Joel and Andy join author Brenda Yoder to discuss her book, Fledge. They explore navigating the emptying nest and share strategies for raising independent, resilient, Christ-following adults by letting them struggle, learn from failure, and confidently step into the world.

In this episode, we interview Amos, a former member of the Amish community who now serves as a local pastor. The conversation explores his upbringing in a family of sixteen children, detailing the cultural expectations and the specific lack of emotional connection common in such large households. Amos provides a rare look into Amish traditions, explaining the nuances of modern technology use and the rebellious period of Rumspringa. He shares his personal journey of spiritual awakening, which eventually led him to leave the church despite the risk of family rejection. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes that while he respects his heritage, his transition was driven by a need for a deeper relationship with Christ. The episode concludes with a lighthearted pop quiz.

In this episode of the Dudes and Dads Podcast, hosts Andy and Joel welcome back Andy’s dad, Chuck. They explore the critical importance of Sabbath and preventing ministry burnout. Chuck shares his journey of downsizing Rest Ministries, trusting God’s timing during long transitions, and establishing healthy rhythms of restorative rest.

Author Andrew Wood joins the show to discuss his book, Hero Ghost Villain, breaking down three fatherhood archetypes—the engaged Hero, the disengaged Ghost, and the destructive Villain. The group explores fighting passivity, the benefits of marrying young, and how to model a strong family legacy.

Audience feedback drives the show. We’d love for you to email us and keep the conversation going! Email [email protected] or call 574-501-4467. We’d love to hear from you!