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!

Goshen Chamber of Commerce President Nick Kieffer explains how the organization acts as a chameleon-like resource to advocate for, connect, and develop local businesses. The group discusses the importance of tenacity and hard work in entrepreneurship, followed by a quiz on fighting lions and utensil hands

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!

Joel and Andy kick off Season 8 with Francis Disori to discuss creating communities of hope at Lexington House,. Francis explains the “Clubhouse” model, where a “need to be needed” helps bring color back to life for those facing mental health challenges,. Plus, enjoy a fun Pop Quiz featuring hummus and crowbars.

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!

In this episode, Joel and Andy welcome their new producer, Mark Graff, to the booth. They sit down with community leader Vince Turner before his move to Fairhope, Alabama. Vince reflects on his three distinct careers: sports broadcasting—where he called Notre Dame’s 1988 championship—leading development at Bashor Children’s Home, and working in banking. He shares insights on cultivating curiosity, the life-changing influence of his wife, Pat, and his goal to be a “Barnabas” who cheers on young leaders. Finally, the group debates asparagus during the Pop Quiz.

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Everence Financial https://everence.com

On this episode of the Dudes and Dads podcast, Joel and Andy talk with Hope Stutzman all about her coffee truck, Forensic Coffee. Hope shares her entrepreneurial journey, including the learning curve, securing the trailer from Louisiana, and navigating strict Goshen city regulations for food trucks. She also highlights the power of parental encouragement.

On this short episode Joel and Andy recap how Joel’s Plan to have a 90’s summer for his kids in which he took away all technology that was not in the 90’s. We talk about how it went, what his kids thought and much more!

Joel and Andy talk with Randy Black about resiliency. Randy shares his “bounce back mentality” learned from his late friend and podcast co-host, Jim Clayton. They discuss the four pillars of resilience (mental, physical, social, spiritual) and how to model this strength for children, exemplified by Andy’s painful dune climb at Sleeping Bear Dunes

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