In this episode, Jerrad sits down with singer, songwriter, and podcast host Matthew West for a conversation about the pain, pressure, and beauty of being a dad.
They talk about sending kids off to college, handling public criticism, and the challenge of staying emotionally present at home when everything pulls you elsewhere. Matthew shares what he’s learned about vulnerability, regret, and learning to slow down. He opens up about how his identity as a father has been shaped by grace.

What You’ll hear:
• Why letting go of your kids is harder than anyone tells you
• What Matthew wishes he had done differently as a young dad
• How to stay soft-hearted in a world that wants you to harden up
• Why words of encouragement matter more than you think
• What it looks like to lead your family with humility and joy
Tune in to learn how to show up, speak life, and lead with their heart as a dad.

Episode Resources

1.  Matthew West’s podcast: The Matthew West Podcast 
2. Song reference: “18 Summers” by Matthew West
3. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
4.  New podcast: Footballin’ with Ben Roethlisberger
5. AccessMore Network daily devotional (upcoming)
6.  Operation Christmas Child: samaritanspurse.org/occ
7. Support Dad Tired: dadtired.com/donate
8.  Read The Dad Tired Book: https://amzn.to/3YTz4GB
9.  Invite Jerrad to speak: https://www.jerradlopes.com