Father Figures

Indigenous Australian artist Mitch Tambo went from social worker to AGT sensation in a whirlwind journey that would test everything he thought he knew about himself. But behind the golden buzzers and stadium crowds was a man learning to heal childhood anxiety, navigate blended family life, and break generational patterns.

In this raw conversation, Mitch shares how holding his 18-month-old daughter helped him finally understand his absent father, why he had to learn to "father the younger version of himself," and how surfing with his late dad's boards became a turning point in his healing journey.

From singing in his native language to create "true reconciliation" with audiences, to the daily juggle of being both a touring artist and present father of four, this is a story about courage, culture, and the ongoing work of becoming the man your children need you to be.

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Welcome to Season 3 of Father Figures! Hosts Justin and Heath reunite to share what's changed in their lives over the past year - and what hasn't. Heath opens up about his intense hostile environment training course for his new role at World Vision, complete with mock hostage situations and cable-tie escape techniques. Meanwhile, Justin reflects on finally doing his graduation ceremony and the surprising power of marking life's milestones.

Both dads discuss the ongoing challenge of work-life balance, the importance of recognising when your nervous system needs a reset, and why calling a friend during tough moments can make all the difference.

From celebrating small wins to navigating major life transitions, this episode captures the reality of fatherhood in your 40s. The guys remind us that sometimes the best part of change is simply having the courage to jump - even when you can't see where you'll land.

Plus, stick around for a multi-layered dad joke courtesy of Heath's middle child that might just keep you thinking for the next 30-40 minutes.

Father Figures: Real conversations about fatherhood, faith, and finding your way through the middle-age grind.

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Join host Justin Michael for this heartwarming Mother's Day special episode of Father Figures. In a departure from the regular format, Justin welcomes women in his life to share their perspectives on motherhood, parenting challenges, and family bonds.

The episode begins with an intimate conversation with Justin's wife Jodi, who opens up about her 19 years of motherhood experience, cherished memories, and how her approach to parenting has evolved over time. Their son Ari makes a guest appearance, offering his eight-year-old perspective on what makes his mum special.

Later, radio personality and performer Lucy Holmes shares her unique journey from single motherhood to navigating a blended family of seven. Her candid stories about Mother's Day memories, family traditions, and finding strength through community offer both encouragement and practical wisdom for listeners in all stages of parenthood.

Filled with genuine laughter, touching moments, and practical parenting insights, this episode celebrates the mothers who shape our lives while acknowledging the challenges they face. Whether you're a mother, have a mother, or are in a mothering role, this conversation reminds us of the profound impact maternal love has on families and how we can better honour the mothers in our lives—not just on Mother's Day, but every day.

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Continue the conversation, with guest Ryan Moloney as Justin and Heath dive deep into life's accountability, hyperfocus, and authentic parenting. The guys get real about achieving goals, personal responsibility, and creating meaningful family connections. Today they discuss:

• How Ryan realised that you can achieve anything in life when you "work the plan"
• Heath's candid admission about how Ryan's motivational presence pushed him during their training sessions together
• The superpower of hyperfocus that has fueled Ryan's achievements throughout his life
• Ryan's thoughtful approach to technology with his children—from initially withholding smartphones to now navigating screen time boundaries with his teens
• The beautiful reality of a marriage where both partners can embrace each other's "crazy" with understanding and love
• Ryan's powerful method for having deep conversations with his kids by starting with "If I die, I want you to..."
• The unexpected gifts that come with ADD—the ability to focus intensely on goals and push beyond limitations

This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is lovingly speak difficult truths sooner rather than later. Justin and Heath offer a thought-provoking conversation about accountability, presence, and authentic connection in both parenting and life.

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Australian TV icon Ryan Moloney joins Heath and Justin for a refreshingly honest conversation that dives into his legendary almost 30-year run as "Toadfie" on Neighbours and so much more. In this revealing episode, Ryan opens up about the price of fame, how he manages hyper-attention, and the recent major changes in his career.

With remarkable candor, Ryan discusses ADHD and shares practical strategies that have helped him navigate both professional demands and personal life. His perspective offers valuable insights for anyone dealing with similar challenges.

The conversation takes a heartwarming turn when Ryan shares the special activities he's created to connect with his son, offering a glimpse into his life as a devoted father away from the cameras. As he discusses his approach to keeping life simple and fun now that his Neighbours chapter has closed, listeners will appreciate his down-to-earth philosophy and genuine outlook.

Whether you're a longtime Neighbours fan or simply interested in authentic conversations about life's transitions, this episode delivers unexpected wisdom, genuine laughs, and a new appreciation for the man behind one of Australia's most beloved TV characters.

Part 2 of the conversation will be released next episode!

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Matthew Jacoby is a theologian, author, pastor, and musician best known as the lead singer of Sons of Korah and a lecturer in Christian Thought at Melbourne School of Theology.

Matt opens up about the daily rhythms of family life, sharing his approach to helping his children with homework and studies. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Matt recounts his father's adventurous spirit—walking the Mediterranean and sailing with friends, which led to German sponsorships and a writing career for German magazines that began when Matt's father was just sixteen.

With refreshing honesty, Matt reflects on his own formative years at boarding school, describing the profound struggle he experienced trying to find his place and sense of belonging. This vulnerability creates a powerful backdrop for understanding his intentional approach to parenting today.

Faith emerges as a central theme as Matt discusses how he incorporates Bible reading into his children's lives. He enthusiastically recommends resources from "The Bible Project" as his go-to tools for spiritual education and growth.

In a particularly revealing moment, Matt acknowledges his past struggle with entertainment addiction and describes the transformative impact of undertaking a media fast—offering listeners insight into reclaiming attention and presence in our distraction-filled world.

Perhaps most poignantly, Matt articulates the deep capacity for parental regret while recognising the ultimate truth of raising children: despite our best efforts at providing good nature and nurture, our children possess their own free will that we simply cannot control.

This episode offers wisdom, comfort, and perspective for anyone navigating the complex journey of parenthood while trying to stay grounded in personal values and faith.

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Former "Neighbours" star Andrew Bibby joins Justin and Heath for a refreshingly honest conversation about modern parenting in the digital age. Moving beyond the typical doom and gloom narrative, Andrew shares his innovative approach to helping his children understand and engage with social media.

Dive into a candid discussion about:

• Transforming social media from a potential threat to a creative platform
• Why connection matters more than consumption
• Strategies for empowering kids to create, not just scroll
• Andrew's unique perspective from acting to emergency services

From TV star to paramedic, Andrew Bibby brings an eye-opening view of raising children in a connected world. Learn how one dad is turning screen time into a positive, educational experience that prepares kids for the digital future.

A must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone curious about healthy digital engagement!

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In this episode of Father Figures, host Justin sits down for a heartfelt and insightful conversation with one of his own sons. Together, they explore the challenges and joys of parenting in a world dominated by screens, social media, and constant connectivity.

Justin shares real-life experiences, practical wisdom, and faith-based encouragement on how to navigate the digital age as a dad. From setting healthy boundaries to fostering open communication, this episode is packed with relatable moments and actionable advice for parents raising teens today.

Whether you're a dad looking for guidance or simply want to hear an honest father-son chat, this episode is for you!

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Justin and Heath dive deep into the critical balance between work, screen-time & family life. This is PART 2 of the previous episode with Noddy Sharma. The guys get real about how our priorities often don't match our values, today they discuss: 

• Why putting your family before your career is so important
• The startling realisation that those precious moments with your children are flying by faster than you think
• Heath's candid confession about how many times he's told his kids "give me a minute" – and how that reflects upon his family.
• The crucial difference between activities that burn you out versus those that fuel your soul
• A thought-provoking conversation about how today's kids find their "truth" online – Heath shares his discovery about his children's relationship with YouTube and their belief that everything they see must be true.

This episode is a wake-up call for any dad who's ever postponed quality time with his family. Justin and Heath offer practical wisdom on reclaiming your priorities and being present for the moments that truly matter.

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Justin sits down with Noddy Sharma - a powerhouse voice in youth engagement and faith leadership - to unravel the complex world of modern parenting.

What's Inside:

• The Digital Dilemma: Are smartphones friends or foes for our teens?
• Generational Shifts: Why today's youth dream differently
• The Ultimate Trust Test with Tech: When and how did Noddy let go of the no screen-time policy?

Noddy brings razor-sharp insights into:

• The changing landscape of teenage aspirations
• Navigating screen time without losing connection
• Building faith and trust in a hyper-connected world

Not Just Another Parenting Podcast - This is a raw, real conversation that will challenge everything you thought you knew about raising teenagers.

Buckle up for wisdom and hope for parents navigating the digital wilderness!

Tune in next week, with Heath and Justin!

More info on Noddy Sharma:

https://www.abelmovement.org/noddy-sharma

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