In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams speaks with Alonzo McKenzie, a fatherhood practitioner and author. They discuss Alonzo's upbringing, his relationship with his family, and the journey of becoming a father. Alonzo shares humorous anecdotes about meeting his wife and the challenges he faced during the birth of his daughter. He emphasizes the importance of strong family relationships, the role of faith in fatherhood, and the need for community support among fathers. Alonzo also discusses his work with fathers in correctional facilities and his vision for empowering families through his book, 'The CEO Husband and CEO Father Blueprint.'Takeaways- Alonzo had a solid upbringing with a strong family foundation.- He emphasizes the importance of humor in family dynamics.- Alonzo's relationship with his father was built on shared activities like fishing and basketball.- He values the relationships he has with his siblings and parents today.- Meeting his wife was a humorous and awkward experience that led to a strong bond.- Transitioning to fatherhood brought significant changes and challenges.- Alonzo admires his wife's strength during childbirth and values her support.- He believes in the importance of being present and available as a father.- Alonzo's work with fathers focuses on empowerment and community support.- He encourages men to surround themselves with strong male role models. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alonzo McKenzie00:44 Alonzo's Childhood and Family Dynamics04:14 Current Family Relationships05:05 Meeting His Wife and Early Relationship11:29 Transition to Fatherhood13:11 Passion for Marriage and Family15:32 The CEO Husband and Father Blueprint18:44 Challenges in Marriage and Fatherhood22:22 Joy in Family Life24:24 Work with Fathers in the Community27:56 Future Vision for Fatherhood Work32:47 Final Advice for FathersAlonzo's book, "The CEO Husband & CEO Father Blueprint: Recognize. Lead. Transform." can be found on Amazon at: https://a.co/d/dJ7ofaoPastor Eli's new book "The Family Shepherd" can be found on Amazon at:https://a.co/d/0F08M5YThe Fathering Strong podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. To help support the podcast and help us provide free resources to father be consider giving at: https://givebutter.com/urbanlightdonation

In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams speaks with Robert McKinney, a dedicated foster parent and fatherhood director, about his journey in fostering and adopting children. Robert shares his experiences, the challenges faced, and the joys of raising a large family that includes both biological and adopted children. He emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, support systems, and the transformative power of faith in navigating the complexities of foster care. The conversation highlights the need for more foster parents in the community and the impact of mentorship on both children and parents.Takeaways- Fostering is about more than just adopting a child; it's about adopting their history and experiences.- Children in foster care often carry trauma that requires understanding and unconditional love.- Support systems, such as friends and family, are crucial for foster parents.- Every child has a unique story that shapes their behavior and needs.- Fostering can lead to unexpected blessings and a larger family than initially planned.- The journey of fostering can reveal the harsh realities of the world.- It's important to balance the needs of biological children with those of foster children.- Fostering can be a rewarding but challenging experience that tests one's faith and patience.- Mentoring fathers who have lost custody of their children can be a fulfilling way to give back.- The love of a family can significantly change a child's life trajectory. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Foster Parenting Journey03:38 The Decision to Foster and Adopt05:18 Understanding the Challenges of Fostering07:36 Experiences with Fostered Children09:08 The Most Challenging Foster Experience14:27 Spiritual Growth and Transformation28:48 Overcoming Obstacles in Foster Care37:52 Motivation and Purpose in ParentingYou can reach Rob McKinney at email:[email protected] Fathering Strong podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. Your support helps us reach more fathers with free resources and workshops. You can give at www.urbanlight.org.

In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams speaks with Joe Scrutchen, the Fatherhood Coordinator for Franklin County, Ohio. Joe shares his personal experiences growing up with a strong father figure and how that shaped his approach to fatherhood. He discusses the importance of communication in co-parenting and the challenges many fathers face regarding child support. Joe emphasizes the need for supportive relationships and community outreach to help fathers navigate their responsibilities. He also reflects on his own family life, the joys and challenges of parenting, and his aspirations for the future of both his family and the fatherhood programs he oversees.Takeaways- Joe's parents maintained a positive co-parenting relationship after separation.- Preparation and emotional intelligence were key lessons from Joe's father.- Communication is essential for effective co-parenting.- Many fathers struggle to understand child support and its implications.- Joe's work focuses on building trust with fathers in the community.- The Franklin County Child Support Agency aims to support rather than punish fathers.- Joe emphasizes the importance of teamwork in his family.- Every child requires a unique approach to parenting.- Joe's goal is to see his children surpass his and his wife's achievements.- Collaboration with community partners is vital for effective fatherhood programs.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fatherhood and Personal Background05:32 The Impact of Parenting on Fatherhood06:54 Daily Life as a Fatherhood Coordinator09:38 Building Relationships with Fathers17:57 Common Questions from Fathers about Child Support22:08 Supporting Fathers with Arrearages25:31 Personal Insights on Fatherhood33:33 Future Aspirations for Family and WorkTo contact Joe for more information you may reach him at:Phone: 614-961-1864Email: [email protected] Fathering Strong podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. Your support to continue this podcast and the work of reaching more fathers is greatly appreciated. Go to urbanlight.org for more information and to donate.

The conversation explores the societal expectations placed on men regarding emotional expression and vulnerability, particularly in the context of therapy. Harrison Crawford discusses the challenges men face when asked to show emotions, be vulnerable, and relinquish control, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging these difficulties in the therapeutic process.Takeaways- Things like don't cry, don't show your emotions, don't be vulnerable, always be in control, never ask for help.- We ask them to show emotions.- It's okay to cry.- We want them to be vulnerable.- Sometimes they have to relinquish a little control to the therapist.- Recognizing that that's a big ask for a lot of men.- I'm here to meet you wherever you're at in that process.- Acknowledging that it's hard for you.- Therapy requires emotional expression.- Societal norms impact men's mental health.Podcast Chapter Listing1. Introduction (00:28)• Eli Williams welcomes Harrison Crawford to the Fathering Strong podcast2. Growing Up with Dad (01:34)• Harrison reflects on his childhood and relationship with his father• Discusses his dad's career and family dynamics3. Becoming a Father (05:28)• Harrison's journey to fatherhood• Overcoming fears about parenting• Introduction to his two children4. Parenting a Son and Daughter (07:21)• Challenges of raising children• Being intentional about gender messages• Encouraging emotional openness and leadership5. Finding His Passion for Father Work (11:05)• Meeting Dan Griffin• Attending the "Engaging Fathers More Effectively" conference• Experiencing a professional epiphany6. Current Therapy Practice (13:31)• Virtual counseling approach• Referral processes• Being the "go-to guy" for fathers in therapy7. Why Men Don't Seek Help (15:56)• Exploring the "man rules"• Barriers preventing men from seeking therapy• Emotional vulnerability challenges8. Social Media's Double-Edged Sword (18:05)• Internet's impact on fatherhood• Positive and negative aspects of online communities• Masculine anger and echo chambers9. Supporting Fathers Facing System Barriers (21:11)• Validating fathers' experiences• Navigating resistance and emotional safety• Helping alienated fathers reconnect10. Creating Virtual Support for Dads (24:35)• Discussing potential platforms for father support• Importance of peer-to-peer connections11. The Amazing Dads Curriculum (31:37)• Overview of the passion project• Unique aspects of the curriculum• Trauma-informed approach to fatherhood12. Partnership with Dan Griffin (37:01)• How Harrison and Dan met• Developing a collaborative relationship• Shared vision for father support13. Upstream Work with Young Men (39:15)• Preparing the next generation of fathers• Addressing generational shifts in masculinity• Holistic approach to gender understanding14. Vision for the Future (42:58)• Dreams for Amazing Dads curriculum• Breaking cycles of trauma• Raising a more emotionally intelligent generation of fathersTo reach Harrison Crawford, contact him through email at:[email protected] Fathering Strong Podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. To support the podcast, the Fathering Strong App, and the work to help more fathers, please go to www.urbanlight.org.

Sam Treadaway grew up with an alcoholic father and vowed to break the cycle. As a teacher, coach, and school administrator, he learned invaluable lessons about parenting that shaped how he raised his two sons. In this powerful conversation, Sam shares his philosophy on setting boundaries, the importance of parental unity, why consequences matter less than expectations, and how modeling behavior shapes children more than words ever could. He also offers his vision for the future of education, including year-round schooling and removing screens from classrooms. Whether you're a father, educator, or both, Sam's hard-won wisdom will challenge and inspire you to father with greater intentionality.Takeaways:- Breaking generational cycles starts with recognizing harmful patterns- The paradox of parenting: preparing children for when you're not around- Boundaries matter more than consequences in effective parenting- Parental unity and consistency are essential for raising responsible children- Modeling behavior shapes children more powerfully than words- Avoid helicopter and snowplow parenting styles- Teaching responsibility through chores and clear expectations- Education reform: year-round schooling and screen-free classroomsChapters:00:27 - Welcome to the Podcast - Introducing Sam and the Conversation 01:22 - Shadows of Childhood: Growing Up with an Alcoholic Father 03:55 - Breaking Generational Cycles of Addiction 08:59 - The Path to Intentional Fatherhood 09:38 - College, Teaching, and Personal Growth 11:27 - Two Sons, Two Unique Journeys: Tyler and Dave 18:17 - Navigating Different Parenting Challenges 22:19 - Setting Boundaries with Love and Wisdom 28:45 - The Art of Teaching Respect and Manners 31:20 - United Parenting: Consistency is Key 34:58 - Avoiding Common Parental Pitfalls 38:45 - Creating Supportive Educational Environments 45:16 - The Power of Authentic Student Care 50:03 - Reimagining Education for the Future 57:41 - Fathering as a Lifelong CommitmentThe Fathering Strong podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. Please consider supporting this podcast and the Fathering Strong programs. Learn more at Urbanlight.org and sign-up for the free FatheringStrong.com fatherhood app.

In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams speaks with Chris Lightfoot about his journey as a father and the impactful work he is doing at the Center for Christian Virtue. Chris shares his experiences growing up as a pastor's kid, the lessons he learned about responsibility and character from his father, and how these lessons shaped his approach to fatherhood. He discusses the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly with his three children, and reflects on the importance of patience and mentorship in raising the next generation. The conversation also delves into the Hope in the Future initiative, which aims to strengthen families and address the breakdown of marriage in communities. Chris emphasizes the need for churches to engage with fathers and provide support, highlighting the role of the Church Ambassador Network in equipping local churches to foster healthy relationships and families. The episode concludes with Chris sharing the accomplishments of the Center for Christian Virtue and his personal motivation for the work he does.Takeaways- Chris Lightfoot grew up as a pastor's kid, which shaped his values.- His father taught him important lessons about responsibility and character.- Chris faced challenges as a teenager but learned from his mistakes.- He emphasizes the importance of patience in parenting.- Baptizing his sons was a significant joy for Chris.- The Hope in the Future initiative aims to strengthen families.- Chris believes churches need to engage more with fathers.- The Center for Christian Virtue focuses on community impact through family values.- Chris's work helps him become a better father.- He sees his role as equipping pastors and churches for ministry.Chapters00:00 Chris Lightfoot's Early Life and Lessons from His Father09:01 Chris Lightfoot's Fatherhood Journey16:04 Chris Lightfoot's Work at the Center for Christian Virtue21:48 The Impact of Family Structure on Community Issues25:13 Addressing Fatherhood in the Church32:33 Achievements of the Center for Christian Virtue39:14 The Role of the Church in Community Transformation42:08 Personal Motivation Behind the WorkTo reach out to Chris and learn more about Church Ambassador network go to https://www.ccv.org. To learn more about the research focused on the impact of importance of marriage an strong families and get a copy of the 2025 Hope and Future Report go to https://hope.ccv.org/hope/.The Fathering Strong podcast is a production of Urban Light Ministries. To support Fathering Strong and help us continue to reach more fathers please go to https://givebutter.com/J8PuE8.If you are interested in becoming a corporate sponsor go to https://givebutter.com/0V6zEb.

Fatherhood Programs that Transform Lives with special guest Jeff KramerSummaryIn this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, Eli Williams and Jeff Kramer discuss the intricacies of fatherhood, co-parenting, and the challenges and rewards of working with fathers in various capacities. Jeff shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing, his relationship with his daughter, and his professional journey in fatherhood programs. The conversation delves into the challenges fathers face, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of education and awareness in parenting. Jeff emphasizes the significance of creating a supportive environment for fathers to learn and grow, and he shares his aspirations for the future of fatherhood work.Takeaways- Jeff's mother had an accident, prompting him to travel to Tucson.- Growing up, Jeff had a supportive father who was very involved in his life.- Jeff's sister was a talented athlete, which motivated him to improve.- Co-parenting with Kate's mother has been a positive experience for Jeff.- Kate is a bright and kind young woman, bringing joy to Jeff's life.- Jeff works for Action for Children, focusing on fatherhood programs.- The challenges of working with fathers often stem from their past experiences.- Father Up is a holistic program aimed at supporting fathers in various aspects of their lives.- Creating a supportive community among fathers is crucial for their growth.- Jeff hopes to continue evolving fatherhood programs to better serve families. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Context01:55 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics05:55 Fatherhood Journey and Co-Parenting09:51 Work in the Fatherhood Space17:16 Challenges of Working with Fathers29:37 Rewards of Working with Fathers37:08 Future Aspirations in Fatherhood ProgramsYou can reach Jeff at [email protected] and learn more about the FatherUp program at www.fatherupohio.org.The Fathering Strong Podcast is produced by Urban Light Ministries. For more information, go to www.FatheringStrong.com or www.urbanlight.org.

SummaryIn this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams speaks with Joshua Krakow, who shares his journey from a challenging childhood and family dynamics to becoming a father and navigating the complexities of co-parenting and the family court system. Joshua discusses his advocacy work for single dads, the importance of community support, and his vision for creating networks that empower fathers. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and the impact of fatherhood on personal growth, offering encouragement to dads facing similar challenges.Takeaways- Joshua faced significant challenges in his childhood, including bullying and family dynamics.- His experiences with homelessness and a life-altering motorcycle accident shaped his perspective on fatherhood.- Joshua's journey into fatherhood was complicated by co-parenting challenges and the family court system.- He advocates for single dads and aims to create supportive communities for fathers.- Joshua emphasizes the importance of resilience and not giving up on relationships with children.- He highlights the need for reform in the family court system to better support fathers.- Joshua's nonprofit work focuses on providing resources and support for dads in need.- He aims to build networks that connect fathers and foster community engagement.- Joshua's motivation stems from a desire to create a better future for his daughter and other children.- He encourages fathers to always keep their hands out for their kids, even in difficult times.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joshua Krakow02:28 Joshua's Childhood and Family Dynamics05:19 Life-Altering Experiences and Becoming a Father11:07 Challenges of Co-Parenting and Family Court System21:18 Advocacy and Support for Single Dads27:50 Building Community and Future Goals33:04 Motivation and Encouragement for Fathers44:50 Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksYou can learn more about Josh and Single Dads Outreach at https://singledadsoutreach.org/

Join host Eli Williams for a revised version of Episode 23, where he had an inspiring conversation with Peter Lawson Jones, attorney, actor, business consultant, and former Ohio legislator who created the groundbreaking Ohio Commission on Fatherhood. Peter shares his remarkable journey from being raised by exceptional parents in Cleveland to becoming a Harvard graduate, elected official, and champion for fathers across Ohio. In this episode, he opens up about the challenges and joys of fatherhood, the importance of being present for your children, and how one legislative initiative has transformed support for fathers statewide for over 25 years. Go to Episode 72 to listen to the second episode with Peter Lawson Jones. https://youtu.be/SZslm-kSWfs 

Key Takeaways

• The power of parental influence: Peter's mother, a Cleveland public school teacher, gave him life-changing advice: "Read with expression"—wisdom that shaped his career as an attorney, elected official, and actor 
• Creating systemic change: Peter founded the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood in 1999 after discovering Ohio was doing nothing to support low-income fathers, establishing a model that has served families for 25+ years 
• Bipartisan solutions: Working across party lines with Republican Governor Bob Taft, Peter proved that supporting fathers and families transcends politics 
• The challenge of presence: The hardest part of parenting is being physically and emotionally present, especially when balancing demanding careers. 
• Investment in relationships: Strong father-child relationships require intentional time, attention, and genuine engagement 
• Community mobilization: Every county needs dedicated leadership and sustainable funding to support fatherhood initiatives 
• Seek help when needed: Young fathers should reach out to mentors, family members, and community resources—asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness 

Chapter List

00:00 - Introduction to Peter Lawson Jones 
01:31 - Growing Up with Exceptional Role Models 
06:03 - Lessons from Parents: Education and Athletics 
08:39 - The Challenges of Fatherhood 11:00 - Balancing Career and Family 
12:41 - The Greatest Joys of Being a Dad 
17:12 - Break: Fathering Strong Resources 
18:06 - Creating the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood 
25:18 - The Importance of Supporting Fathers 
29:25 - County-Level Fatherhood Initiatives 
32:13 - Peter's Acting Career Journey 
37:02 - Final Break 
38:36 - Words of Encouragement for Struggli

Christian Parenting Advice That Works with Wally MartinsonIn this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams engages in a heartfelt conversation with Wally Martinson, exploring the profound impact of fatherhood, personal faith journeys, and the importance of mentorship. Wally shares his experiences growing up with a loving yet traditional father, his journey to faith through mentorship, and the challenges and joys of being a father himself. The discussion emphasizes the unique paths of parenting, the significance of spiritual guidance, and the role of community in nurturing faith. Wally also reflects on his ministry work, highlighting the importance of collaboration within the body of Christ.Takeaways:- Wally had a loving father but struggled with expressing affection.- There was no guidebook for fathers during Wally's upbringing.- Mentorship played a crucial role in Wally's faith journey.- Wally's spiritual father was a significant influence in his life.- Parenting requires wisdom and adaptability for each child.- The best way to teach children is through example.- Forgiveness is essential in the parent-child relationship.- Community support is vital for spiritual growth.- Wally's children are thriving in their respective fields.- The mission of serving the church is a lifelong commitment.Chapters00:00 Growing Up: Wally's Early Life and Family Dynamics05:21 Finding Faith: The Journey to Christianity10:26 Mentorship and Spiritual Fatherhood13:43 Transitioning to Mission Work and Family Life18:07 Returning Home: The Nehemiah Foundation21:26 Fatherhood: Challenges and Lessons Learned22:41 The Role of Faith in Parenting27:19 Understanding Individual Differences in Children30:39 The Joys and Challenges of Parenting33:34 Career Paths and Their Impact on Family36:38 Transitioning to New Ministry Opportunities42:23 Navigating Challenges in Family and CommunityReach Wally at www.missionincrease.org/central-ohioThe Fathering Strong podcast is produced by www.movementum.com.