Fathering Strong

By Fathering Strong

Fathering Strong provides the resources fathers need to improve families and communities by connecting, engaging, and empowering men. The Fathering Strong podcast is hosted by Pastor Eli Williams, Pre... more

Download on the App Store

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

FAQs about Fathering Strong:

How many episodes does Fathering Strong have?

The podcast currently has 76 episodes available.

Fathering Strong episodes:

October 29, 2024 Episode 27: Father's Role in Preventing Domestic Violence
Summary
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams engages with Glenn Harris, the Director of Prevention for the Ohio Domestic Violence Network. They discuss Glenn's personal journey into fatherhood, the importance of domestic violence awareness, and the role fathers can play in preventing domestic violence. Glenn shares insights on modeling healthy relationships, the significance of addressing rigid gender roles, and the need for bystander intervention to combat domestic violence. The conversation also touches on the often-overlooked issue of male victims of domestic violence and the broader implications of family dynamics in abusive situations.
Takeaways
- Eli Williams introduces Glenn Harris and the podcast's focus on fatherhood.
- Glenn shares his unique experience as a young father without his biological father's guidance.
- The importance of engaging men in domestic violence prevention work is highlighted.
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about the severity of domestic violence.
- Fathers can model healthy relationships to influence their children's views on relationships.
- Glenn emphasizes the need to challenge rigid gender roles in parenting.
- Promoting equality across gender and race is crucial in parenting.
- Bystander intervention can help prevent domestic violence before it escalates.
- Male victimization in domestic violence is a growing concern that needs attention.
- The conversation concludes with a call to action for fathers to be role models.
For more information on Glenn Harris and the work he is doing with domestic violence prevention, go to www.ohman-ohio.org,
...more
33min
October 22, 2024Episode 26: Educating New Dads to Become Better Fathers
Summary
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams engages in a deep conversation with Steve Makofka, exploring themes of fatherhood, personal experiences, and professional journeys. Steve shares insights from his childhood and relationship with his father, his journey through pastoral work, and his transition to family life coaching. The discussion highlights the importance of personal experiences in shaping one's approach to fatherhood and coaching, as well as the role of music in Steve's life. The episode concludes with Steve's current work at Kettering Health, where he teaches fatherhood classes, emphasizing the need for support and understanding among new fathers.
Takeaways
Understanding one's childhood is crucial for personal growth.

Fatherhood experiences shape our approach to parenting.

Life coaching can be a powerful tool for personal development.

The importance of community and support in fatherhood.

Music can be a significant part of one's identity.

Creating safe spaces for men to discuss fatherhood is essential.

Balancing personal and professional life is a constant struggle.

Self-care is vital for new parents.

Collaboration with strong women enhances program effectiveness.

Innovative approaches to fatherhood education can lead to positive outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Fatherhood and Guest Introduction
02:13 - Exploring Childhood and Father Relationships
07:11 - Journey Through Pastoral Work
11:02 - Transition to Family Life Coaching
16:18 - The Impact of Personal Family Experiences
19:45 - The Role of Music in Life
24:09 - Current Work with Kettering Health
36:35 - Collaboration and Future Aspirations
...more
41min
October 17, 2024Episode 25: Fatherhood and Impacts of Substance Abuse
Summary
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams and guest Ted Strader discuss the intersection of fatherhood and substance abuse. They explore the challenges fathers face regarding substance use, the stigma surrounding addiction, and effective strategies for supporting fathers and their families. Ted shares insights from his extensive experience in substance abuse prevention and education, emphasizing the importance of compassion, understanding, and comprehensive programming to address these issues. The conversation highlights the need for open discussions about addiction and the impact it has on families, particularly children.
Takeaways
Substance abuse significantly impacts fatherhood and family dynamics.

Engaging fathers in prevention programs can lead to better outcomes for children.

Stigma and fear often prevent open discussions about addiction.

Effective counseling requires understanding the individual's history and context.

Children of fathers with substance abuse issues are at higher risk for addiction.

Compassionate communication is key in addressing substance use disorders.

Quality programming requires training and commitment from providers.

Intergenerational trauma from substance abuse can affect family relationships.

Collaboration between different support services is essential for comprehensive care.

Hope and change are possible through dedicated effort and support.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Fatherhood and Substance Abuse
09:17 - The Impact of Substance Abuse on Fatherhood
18:07 - Addressing Stigma and Ignorance in Substance Abuse
26:37 - Counseling Approaches for Fathers with Substance Issues
33:35 - Supporting Children of Fathers with Substance Abuse
...more
44min
October 09, 2024 Episode 24: The Impact of Trauma on Family Dynamics
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams engages with Ted N. Strader, a nationally recognized expert in fatherhood and substance abuse prevention. The conversation delves into personal stories of fatherhood, the challenges and joys of parenting, and the impact of trauma on family dynamics. Strader shares insights from his extensive experience in developing programs aimed at preventing substance abuse and fostering emotional resilience in families. The discussion emphasizes the importance of compassion, understanding, and education in navigating the complexities of parenting and trauma recovery.
Takeaways
- Everyone has a father's story, and it's important to share.
- Forgiveness can lead to personal growth and understanding.
- Parenting requires emotional resilience and compassion.
- Substance abuse prevention is crucial for healthy family dynamics.
- Trauma affects many, but not everyone responds the same way.
- Role modeling is key in preventing substance abuse in children.
- Education and awareness can empower parents to make better choices.
- Creating lasting family connections is essential for well-being.
- Support systems are vital for those dealing with trauma.
- Empowering individuals to help others can create positive change.
Chapters
00:00 - The Fathering Journey Begins
05:24 - Reflections on Fatherhood
11:09 - Substance Abuse Prevention Insights
19:24 - Navigating Parental Challenges
30:16 - Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
41:00 - Empowering Change Through Education
To contact Ted Strader you can reach him at:
Website: www.Copes.org
phone: 502-583-6820
For resources and materials, contact Resilient Futures Network @ 502-897-1111
...more
43min
October 02, 2024 Episode 23 - Building a Strong Family Legacy: Special Guest Peter Lawson Jones
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams interviews Peter Lawson Jones, an attorney, actor, and former elected official, about his experiences growing up and being a father. Jones shares that his parents were his primary role models and instilled in him the importance of education, hard work, and treating others well. He emphasizes the significance of reading with expression, which has helped him in his career as an attorney, elected official, and actor. Jones also discusses the challenges of being a parent, including comforting children after setbacks and ensuring they make good decisions. He highlights the importance of strong families and the role of both parents in a child's life. Jones shares his own joy as a parent and the rewards of seeing his children succeed. He also discusses his involvement in the creation of the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood and its impact on supporting fathers in the state. The episode concludes with Jones offering words of encouragement to struggling fathers and emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from others and trusting in the Lord.
Takeaways
- Having strong role models, such as parents, is invaluable in shaping a person's character and values.
- Reading with expression can have a positive impact on various aspects of life, including careers and public speaking.
- Parenting comes with challenges, but seeking advice and support from others can help navigate those challenges.
- Both parents play a crucial role in a child's life, and their involvement is important for the child's well-being and development.
- Creating strong families is essential for addressing social problems and improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.
- The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood has been instrumental in supporting fathers and promoting positive fatherhood in the state.
- Being a parent brings immense joy and fulfillment, and the rewards of seeing children succeed are priceless.
- Struggling fathers should reach out to others for guidance and support, and trust in the Lord in their parenting journey.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:03 - The Power of Role Models and Education
08:39 - Navigating the Challenges of Parenting
10:18 - The Importance of Strong Families
16:24 - The Impact of the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood
23:56 - The Joy and Rewards of Fatherhood
36:36 - Encouragement for Struggling Fathers
You can learn more about Peter Lawson Jones at his website:
peterlawsonjones.com
...more
48min
September 25, 2024 Episode 22: Building Strong Bonds with Your Spouse and Children
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, host Eli Williams interviews Lavern Nissley, the retired co-director of Encompass Connection Center. They discuss Lavern's relationship with his father, his marriage to his wife Ronda, and his advice for balancing work and family life. Lavern emphasizes the importance of praying together as a couple, effective communication, and maintaining a sense of humor in a marriage. He also shares the joy he finds in seeing transformation in couples and spending quality time with his children and grandchildren.
Takeaways
- Praying together as a couple can strengthen a marriage and reduce the chance of divorce.
- Effective communication involves both asserting your needs and actively listening to your partner.
- Maintaining a sense of humor in a marriage can relieve stress and strengthen the bond between partners.
- Spending quality time with each child individually is important for building strong relationships.
- Balancing work and family life requires prioritizing time with your spouse and children.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background of Laverne Nissley
03:16 - Lavern's Relationship with His Father
07:41 - Lavern's Siblings and Mother
11:38 - How Lavern Met His Wife Rhonda
15:46 - Three Keys to a Healthy and Happy Marriage
18:20 - Challenges and Joys of Relationship Building
25:01 - Balancing Work and Family Life
26:09 - Lavern's Retirement and Future Plans
28:01 - Advice for Married Fathers
32:35 - Conclusion
...more
33min
September 18, 2024Episode 21: The Importance of an Accountability Partner
Summary
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, Eli Williams interviews Phil Elmore about the importance of men having accountability partnerships. Phil shares his personal experience growing up and his lack of a mentor. He discusses his work with Man in the Mirror and Spiritual Fathers to establish a process of disciplining men in churches. Phil emphasizes the need for men to have relationships with other men and the power of technology in facilitating those connections. He also highlights the rewards of this work, including the healing and transformation that comes from sharing struggles and being held accountable.
Takeaways
Men become their best when they have another man to help sharpen them and hold them accountable

The lack of a mentor in a man's life can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of guidance.

Establishing a process of discipling men in churches is crucial to address the challenges men face and keep them engaged in the church.

Technology can be a powerful tool in facilitating connections and conversations between men, but it should be used in conjunction with in-person interactions.

Sharing struggles and being held accountable in a safe and trusting relationship can lead to healing and transformation.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
01:52 - The Importance of Accountability Partnerships
08:38 - The Impact of Mentorship on Men's Lives
15:29 - Building Relationships and Fostering Trust
23:09 - Using Technology to Enhance Accountability
33:37 - Taking the First Step: Seeking Out Mentors
37:22 - The Rewards of Building Relationships with Other Men
Phil Elmore is the Care and MENSLIFE Pastor at Christian Life Center church in Dayton Ohio. You can learn more about his work with Spiritual Fathers and Man in the Mirror at www.spiritualfathers.com.
...more
44min
September 11, 2024 Episode 20: Mentoring Young Men for Success
Richard Quisenberry, a former educator and coach, shares his journey and experiences in this conversation. He talks about growing up in a large family, the importance of education, and the impact of his parents on his work ethic. Richard also discusses his decision to become an educator and the influence of his older sister. He shares stories about his wife and their commitment to giving back, including hosting exchange students from different countries. Richard also talks about coaching his own children and instilling values of hard work and accountability. He shares his vision for reaching young men through his program and the importance of being a positive role model.
Takeaways
- Richard Quisenberry emphasizes the importance of education and the impact it had on his life.
- He shares stories about his family and the values they instilled in him, including a strong work ethic.
- Richard discusses his decision to become an educator and the influence of his older sister.
- He talks about coaching his own children and the values he instilled in them, such as hard work and accountability.
- Richard shares his vision for reaching young men through his program and the importance of being a positive role model.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:56 - Growing Up in the Quisenberry Household
04:36 - Becoming an Educator
06:08 - Meeting His Wife and Raising a Family
10:13 - Coaching His Children and Teaching Accountability
14:46 - Mentoring Young Men at the Buckeye Community School
19:39 - Using the Fathering Strong Platform to Reach More Young Men
...more
28min
September 04, 2024 Episode 19: Fathering a Child With Disabilities
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, Eli Williams interviews Jason Messer about his experience as a father raising a special needs child. Jason shares about his own upbringing in a pastor's home and the positive example his father set as a loving and present dad. He then discusses the challenges and blessings of becoming a parent for the first time and the long journey to adopt his son Dominic, who was born with brain damage due to herpes encephalitis. Jason also talks about the dynamics of balancing the needs of his special needs child with his other children and his career in law enforcement.
Takeaways
- The importance of having a positive role model for fatherhood
- The challenges and blessings of adopting a special needs child
- The need for flexibility and support in balancing the needs of a special needs child with other responsibilities
- The impact of prenatal care on a child's health
- The importance of serving and loving your spouse in the midst of parenting challenges
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
06:14 - Growing Up in a Stable Home
09:37 - Adopting a Special Needs Child
23:09 - Navigating Support Systems
25:41 - Balancing Career and Parenting
30:21 - Lessons Learned and Conclusion
...more
35min
August 28, 2024 Episode 18: Fathering Strong - Guest Jeff Pinkleton on Fathering Boys
In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, Eli Williams interviews Jeff Pinkleton about his experience as a father, specifically as a boy dad. Jeff shares his upbringing in a typical nuclear family and highlights the joy of raising three boys and one girl. He emphasizes the importance of creating moments, memories, and meaningful connections with his children. Jeff also discusses the challenges of transitioning from parenting children to parenting adults and the need to trust in God's guidance. The episode concludes with a reminder to prioritize time and love in fatherhood.
Takeaways
- Creating moments and memories with your children is more valuable than material possessions
- Transitioning from parenting children to parenting adults requires trust in God's guidance
- Prioritize time and love in fatherhood to build strong connections with your children
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:14 - Focus on Raising Fathers
03:02 - Jeff's Boyhood and Desire to Influence Males
04:36 - Highlights of Jeff's Childhood
07:53 - Growing Up in Springfield, Ohio
09:49 - Becoming a Father for the First Time
11:54 - The Best Thing About Being a Boy Dad
13:53 - The Challenges of Parenting Adults
15:49 - Advice for Future Fathers
17:08 - The Gathering of the Miami Valley
18:21 - Raising Boys: Minutes, Moments, and Memories
22:27 - Conclusion and Invitation to Explore FatheringStrong.com
Connect with Jeff at https://gatheringmv.org/ or at:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pinkleton-pull-aside-podcast/id1578763503

You can read this week's blog post at:
https://urbanlight.org/preparing-for-new-school-year/
...more
27min

FAQs about Fathering Strong:

How many episodes does Fathering Strong have?

The podcast currently has 76 episodes available.