Fathering Through the Stages: Presence, Healing, and the Power of a Dad's Yes

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings step into the sacred and strategic role of fatherhood—unpacking what it means to guide children through the stages of growth with intention, love, and grace.

From boyhood to beloved son, explorer to warrior, and eventually king and elder sage, each stage of a child’s journey asks a father different questions: Do you see me? Do you love what you see? Will you walk with me? Michael and SJ explore how a father’s response—through presence, time, and affirming words—can either fuel a child’s identity or deepen their wounds.

The conversation highlights the power of modeling a real, intimate relationship with God. Drawing from personal experiences, parenting wins and do-overs, and biblical truths like Proverbs 22:6, the hosts remind us that good fathering is less about perfection and more about orientation. When a dad is oriented—anchored in God’s love and aware of his influence—he can lead his children with clarity and strength.

Listeners will hear practical strategies for parenting: from playing games and navigating emotions to recognizing when wounds have been left unaddressed—and going back to make things right. Michael and SJ also use helpful metaphors, like building the right "boats and charts" for the uncharted waters of parenting, urging dads to be intentional rather than reactive.

This episode is an invitation to every father to show up, make course corrections, and step more deeply into the role God has entrusted to them—not out of pressure, but out of love.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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