December 30, 2025

From Dude to Dad: Rookie Season Recap

40 minutes

It is our final pod of the year and we are looking back at a wild first year of fatherhood. John and Michael share favorite moments, travel wins and fails, and three big lessons that changed how we show up at home. Presence beats performance. Grace is not optional. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Expect real stories, honest laughs, and practical ideas you can use tonight.

We talk baby milestones and the walking phase, Costco runs with double carts, bottle stations that take over the kitchen, and a few stats from our Dad Wrapped that will make you smile and maybe gag. We also preview what is coming in 2026 including Dad Prep Week, the Dad Reset, and coaching options for dads who want community and accountability. If you are a new dad or a dad to be, this episode will help you feel seen and ready for the next season.

In this episode

• Presence over performance and why moments beat metrics

• Grace for yourself and your partner when expectations miss

• Filling your cup without disappearing from the family

• First laughs, first steps, and why this stage is magic

• Travel tips with babies including help at security and customs

• Bottle washing sanity, laundry loads, and diaper realities

• Community for dads and how to find mentors and peers

• What is coming in 2026 free guides, group coaching, and more

If you have ever searched

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how to give my spouse grace

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This episode is for you.

Callouts:

• Grab Dad Prep Week on our site for a simple seven day reset

• Try the Dad Reset three day series if you feel stuck or short fused

• Join the Spit Up Society for weekly prompts, dad hacks, and community

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