Summary

In this episode of the Fathering Strong podcast, Eli Williams interviews Dan Griffin, who shares his profound experiences growing up with an alcoholic father. Dan reflects on the complexities of their relationship, the impact of generational trauma, and how these experiences shaped his work in fatherhood and masculinity. He discusses the importance of emotional healing, vulnerability, and the need for trauma-informed approaches in parenting. Dan’s journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a father himself highlights the challenges and rewards of breaking the cycle of trauma and fostering healthy relationships with children. In this conversation, Dan Griffin shares his journey of personal growth and the challenges of fatherhood. He reflects on his initial reluctance to become a father, the emotional turmoil of experiencing miscarriages, and the joy of welcoming his daughter, Grace. Dan emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in parenting and the lessons he has learned from his daughter. He also challenges common myths about adolescence and highlights the deep connection he maintains with Grace as she grows into her teenage years.

Takeaways

• Dan’s father struggled with alcoholism, impacting their relationship.
• Generational trauma can affect father-son dynamics.
• Emotional vulnerability is often seen as weakness in men.
• Anger can be a protective response to childhood trauma.
• Dan’s experiences shaped his work in fatherhood and masculinity.
• The importance of emotional healing in parenting.
• Men can learn to express feelings and seek help.
• Trauma-informed approaches are essential for fathers.
• Dan’s journey emphasizes the need for empathy in parenting.
• Breaking the cycle of trauma is crucial for future generations. The journey of growth is ongoing and evolves over time.
• Parenting can bring up fears and insecurities from one’s past.
• The experience of becoming a parent can be filled with challenges and emotional turmoil.
• Naming a child can hold deep significance, reflecting the journey to parenthood.
• Children can be incredible teachers for their parents.
• Vulnerability is key in building a strong parent-child relationship.
• Apologizing to children can foster mutual respect and connection.
• Myths about adolescence can create self-fulfilling prophecies in parenting.
• Being present in a child’s life can lead to a strong bond.
• Open communication and emotional honesty are essential in parenting.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Fatherhood and Personal Stories
01:35 – Dan’s Relationship with His Father
06:00 – The Impact of Trauma on Father-Son Relationships
11:05 – Navigating Anger and Vulnerability
16:18 – The Influence of Personal Experience on Professional Work
22:28 – Exploring Masculinity and Recovery
27:19 – Developing Trauma-Informed Approaches for Fathers
28:40 – The Journey of Growth and Learning
32:15 – Becoming a Father: Emotions and Challenges
39:32 – Lessons from Parenting: Vulnerability and Connection
44:19 – Dispelling Myths of Adolescence and Parenting

To contact Dan, go to https://dangriffin.com/