Good Men Great Dads

Many parents today are feeling the mounting social pressures to get children their own smartphones. My guest today says she was astounded when she saw some kids in her community as young as 1st or 2nd grade with their own smartphones. When she spoke to the other parents in her community, they agreed it was a good idea to delay, but they knew they’d be fighting the norm. They set out to make the choice easier on both parents, and their children by using peer pressure in a positive way.

Brooke Shannon and that group of parents from her daughter’s school banded together to form Wait Until 8th. The organization urges parents to wait until at least 8th grade to give their children their own smartphones. In our discussion, Brooke explains how the pledge works, and why it empowers parents. We also speak about the potential dangers of social media and geotagging and go in depth on some of the downfalls of excessive screen time. We also touch on the psychological reasons wait to give your children smartphones and the research that supports the decision. As we wrap up, Brooke outlines some great resources to help parents and children fulfill the pledge.

My hope is that our discussion will arm you with some talking points for your conversations with other parents in your community. These are not issues our parents had to deal with and resources are somewhat limited. Wait Until 8th provides the tools you need to make an informed decision. Please enjoy.

My guest this week is "The Worlds Toughest Life Long Learner". He's a coach and public speaker, delivering relentless motivation five days a week as the host of the AM Excellence (AMX) and Spaniard 101 podcasts. Using his experiences as a former UFC fighter, 2 time Pennsylvania high school wrestling state runner up, and the winner of season 1 of Spike TV's Joes vs. Pros (among a ridiculously long list of other accomplishments) he offers insight on how to convey excellence in whatever you do.

Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman left his job as a middle school Spanish teacher to pursue a career as an MMA fighter with only two qualifications- a pretty impressive wresting background, and a will to succeed. Not only did he attain his goal of reaching the "big-time" in the UFC, but he fought the best of the best, including Rick Story, Johnny Hendricks, and Erick Silva.

Today we discuss his book, "Driven: My Unlikely Journey from Classroom to Cage", as Charlie shares his story and talks about being the best husband and father he could be while training and developing a career in the UFC. We also discuss the role of family and community in his success, and how he is able to stay true to himself throughout the process. Everything Charlie does is the epitome of hard work and enthusiasm and I think you'll find this interview to be no different.

My guest today has a humbling and inspiring story about love, loss and regrowth. He and his wife, Gina, co- authored the NY Times bestselling book, “The Color of Rain” and co-founded the New Day Foundation for Families (503c) which has raised money to offer financial assistance and emotional support programs to cancer patients and their families. Michael Spehn and family have lived through enough tragedy for 3 lifetimes, and somehow they continue to find ways to turn this heartache into opportunity. Michael and Gina’s story is brutal and uncomfortable, but somehow comforting and encouraging.

Today Michael and I discuss the book “The Color of Rain” and his experiences with death and grief, and how he was able to find the light in the darkness of his experiences. Michael explains that his focus is, and always will be his kids. We discuss dealing with grief, and helping others grieve, how to move forward after a tragedy, and how God is at the center of everything he does. As you'll see from our conversation Michael is a very kind and generous man. I think whatever your relationship with grief and tragedy may be you'll find this discussion is enlightening and thought provoking.

Highlights

17 days after diagnosis

Connect with other people- don’t try to go it alone

Letting the kids know that they’re not alone

Humility to put your energy into serving others

Providing families with support from people who understand

Keep your eyes and your heart open

A fathers job is to lead by example

Mark Twain- “When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.”

"I want you to make your own mistakes- I just don’t want you to repeat mine!"

We all have our personal 9-11’s

Earthquakes of life

Care for your family- get things done

After tragedy, you can’t “go back to normal”

Keep moving forward

I don’t know what I’m going to do, but I do know what I’m not going to do.

This kids are the singular focus

However you feel, that’s OK

Affirmation is key

Grief is not linear

Everyone needs a neighbor like Ed

Always ask their name

“Love your neighbor as yourself”

Give your kids a backyard

“Move Along”

*Producers Note: On November 12th, 2017 Michael's son was diagnosed with brain cancer- Michael and his family thank everyone for their outpouring of prayers. They've placed their hope and strength in Christ. Please keep the prayers coming!*

Surrounding yourself with a network of strong individuals is not a new concept. For centuries leaders, dignitaries, and politicians have held this practice in high regards. Why then, is this not common practice with everyday men like you and I? My guest today contends that every many should build a community around himself not only for his own good. But for the good of his family.

In this episode I speak with Founder and Managing Editor of Stand Magazine, Dwayne Hayes. In his work at Stand, Dwayne has written many articles that outline the skills of building a network. We discuss in depth, how to develop a network of strong individuals who can help you thrive both personally and professionally. We discuss perpetuating healthy communities, we disprove the lone wolf misconception and learn how to recognize the strengths of others, even when they annoy you. As we wrap up we’ll discuss how this ties in to growing as a husband and a father and finally, what to do, and what not to do, when you’re looking to expand your network.

Have you had your share of dealing with disrespectful, unmotivated, irresponsible, or untruthful kids? Are you wondering why you’re navigating through a relationship that is less than it used to be with your wife?

 My guest today has made his living for the past 20 years as an authority in the field of parenting and relationships. He and his son have educated over 600,000 families how to take control of their home and regain the respect of their children and spouses. Today I speak with Kirk Martin, Founder of Celebrate Calm.  In my discussion with Kirk, we talk about his parenting wake up call, breaking the generational cycle of ineffective parenting, growing in to your leadership position within your home, and a lot more.  Kirk goes further in-depth on the three questions most asked by men, and shares some practical knowledge regarding connecting with your kids and wife. Kirk also provides examples and strategies for dealing with many of parentings inconveniences.   I think you’ll find his sense of humor and no drama approach are a welcome departure from stuffy relationship experts. Get ready for a healthy dose of truth as you enjoy this weeks episode of the Good Men Great Dads Podcast!

Highlights

Only when you can control yourself will you be able to control your kids

Just lay down

Kirk’s wake up call

Break the cycle

Ask, "Whats my part in this?"

Releasing the victim mentality

Is your eight year old son managing your emotions?

Putting your energy into building relationships vs. your career

Instilling “what it takes to be successful” in your six year old is not necessary

Why you need to put away your parental expectations

Kids learn from making mistakes- don’t rob them of that

Parental pressure is a myth

Schedule fewer commitments

Focus on the positive things your kids do, not the negative

Do you want your kids friends playing at your house?

You ARE a leader in your home whether you realize it or not

Choose your language carefully

Be “the quarterback” of your home

“How Do I get calm?”

How do I get my kids to listen?

How do I connect with my wife?

How to blow your wife away

Your wife is probably overwhelmed

Stop proving your point

One thing your wife will never say 

It is not your job to fix her problems- it is your job to listen

Connecting with your kids

Instituting Agenda-free time

Building a connection around something they’re interested in

“Enjoy your child”

Dads are irreplaceable in your home

Links

Connect with on Kirk on Facebook or at CelebrateCalm.com

If you haven’t yet request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.goodmengreatdads.com/community

Sign up for our Great Dads Academy newsletter at www.goodmengreatdads.com/newsletter

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com/podcast/008

In this episode I talk with Micah Jelinek. Micah is a Pastor at Oak Pointe Church Milford. He and I discuss the idea of faith, why faith is important, even if you aren't religious, how to model critical thinking within your children when it comes to faith and religion, how your can grow your faith in parenting and family relationships, and why books and art are the best place to start when exploring your faith.. Micah discusses some examples from his own life and helps to solidify how faith can help you in living an intentional life. Be sure to check out the list of literature below for further reading!

Highlights

The power of discussions with your father

Dad jokes and toilet humor

Kids are the reflection of yourself

What the word “Faith” actually means

Everyone worships something

Your perception of reality shapes your values and morals

Why we need friends who can help us look outside of ourselves.

Doubt is a good thing

Using art to explore faith

Your heart knows what your mind is denying

The Psalms are ancient solutions to modern problems

Why faith is central to parenting

Be careful what you put in the “sponge”

Having a dialog with your children

Kids are adults in the making

Critical thinking and faith are not opposed to each other.

Developing a sense of community

“The Stories Are True.”

Do what you know to be right.

How to make your home where your kids friends what to hang out.

Links

You can connect with Micah on Social Media

He's Micah Jelinek on Facebook and @micah.Jelinek on Instagram

Books

David Foster Wallace- “Infinite Jest”

David Dark - “Life’s too short to pretend you’re not religious.”

Tim Keller- “The Reason for God” and “Making Sense of God”

If you haven’t yet request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.goodmengreatdads.com/community

Sign up for our Great Dads Academy newsletter at www.goodmengreatdads.com/newsletter

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com/podcast/006

In this episode of the Good Men Great Dads Podcast, I speak with Jeremy Ball. Jeremy is a sponsored BMX rider, College Softball Coach, Educator, coffee lover, and all around good guy. We dive in to some of life's lessons and talk about how to make yourself a better man everyday. Jeremy attributes a lot of his hard work and success to his father and shares some stories about his dad leading by example, telling him when he's an idiot, and teaching him when to keep his mouth shut.

Highlights

Leading by example

The blessings of growing up in a small town

Going without to make sure your kids get what they need or want

Why teaching is often more than just a paycheck

Why you should teach your kids how to fail

From the eyes of a teacher- spend more time with your kids.

Setting your Priorities

“I don’t care what you do, as long as you have health insurance.”

Lessons for being a selfless man

“How are you going to learn anything if you’re talking all the time?”

Why you should never do anything without purpose

Teaching is not worksheets and dittos

Put your phone down

Respecting the garbage man

Developing a more positive culture

Establishing “normal” in your home

Be excellent to one another.

Mantra- “What positive thing have you said to someone else today?”

Links

Books

The Lizard Cage by Karen Connelly

Have a little Faith by Mitch Albom

Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven

The No Complaining Rule by Jon Gordon

You can connect with Jeremy on Facebook or @Jeremyleeball on Instagram

If you’re ever in the Cleveland Area- check out Rays MTB where Jeremy rides most Saturdays during the winter.

If you haven’t yet request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.goodmengreatdads.com/community

Sign up for our Great Dads Academy newsletter at www.goodmengreatdads.com/newsletter

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com/podcast/006

This episode of the Good Men Great Dads Podcast is a little different than the previous episodes- the audio is from a discussion I had with Dr. Jim Storhok via Facebook live. Jim is a talented internet marketer, a seasoned entrepreneur, and one of the hardest working guys I know. We discussed a myriad of topics including (but certainly not limited to);  why It’s time for men to step up for their families, what you can do to get started, and how you can stay motivated to create the best life possible.

HIGHLIGHTS

Striving for excellence.

What price are you paying for your career?

The Jones’ are broke

What drives you to be entrepreneurial?

Why people don’t succeed

F.alse E.vidence A.ppearing R.eal

Charlie “the Spaniard” Brenneman say’s - Be BOLD!

Why not you?! Be the Expert!

Are we allowed to talk about religion?

Faith as a leader

Don’t get stuck in your life

Be the father you needed as a kid

Remember to live an intentional and purposeful life

Forget what’s happening in the White House- worry about what’s going on in YOUR house.

LINKS

YOU CAN CONNECT WITH JIM ON FACEBOOK OR HIS WEBSITE

Dr. Jim Storhok on Facebook

http://drjimstorhok.com/

If you haven’t yet, request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.goodmengreatdads.com/community

Sign up for our Great Dads Academy newsletter at www.goodmengreatdads.com/newsletter

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com/podcast/005

n this episode of the Good Men Great Dads Podcast- I speak with Vaughn Smith- Educator, Sponsored Crossfit athlete, Husband and Father. We cover the four pillars of Good Men Great Dads; Family, Faith, Fitness and Finance. Ever wonder how a Chinese farmer or a three legged dog could make you a better man? Vaughn drops some knowledge bombs in regards to getting the most out of you day- fitting fitness into your hectic schedule, dealing with day to day inconveniences, and finding gratitude in all aspects of your life. No matter what your goals are for 2018, this episode is bound to have resonate with you.

Highlights

Setting up a routine

Put the important stuff in your calendar

What’s your “Why”?

Protecting your time

The story of the Chinese farmer

Dealing with minor inconveniences

Fostering a growth mindset in your children

Be careful with who you allow in your “village”

Syrup war of 2004

What is normal?

Why Vaughn loves getting bills in the mail

Learning to delay gratification

What is the first word that pops into your head when you think of your dad?

Would your kids be proud of what you’re doing?

Which dog are you feeding?

Sharpening your saw

Links

The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon

Vaughn Smith on Facebook

VaughnCoffeeandBacon on IG

Discounts on Fitness apparel and nutrition at:

https://redhnutrition.com/ use code- baconcoffee1

https://www.treignathletics.com/ use code- baconcoffee1

If you haven’t yet, request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.facebook.com/groups/goodmengreatdads

Opt in to our Newsletter at www.goodmengreatdads.com/newsletter

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com

Fitness with Greg Hill

Show Notes

In this edition of the Good Men Great Dads Podcast we talk to Greg Hill from Idea Core Pilates. Greg is a Fitness professional, health coach, husband and father of 2 with one on the way. Greg and I speak about all aspects of health and fitness. We go in depth on nutrition and diet, activity and sleep. Greg shows us how to create a habit and prioritize fitness in your hectic life. We also talk about involving your kids in your fitness routine so they can learn the value. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or a beginner, you’re sure to gain some valuable fitness knowledge in this episode.

Highlights

• You are NOT the exception

• Tracking your caloric intake/ being conscious when you eat

• What’s the best diet for you?

• Intermittent fasting

• Don’t get caught up in the “rules”

• Optimal water intake

• Improving your sleep quality vs. sleep quantity

• How much sleep do you really need?

• Do you (not your kids) have bed time routine?

• Helping your kids develop healthy habits

• Set a good example for your budding fitness enthusiasts

• Praising effort and progress- Be supportive of your kids goals

Links

Ideal Core Pilates

50% off Coaching Services with Pro Coach

You can connect with Greg at @idealcorepilates on Facebook or at @idealcoregreg on Instagram

If you haven’t yet request to join the Good Men Great Dads Facebook Group at www.facebook.com/groups/goodmengreatdads

For more information click on www.goodmengreatdads.com