In this podcast episode, Tyler interviews Alex Egeler, a stay-at-home dad and former aerospace executive. Alex shares his journey of transitioning from a successful career to becoming the primary caregiver for his four boys. He discusses the challenges he faced, including his oldest son's mental health issues, and how he had to redefine his identity and let go of societal expectations. Alex emphasizes the importance of modeling values like responsibility, honesty, and community for his children. He also talks about the role of therapy in his family's life and the need to prioritize self-care. Parenting is a constantly evolving process, and each child is different. Expectations and techniques that worked with one child may not work with another. It's important to be open-minded and adaptable. Communication and teamwork with your partner are crucial, as it's easy to feel like the other person isn't doing enough. Seek therapy or counseling if needed. Parenting books and advice should be taken with a grain of salt, as every child and situation is unique. Building a supportive community and exposing your children to diverse experiences is valuable. Answer children's questions honestly and age-appropriately. The ability to accept others and connect with them emotionally is a valuable skill to teach your children. Define success on your own terms and stay focused on your own goals and values.
About Guest, Alex Egeler:
I'm a dad of four boys and former aerospace engineer who had to take a step back from my career to run the household. I originally thought it would be a short break, but a severe depressive turn for my son meant we needed someone who could be the lead parent on call much more than a conventional job would allow. I started my own coaching business in a complete career pivot to try something that I felt more passionately about and give me the flexibility we needed as a family. I had previously lost my father to suicide and also struggled with mental health, and seeing my son experience such difficulty brought up my own family history and trauma. I had to fully grieve my father all over again when I became a dad, and manage my own anxiety so that I wouldn't let either of those issues become generational trauma and effect my kids through me. I've learned so much about parenting and emotional regulation in the 11 years of being a dad and many of the lessons are equally applicable to leadership roles I have had as well.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-egeler-empathic-egg/
https://www.empathicegg.com/