Love is more than flowers and chocolate—and on this episode of Radio Dad, Mike Austin reminds us that the best expressions of love happen every day, not just on St. Valentine's Day. He shares why dads should make kindness, affection, and appreciation a year-round habit that leaves a lasting impression on their families.
Then, gift-giving expert Valerie Sokolosky joins Mike with creative and meaningful Valentine's Day gift ideas that go far beyond the usual box of candy. Her thoughtful suggestions will help you give gifts that strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
In the second half of the show, Mike welcomes Barry Paxton from Right at Home to discuss one of the most loving acts adult children can offer: caring for aging parents. Barry shares practical ideas, resources, and products that can help seniors remain safely in their own homes—or make it easier to care for them in yours.It's an episode about love in all its forms—from romance to family, and from thoughtful gifts to compassionate caregiving.

Whether it's cheering on your favorite team or simply spending time together on the couch, some of life's greatest memories are made with Dad. Mike opens this episode by reflecting on the special tradition of watching the Super Bowl with your father and why those shared moments matter far more than the final score.
Then, Mike welcomes John Yellico for a fascinating conversation about the timeless lessons learned from life on the prairie. From resilience and hard work to self-reliance and community, John shares wisdom that every dad can pass along to the next generation.
In the third segment, Mike sits down with Ryan Sanders to discuss the powerful leadership philosophy behind the article Leaders Eat Last. Together, they explore the age-old tradition of true leaders putting the needs of their families, teams, and communities ahead of their own—and why fathers are uniquely called to lead through service and sacrifice.
Finally, Mike reunites with an old friend and true gentleman, Jesus Garcia. An expert in language, etiquette, and manners, Jesus explains why courtesy, respect, and speaking well are far more than old-fashioned ideas—they're life skills that help our children succeed in every relationship they'll ever have.

Here's the updated podcast synopsis with all three segments included.Kids are built to run, climb, wrestle, laugh, and test their limits—and dads are uniquely equipped to meet them there. In this episode of Radio Dad, Mike Austin opens the show by exploring the importance of roughhousing. Far more than horseplay, playful wrestling and energetic interaction help children develop confidence, resilience, self-control, and a stronger bond with Dad. Sometimes the best parenting happens on the living room floor.Then, renowned psychologist Dr. John Braccio joins Mike for an honest conversation about intimacy and connection. Too many fathers avoid talking with their sons about what real intimacy looks like, leaving them to learn from unhealthy sources. Dr. Braccio explains why dads need to have these important conversations—and, even more importantly, why they need to model healthy, loving relationships every day. When children see Dad being kind, affectionate, playful, and respectful toward Mom, they're learning lessons about love and relationships that words alone can never teach.In the second half of the show, Amanda Torres, creator of the Midwest Podcast Conference, reflects on the lasting influence of her father. She shares the lessons he taught through both his words and his actions, illustrating how a dad's greatest legacy is often found in the example he sets every day. Amanda's heartfelt stories are a powerful reminder that children are always watching—and that a father's character can shape generations.

Every marriage has disagreements. The question isn't whether they'll happen—it's how we handle them. On this episode of Radio Dad, Mike Austin welcomes psychologist Dr. John Braccio for a thoughtful conversation about conflict in marriage. They discuss how healthy disagreements, handled with respect and love, can actually strengthen a relationship while teaching children valuable lessons about communication, forgiveness, and commitment.
Then, in the second half of the show, Mike is joined by an extraordinary example of perseverance: David Selley. At 87 years old, David is a serial entrepreneur, devoted husband of 67 years, father, grandfather, owner of multiple businesses, and author of 14 books. Together, they explore the power of "stick-to-itiveness"—the determination to keep going when life gets difficult. David shares the wisdom he's gained over a lifetime of building businesses, nurturing a family, and refusing to quit.It's an inspiring episode filled with practical advice and timeless lessons to help dads build stronger marriages, raise resilient kids, and live lives of purpose.

As our kids grow up, the role of Dad changes. On this episode of Radio Dad, Mike Austin explores the transition from raising children to mentoring young adults. It can be difficult to know when to step in, when to step back, and how to guide your son or daughter as they begin making adult decisions of their own.
In the first half of the show, nationally respected financial expert Irvin Schorsch joins Mike to discuss one of the biggest challenges parents of adult children face: money. What should a father do when an adult son or daughter asks to borrow money? Irvin shares practical advice on setting healthy boundaries, avoiding financial pitfalls, and helping your children without creating dependence.
Then, Sports Illustrated Senior NFL writer, Hondo Carpenter, joins Mike for a conversation that goes far beyond sports. Inspired by a youth hockey game that was ended early because one team had built an overwhelming lead, they discuss whether we're doing kids a disservice by protecting them from disappointment. Together they examine why learning to lose, facing adversity, and discovering that life isn't always fair are essential lessons every father should help teach.It's another thoughtful episode of Radio Dad—offering practical wisdom for dads raising confident, responsible adults.

Here's an expanded podcast synopsis that includes the full show:Success in business and success at home have more in common than you might think. This week on Radio Dad, Mike Austin explores the surprising crossover between the skills that make great business leaders and the qualities that make great fathers. Patience, long-term thinking, coaching, prioritizing what matters most, and learning to "read people" are all essential in the workplace—but they're just as valuable when raising children. Mike shares how dads can apply these proven leadership principles to build stronger relationships with their kids, especially during those times when children won't open up or life's challenges require wisdom instead of quick fixes.
Then, psychologist Dr. John Braccio joins the program to discuss the power of encouragement within the family. He explains why dads should be generous with compliments—not only toward their children, but especially toward their wives, letting their kids see genuine love, respect, and appreciation modeled every day. Those simple words of affirmation can shape the emotional climate of a home and teach children what a healthy marriage looks like.
In the second half of the show, Mike welcomes Bal Joshi, "The Running Monk," for an inspiring conversation about mental toughness. Long-distance running demands discipline, resilience, and the determination to keep moving when every instinct says to stop. Those same qualities are essential for fathers navigating the challenges of raising a family. Bal and Mike discuss perseverance, purpose, and one of the runner's greatest lessons: Pain is temporary, but quitting can stay with you forever. It's a powerful reminder that the strength dads build in themselves becomes the example their children will follow.

Winter has a way of bringing families together—if we let it. In this episode of Radio Dad, Mike Austin kicks things off with a warmhearted monologue about making the most of the colder months. From simmering a pot of homemade soup and playing board games around the kitchen table to bundling up for sledding and other outdoor adventures, Mike reminds dads that some of the best family memories are made during winter's simplest moments.
Then, Mike welcomes Todd Boding, founder of Tribe & Trust Leadership. Drawing on 14 years as a U.S. Marine, Todd now helps businesses build stronger leaders through discipline, accountability, and trust. But this conversation goes beyond the workplace, exploring how dads can apply those same leadership principles at home to create stronger families, deeper relationships, and a more confident household.
Next, author Lora Ann Young joins the show to discuss her heartfelt book, "The Lost Parent's Club." She shares the emotional journey of helping her father rebuild his life after the death of her mother, offering encouragement and practical insight for families navigating grief together. It's an inspiring conversation about love, resilience, and finding hope after tremendous loss.
Finally, Mike is joined in the studio by two very special guests—his own daughters, who were adopted from Poland. They candidly share their experiences of leaving their homeland, learning a new language, adapting to life in America, and becoming part of a loving family. Their honest conversation offers valuable advice and encouragement for families considering adoption, providing a unique perspective from the children themselves. It's an episode filled with practical parenting wisdom, inspiring stories, and heartfelt conversations—all designed to help dads build stronger families, one day at a time.

The New Year is the perfect time to make a resolution that really matters—not just losing weight or saving money, but becoming a better husband, father, and role model. Mike opens the show by encouraging dads to use the fresh start of a new year to reinvent themselves and strengthen the legacy they're building at home.

Then, child psychologist Dr. Jay Geidd joins the program for a fascinating discussion about boys, risk-taking, and why young males seem naturally wired to test limits. How much rough-and-tumble behavior is healthy? When should Dad let boys learn from experience, and when is it time to step in before curiosity turns dangerous? It's a practical conversation about raising adventurous sons without wrapping them in bubble wrap.

Next, Mike welcomes Fred Gretsch, the man whose family name has become one of the most respected brands in music. As head of the legendary Gretsch Guitars and Drums company, Fred shares what it's like leading a multi-generational family business, balancing tradition with innovation, and carrying the responsibility of a family name known around the world.

Finally, educator, husband, and father Tim Meinholz joins Mike for an honest conversation about burnout. Whether it's the pressures of work, parenting, or simply trying to do it all, dads can find themselves running on empty. Tim offers practical encouragement and perspective on recognizing burnout, recovering from it, and staying engaged with the people who matter most.

What do you do with those quiet, in-between days after Christmas and before the kids head back to school? Mike Austin reflects on why this often-overlooked stretch of the holiday season can become some of the most meaningful family time of the year. It's the perfect opportunity to create simple memories, start new traditions, and reconnect before the routines of everyday life return.

In the second segment, Mike welcomes author Mark Malkoff to discuss his fascinating biography, Love, Johnny Carson. They explore the remarkable career of the legendary late-night host, the demands of show business, and the challenges Carson faced balancing fame with fatherhood. It's an insightful conversation about success, family, and the sacrifices that often accompany life in the spotlight.

Then, Hollywood producer, director, and actor Jonathan Brownlee joins the show to share stories from behind the scenes of the film industry. Jonathan talks about bringing his own children to movie sets, working alongside some of Hollywood's biggest stars, and discovering that many of them are devoted family people away from the cameras. He also dispels one of Hollywood's biggest myths: making movies is far more about long hours, hard work, and teamwork than the glamorous lifestyle audiences often imagine.