Chad Pytel is the founder and CEO of thoughtbot, a product development consultancy, and co-founder of 12 Sided Studios, a gaming and production company. He’s also the longtime host of the Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast, a husband, and the father of two teenagers.

In this episode, Chad and I talk about raising kids while running companies, blending family life with creative projects, and the importance of designing systems at home, just as you would at work. He shares stories about parenting teenagers, shaping company culture around sustainable pace, and why even the smallest rituals matter when time with your kids feels fleeting. We discussed:

• Building systems at home: How collaborating with his kids on routines turned daily battles into shared ownership.
• Parenting teenagers with balance: Why being relaxed, supportive, and flexible helped his kids thrive through responsibility and independence.
• Dinner as a cornerstone: The daily ritual that kept his family connected through the busiest startup years.
• Redefining company culture: How Thoughtbot built practices like sustainable pace and four-day client weeks to make room for life outside of work.
• Embracing differences: The importance of parenting each child as an individual, not a template, and adjusting expectations along the way.

Where to find Chad Pytel

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpytel/ 
• X: https://x.com/cpytel

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Chad Pytel, founder and CEO at thoughtbot and dad of two

(04:37) Exploring the aging space with AI

(06:06) Starting a gaming and production company

(08:43) Navigating teenage years

(18:33) Balancing work and family life

(19:23) Sustainable pace and company culture

(23:48) Parenting realizations

(24:56) Frameworks for parenting

(25:21) Daily routines and systems

(27:17) Sunday date concept

(29:50) Parenting styles and screen time

(35:34) Halloween traditions

(37:37) Keeping up with the Joneses

(41:19) Lightning Round: Being a relaxed and reasonable dad

Resources From This Episode:

Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots (Podcast): https://podcast.thoughtbot.com/

thoughtbot: https://thoughtbot.com/

12 Sided Studios: https://12sidedstudios.com/ 

Critical Role (Actual Play Series): https://critrole.com/ 

Dimension 20 (Actual Play Series): https://www.dropout.tv/dimension-20 

American Society on Aging: https://www.asaging.org/ 

Wall-E (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0910970/

Monty Python and the Holy Grail (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071853/

Kia Rondo (Car Model): https://www.edmunds.com/kia/rondo/ 

thoughtbot: https://thoughtbot.com/ 

12 Sided Studios: https://12sidedstudios.com/ 

—

For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected].
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Jonathan Jamil, founder and CEO of Springboard, shares his story of growing up in a two-bedroom apartment with six family members, building a business powered by stay-at-home moms, and raising two daughters while redefining what success means.

In this episode, Jonathan opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, the lessons he has carried from his upbringing, and the realities of being a dad and founder at the same time. We discussed:

• Why work-life balance doesn’t exist: Jonathan explains why he believes balance is a myth, and instead focuses on being fully present
• Redefining success as a father and founder: He shares how his definition of success shifted from chasing cars and houses to prioritizing comfort, family health, and presence.
• Breaking generational patterns with love: From hugs to family vacations, Jonathan reflects on how intentional affection and kindness help him parent differently than he was raised.
• Partnership and parenting: He talks about how he and his wife share the load, why he ignores outdated cultural norms around gender roles in parenting, and the promise he kept to support her becoming a stay-at-home mom.
• Why nice guys don’t finish last: Jonathan describes how leading with empathy and kindness has shaped Springboard’s culture, strengthened client trust, and fueled growth.

Where to find Jonathan Jamil

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjthatcxguy/ 
• Springboard: https://www.springboardhq.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejonathanjamil/ 
• X: https://x.com/jjthatcxguy
  
  

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Welcome Jonathan Jamil

(03:55) Starting Springboard and working with stay-at-home moms

(06:41) Why Springboard never posts job listings

(08:33) Building a business while raising a newborn

(10:19) Why work-life balance doesn’t exist

(13:27) Redefining success as a dad

(14:46) Why you can’t parent alone without community

(16:06) Advice to his younger self before becoming a dad

(18:23) Never stop dating your wife

(20:35) The power of vacation and taking breaks

(24:14) His simple fatherhood framework: Show up, listen, love

(26:22) Espresso-fueled speeding ticket during the colic phase

(28:54) Parenting disagreements: Screen time and sugar

(30:56) Tech boundaries and raising daughters in a digital world

(32:55) Using AI to plan family vacations

(34:39) Why “nice guys finish last” is a myth

(37:14) Lightning round: Parenting wins and toy assembly fails

Resources from this episode:

Jambys: https://www.jambys.com/

Disney Store: https://www.disneystore.com/toys-plush/toys/ 

Lime Green Bed Sheets: https://www.amazon.com/Lime-Green-Bedding/s?k=Lime+Green+Bedding

Cocomelon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbCmjCuTUZos6Inko4u57UQ

Wreck-It Ralph: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1772341/

Ratatouille: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0382932/

Home Alone: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785/
The Santa Clause: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111070/

Play-Doh: https://shop.hasbro.com/en-ca/play-doh

Toyota Sienna: https://www.toyota.com/sienna/

Siqi Chen’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2Nm5Mkj0s0

Cape May: https://www.capemay.com/

Ocean City: https://www.ocnj.us/

Rehoboth Beach: https://www.rehobothbeachde.gov/

Disney World: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/

UPPAbaby: https://uppababy.com/

Boppy: https://www.boppy.com/

Jamby’s: https://www.jambys.com/

—

For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected]
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, I sit  down with Adam Lieb, the founder and CEO of Gamesight, a marketing technology company that helps video game studios connect with players and launch their biggest titles. Adam started his first gaming business at just 11 years old and has spent his entire career building in the industry ever since.

As a dad of 11-year-old twins and husband to Camille, a lawyer who now leads the legal team at Gamesight, Adam shares what it’s like to grow a company and a family at the same time. From the challenges of raising twins to why he doesn’t believe in separating work mode from dad mode, Adam offers an honest look at the overlap of parenting and entrepreneurship. We discussed: 

• Raising twins while building a company: Why he compares it to running three startups at once.
• The sleep training strategy: How it became the most important defensive move for survival with twins.
• Work mode vs dad mode: Why Adam believes in being the same person everywhere.
• AI at home: Creative ways his kids use AI for learning, projects, and fun.
• The mantra “show up and try”: Why presence is the foundation for leadership and parenting.

Where to find Adam Lieb:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamslieb/ 
• X: https://x.com/adamslieb 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• X: https://x.com/fishmanaf
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Adam Lieb

(02:16) What Gamesight does and how Adam started in gaming

(05:32) Raising 11-year-old twins with his wife, Camille

(07:38) Running “three startups” at once: company and twins

(09:34) Working with his wife inside the business

(10:01) What’s unique about having twins, and why sleep training mattered

(16:05) Why doesn’t Adam separate dad mode and work mode

(18:30) Cheering from the baseball field while sending emails

(20:13) The mantra that guides parenting and leadership: show up and try

(24:30) Lessons learned since becoming a dad and mistakes along the way

(26:17) The balance between coaching your kids and supporting them

(29:16) Aligning with his wife on parenting philosophy

(31:29) Setting limits on video games and tech at home

(39:46) Raising kids with AI and creative projects they’ve built

(47:16) Lightning round: indispensable products, useless gear, quirks, and dad superpowers

Resources From This Episode:

Gamesight: https://gamesight.io/ 

Collapsible Wagon: a.co/d/dmFVnSI 

Table For Two: https://buytablefortwo.com/ 

Alexa: https://alexa.amazon.com/ 

Happy Gilmore: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116483/

Happy Gilmore 2: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31868189/
The Lord Of The Rings: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120737/ 

—

For sponsorship inquiries, email: [email protected]
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Rishabh Jain, the CEO of FERMÀT Commerce, a company he launched when his oldest daughter was just a few weeks old. He’s also a husband and father of two kids under the age of four.

In this conversation, Rishabh shares why he believes parenthood actually makes entrepreneurship easier, how he manages family life alongside scaling startups, and the frameworks that help him stay focused and balanced. We discussed:

• Starting a company as a parent: Why Rishabh believes kids force you to prioritize what really matters.
• Advice to colleagues: Why he seriously tells stressed-out founders to “have kids” and how it improves their work.
• Family as an anchor: How a strong marriage allows him to take big risks in his professional life.
• Balance through kids: How playing, creating, and connecting at home helps him show up sharper at work.
• Technology in parenting: Using AI and voice assistants to answer kids’ questions and prepare them for a tech-driven world.

Where to find Rishabh Jain

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishabhmjain/ 
• X: https://x.com/rishabhmjain 
• The Intelligent Marketer: https://www.intelligentmarketerpod.com/

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• X: https://x.com/fishmanaf
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Rishabh Jain

(02:10) Why starting a company as a parent is easier

(05:14) Advice to stressed-out colleagues: “Have kids”

(07:18) Traveling internationally with toddlers

(09:44) Hacks for surviving long flights with young kids

(12:40) Starting FERMÀT Commerce with a newborn at home

(16:56) Why kids should see parents doing what they love

(18:21) Raising expectations of adults and patience with kids

(21:02) Morning routines for balance and presence

(25:56) How time with kids makes work more energizing

(33:25) Technology and AI as parenting tools

(41:35) Lightning Round: Dad superpowers, minivans, and more

Resources From This Episode:

FERMÀT Commerce: https://www.fermatcommerce.com/
The Bum Brush:  https://www.amazon.com/Bumco-Diaper-Cream-Spatula-Mom-Invented/dp/B00LYQ53JW 

What to Expect When You’re Expecting: ​​https://www.amazon.com/What-Expect-When-Youre-Expecting/dp/0761187480 

Twitter: @rishabhmjain

Rishabh’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rishabh-jain-show-marketing-podcast-for/id1656571291

Rishabh’s Website: https://www.therishabhjain.com/

Zootopia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2948356/ 

Lion King: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110357/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 

Iron Man: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0371746/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 

VW Electric Bus: https://www.vw.com/en/models/id-buzz.html 

—

For sponsorship inquiries, email: [email protected]
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Zach Teutsch is the founder of Values Added Financial, and a former leader at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. He’s also a husband, father of two, and a master of weaving big-picture life principles into day-to-day parenting.

In this episode, Zach and I talk about building independence in kids, creating household shortcuts to reduce decision fatigue, and why boredom is one of the best gifts you can give your children. He shares his unique frameworks for parenting, money, relationships, and emotional resilience. We discussed:

• Parenting with the end in mind: Zach shares how picturing his kids as independent, kind 18-year-olds shapes his daily parenting choices and guides when to step back versus step in.
• Fostering independence and confidence: Why letting kids take on age-appropriate challenges, from solo store trips to handling money, builds resilience and reduces anxiety.
• Teaching money through experience: Zach’s allowance and charitable giving system helps kids make “safe” mistakes and understand value, trade-offs, and generosity.
• You can’t change feelings: The science behind why emotions can’t be reasoned away in the moment, and how validating kids’ experiences builds trust and emotional maturity.
• Boredom as a virtue: How slowing down, resisting screens, and embracing quiet moments leads to more creativity, mindfulness, and deeper connections.

Where to find Zach Teutsch

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-teutsch/ 
• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/zteutsch.bsky.social 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Zach Teutsch, founder at Values Added and dad of two

(02:58) Parenting with the end in mind

(04:25) Raising confident, independent kids

(12:02) Teaching kids about money early

(17:48) Why you can’t change feelings

(26:52) Advice Zach wishes he had

(31:22) Being your kids’ emotional go-to

(32:38) Simple rules for parenting

(33:43) The power of showing up

(36:25) Boredom as a parenting superpower

(38:45) Being a kid is hard

(42:44) Relationship principles that work

(49:09) Talking AI with your kids

(53:10) Lightning round: parenting wins, fails, and quirks

Resources From This Episode:

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1451663889 

Bluey (TV Series): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7678620/ 

My Cousin Vinny (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104952/ 

Claude AI: https://claude.ai/ 

Values Added Financial: https://valuesaddedfinancial.com/ 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/

Carla’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcrzFhbeIVs

Law & Order SVU: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0203259/

George Kinder: https://www.georgekinder.com/

Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com/ 

@zteutsch.bsky.social

[email protected]

Melatonin: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-melatonin/art-20363071 

—

For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected].
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Jeremy King, co-founder and CEO of Ocean Orchestra and former CEO of Attest, shares his journey as a founder, ocean advocate, and father of two daughters.

In this episode, Jeremy opens up about building systems for both his family and his startups, why ocean conservation is personal to him, and how parenting has informed his leadership style. We discussed:

• Blending startup leadership with family life: Jeremy reveals how he and his wife, both busy professionals, use calendar “parenting time” to protect family routines. He explains why blocking time for his daughters on the calendar is non-negotiable.
• Parenting by design, not default: From food to sleep schedules, Jeremy shares how he applies science and structure to family life. He talks about the influence of the book Save Our Sleep and the “no choices on food” philosophy that’s helped his kids develop adventurous tastes.
• Impact at home and beyond: Jeremy discusses his role as chair and board member at Reach Two, a UK nonprofit transforming primary schools. He reflects on how improving outcomes for kids at scale has changed his perspective on equity, systems, and the basics that matter at home and in education.
• Adventures, travel, and core memories: The Kings’ family travels stretch from London to Melbourne, and Jeremy shares practical advice for surviving epic flights with little kids. He also highlights the moments that matter most like standing up for your child in the big moments, and creating core memories that build trust and resilience.
• Technology, ocean advocacy, and looking ahead: As a founder working at the intersection of tech and conservation, Jeremy discusses how he wants to introduce his daughters to technology, why he’s bullish on AI for ocean impact, and how parenting is shaping his approach to building solutions for the planet.

Where to find Jeremy King

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremykingjk/ 
• Website: https://www.askattest.com/ 
• Ocean Orchestra: https://www.oceanorchestra.ai 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Jeremy King

(01:33) From business to marine life

(03:24) Nature's lessons for business

(06:28) Parenting strategies for busy professionals

(09:35) Improving UK education

(16:04) Long flights tips for traveling with kids

(19:53) Unique accents and vocabulary

(22:51) Parenting principles: no food choices

(24:49) Favorite foods and cultural influences

(26:11) Parenting principles: standing up for your kids

(27:05) Birthday party drama

(29:56) Technology and kids

(34:51) AI in parenting

(37:05) Playground adventures

(39:28) Sea otter presentation

(42:34) Lightning Round: Groclocks and Magic Misties Magical Crystal Ball

Resources from this episode:

Groclock: https://www.tommeetippee.com/en-gb/product/groclock-sleep-trainer-clock

Dog Man: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10954718/

The Goonies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/

Flight of the Navigator: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091059/

Magic Mixies Magical Crystal Ball: https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Mixies-S2-Crystal-Ball/dp/B09Q4B7CZH?th=1

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0357413/ 

Attest: https://www.askattest.com/ 

Reach Two: https://www.reach2.org/ 

Ben William’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5ex9UczN5w 

Harvard: http://harvard.edu/ 

MIT: https://www.mit.edu/

Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNVCQZG1?ref_=MARS_NAVSTRIPE_desktop_kindle_kindle&th=1 

Finding Dory: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2277860/ 

Mckinsey: https://www.mckinsey.com/

Tizzie Hall, Save Our Sleep: https://www.saveoursleep.com/baby-whisperer/

Church of England: https://www.churchofengland.org/ 

Angler Fish: https://www.mbari.org/animal/deep-sea-anglerfish/

Henry VIII: https://www.royal.uk/henry-viii

Multi Academy Trust: https://alumnismat.org/multi-academy-trusts/

NFL: https://www.nfl.com/

Peppa Pig: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAOtE1V7Ots4DjM8JLlrYgg

Claude.ai

—

For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected]
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

In this episode of Startup Dad, Adam Fishman sits down with Jeff Selingo, a bestselling author, journalist and education expert, to discuss the complexities of college admissions and how parents can help their kids find their "Dream School." Jeff has spent over two decades researching higher education and is the author of Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, Who Gets in and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, There Is Life After College: What Parents and Students Should Know About Navigating School to Prepare for the Jobs of Tomorrow, and College Unbound:  The Future of Higher Education and What it Means for Students.  As a dad of two nearly college-bound kids, Jeff offers a unique perspective on navigating the college decision-making process from the lens of a parent and expert. We discussed:

• Breaking down the college admissions process: Why it’s important to look beyond the Ivy League schools and focus on the best fit for your child.
• The concept of "Dream Schools": What makes a school the right fit and how to identify it.
• Parents' influence on the process: How societal pressures and the desire for prestige can shape college decisions.
• Finding value in education: The importance of ROI, Merit Aid, and balancing prestige with affordability.
• Tools for parents: Resources like the College Scorecard and how to use them to make informed decisions.

Where to find Jeff Selingo

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffselingo/ 
• X: https://x.com/jselingo
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jselingo
• Website: https://jeffselingo.com/ 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• X: https://x.com/fishmanaf
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Jeff Selingo

(02:22) Inspiration behind Dream School

(06:45) The college application boom

(08:59) The role of colleges in the application frenzy

(14:20) The Moneyball approach to college selection

(18:49) Early decision and early action explained

(23:17) Parents' role in college admissions

(25:16) Research insights from 'Dream School'

(28:54) Skipping over rankings

(29:19) The value of college prestige

(30:04) Choosing a major for the right reasons

(31:51) Defining your dream school

(33:14) Underappreciated factors in college fit

(35:15) Addressing neurodiversity in college admissions

(37:16) Examples of lesser-known dream schools

(42:43) Future outlook on college education

(50:55) Lightning Round: Quick takes on college myths and advice for parents

Resources From This Episode:

Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You: https://jeffselingo.com/books/dreamschool/
College Confidential: https://collegeconfidential.com/
Reddit Threads on College Admissions: https://www.reddit.com/r/ApplyingToCollege/
Next Newsletter by Jeff Selingo: https://jeffselingo.com/next-newsletter/
Future U Podcast: https://www.futureupodcast.com/
Dickinson College: https://www.dickinson.edu/
St. Olaf College: https://wp.stolaf.edu/
Denison University: https://denison.edu/
Furman University: https://www.furman.edu/
Michigan State University: https://msu.edu/
Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University: https://barretthonors.asu.edu/ 

SEC: https://www.sec.gov/ 

Arizona State University: https://www.asu.edu/ 

Gordian Knot: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Gordian-knot 

Who Gets In and Why: https://jeffselingo.com/books/who-gets-in-and-why/

Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/

Us News and World Report: https://www.usnews.com/

Bill Royall: https://news.vcu.edu/article/Bill_Royall_former_vice_rector_of_the_VCU_Board_of_Visitors_and

Moneyball Book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1301.Moneyball

Moneyball Movie: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210166/

New York Yankees: https://www.mlb.com/yankees

College Scorecard: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/

UCLA: https://www.ucla.edu/

Harvard: https://www.harvard.edu/ 

Yale: https://www.yale.edu/ 

Princeton: https://www.princeton.edu/ 

Stanford: https://www.stanford.edu/

Ithaca College: https://www.ithaca.edu/

Toy Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114709/

Karate Kid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087538/ 

—

For sponsorship inquiries, email: [email protected]
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Peter Kazanjy is the best-selling author of Founding Sales and co-founder of Atrium. He’s also a dad to a seven-year-old son, Michael, and husband to Tracy, a designer and entrepreneur.

In this episode, Pete reflects on building companies, building capabilities, and building a family. He talks about the grit and perseverance behind their seven-round IVF journey, delivery room chaos, and how he now teaches his son to embrace responsibility, reduce entropy, and take pride in doing things well. We talked about: 

• The road to parenthood: Pete shares his seven-round IVF journey, what he wishes he’d known sooner, and why he champions fertility education.
• Making time on purpose: Pete breaks down his calendar philosophy and how he builds in quality time, from Muni rides to museum visits.
• Raising with purpose: He talks about teaching values like grit and responsibility—whether it’s cleaning up after others or training for soccer.
• Tiger Light parenting: Pete models excellence without pressure, helping his son stick with hard things and celebrate progress.
• Why sound matters: He reflects on recording audio memories—and how a child’s voice can bring back moments photos can’t.

Where to find Peter Kazanjy

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kazanjy/ 
• X:  https://x.com/kazanjy   

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://ww.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Pete Kazanjy
(02:13) Pete’s family and personal life
(06:20) The IVF journey to parenthood
(13:00) Michael’s birth story
(17:38) Balancing fatherhood and entrepreneurship
(23:53) Instilling values and duty in children
(27:02) The importance of grit and a growth mindset
(34:53) Capturing memories: the power of audio
(37:00) Balancing professional and personal life
(41:52) Technology and parenting
(55:05) Lightning round: silly stories and smart solutions

Show references:

Founding Sales (book by Pete!): https://www.foundingsales.com/

Atrium: https://www.atriumhq.com/
UCSF Center for Reproductive Health: https://fertility.ucsf.edu/
Modern Fertility: https://modernfertility.com/
23andMe: https://www.23andme.com/
Exploratorium: https://www.exploratorium.edu/
California Academy of Sciences: https://www.calacademy.org/
The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt: https://www.amazon.com/Goal-Process-Ongoing-Improvement/dp/0884271951/
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.tablegroup.com/product/the-five-dysfunctions-of-a-team/
The Phoenix Project: https://itrevolution.com/product/the-phoenix-project/
Use of Knowledge in Society by Friedrich Hayek: https://fee.org/articles/the-use-of-knowledge-in-society/
Brain Flakes: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N8GWZ4M
Lego: https://www.lego.com/
Blippi: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5PYHgAzJ1wLEidB58SK6Xw
Avatar: The Last Airbender: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0417299/
Ghostbusters: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087332/ 

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For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected].
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

James Currier is a serial entrepreneur, founding partner at NFX, and a father of 4 boys. Known for his sharp insights into human behavior and startup dynamics, James brings that same clarity and intention to his parenting. He’s not just raising kids, he’s cultivating creators, adventurers, and independent thinkers.

In this episode, James shares how he designed his family life with the same care and foresight as he would a startup. From helping his son sail solo across the Atlantic at 16, to building secret passageways in their home, James offers a deeply personal and practical look into parenting with purpose. We discussed:

• Parenting with realism and intention: James explains why he doesn’t take too much credit as a parent, and how genetics, not just parenting techniques, shape a child’s destiny. Parenting inevitably includes heartbreak, so embrace the ride without trying to control every outcome.
• Fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance: James never gave allowances. Instead, he paid his kids a dollar for every new business idea and had them pitch startup concepts at the dinner table. 
• Adventure and risk as tools for growth: Rather than shielding his kids from danger, James leaned into it. He saw risk as a necessary ingredient for confidence. His boys climbed 80-foot trees, explored Burning Man, and one even became the youngest person to sail solo across the Atlantic. The goal? Face the wild and learn who you are.
• The seven-to-one rule for feedback: James shares a powerful framework for encouraging positive behavior. For every one piece of correction, offer seven moments of genuine, specific positive reinforcement. It works for parenting and leadership.
• On technology, phones, and the limits of control: Despite thoughtful efforts, James admits that his kids were guinea pigs for the smartphone era. He reflects honestly on what worked, what didn’t, and why he believes delaying access to tech, and encouraging real-world adventure is more important than ever.

Where to find James Currier

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescurrier/ 
• X: https://x.com/jamescurrier 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing James Currier, general partner at NFX and dad of four

(02:52) Fostering entrepreneurship in kids

(05:19) The neuro camp initiative

(06:47) Teaching kids about money and avoiding entitlement

(14:12) The importance of a strong marriage

(27:39) The importance of wilderness experiences

(28:15) Learning new skills with your kids

(29:50) Prioritizing individual time with each child

(31:44) Building projects and secret layers

(34:25) Focusing on who your kids hang out with

(36:05) Positive reinforcement over reprimanding

(38:59) Talking to kids like adults

(42:03) The role of a dog in the family

(43:20) Managing technology in the household

(47:12) Lightning Round: Parenting insights and embarrassing moments

Resources From This Episode:

300 (Graphic Novel): https://www.amazon.com/300-Frank-Miller/dp/1569714029 

300 (Film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/ 

White Noise Machine: https://a.co/d/6YqDwMM

Baby Einstein: https://www.kids2.com/pages/baby-einstein
Madagascar: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/
Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0351283/

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For sponsorship inquiries email: [email protected].
For Startup Dad Merch: www.startupdadshop.com

Mike Malloy is the founder of Malloy Industries, a firm that connects scaling entrepreneurs with vetted fractional executives. He's also a Georgetown professor, a husband, and the father of Max, the company's self-declared Chief Cuteness Officer. Mike’s life is an intersection of serious business systems and silly dad jokes, all woven together by an intentional approach to work-life integration.

In this episode, Mike shares how building a business around his family values helped him show up better both as a parent and as a professional. We discussed:

• Parenting in public: From potty training during a client call to his son interrupting meetings to demand frisbee time, Mike embraces the chaos of parenting while working from home, and sometimes those interruptions help close deals.
• The transition to camp and growing independence: Mike opens up about the emotional milestone of sending his son to camp for the first time after three years of full-time care. 
• Designing a business with family in mind: Mike started Malloy Industries not just to serve founders, but to reclaim his own time. After losing his mom and learning he was about to become a dad, he redesigned his business to run without relying solely on him, and has since built a network of 400+ fractional executives.
• Time-blocking and nightly maps: Mike walks us through his framework for managing energy and focus throughout the week, including why he blocks off Wednesday mornings for uninterrupted dad adventures.
• Dad jokes, magnet tiles, and parenting hacks: Whether he’s swapping jokes at the library or bringing a second monitor to Panera for a “crush-it day,” Mike brings levity and intentionality to every corner of life as a founder and a father.

Where to find Mike Malloy

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwmalloy/ 
• X: https://x.com/mwmalloy
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mwmalloy/
• Website: https://malloyindustries.com/ 

Where to find Adam Fishman

• FishmanAF Newsletter: www.FishmanAFNewsletter.com 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjfishman/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupdadpod/ 

In this episode, we cover:

(00:00) Introducing Mike Malloy

(02:35) Max the deal-closer and executive artist

(04:50) First day of camp and emotional milestones

(07:17) Starting Malloy Industries and the fractional future

(10:07) Grieving his mom and preparing for fatherhood

(14:28) The "who not how" mindset shift

(15:35) Be where your feet are and present parenting

(19:35) The great cheese stick negotiation

(23:28) Pro dad hacks for books and lullabies

(24:36) Time blocking and scheduling around energy

(29:16) Monthly “crush it” days and managing flow

(30:54) Nightly maps and intentional daily planning

(34:37) The wooden box and tech boundaries

(38:08) Chef Jacques and using AI to plan meals

(41:18) Modeling tech habits and setting rules

(43:56) Advice to his pre-dad self during nap traps

(46:23) Lightning round: parenting quirks and dad jokes

Resources From This Episode:

Daddy and Me: https://www.amazon.com/Daddy-Me-Tiya-Hall/dp/1680524526

Never Touch a Porcupine: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Touch-Porcupine-Believe-Ideas/dp/1788439856

A Crack in the Track (Thomas and Friends): https://www.amazon.com/Crack-Track-Thomas-Friends/dp/0375827552

Fox is Coming!: https://www.amazon.com/Fox-Coming-James-Patterson/dp/0316572837

Like a Boss Play Kit: https://shopping.mattel.com/en-gb/products/fisher-price-2-in-1-like-a-boss-activity-center-hbm26-en-gb

Lewis Library Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lewisulibrary/
Zootopia: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2948356/
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0784896/

Cars: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317219/

Blank Check: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109287/

Empire Records: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112950/

Santa Clause: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111070/ 

Cal Newport: https://calnewport.com/

Georgetown U: https://www.georgetown.edu/

Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork

by Dan Sullivan, Benjamin Hardy: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/who-not-how-dan-sullivan/1136703973

The Daily Dad: 366 Meditations on Parenting, Love, and Raising Great Kids

by Ryan Holiday: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-daily-dad-ryan-holiday/1141941652

Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be

by Becky Kennedy: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/good-inside-becky-kennedy/1140501121

Nir Eyal’s Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqogSRDhzeU

Notion: https://www.notion.com/

Door knob safety cover: https://www.amazon.com/Door-Knob-Covers-Child-Safety/dp/B071GWJX4D

Muppet Babies: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0086764/

Super Wings: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3600266/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_suoper%2520wings

Toy Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114709/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_1_tt_7_nm_0_in_0_q_toy%2520story

Goofy Movie: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113198/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1

Mini Magnatiles: https://magnatiles.com/products/micromags-travel-set?srsltid=AfmBOopwJyPjVfhLblqNFq2f1QIUtupBKjvD0tqIrY8kydu8LlX00XYH

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