The Dad Edit

How do you chase your dream of becoming a professional MMA fighter while balancing marriage, raising two kids, and being the father your family needs?

In this guest episode of The Dad Edit Podcast, Andrew and Ryan sit down with Linzy Hudson, a professional MMA fighter, husband, and father of two, for an honest conversation about chasing big dreams, balancing family responsibilities, and the sacrifices that come with pursuing something you love.

Linzy shares how his journey into mixed martial arts (MMA) began during the pandemic and what it takes to balance intense training, fight preparation, and the everyday responsibilities of fatherhood.

The conversation explores the realities of pursuing a demanding MMA career while raising a family, the importance of having a supportive partner, and the challenge of making time for the people who matter most.

From the emotional highs and lows of fight night to the lessons learned through winning, losing, and pushing through setbacks, Linzy opens up about the discipline, resilience, and commitment required to keep moving forward.

He also shares why mastering the fundamentals, staying ready for opportunities, and simplifying complicated challenges can make a difference both inside and outside the cage.

But underneath the fighting is a bigger conversation about fatherhood.

How do you pursue your own ambitions without sacrificing the moments with your kids that you'll never get back?

For dads balancing careers, personal goals, marriage, and family life, Linzy's story offers a relatable look at the choices, challenges, and compromises that come with trying to have both.

This isn't just a conversation about professional MMA. It's about ambition, sacrifice, fatherhood, and figuring out how to pursue your dreams while staying present for the people counting on you.

Whether you're an MMA fan, an aspiring fighter, a dad chasing a personal goal, or someone trying to find a better balance between work and family, this conversation is worth hearing.

The Dad Edit Podcast. Real conversations about fatherhood, family, personal growth, and figuring it out as we go.

Being a dad doesn't come with a clock-out time. You can finish a long day at work, walk through the door exhausted, and still have an entire evening of parenting ahead of you. So where does "me time" fit when your family still needs you?

In Episode 58 of The Dad Edit Podcast, Andrew and Ryan get into the everyday realities of fatherhood, balancing work and family life, making personal sacrifices, and learning to embrace the responsibilities that come with raising kids.

The guys also take a look back at how far the podcast has come, from nervous basement recordings to the honest conversations they share today. They reflect on their own growth as fathers, the lessons they've learned, and how becoming a parent can completely change your perspective on life.

Andrew opens up about how fatherhood has made him reflect on his past, rethink his priorities, and appreciate the path that brought him to where he is today. Ryan shares his perspective on life before kids, how parenting changes over the years, and why some of the smallest moments end up meaning the most.

They explore the challenges that so many dads face, from finding time for themselves to managing exhaustion, balancing responsibilities, and trying to be present for their children even when life feels overwhelming.

The hard truth? Parenting doesn't stop just because you're tired. But that doesn't mean every difficult day is a bad one.

Sometimes the chaos, sacrifices, and everyday challenges are exactly what push us to become better fathers, partners, and people.

This isn't a conversation about being the perfect dad or having all the answers. It's about recognizing that fatherhood is a constant learning experience, and that personal growth often comes from the moments that challenge us the most.

Whether you're a new dad adjusting to life with a baby, a father navigating the challenges of raising young kids, or an experienced parent reflecting on how far you've come, this conversation is for you.

Because fatherhood doesn't come with guaranteed days off. It comes with growth, responsibility, and a life you wouldn't trade.

The Dad Edit Podcast. Real conversations about fatherhood, parenting, and figuring it out as we go.

Episode 57: Why Embracing Change Is Essential for New Fathers

Becoming a dad changes everything. Your priorities shift, your relationships evolve, and the person you were before fatherhood might not be the person you need to be today. But how do you embrace those changes without losing yourself along the way?

In this episode of The Dad Edit, Andrew Henry explores the personal growth, identity shifts, and everyday challenges that come with becoming a father. Whether you're a first-time dad, preparing for your first baby, or already navigating life as a parent, this conversation is about understanding why change is such an important part of fatherhood.

Fatherhood isn't just about learning how to care for a child. It's about learning more about yourself, recognizing old habits, adjusting your priorities, and becoming the kind of father and partner your family needs.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How fatherhood changes your identity and the way you see yourself.
• Why becoming a dad requires personal growth, even when change feels uncomfortable.
• The challenges new fathers face when balancing their old lifestyle with new responsibilities.
• How to recognize habits and mindsets that might be holding you back as a parent.
• Why self-reflection matters when building stronger relationships with your children and partner.
• How embracing change can help you become a better dad without losing your individuality.

It's easy to focus on everything you give up when you become a parent. Less free time, less independence, and a completely different routine. But fatherhood also creates opportunities to discover new strengths, build deeper connections, and find purpose in ways you never expected.

You don't have to have everything figured out to be a good father. What matters is being willing to learn, adapt, and grow alongside your children.

If you're struggling with the transition into fatherhood, adjusting to life with a baby, or simply trying to become a better dad, this episode is for you.

Join the conversation and connect with other dads who are figuring things out one day at a time.

About The Dad Edit

The Dad Edit is a Canadian fatherhood and parenting podcast where real dads have honest conversations about raising kids, relationships, mental health, personal growth, and the challenges of modern fatherhood.

No perfect parenting advice. No pretending we have all the answers. Just real conversations about being a dad.

Starting daycare can be one of the hardest transitions for both kids and parents.

In this episode, Ryan and Andrew talk openly about the emotions that come with sending your child to daycare, learning to trust caregivers, and watching your child become more independent.

Ryan shares what it has been like seeing Link start daycare, make new friends, and adjust to a completely new environment. 

Andrew brings his own parenting experiences to the conversation as they discuss the anxiety, uncertainty, and pride that can come with this major parenting milestone.

In this episode, we talk about:

• The emotions parents experience during the first days of daycare
• How to choose the right daycare for your child
• Building trust with daycare providers and caregivers
• What to expect during the daycare adjustment period
• Managing separation anxiety as a parent
• Watching your child build friendships and independence
• Learning when to let go and trust the process

Starting daycare can feel exciting, stressful, and bittersweet all at the same time. For many parents, it is the first time they are trusting someone outside of their family to care for their child.

If your child is starting daycare, preschool, or childcare soon, this episode is a relatable conversation about the challenges of letting go, trusting other people with your child, and adjusting to a new stage of parenthood.

Whether you are a new parent preparing for daycare or you have already been through the transition, this episode is a reminder that these feelings are a normal part of watching your child grow.

What happens to fatherhood when your kids start needing you less? In this heartfelt episode, Andrew Henry and Ryan dive deep into the emotional journey of navigating an emptying nest and redefining their roles as dads. If you’re a father facing this transition, you won’t want to miss the invaluable insights shared here. 

As Andrew reflects on his son Link starting daycare, he and Ryan explore the bittersweet reality of independence both for their children and themselves. They discuss the profound changes in parenting dynamics as kids grow up, the feelings of being needed, and the challenges of maintaining close relationships when daily presence diminishes. 

You’ll discover: 

• How to embrace the quiet moments of an empty house while still feeling valued as a parent. 
• The importance of evolving from a caretaker to a mentor in your child's life. 
• Strategies for staying connected with your kids as they begin to forge their own paths and independence. 

Ryan shares poignant anecdotes about the laughter and shenanigans he will miss when his daughters leave home, emphasizing that while the roles may change, the love and connection will always remain. The stakes are high; failing to adapt could mean losing touch with your kids as they grow. 

This episode is essential listening for dads navigating the emotional waters of parenting as children grow up. It’s a powerful reminder that even as their needs change, the bond you share can continue to flourish. Tune in for a conversation that is as enlightening as it is comforting, and leave with practical takeaways to strengthen your family ties. 

Perfect for fathers, caregivers, and anyone interested in the evolving nature of family relationships, this episode will inspire you to embrace the changes that come with parenting. 

Don't miss it!

Who checks in on dads after the baby arrives? In this heartfelt episode, Andrew Henry dives into the often-overlooked emotional landscape of new fathers, revealing the vital importance of community support. If you’re a new dad feeling overwhelmed or just curious about the emotional challenges during the transition to fatherhood, this episode is a must-listen.

Andrew opens up about his journey and the significance of having a solid support system. He shares personal anecdotes highlighting how simple check-ins can make a monumental difference in a father's mental health. In a candid conversation, he explores the delicate balance of being a rock for your partner while managing your own struggles. You’ll discover:

• The critical questions every new dad should ask himself and his support network.
• How to seek help without feeling like a burden to your partner.
• The impact of community and friendship during the early days of fatherhood.
• Real-life stories from dads who found strength in their connections, and what they wish they had known.

Ignoring the mental health needs of fathers can have lasting consequences not just for them, but for the entire family. This episode sheds light on the broader context of fatherhood, emphasizing that dads need care and attention just as much as their partners and newborns.

Whether you’re a new dad, a seasoned parent, or someone looking to understand the complexities of fatherhood better, this episode offers essential insights. Perfect for anyone seeking to foster a supportive environment for new parents, tune in now, and let’s start the conversation that many are afraid to have.

Are we really prepared to take parental leave when the option is available? In "The Dad Leave Trap: Present at Home or Penalized at Work," the Dad Edit dive deep into the complex feelings surrounding parental leave for fathers. They're not just discussing policy but sharing their personal experiences and the societal pressures that often prevent dads from taking the time they deserve with their newborns.  

Join them as they unpack the surprising reality of parental leave in Canada compared to the U.S., where options are often scarce. You’ll discover how cultural norms shape our choices, the emotional weight of being a working parent, and the hidden costs of not taking leave. They explore:  

• The "Dad Strike" movement in the UK and its implications on fatherhood.  
• How Andrew and Nick managed their parental leave and the freedom they felt—or didn’t feel—in their decisions.  
• The critical role of workplace culture in supporting dads taking leave.  
• Real-life anecdotes that highlight the sacrifices families make when balancing work and parenting.  

Why does it feel unsafe for some dads to take advantage of their leave? The stakes are high: failing to address these feelings can lead to burnout and strained family relationships. This episode is essential for anyone navigating parenthood and work, especially fathers who might feel they have to choose between career and family.  

The conversation is raw, honest, and relatable, providing listeners with insights into the real challenges dads face today. Perfect for new fathers, those considering parenthood, or anyone interested in the evolving dynamics of modern parenting. Hit play and join the discussion your perspective matters!

Big Mike on Fatherhood, Belonging, Identity, and the Power of Community

What happens when fatherhood, belonging, identity, and barbecue all collide?

Andrew and Ryan sit down with Michael, better known as Big Mike, for a raw, funny, no-format conversation that turns into one of The Dad Edit’s deepest discussions yet.

Mike is the creator behind Big Mike’s Backyard BBQ, but his story goes well beyond the smoker. What started as a pandemic hobby grew into a creative outlet, a way of bringing people together, and eventually a community of guys who genuinely support one another.

From chicken lollies and bacon-wrapped lamb chops to fatherhood, race, identity, sport, and raising kids who know they belong, this conversation goes everywhere.

Mike shares what it has been like raising two young children, including the pressure he initially put on himself to be completely present at all times and the realization that sometimes being a good dad really does start with simply being there.

The guys get into some of the harder questions dads eventually face:

How do you protect your kids without overprotecting them?

How do you let them struggle while still making sure they know you’re there?

How do you encourage them without turning encouragement into pressure?

And how do you support the person your child is becoming instead of steering them toward the person who makes you most comfortable?

Mike also opens up about raising mixed-race children and watching their identities develop in real time. The conversation explores how kids begin noticing differences in skin colour, hair, culture, and the way other people perceive them and why the words parents use around their children can carry far more weight than we realize.

Even seemingly harmless labels like “the shy one,” “the crazy one,” “the athlete,” or “the easy kid” can become part of how children eventually see themselves.

Mike also brings a unique perspective from his academic background. With graduate research focused on parents in sport, cultural diversity, group cohesion, and identity, he breaks down why families operate a lot like teams with roles, conflict, leadership, belonging, and connection except there are no championships or trophies telling you whether you’re getting parenting right.

Parenting is the long game.

The conversation also digs into youth sports, overcoaching, competitive parents, knowing when to step back, and helping kids pursue what they love, whether that ends up being soccer, basketball, art, gaming, cars, or something completely unexpected.

And underneath all of it is community.

Mike explains how barbecue unexpectedly gave him something he hadn’t really experienced before: a genuine group of guys from completely different walks of life who cook together, talk shit, celebrate each other’s wins, feed one another, and show up.

Food became more than food.

It became a way to make people happy, create memories, build friendships, and bring people together.

The episode closes with one question every dad should probably ask himself:

When your kids look back on their childhood, what kind of dad do you hope they remember?

For Big Mike, the answer is simple. The dad who was there. The dad who supported them.

The dad who played with them, made them laugh, acted goofy, and kept saying yes when they asked him to be part of their world.

This episode is packed with laughs, barbecue, community, and the kind of fatherhood conversation that sticks with you after it ends.

If you’re a dad or simply someone trying to do better by the kids in your life, this one is worth the listen.

About Big Mike

Big Mike is the creator behind Big Mike’s Backyard BBQ, known for his barbecue content, local community energy, and crowd-favourite chicken lollies. He also brings a PhD-level perspective on sport, identity, cultural diversity, and belonging, making him equal parts pitmaster, storyteller, community builder, and thoughtful dad.

Follow Big Mike’s Backyard BBQ (@bigmikebbbq) on Instagram for barbecue, laughs, questionable pellet-grill opinions, and whatever he decides to cook next.

The Dad Edit Podcast, real conversations about becoming better dads without pretending we have it all figured out.

What happens when a father grapples with the delicate balance between protecting his child and allowing them the freedom to grow? In this heartfelt episode, Ryan and Andrew dive deep into the emotional landscape of fatherhood, exploring the pivotal moments that define our roles as protectors versus the importance of vulnerability. 

Join them as they share a poignant story from a playground that unexpectedly reveals the beauty of kindness and the complexities of raising children in a world fraught with challenges.

Ryan opens up about a recent experience at the playground, where he found himself instinctively preparing to shield his young son from potential hurt. But instead of facing negativity, he witnesses a moment of unexpected kindness from another child. This revelation transforms his understanding of fatherhood, leading to a profound question: if we shield our kids from every hardship, how do they learn resilience? 

You’ll discover:

• The emotional struggle of wanting to protect while fostering independence.
• How moments of kindness can profoundly impact a child’s development.
• The necessity of vulnerability for both children and parents in navigating social interactions.
• Real-life anecdotes that illustrate the beauty of parenting amidst uncertainty.

As they unpack these themes, Ryan and Andrew emphasize the stakes of overprotecting our children, risking their ability to face the world confidently and independently. This episode is a reminder that while we aim to shield our kids from pain, it’s equally vital to prepare them for the kindness and joy that life can offer.

Perfect for new dads, parents of toddlers, or anyone reflecting on the complexities of raising children in today's world, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to embrace the dualities of parenting. Tune in and discover how allowing your child to experience the world, with all its ups and downs, can lead to their greatest growth.

Growing up without a father leaves questions that can follow you long after childhood and becoming a dad yourself can bring those questions back in ways you never expected.

For Episode 50 of The Dad Edit Podcast, Andrew and Ryan have one of their most personal conversations yet: If you could sit across from your father today, what would you say?

Both grew up without their biological fathers being a consistent presence in their lives. Now, as fathers themselves, they look back at the anger, confusion, jealousy, identity struggles and unanswered questions that came with that absence and how those experiences shaped the men and dads they became.

They talk openly about searching for examples of what it meant to be a man, watching other families and wondering what they were missing, trying to prove themselves when they were younger, and confronting one of the hardest questions an absent parent can leave behind:

Why wasn’t I enough for you to try?

But this conversation isn’t about simply blaming absent fathers or pretending forgiveness fixes everything.

Andrew and Ryan wrestle with regret, grace, resentment, missed opportunities, father figures, reconnecting with an absent parent, watching a father build a relationship with another child, and the complicated realization that the men who hurt us may have been carrying struggles, shame and circumstances we never fully understood.

Most importantly, they talk about what changed when they became dads themselves.

Because growing up without a father doesn’t mean you have to repeat the same story.

You can break the cycle.

• You can answer the phone.
• Show up for the game.
• Sit beside the bed.
• Make breakfast.
• Say sorry.
• Give the hug.
• Stay through the arguments, the difficult seasons and the moments when walking away would be easier.

You may never get the explanation you wanted.

You may never receive an apology.

You may forgive. You may not. You may reconnect, or you may decide that distance is healthier.

But becoming a father gives you something your childhood self never had:

A choice.

You get to decide what fatherhood looks like in your home.

If you grew up without a dad physically, emotionally, or because the relationship simply wasn’t what you needed, we want to hear from you:

If you could sit across from your father today, what would you say?

Send us a message, leave a comment, or share this episode with someone who has carried the same questions.

And if you’re a father listening to this, remember: your kids may not always tell you how much your presence matters.

Show up anyway.

The ordinary moments you barely notice may become the moments they remember forever.

Follow The Dad Edit Podcast on Instagram and join us for the next Dad Walk.

Thank you for getting us to Episode 50.

We is all we got.