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Have you ever wondered how to maintain resilience and joy while facing a family health challenge? This episode of the Quarterback Dadcast brings you the heartfelt journey of Jamas LaFreniere, a dedicated father and sales executive at EchoStar, who shares his personal story of raising a child with Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1B (GSD1b). Today's episode only happens due to the kind introduction made by Mark Agostinelli, a former guest on the podcast.

Through candid discussions, Jamas opens up about the critical importance of empathy and vulnerability in parenting, his family's everyday triumphs and trials, and the incredible support system that has been pivotal in their journey.

In our discussions, we explore the emotional and logistical complexities of managing a rare disease, balancing a demanding career, and running a foundation. Jamas's reflections on the challenges of his daughter's diagnosis, the critical role of accurate medical information, and the profound impact of community support provide invaluable insights into navigating such life-altering experiences. As we share light-hearted moments and personal anecdotes, we emphasize the ongoing journey of self-improvement and the crucial need for empathy, kindness, and inclusiveness in parenting.

Transitioning from the emotional to the inspirational, we recount the incredible Boston Marathon fundraising success of a hockey enthusiast turned marathon runner. Driven by community support and a powerful personal mission, this journey raised over $160,000 for their foundation, proving that passion and dedication can overcome physical and mental challenges. The segment also highlights the significant impact of parental influence, showcasing how sports and hard work not only open educational doors but also foster personal growth and discipline. Such stories remind us of the importance of perseverance and the remarkable power of community-driven efforts.

Join us for an episode filled with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a shared passion for making a difference.

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What happens when a dad advisor and a sales nerd come together to discuss fatherhood? 

Today, you will find out as we welcome Angelo Melchiorre, the founder of the Real Dad Life Podcast and Community. He joins us to share his hard-earned wisdom on balancing personal well-being with the demands of being a dad. As you will see on LinkedIn, he is a recruiter by day and a dad community builder by night.   He spent years in the staffing industry at The Judge Group, and is now consulting and doing contract recruiting for Aprio Talent Solutions.

We explored the commonality of having long-lasting relationships with our wives that started in our early teens.  We discuss the essence of effective communication, the joys and struggles of parenting, and the invaluable lessons learned from our parents. These stories underscore the importance of being present, making every conversation count, and how our upbringings influence our approach to fatherhood.

Lastly, we delve into the power of vulnerability and how connecting with other fathers can be a game-changer. From Angelo's Real Dad Life community to my own experiences in building meaningful father-son/daughter relationships, this episode celebrates the courage it takes to be open and honest. We'll laugh, reflect, and offer practical advice on maintaining patience, self-care, and the importance of humor in parenting. Tune in for an episode that honors the complexities of fatherhood and the strength found in community.

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Today marks the first time in QB Dadcast history that we have invited a guest back onto the podcast.  In our first conversation in 2021, we learned about Bill, the father of two athletic kids, and the value of hard work from his hardworking parents, who always taught him to finish what you start.  Bill shares his stories of playing quarterback for Coach Nick Saban and tells a fantastic story of a teachable lesson about attention to detail and the slight edge while playing for him. Coach Saban shared a great piece of advice that Bill now shares with his kids, "outcomes are distractions," which allows them to focus on the process. 

Can visualization techniques transform your life beyond sports? In today's conversation, Bill will share his inspiring journey of writing "Victory Outside the Arena." Bill offers essential advice for athletes transitioning from the world of sports to new horizons, reflecting deeply on his relationship with his father and the priceless moments of parenthood. 

Delving into the rigorous process of writing a book while balancing family and a demanding career, Bill and I discuss the power of visualization and motivational strategies. Learn how visualizing the book cover early on and imagining endorsements from influential figures like Nick Saban kept us focused and disciplined. This conversation underscores the importance of staying present for our families and using visualization to achieve long-term goals, both in writing and personal development.

Lastly, you will love Bill's story as he recounts a memorable football game against Ohio State; we draw valuable lessons in accountability from Coach Nick Saban. Please celebrate with us as we honor Bill’s recent achievements and the impactful messages of his book. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to legacy, personal growth, and the enduring significance of being present as parents and leaders.

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A huge shoutout goes to our newest sponsor, Leap Advisory Partners! Also, thank you, Kelli Schutrop, for introducing our latest guest, Benjamin Mena. Benjamin is the Founder and Partner of Select Source Solutions and Host of the Elite Recruiter podcast.

In today's episode, imagine embarking on a journey that begins with marathon training and leads to a romantic wedding in Bordeaux, France. This week on the Quarterback Dadcast, Benjamin shares his extraordinary life story and the joys and hurdles of new parenthood.  Benjamin reflects on his relationship and family life, which will resonate deeply with all fathers striving for excellence.

Benjamin's childhood as a military brat paints a vivid picture of resilience and adaptability, influenced by frequent relocations and the unique experiences of having a submariner father. Many of the stories we share during this conversation will highlight the importance of leadership, adaptability, and the powerful impact of a resourceful upbringing. During our conversation, I shared the impact of David Marquette's book "Turn This Ship Around," we explore the profound significance of a leader-leader model in both professional and personal life.

Lastly, financial literacy and emotional intelligence emerge as crucial lessons we aim to impart to our children. Benjamin and I discuss the invaluable life lessons learned from Olympic athletes, emphasizing the importance of working smart, consistent practice and setting a positive example. From personal anecdotes to professional successes, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration, concluding with a heartfelt call to action for dads everywhere to keep striving, improving, and shaping the future of their families. Join us for this engaging and motivational conversation that celebrates the essence of fatherhood.

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Thank you, Leslie Vickrey, for the kind introduction to make today's episode possible.

What if the key to resilience lies in the heart of family values and sportsmanship?

Join us as we celebrate a remarkable five-year milestone on the Quarterback Dadcast with our special guest, David Smith, co-founder and CEO of Triple Crown. David opens up about his journey as a father to five children, navigating the complexities of a blended family, and the deep gratitude he feels watching his children flourish.  Most importantly, congratulations to everyone at Triple Crown on celebrating 20 years in business!

In this episode, you'll be captivated by two compelling stories that showcase the power of perseverance through sports. One guest's relentless pursuit of football amidst challenging circumstances and another's emotional journey of overcoming injury and finding a new purpose. These narratives emphasize the importance of support systems and the resilience required to face life's hurdles. David also shares his professional highs and lows, revealing how relationships and character triumph over financial gains and how crucial it is to foster a positive work culture even during crcrisesike 9/11 and COVID-19.

Finally, we offer valuable insights into the nuances of parenting, especially within blended families. Learn from David's experiences on different approaches to raising children of varying ages and genders and the evolving nature of parenting styles. The episode also highlights the impact of youth sports, including the transition from weight-restricted leagues to tackle football and the lessons learned from coaching young athletes. 

Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, lessons, and heartfelt stories that resonate with fathers everywhere.

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Ever wonder how the little moments shape our lives and relationships? Today, you will find out with our guest John Morris, who comes to us from a previous guest (Pete Durand).  

John is a father of three who vulnerably opens up about the joys and challenges of fatherhood. He also shares the importance of being present and how his supportive spouse helped him battle a recent journey of recovery. John’s insights remind us all of the fleeting nature of time and the individuality each child brings into our lives.

John and I also explore transformative daily practices that have made a significant impact on our lives. From positive self-talk and gratitude journaling to drawing inspiration from philosophy, these simple yet powerful routines can shift your mindset and reality. Whether it's starting your day with "I am" affirmations or the importance of repetitive, small actions, you'll find practical tips to replace anxiety with action and foster a more positive outlook. These routines aren't just life hacks; they're profound tools for personal growth and mindfulness.

The episode takes a heartfelt turn as John shares his struggle with depressive anxiety disorder and alcohol, highlighting the disciplined steps he took to reconnect with his faith and family. His journey from darkness to light is a testament to vulnerability and resilience. We discuss the importance of teaching our children the value of generosity and random acts of kindness, ensuring they grow up grounded despite privileges. Through personal anecdotes, we emphasize leading by example, the strength found in vulnerability, and the lasting impact of genuine connections on both personal and professional fronts. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, practical wisdom, and the enduring legacy of fatherhood.

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Have you ever wondered how top executives balance the demands of work with the joys and challenges of fatherhood? Join us as we sit down with Brad Owens, an accomplished executive from Asymbl, who shares his incredible journey of professional success intertwined with the rewarding yet demanding role of being a dad. Through Brad's stories, you'll gain valuable insights into embracing gratitude, marveling at your children’s unique interests, and finding that elusive balance between work, fitness, and precious family moments. Brad’s reflections on his children’s growth will inspire you to cherish and nurture your own family's unique dynamics.

Our conversation covers heartwarming tales of resilience and grit that shaped our lives and values. This episode is packed with powerful narratives from his dad's transformative journey to becoming a corporate pilot and the sacrifices his parents made to the lessons learned about determination and self-reliance.

Brad and I discuss instilling core values like curiosity, caring, and courage in our children, drawing from personal stories and childhood challenges and highlighting the importance of resilience and empathy.

We wrap up our episode with essential leadership lessons applicable at home and in the workplace. Discover the significance of showing up, putting in the effort, and maintaining emotional control as fundamental growth aspects. Brad shares his professional journey, from traditional ATS systems to the innovative solutions of Salesforce and Assymbl, illustrating the transformative potential of technology in recruitment. This episode shines a light on the importance of curiosity and gratitude as fathers as we thank our listeners and promise more engaging discussions in the future. Tune in for an enriching conversation that underscores the importance of perseverance, gratitude, and curiosity in all aspects of life.

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Ever wondered how life's toughest challenges can shape us into our best selves?

Meet Scott Aaron, a dynamic business coach, author, and LinkedIn expert, who shares his journey from facing his father's imprisonment at a young age to becoming a resilient and present father himself. Listen as we explore the profound impact of actively participating in our children's lives—whether it's coaching their sports teams or simply being there for their personal growth. Scott and I reflect on the joy found in simple, local experiences, reminding us to cherish the fleeting moments with our loved ones.

Curious about rekindling love after heartache? Scott candidly discusses his path to a lasting relationship after previous marriages, sharing the ups and downs that ultimately led to a meaningful connection. From candid conversations to unique date experiences, Scott reveals how open communication and mutual support have been vital. Plus, we delve into the dynamics of blended families, highlighting the extraordinary support network surrounding his son and how it enriches their lives.

Get inspired by the power of authenticity and the values crucial for personal growth and fatherhood. Scott offers insights into resilience, gratitude, and kindness, and how these principles are being passed down to the next generation. We also touch on the importance of self-improvement, patience, and learning from other dads. With nearly five years of experience in fostering these discussions, our conversation is packed with practical takeaways and inspirational stories. Join us for this heartwarming and insightful episode, and discover what it truly means to be the best dad and leader at home. 

Thank you, Scott, for sharing your journey and wisdom.

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Thank you very much, Anna Frazetto, for making today's episode happen. 

How do you navigate the path of being a grandparent after a fulfilling professional career?   Additionally, how do you best support your wife, who was diagnosed with Cancer?  What do you say? 

Today, you will find out.

Join us on this profoundly touching episode of the Quarterback Dadcast as we sit down with Bob Miano, a retired systems engineer and former staffing executive from Harvey Nash. Bob shares the highs and lows of his fatherly journey and how he is now supporting his grandchildren’s activities—especially their love for baseball. Together, we explore the profound differences between watching sports as a dad and as a grandparent, leading to a rich discussion about generational shifts in parenting.

Bob opens up about his family's immigrant roots from Sicily and the values instilled through his hard-working, frugal upbringing. He shares heartfelt stories about his three sons, whose careers span technology and law, and underscores the importance of quality time in forging strong family bonds. 

One of the main goals of this episode was to hear how Bob has supported Anna through her cancer journey over the past year.  As we all know, Anna is a very strong and driven woman who embodies health.  So how could Cancer find her?   

Bob shares his emotional ups and downs and his actions to support Anna.  We wrap up on a high note with Bob’s hypothetical bestseller, "Ups and Downs," and a lively discussion on the importance of staying positive and supportive through life’s challenges. 

Don't miss this episode, which is filled with wisdom, warmth, and heartfelt stories that will resonate deeply with listeners.

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Thanks to one of my favorite former guests, Mo Hines, today's guest is Dr. John Gaines, CEO of Push for Dreams.  Not only is Dr. Gaines a dad who leads by example, but he also played football for Coach Aaron Maul, one of the state's best high school coaches and a former guest on the QB Dadcast!  In this episode, Dr. Gaines shares his remarkable journey from aspiring lawyer to business leader, all while balancing his roles as a husband and father. 

Listen as he takes us through his educational path, supported by scholarships from the Casey Family Foundation, and details how his family embraces gratitude daily, fostering a positive home environment. Dr. Gaines also reflects on the importance of nurturing his children's athletic potential without causing burnout, emphasizing the role of being a lifelong learner and listener.

As you listen to Dr. John “Push” Gaines, you'll learn how he was a former At-Risk Youth Turned Inspirational Powerhouse. As the CEO And Founder Of PUSH For Dreams, A Non-Profit Organization, Dr. Gaines Has Made A Profound Impact On Classrooms, School Districts, And Businesses Nationwide. He is also a best-selling author, Emmy-nominated speaker, Leadership Consultant, And Mentorship Advocate.

Drawing From His Own Life Experiences, Trauma, And Unique Challenges, Dr. Gaines Connects With Audiences On A Deep Level. With An Approach Rooted In Positivity And Unity, He Tackles Important Issues With Authenticity And Enthusiasm, Bringing People Together And Leaving A Lasting Impact.

Recognized As One Of Yahoo News’ “Top 10 Most Influential People Of 2020,” Dr. Gaines Possesses A Rare Ability To Relate To His Audiences And Inspire Them To Imagine Greater Possibilities. His Nickname “PUSH” Embodies His Unwavering Belief In The Power Of Perseverance, Motivating Others To Push Through Obstacles And Become Their Best Selves.

John opens up about overcoming childhood trauma and adversity, revealing how forgiving his absent father inspired a meaningful relationship that profoundly influenced his approach to fatherhood. He candidly discusses the life-altering choices he made growing up in a gang-influenced neighborhood and the realization that resilience and perseverance are essential in breaking cycles of addiction and negativity. Along the way, he offers insights into choosing family values that align with personal growth and happiness.

Wrapping up, we explore the transformative power of storytelling in fostering unity and understanding, both within families and communities. John shares heartwarming anecdotes about his college football team's bond and the lessons learned from diverse backgrounds. He also provides actionable advice for fathers seeking to become better leaders and more present figures, stressing the importance of self-care and patience. This episode is packed with wisdom, personal stories, and a touch of humor, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in personal development, family dynamics, and authentic leadership.

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