ManDown Podcast

You Think You Know Yourself — Then You Become a Parent | Ep. 14


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Becoming a parent doesn’t just change your life — it changes you.

In this open and thoughtful episode, Patrick and Ted reflect on how fatherhood has shaped them as people. They share the challenges they’ve faced, the unexpected rewards they’ve discovered, and how their parenting styles have influenced not only their children but also their own personal growth.
This conversation dives into how the way we parent doesn’t just affect our kids — it mirrors who we are and shapes who we become.
From emotional ups and downs to the quiet lessons no one talks about, this is a real and honest look at the journey of parenthood — and why it may be the most powerful transformation of all.

Israeli parole board 2011 study: https://www.abajournal.com/news/article/study_of_israeli_parole_board_shows_why_good_scheduling_promotes_decisions


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0:0:00 Intro

00:44:23 Navigating the Challenges of Parenthood

0:03:09 You are not truly busy until you have kids

0:05:15 Loneliness of parenthood

0:06:05 The toll newborns can have on the relationship - renegotiating your relationship with your partner

0:06:26 Postpartum Depression and loss of identity especially for women

0:07:00 You can never truly prepare for parenthood

0:08:56 The blessing of having grandparents or extended family around to help 0:10:04 How things can go wrong

0:10:54 Israeli parole board 2011 study

0:11:27 The impact of being depleted and stressed on our decision making 0:12:20 The importance of taking care of yourself so you can parent better

0:13:09 Understanding parenting frameworks

0:13:58 Imposter Syndrome and Feeling Incompetent as a Parent

0:14:26 You need a parenting framework to not impact the raising of your child

0:14:48 Philip Larkin - This be the verse

0:15:02 What parenting reminds Patrick of

0:15:20 The Balance of Discipline and Freedom in Parenting

0:16:30 Ted sharing example of gentle parenting

0:16:53 Older Generation Parenting styles (authoritative)

0:17:15 Downside/Impact of authoritative parenting on the child

0:17:35 Kids Need Connection, Not Control

0:20:08 parenting is harder than you think

0:20:53 Your Child Wants Connection—And Control

0:21:10 Gentle Parenting: A Modern Approach

0:21:51 Gentle parenting closely matches Authoritative parenting

0:23:11 Parenting by Default or Design?

0:23:43 Parenting Isn’t That Different from Coaching Football

0:24:49 Navigating Parenting Through Generational Changes

0:26:28 Parenting Without Shame: Choosing Gentleness Over Guilt

0:27:26 Gentle Parenting Starts With Self-Reflection

0:29:24 Patrick and Ted’s Parenting Experience (The Joys & Challenges)

0:37:26 It's Okay Not to Be Ready

0:39:58 Raising Kids in a Better World

0:41:34 Worrying About Being a Good Parent Means You’re On the Right Path

0:44:58 Principles of Gentle Parenting

0:50:29 How to React Better - Teaching Kids Consequences

0:55:52 Things to Remember

1:00:16 Points to Takeaway

...more
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ManDown PodcastBy Ted Knutson